Findings from a trio of surveys describe how technicians prefer to learn; the parts shops are buying; where AI could add the most value to the aftermarket

“We’re in the business of fixing people’s personal transportation,” says Seth Thorson, who will be leading a class on Tesla networks for shop owners and technicians at AAPEX 2026

53% of aftermarket professionals polled say they have observed demand for lower-cost parts and services grow, yet quality is still the “top influence” for customer preference, suggesting many buyers are shopping for value

Four stages to feature free “mini sessions” on ADAS, EVs, market forecasts and trade policy.

Adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the United States has increased substantially the past several years – BEVs accounted for 6% of new vehicle registrations in 2022 and are forecast to reach 56% of vehicles sold in 2035 and 81% in 2045.