mycar, formerly known as Kmart Tyre and Auto, is undergoing a period of significant growth and strategic reshaping under new leadership. Sylvain Borré, appointed managing director earlier this year, brings over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry to this role. His vision? To position mycar not only as a leading provider of car servicing but also as a key source of insights into Australia’s evolving automotive landscape.
The company boasts a national footprint of nearly 280 locations and a growing mobile service offering, placing it in a unique position to gauge consumer trends and anticipate future needs within the industry. Borré sees this “people-first” approach as crucial – prioritizing both customer care and employee empowerment to build a stronger brand experience across all touchpoints.
Bridging Insights with Action
mycar’s annual Mobility Index serves as a barometer of Australian attitudes towards vehicle ownership, maintenance practices, and emerging trends like electric vehicles (EVs). Borré emphasizes how these insights are vital for guiding the broader automotive industry. Understanding Australians’ evolving preferences—like concerns around EV battery range and charging infrastructure—allows manufacturers, policymakers, and service providers to adapt effectively.
Facing Industry Headwinds: Skills Shortages and Shifting Consumer Behavior
Borré acknowledges the pressing challenges facing the Australian automotive sector. A critical shortage of skilled technicians looms large as vehicles become increasingly complex with the rise of EVs, hybrids, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). mycar is actively addressing this through dedicated EV training programs and equipping workshops with specialized tools to service these new technologies.
Furthermore, the company recognizes that cost-of-living pressures are impacting consumers’ car maintenance habits. Data shows that many Australians are delaying regular servicing or attempting DIY repairs, which can lead to safety risks and long-term financial consequences. mycar aims to counteract this trend through transparent pricing, user-friendly tools like “Auto Translate” to demystify technical jargon, and accessible mobile service options.
Building Trust in New Technologies: EVs and ADAS
While Australians generally express openness towards electric vehicles, a notable hesitation persists due to concerns about battery life, running costs, and resale value. Hybrids appear more appealing as a stepping stone for many drivers. Borré believes that addressing these anxieties through clear communication, robust warranty coverage, and accessible EV-ready servicing infrastructure is crucial for accelerating mainstream adoption.
Similarly, mycar aims to encourage the comfortable use of ADAS features like lane assist and adaptive cruise control by providing educational resources and practical guidance to demystify their operation and benefits. They recognize that building trust in these technologies is key to maximizing their safety potential on the road.
Looking Ahead: Summer Safety and a Focus on Prevention
As Australia heads into its summer driving season, Borré highlights crucial preventive maintenance tasks to avoid breakdowns and ensure safety. These include checking tire pressure and tread depth, topping up essential fluids like coolant and brake fluid, and thoroughly testing braking systems and lights. He emphasizes that these simple steps can go a long way in preventing costly repairs and potential accidents during peak travel periods.
By prioritizing customer education, investing in infrastructure for emerging technologies, and advocating for skilled workforce development within the industry, mycar is positioning itself as more than just a service provider; it’s becoming a strategic partner in shaping Australia’s automotive future.
