ICI Autocolor has launched two basics in its 2K engine bay repair system range designed to help non-EPA registered bodyshops save time and money.

According to recent figures, around 56% of UK bodyshops are not registered under the Environmental Protection Act. P425-EB01, for use with Aquabase and 2K solid colour, and P425-EB02, for use with 2K basecoat and 2K solid colour, improve workshop efficiencies, says the company, by reducing repair times and costs.

John McGowan, Autocolor market manager, says that although 20% of general crash repair jobs involves the replacement and painting of panels in either the engine bay or boot areas, repairs finished in a coloured primer are complex, time consuming and expensive.

“This is because current systems mean bodyshops need to match and paint the internal and external areas separately, leading to long process times,” he said.

“Our system addresses the problem by mimicking the motor manufacturers' processes, using one product to provide both the internal colour and the external undercoat at the same time. The basics not only provide an accurate colour match for the internal areas, but also allow the same mix to double up as wet-on-wet surfacer for external areas, which can then be directly topcoated.”