Tools
Tools
Workshop equipment news, industry trends and practical guides from the team at Optimotive. We cover what matters to independent garages, bodyshops and fleet operators across the UK.
Supplier News — Product launches and updates from GYS, Autel and Carbon Clean.
Industry Trends — EV servicing, diagnostics growth, bodyshop technology and workshop market shifts.
Guides & How-Tos — Practical advice on getting the most from your workshop equipment.
Shows & Events — Trade shows, exhibitions and industry events worth attending.
UK Garage and Bodyshop Event 2026: what to look for at the NEC
The NEC show on 3-4 June is the closest thing the UK independent sector has to a proper trade show. Here is what workshops should pay attention to this year.
Vehicle Electrification Expo, Birmingham, July 2026
The VE Expo on 8-9 July is aimed at manufacturers and fleet operators, but there is useful intelligence here for any workshop thinking seriously about EV capability.
EVs are 20% of new registrations. Is your workshop actually ready?
Battery electric vehicles are now 23% of UK new car registrations. Here is what that actually means for workshop equipment, without the big-ticket investment most workshops are not ready for yet.