thatcham.org Press Room

Single Thatcham Product Certification Scheme to Benefit all

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thatcham’s product accreditation scheme TQA® is to become the single brand for all Thatcham certified products and equipment, following confirmation of an extension of the scheme’s coverage to include all existing vehicle security categories as well as other automotive related product groups.

Thatcham’s scheme of product certification, commonly known as TQA, is to change its title to Thatcham Quality Assurance and the processes will be aligned for all product certification activities as we seek recognition of our compliance with international standards as a product certifier...

Thatcham Thai Down Risk in Asia

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham, the British motor insurers’ Research Centre announces today the signing of a two year contract with the Thailand General Insurance Association for the delivery of vehicle premium risk rating and alternative parts accreditation to the Thai market. The Thailand General Insurance Association is the Thai equivalent of the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and this move will therefore create the opportunity for insurers in Thailand to take a more structured approach to insurance premium setting as well as providing better information for consumers. The parts sector will also benefit from an increase in quality and choice of aftermarket parts...

Thatcham Training Associates

Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Today, Tuesday 17th May, at the 2011 International Bodyshop Industry Symposium, Thatcham Automotive Academy announced the launch of Thatcham Training Associates (TTA). A new initiative from the world renowned research centre, TTA will provide Thatcham training on a global scale, delivered by local providers.

All Thatcham Academy courses benefit from the unique knowledge transfer from Thatcham’s Repair Research Centre, with the resulting latest vehicle repair processes delivered to delegates and included in all course content...

Thatcham Unveils Giant Step Forward for Pedestrian Safety

Mon, 23 May 2011 23:00:00 GMT

New safety systems being fitted to British cars are set to save thousands of pedestrian injuries and dozens of lives each year, it has been revealed.

The ‘giant step forward’ for pedestrian safety is the culmination of years of intensive research undertaken and commissioned by Thatcham, the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre. AEB (Autonomous Emergency Braking) systems incorporate a raft of cutting edge initiatives tested by Thatcham, utilise a variety technologies to automatically stop a car before it hits a pedestrian, including radar, camera and lasers...

Insurers and Vehicle Manufacturers Work Together to Beat Car Crime

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:00:00 GMT

The winning vehicle manufacturers in the 2011 British Insurance Vehicle Security Awards (BIVSA) were announced today, with Volkswagen UK scooping the overall manufacturer award for cars for the second year in succession with every variant in 11 separate model ranges satisfying the manufacturer awards selection criteria. Vauxhall Motors UK won best overall van manufacturer for the first time, fully compliant with five separate model ranges.

BIVSA is supported by UK insurers, the UK government through the Home Office and the Department for Transport as well as other organisations including What Car? magazine and the AA...

International Appreciation for Research conducted at Thatcham

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham’s Crash & Safety Manager, Matthew Avery was this week honoured with a special appreciation award by NHTSA, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The US based organisation is one of the world’s leading authorities on safety performance standards for motor vehicles, traffic safety and driver behaviour.

The award, which was presented at the 22nd ‘International Technical Conference on the Enhanced Safety of Vehicles’ in Washington DC, is recognition for the research in road safety and collision avoidance that Avery has led, on behalf of Thatcham - the British insurers’ automotive research centre...

Graduation Day for Apprentice Vehicle Repairers

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 23:00:00 GMT

More than 70 young crash repair vehicle technicians graduated from Thatcham’s Apprentice Academy last week in the vehicle research centre’s latest Apprentice Graduation ceremony. The Apprentice Graduation was one of many events that visitors were able to take in as the automotive research centre opened its doors to visitors from the motor insurance, vehicle security and vehicle repair industries at their annual Triple Focus event.

Guests including friends, family and supporters of the successful apprentices joined senior members of the crash repair industry to applaud apprentices from the 3 crash repair disciplines of Panel, Paint and M.E.T...

New Strategy Director for Thatcham

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham has announced the appointment of Neale Phillips to a new position of Strategy Director on the Thatcham Management Board. Phillips, who joins with a wealth of previous Director level experience at both AA Insurance and Centrica, will play a key role in developing the future business strategy of the automotive research centre under the stewardship of new Chief Executive Peter Shaw...

It's Official - Thatcham Training is Excellent

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham’s Automotive Academy has become one of the first training organisations, in the region and automotive sector, to receive the ‘Training Excellence’ stamp. Training Excellence recognises those organisations that are not only committed to delivering the highest quality training, but those that achieve a measurable impact against their customers’ business needs.

‘Training Excellence’ is an independent scheme run by research and consulting specialists in education, employment and skills, CFE...

Partnership Drives Automotive Opportunities for Young People

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 23:00:00 GMT

A unique partnership between Newbury College and Thatcham Automotive Academy is set to accelerate the careers of young people who are looking for a foothold in the automotive industry.

Thatcham have joined with Newbury College to offer school leavers and those looking for a full time practical course, a Level 1 Diploma in Automotive Body Repair, which will be delivered jointly by these two highly respected West Berkshire based organisations...

Thatcham Reveals Three Year Strategic Plan

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham, the Research centre funded by UK insurers, is launching a fresh, vehicle based research strategy, with a clear focus on mitigating rising motor insurance claims costs.

Following an extensive 4 month review of Thatcham’s future strategy, Chairman Bill Paton and CEO Peter Shaw have announced a significant investment in new resources which will put Thatcham at the forefront of research and testing of emerging technologies such as Autonomous Emergency Braking systems (AEB)...

Thatcham Training Saves Lives

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thatcham recently welcomed members of the London Fire Brigade to the automotive research centre in West Berkshire, as part of an ongoing professional development programme for Emergency Services personnel.

Thatcham’s expertise in automotive research and training has helped establish a long standing relationship with the emergency services including the Fire Service, Police and HM Revenue &Customs. All of these groups require a good knowledge of the latest developments in vehicle design and construction to help them carry out their work efficiently and safely - often in highly pressurised situations...

Thatcham Automotive Academy - Bringing Training to You

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thatcham Automotive Academy is taking a new approach to skills development in the UK collision repair sector. Responding to customer demand for more flexible training delivery, 2012 will see a new Mobile Training Unit and innovative e-learning package available to UK insurance engineers and repairers. These two new initiatives, combined with state of the art facilities in Berkshire, will give the crash repair sector unprecedented access to Thatcham’s high quality training and accreditation programmes...

Cosmetic ATA to Benefit Multi-Skilled Repairers

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thatcham Automotive Academy is leading the field again, as one of the first IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) accredited training centres to offer a new senior level ATA (Automotive Technician Accreditation) in Cosmetic Repair.

Comprising elements from established ATA specialisms, the new Cosmetic Repair ATA also includes a module on basic vehicle appraisal. This combination provides the ideal multi-skilled accreditation for repair technicians who are regularly involved in cosmetic repair...

National Apprenticeship Week 2011

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The recent National Apprenticeship Week helped to highlight the value of learning new skills whilst getting paid. In the last year over 11,000 young people chose to start an automotive apprenticeship. Read more to find out if this is for you.

Kitemark Celebrates 4th Birthday

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The industry celebrates the fourth birthday of the vehicle body repair scheme that has redefined the crash repair industry, with over 800 bodyshops now certified.

NCAP Goes Electric

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

As Euro NCAP members, Thatcham are pleased to report the release of seven new vehicles results, including the first test of a fully electric car, marking the start of a series of Electric Vehicle tests in 2011.

New Look Site

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 23:00:00 GMT

We hope you enjoy our new look website following a significant facelilft to ensure improved design and navigation. Bear with us as the changes take effect, which may result in some small anomalies as cached pages are refreshed. In the meantime, please let us know what you think.

Triple Focus 2011

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Live from our research workshop on the 15th & 16th June. A fantastic opportunity for repairers, vehicle security personnel and motor insurers to get up to speed with the very latest in vehicle construction, repair research, training and accreditation.

Golden Ticket

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thatcham are currently on the road with the ABP Business Forums. At each event 1 lucky person will receive a Golden Ticket entitling the owner to a free 2 day training course. Congratulations to our latest 2 winners Steve McCall of Burnett & Company and Rita Robins of Castle Coachworks.

Single Brand for Quality

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thatcham’s product accreditation scheme TQA® is to become the single brand for all Thatcham certified products and equipment, following an extension of the scheme to include all existing vehicle security categories as well as other automotive related products.

Thatcham Thai Down Risk in Asia

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham are today announcing the signing of a two year contract with the Thailand General Insurance Association for the delivery of vehicle premium risk rating and alternative parts accreditation to the Thai market.

Research News : ESC edition

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 23:00:00 GMT

A detailed look at the performance of different Electronic Stability Control systems, following extensive Thatcham testing. You'll also find a report from the Geneva Motor Show, an update on theft and Personal Injury and a piece on the cost of drive systems.

Thatcham Training Associates

Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham announced the launch of Thatcham Training Associates (TTA) at the 2011 International Bodyshop Industry Symposium. A new initiative from the world renowned research centre, TTA will provide Thatcham training on a global scale, delivered by local providers.

AEB Research News

Mon, 23 May 2011 23:00:00 GMT

This special edition of Thatcham's Research News reports the latest findings on Autonomous Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Avoidance, showcasing a number of new technologies and highlighting the potential in saving lives and serious injuries.

2011 Winners Revealed

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:00:00 GMT

The winners of the 2011 BIVSA were announced today with Volkswagen scooping the car Manufacturer award for the second year in succession and Vauxhall taking the van Manufacturer award for the first time. Read More for the full set of results.

International Appreciation

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham’s Matthew Avery has been honoured with a special appreciation award by NHTSA, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in recognition of the vehicle safety research he has led on behalf of Thatcham.

Graduation Day for Apprentices

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Over 70 young crash repair technicians graduated from the Thatcham Apprentice Academy last week in the vehicle research centre’s latest Apprentice Graduation ceremony, which took place as part of the Triple Focus event.

New Strategy Director for Thatcham

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham has announced the appointment of Neale Phillips to a new position of Strategy Director on the Thatcham Management Board. Phillips will play a key role in developing the future business strategy of the research centre.

Thatcham Training is Excellent

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Thatcham’s Automotive Academy has become one of the first training organisations to receive ‘Training Excellence’ demonstrating a commitment to delivering the highest quality training and understanding customers' needs.

Research News 2011 Issue 3

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 23:00:00 GMT

This issue of Research News reports on Thatcham’s safe repair validation project, which looks at whether vehicles that have undergone structural repair are as safe as the original vehicle. You'll also find an update on the continuing fight to reduce vehicle crime.

More 5 Stars but Tougher Standards Upcoming

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 23:00:00 GMT

The latest set of Euro NCAP crash test results brings an additional reward and more 5 stars, but not everyone is ready for tougher requirements in 2012.

New Diploma Drives Careers

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 23:00:00 GMT

A unique training partnership between Newbury College and Thatcham is set to accelerate the careers of young people in the region, who are looking for a foothold in the automotive industry.

Don't Hang Around

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 23:00:00 GMT

An NVQ only lasts for 3 years and from early 2012 the same will apply to ATA. There's no better time to upgrade to ATA - right now NVQ holders can get a 25% discount on preparation training and accreditation and gain a 5 year card.

Research News 2011 Issue 4

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Inside the latest Research News you'll find an in depth report on AEB and its impact on real world casualty reduction. Other highlights this issue include a report on the Japanese tsunami and its ongoing impact on automotive production.

Thatcham Reveal Three Year Strategic Plan

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Following an extensive 4 month review, Thatcham CEO Peter Shaw has announced the launch of a fresh vehicle based research strategy, with a clear focus on mitigating rising motor insurance claims costs.

Ready2Repair

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 23:00:00 GMT

A new approach to crash repair, developed in partnership with RBS Insurance, designed to maximise repairers' profits, strip out delays, improve key to key time and reduce insurance total losses by adopting the practice of sustainable or optimised repair.

First 5 star Rating for
Pick-Up

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Euro NCAP has announced the results for twelve new vehicles, with the most impressive result this month being the Ford Ranger – the first pick–up to achieve five stars, with impressive scores in all areas.

Thatcham Training Saves Lives

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thatcham recently welcomed members of the London Fire Brigade to the research centre, as part of an ongoing professional development programme for Emergency Services personnel.

Bringing Training to You

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thatcham Automotive Academy will bring training to you in 2012 with a new Mobile Training Unit and innovative e-learning package. These innovations in course delivery will supersede the need for our satellite academy in Nuneaton, which will close by the end of 2011.

Cosmetic ATA Benefits Multi-Skilled Repair

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thatcham Automotive Academy is leading the field again, as one of the first training centres to offer the new senior level ATA in Cosmetic Repair, which is set to benefit multi-slkilled cosmetic repairers.

Season's Greetings from Thatcham

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Please enjoy our 2011 e-Christmas card, which is a light hearted take on a key aspect of our new 3 year strategy. Thatcham will be closing for Christmas at end of business on the 23rd December and reopening on Tuesday 3rd January.

Thatcham Early Birds Revealed

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Three Thatcham customers were celebrating this week, after winning back the full price of their annual subscriptions to escribe repair methods, parts guides and Thatcham technical helpline, in the research centre’s ‘Early Bird’ prize draw.

Euro NCAP Best in Class

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Thanks to ever evolving technology, consumers now have an array of new safety features and sophisticated systems available to them. Euro NCAP’s 'Best in Class' for 2011 highlights the very best from last year.

thatcham.org Press Room

Single Thatcham Product Certification Scheme to Benefit all

Thatcham Thai Down Risk in Asia

Thatcham Training Associates

Thatcham Unveils Giant Step Forward for Pedestrian Safety

Insurers and Vehicle Manufacturers Work Together to Beat Car Crime

International Appreciation for Research conducted at Thatcham

Graduation Day for Apprentice Vehicle Repairers

New Strategy Director for Thatcham

It's Official - Thatcham Training is Excellent

Partnership Drives Automotive Opportunities for Young People

Thatcham Reveals Three Year Strategic Plan

Thatcham Training Saves Lives

Thatcham Automotive Academy - Bringing Training to You

Cosmetic ATA to Benefit Multi-Skilled Repairers

National Apprenticeship Week 2011

Kitemark Celebrates 4th Birthday

NCAP Goes Electric

New Look Site

Triple Focus 2011

Golden Ticket

Single Brand for Quality

Thatcham Thai Down Risk in Asia

Research News : ESC edition

Thatcham Training Associates

AEB Research News

2011 Winners Revealed

International Appreciation

Graduation Day for Apprentices

New Strategy Director for Thatcham

Thatcham Training is Excellent

Research News 2011 Issue 3

More 5 Stars but Tougher Standards Upcoming

New Diploma Drives Careers

Don't Hang Around

Research News 2011 Issue 4

Thatcham Reveal Three Year Strategic Plan

Ready2Repair

First 5 star Rating forPick-Up

Thatcham Training Saves Lives

Bringing Training to You

Cosmetic ATA Benefits Multi-Skilled Repair

Season's Greetings from Thatcham

Thatcham Early Birds Revealed

Euro NCAP Best in Class

First 5 star Rating for
Pick-Up