PAP176: AI Esitmating Coming Soon to iBodyShop

03/12/25 • 30 min

In this episode, Sam Street interviews Steve O'Brien from iBodyshop about how artificial intelligence can help collision repairers We get an overview of how AI has been revolutionised following the improvement of processing power and increased accessibility to data sets, especially with the use of the cloud. The discussion explores the use of AI to assess the damage on vehicles, whether it should be written off or repaired, answering customer queries without having to wait in queue for support, and the likelihood of AI undertaking ‘boring’ jobs rather than more dynamic tasks. Steve shares how his company utilises AI to conduct progression tests and rolling out an estimation tool, as well as their launch in the UK. We wrap up by reviewing how this can help staff to focus their efforts to improve their service, the increased use of AI in insurance, and how estimations vary from international markets utilising similar technologies. Links & Resources: iBodyshop www.ibodyshop.com AI for the boring stuff www.paintandpanel.com.au/news/news/ai-for-the-boring-stuff ------------------------------ The PKN Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2025

Previous Episode

PAP175: PPG’s Push for Sustainable Solutions in Automotive Refinishing

On this episode of The Edge, John Hristias, PPG’s Sales Director, is back to share how the company is helping body shops tackle rising energy costs while keeping profits in check. He dives into PPG’s latest low-energy cure products, including air-dry primers and clears, designed to save power and handle the demands of EV repairs. John explains how these innovations slash energy use without cutting corners on performance. He shares real data showing how shops can reduce costs per job, making a big difference to the bottom line. The chat also explores why sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore – it’s becoming a key part of how businesses operate, especially with rising ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices. Whether you’re keen on cutting costs or staying ahead with eco-friendly practices, this episode has something for every shop owner.

In this episode, - John's Journey with PPG - What’s Happening in the Industry - Tackling Costs with Sustainability - Gear That Gets the Job Done Faster - Real-Life Wins from New Products - The Future of Sustainable Workshops

Next Episode

PAP177: Balancing collaboration and negotiation for a fair Code of Conduct review

In this episode, Sam Street interviews Matt Hobbs, CEO of the Motor Trades Association of Australia, about the Code of Conduct review.

We start with getting an understanding of why the Code of Conduct review is being conducted with issues surrounding governance structures, sanctions and penalties, dispute resolutions, and unclear assessment times. Matt shares his experience in what caused delays in the review, the importance of liaising with the Australian Motor Body Repairers Association (AMBRA), and how industry and government have an invested interest in negotiating an outcome that improves the dispute resolution process. Matt also gives us an insight into how they will launch this review, the feedback process that it will undergo, and how they will find a suitable and truly independent reviewer.

We wrap up by discussing concerns surrounding insurance mergers and the dominance of large insurers leading to a lack of competition.

Links & Resources:

Review of the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct

www.mviricode.com.au/

Whole industry collaboration on code

www.paintandpanel.com.au/news/news/whole-industry-collaboration-on-code

Industry consultation on draft code to open in early March

www.paintandpanel.com.au/news/news/industry-consultation-on-draft-code-to-open-in-early-march

RAA sells its insurance book to Allianz

www.paintandpanel.com.au/news/news/raa-sells-its-insurance-book-to-allianz

ACCC calls for submissions on insurance take over deals

www.paintandpanel.com.au/news/news/accc-calls-for-submissions-on-insurance-take-over-deals