www.auto-innovations.net
11
'26
Written on Modified on
Expanded Thermal Management Platform for Aftermarket Workshops
HELLA Aftermarket and Hella Gutmann Solutions integrate thermal management products and diagnostic support for passenger, light commercial and commercial vehicles.
www.hella.com
Lippstadt, HELLA Aftermarket, the independent spare parts and workshop business of FORVIA HELLA, and Hella Gutmann Solutions are collaborating to deliver an expanded thermal management product and support system for independent workshops in automotive maintenance and repair. This cooperation links thermal management components, diagnostic tools and training services to address rising technical complexity in vehicle cooling systems.
Context of the Cooperation
HELLA Aftermarket, a division of the automotive supplier FORVIA HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA, develops and markets replacement parts and systems for the independent aftermarket, focusing on broad coverage and quality standards. Hella Gutmann Solutions specialises in diagnostic hardware, software and technical data for workshop troubleshooting and repair. The two entities are working together to deliver a combined technical solution that integrates physical thermal management components with diagnostic and educational support for service professionals.
This cooperation addresses an industry challenge: modern vehicle thermal systems—covering engine and cabin cooling, electrified drivetrain cooling and air quality regulation—are increasingly integrated with sensors and electronic control units. Independent workshops face complexity in part selection, installation and fault diagnosis that cannot be addressed solely through part distribution. By combining component availability with diagnostic capability and training, the partners aim to reduce diagnostic cycles and improve repair accuracy.
Technical Solution and Division of Responsibilities
The technical scope of this cooperation includes:
- Thermal management hardware – HELLA Aftermarket has expanded its range by 1,500 items, bringing the total to about 2,400 parts covering passenger cars, light commercial vehicles and commercial vehicles. New product categories include fan clutches, oil coolers, coolant expansion tanks and expansion valves. Components are designed to interface with standard engine cooling circuits and HVAC systems in compliance with OEM specifications.
- Diagnostic and software integration – Hella Gutmann Solutions supplies diagnostic tools and software capable of interfacing with vehicle thermal system sensors and actuators. These tools support standard diagnostic protocols (e.g. OBD-II / ISO 14229) to read temperature sensors, thermostatic controls and electronic actuators, enabling real-time system assessment and fault tracing.
- Standards and fitment – Both partners ensure products and tools meet industry norms (ISO/SAE diagnostic standards, mechanical fitment specifications) and are supported by accessory kits that conform to Easy2Fit guidelines to reduce installation errors.
In this cooperation, HELLA Aftermarket handles component selection, quality testing (supported by test laboratories in Germany and China) and logistics, while Hella Gutmann Solutions provides the diagnostic platform and integration expertise required for advanced system troubleshooting.
Deployment and Integration
The joint solution is being deployed through:
Deployment and Integration
The joint solution is being deployed through:
- Distribution channels – thermal components and diagnostic tools are offered to parts wholesalers and aftermarket service providers globally, with logistics options such as overnight and next-day delivery to support workshop operations.
- Training and support – Starting in 2026, tailored training programmes for workshops and wholesalers will be provided to familiarise technicians with both the expanded product range and the diagnostic methods used for complex cooling system faults.
Integration with existing workshop infrastructure involves linking physical part replacement with diagnostic verification using Hella Gutmann Solutions tools, enabling technicians to confirm system parameters (e.g. coolant temperature curves, sensor feedback) before and after service.
Applications and Expected Impact
Target applications include engine cooling circuits, HVAC systems, and electrified drivetrain thermal regulation in workshop environments. The combined offering aims to:
Applications and Expected Impact
Target applications include engine cooling circuits, HVAC systems, and electrified drivetrain thermal regulation in workshop environments. The combined offering aims to:
- Reduce diagnostic time through integrated tool support.
- Improve first-time fix rates by aligning component quality with accurate system diagnostics.
- Elevate technical competence of independent service providers through structured training.
By pooling product and diagnostic expertise, the cooperation enhances operational efficiency and maintainability of complex vehicle thermal systems in the independent aftermarket.
www.hella.com
www.hella.com
