Our journey down the Road to AAPEX continues. Click here to catch up on episodes 1 through 4.

Episode 5

We make three different stops on this episode of The Road to AAPEX. Our journey begins in Southern California at MPA, where CEO Selwyn Joffe explains how his company has become a leader in producing high-quality rotating electrical parts, with a strong focus on triple testing to guarantee reliability. MPA’s commitment to quality and customer service is emphasized through the company’s core values and global leadership in the industry.

Episode 6

In the automotive industry, adapting to change is essential. It’s a need that touches every component on today’s cars. That’s true for automotive belts, which have come a long way since their infancy. This episode of the Road to AAPEX traces the history of early automotive belts, how they have evolved over the years, and the technological advancements made to them.

Continental, for example, has evolved from manufacturing flat belts in the 1800s to today’s advanced serpentine belts.  Tom Lee, product manager for ContiTech Automotive Aftermarket, gave us a closer look at how the belts have changed over the years. The company integrates advanced technologies into automotive systems, creating “smart rubber” solutions with embedded sensors. Lee explained how Continental balances regional flexibility with global consistency to maintain product quality and effective supply chain practices. Learning about this, and other nuances of the industry, is a big reason why Lee said it’s worth your time to attend AAPEX 2024. 

Our education in automotive component advancements continues with radiator hoses and serpentine belts, highlighting the use of durable EPDM rubber that reduces the number of replacements. Babcox Media’s ASE-certified technician, Joe Keene, details the importance of proactive maintenance, which is made easy with Continental’s comprehensive kits.

Episode 7

In the latest episode of Road to AAPEX, David Sickels visits MotoRad’s North American facility in Mount Carmel, Illinois, to explore the intricate process of ignition coil production. Every step, from design to manufacturing, requires attention to detail to ensure reliability and performance in today’s vehicles. MotoRad CEO Matt Buchholz highlights the precision needed to meet strict industry standards. Since 2017, the company has been producing ignition coils that deliver optimal spark energy, essential for efficient engine operation. Shane Newman, MotoRad’s Director of Quality, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the rigorous testing each coil undergoes. Stay tuned for expert tips on proper installation.

Episode 8

Our latest stop on the Road to AAPEX is St. Louis, Missouri, the home of the National Museum of Transportation where we’re reminded of the automotive aftermarket’s history and heritage. That history resonates with St. Louis-based Hunter Engineering, which was born in 1946, but has always had its sights set on the future. Babcox Media’s Joe Keene visits Hunter for a look at the company’s technological growth, which is exemplified by Hunter’s Ultimate Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration technology. This system aims to simplify the calibration process for technicians, replacing traditional methods that once relied on tape and strings. It’s also a glimpse into the near future when Hunter will set up shop in AAPEX’s Joe’s Garage to provide live demonstrations of the Ultimate ADAS system.