The Automotive Components Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) has joined other global association leaders to support the critical global right-to-repair movement by signing the new right-to-repair position statement.
A press release from ACMA noted that the statement enumerates the movement's core beliefs and the objectives and intended outcomes of right to repair legislation. Importantly, the document sets forth ten best practice principles for developing a framework for the right to repair legislation that any supporting country can use and adapt to their needs, it added.
Vinnie Mehta, Director General, ACMA, noted that it is very heartening that the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Government of India has already initiated creating a framework for the Right to Repair. The products to be covered under this regulation will include automotive products as well, he added.
Interestingly, it is also pertinent to note that unorganised players service a significant proportion of the automotive aftermarket in India, Mehta said, adding that legislation such as Right to Repair will unleash the aftermarket in India and help it evolve into an organised sector.
Globally the size of the aftermarket is as large as the OEM supply, however, in India it is just 18% of the overall $56.5 billion auto components market. The aftermarket in India contributes $10.1 billion to the economy and is one of the fastest-growing segments of the auto components industry.
The release stated that globally, the automotive aftermarket keeps 1.5 billion vehicles on the road while contributing $1.8 trillion to the global economy. After vehicles exit their warranty period, independent repair shops perform 70% of repairs.
This vibrant industry and the consumer choice that it creates is being threatened by automotive manufacturers that block access to wirelessly transmitted vehicle repair and maintenance data.
Consumers will have limited access to affordable vehicle service and repair without the convenience and choice of independent parts and repair, especially in suburban and rural communities. These restrictions can have catastrophic effects on local economies and the well-being and safety of millions that rely on vehicle transportation daily, ACMA added.
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