ADAS: Direct Line Opens New Tech Centre in Birmingham

Direct Line Group launched its new flagship car technology Centre, based at Stechford, Birmingham, this month.

Direct Line Group (DLG) has the largest insurer owned garage network in the UK and the new Centre gives the business an advantage as the auto services sector goes through a period of unprecedented transformation. £2m has been invested in the facility which will develop the new tools and train its people from across its network in the capabilities needed in the changing motor technology landscape including the ability to test various ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) calibration tools and repair methods.

Additionally, as part of playing its part to tackle climate change, Direct Line Group will use the Centre to test ways of making its network more energy efficient. This includes trials of:

• offering customers the option of ‘green’ parts which could reduce the need for new replacement parts
• the feasibility of whether paint booths that currently rely on gas could be switched to electricity derived from renewable sources.
• the viability of alternative fuels, such as hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO), to power recovery trucks

Penny James, Chief Executive of Direct Line Group commented:

“The launch of our flagship Technology Centre shows how the Group is innovating to deliver the speed and quality of service our customers value both now and in the future, in a world of rapidly changing car technology. The Centre also allows us to trial ways to deliver our aim of having the most energy efficient repair network in the UK, contributing to achieving our net zero ambition.

“I’m proud that the centre was started and completed during the pandemic and it is testament to the skill, experience and commitment of my DLG colleagues. “

Paul Nightingale, Director of Claims Services, at Direct Line Group said:

“The new Centre enables us to identify and get ahead of future trends and continue to innovate. It gives us the facilities to undertake our test and learn work and develop new tools and capabilities. It also means we are equipping our people with the new skills needed to succeed in a fast-evolving market.”