Enhanced Global Presence for Parts Certification Scheme

THATCHAM - August 11, 2008: Thatcham, the insurer funded research centre, are announcing changes to their aftermarket crash parts accreditation scheme, with the news that from September 1st the programme is to align with TÜV Rheinland, the leading German certification body, creating a new joined up approach to parts certification.

Thatcham’s Parts Accreditation scheme proved the quality and the correct fitment of parts, from the independent sector, in a workshop environment. The robust accreditation process consisted of a through examination of the part, and the manufacturer’s quality systems and manufacturing processes.

Going forward, fundamentally the parts certification process remains the same with parts being tested by trained and qualified engineers, thus retaining the already established high level of quality. The alignment with TÜV Rheinland will however enable significant improvements in the logistics of auditing manufacturers’ worldwide production facilities, which will now be carried out by local TÜV qualified engineers.

This new partnership will enable parts to be tested on a global platform more quickly, increasing the market penetration and promoting a greater volume of available certified parts at competitive prices for repairers and insurers to specify.

Dean Lander, Thatcham’s Accreditation Manager, said “With over 300 worldwide locations and more than 7,500 employees, the TÜV Rheinland group has a significant worldwide presence and their influence and expertise will be a welcome addition to Thatcham’s already well established accreditation process.”

Holger Huetz, Business Field Manager at TÜVRheinland, said “Partnering with Thatcham will grant us access to an established and accepted process within vehicle part accreditation, based on a set of criteria that are clear and easy to follow. This partnership will enable us to provide our customers with a local service, worldwide”.

Thatcham’s current parts accreditation scheme is now closed to new parts but a full list of over 350 accredited parts is still available for the duration of the current valid certificates life. A full list can be found at www.thatcham.org