A MASS-IVE STATEMENT
The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Massachusetts (AASP-MA) has issued a statement confirming it will represent both direct repair program (DRP) and non-DRP shops, while simultaneously calling DRP conditions a “detriment to [the] industry” in its position statement. “AASP-MA is a pro-consumer association representing all collision repairers and mechanical repair shops, regardless of insurance affiliation,” the trade group states in its position. “However, it is our firm belief that the restrictive and suppressive insurance referral and ‘program’ contracts are a detriment to our industry and could create a liability risk for vehicle owners and collision repairers. “We strive to advance the industry through education, regulatory enforcement, and legislation to dismantle the control and influence insurers have on consumers and our industry,” wrote AASP-MA. According to the group, AASP-MA is comprised of independent collision repairers, dealership collision shops and mechanical repair facilities. The organization says it “strives to provide education and support to assist all shops to achieve their desired objectives.” The group has not elaborated but has publicly posted the mission statement on its website.
TOKEN OF TRUST
CAA has been named the most trusted brand in Canada for the second year in a row in the annual Gustavson Brand Trust Index, released in early May. CAA has been rated one of Canada’s top two most trusted brands in the index for five years running and has been in the top spot in insurance for four consecutive years. This year, CAA also finished first in two sub-categories of the index: honest communication and treatment of its customers.
ELECTRIFYING INSURANCE
Rivian has announced its in-house insurance coverage is now available in 40 States, though the program is not yet available in Canada. Rivian Insurance will offer buyers a quote before ordering their vehicle in hopes to make the process less stressful. In a post on its website, Rivian said this integrated insurance coverage allows the OEM to quickly and comprehensively diagnose issues, even remotely, and “identify solutions faster.” The automaker also wrote this would allow it to offer lower premiums compared to regular insurance brokers. While Rivian Insurance is currently only offered in the US, the company hopes to expand to Canada, and everywhere else its electric vehicles are set to be distributed soon. Rivian builds the R1T electric truck and R1S electric SUV, both of which are set to begin delivering to Canada in Nov. 2021.
