IAAF conference targets eCall, type approval and internet parts

The IAAF Annual Conference, which takes place on 4 December at ICC Birmingham, will tackle all the major issues affecting the automotive aftermarket including eCall, parts type approval and internet parts.

The conference theme of ‘Change, Challenge, Opportunity – gearing up for the future’ will provide IAAF members with commentary and analysis on issues affecting their businesses.

For example, eCall will enable vehicle manufacturers to get real-time information about a vehicle’s health status. As of 2015, the European Commission and the European Parliament plan the mandatory introduction of the service. The IAAF is leading the UK aftermarket’s fight on eCall and vehicle telematics calling for an interoperable, standardized, secure and open access platform to ensure the aftermarket is not discriminated against.

And, with Trading Standards also reporting a 15 per cent annual increase in the sale of counterfeit goods online, the IAAF conference will also examine the opportunities and threats of internet parts.

Wendy Williamson, IAAF chief executive, said: “The conference will generate some fierce debate among industry colleagues and it’s important that everybody has the chance to raise their concerns. The new look IAAF conference is not just about talking at the audience but bringing about discussions that help shape the IAAF’s activity for the coming year.” cja