AutoMatrix (Pty) Ltd was founded in early 2001, following requests from a number of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) to assist them in the development of approval programmes aimed at formalising the repair of collision damage that most of their Franchised Dealers were not able to offer.
The emergence of these approval programs created a number of nationally appointed independent autobody repair outlets (Panelbeaters) to service the OEM’s customer base in the case of any vehicle accident damage. Apart from ensuring that genuine parts were being fitted to their customers’ vehicles, the main aim was to ensure customer retention and protect the customer’s Manufacturer Warranties.
Since inception, AutoMatrix has continuously developed and introduced a variety of new and innovative body shop related services, ensuring that it has always remained at the forefront of technical and technological advancement. As a result, AutoMatrix has continued to grow its customer base to a point where, today, it represents 14 OEMs, and a total of 28 vehicle brands, making it South Africa’s leading autobody repair consultant.
The various services offered by AutoMatrix, focus mostly on compliance auditing, and ensuring that OEM Approved autobody repairers maintain the required standards and criteria, however, a large number of bespoke digital administration and data solutions are offered to various role-players across the industry, including OEMs, autobody repairers, Franchised Dealers and insurance companies.
Further to these services, AutoMatrix has also established Mxhase Project which aims to assist and uplift historically disadvantaged individuals to a level where they are able to obtain OEM approval for their businesses. As stated in its mission statement, Mxhase Mission is commtted to ‘The promotion of economic transformation in the South African autobody repair industry through a process of inclusive growth and consensual vision’, and the Vision is ‘The creation of a South African autobody industry reflective of the composition, diversity and interests of all South Africans’.
Any autobody repair business in South Africa wishing to apply for OEM approval can visit the AutoMatrix website (www.automx.co.za) and choose any one or more of the available options. All information relating to the various approval programmes is available on the website, including approval criteria, costs, self-assessments, document requirements etc. The self-assessment process enables applicants to identify and determine whether all approval criteria and requirements can be met, and assists in identifying potential non-compliances. The application process is completely transparent throughout, and ensures that applicants can avoid unnecessary initial audit verification costs.
The following OEM Programs are currently available on the AutoMatrix website: BMW, Chery/Omoda, Ford,GWM/Haval, Honda, Isuzu, JAC, Mahindra, Mitsubishi, Renault, Subaru, Suzuki, TATA, and lastly Stellantis which includes Alfa, Abarth, Jeep, Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Chevrolet, Opel, Citroen and Peugeot and has both a standard and premium tier.