The presentation of a module of the new Hella Data and Diagnostic System DDS 100/200 to a Danish garage marks the symbolic market launch of the system in Europe. Representatives of a Point S garage were presented the module by Hella’s Chairman & President Dr. Jürgen Behrend during a training event at Tolerance A/S in Viborg. In the presence of high-ranking managers from Hella and Tolerance A/S, Dr. Behrend emphasised the significance of Hella’s entry into the European market for data and diagnostic systems. His visit to Viborg underlines the importance of the subsidiary Tolerance A/S for further growth in this market segment.
By taking over the majority of the shares in Tolerance A/S in August 2006, Hella extended its competence in the Aftermarket & Special OE Business Division, in particular in the area of services for the automotive parts aftermarket and independent garages. Tolerance develops and sells software for internet-based technical services, as well as for the diagnosis and repair of passenger cars and trucks for motor-vehicle garages in Europe. Founded in 1956, Tolerance A/S currently has 26 employees.
The new Data and Diagnostic System Hella DDS 100/200 was developed together with Hella. With this system, Hella is staying abreast of developments in the ever more complex field of automotive electronics and the related challenges for garages..
In mid-December 2007, Hella DDS was launched in Germany, Great Britain, France, the Netherlands and Denmark. Its introduction in five further European countries is planned for February 2008. With the new system, Hella is strengthening the “4+2” strategy in the aftermarket business. This includes worldwide supplies to the automotive parts aftermarket and garages of comprehensive and continually expanding parts ranges in the four main competence areas lighting, electrics, electronics and thermal management. In addition, the aftermarket and garages receive effective sales support, for example in the form of a modern and quick information and ordering system (with online catalogue, Hella Aftermarket Club and TecCom), as well as competent technical service. Hella has one of the largest aftermarket organisations in the world for automotive parts and accessories, with its own sales companies and partners in more than 100 countries.