Titi's Weekly Digest - Oct 7-13

Here's a quick roundup of this week's news:
🇭🇺 LISI Automotive acquired Polysemble Hungary Kft., expanding its plastic assembly capabilities and Central European footprint.
🇺🇸 First Brands Group faces scrutiny after $2.3 billion in receivables vanished, exposing major lenders and prompting forensic probes.
🇩🇪 MAHLE launched OE-grade 1high-voltage filters and chargers for EVs, targeting Stellantis and Renault aftermarket coverage.
🇬🇧 BYD sold 11,271 cars in the UK in September (+880 % YoY), becoming Britain’s top Chinese EV brand and boosting service demand.
🇨🇭 Garrett & Derendinger showcased E-Turbo and VNT tech at the Swiss Automotive Show, highlighting emission and training innovations.

Now, let’s dive right into it, one by one!

LISI Automotive acquires Polysemble Hungary Kft.

Hungary - October 9 2025

LISI Automotive Hungary, a subsidiary of French component maker LISI Group, announced that it had completed the acquisition of the assets of Polysemble Hungary Kft. on September 30 2025. Polysemble, affiliated with American Industrial Acquisition Corporation (AIAC), specialises in plastic assembly components for automotive customers. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.1

Titi’s take:
The acquisition expands LISI Automotive’s footprint in Central Europe and enhances its capabilities in lightweight plastic assemblies—components that are increasingly important for EVs and fuel‑efficient vehicles. Independent distributors in Hungary and neighbouring countries could benefit from a broader local supply base and shorter lead times.

First Brands Group news shows global aftermarket exposure

Oct 9, 2025

First Brands Group’s trade-claims creditor Raistone filed an emergency motion asking the bankruptcy court to appoint an independent examiner, alleging that up to $2.3 billion tied to short-term receivables financing has “simply vanished.” Newly appointed independent directors likewise told the court they’d found a multi-billion-dollar unpaid balance as part of the company’s off-balance-sheet deals.

The fallout is rippling through finance: Jefferies disclosed ~$715 million of exposure via a credit fund but said potential losses are manageable; UBS reportedly has >$500 million at risk. U.S. Justice Department inquiries and lender redemptions add pressure. WSJ’s ongoing coverage frames the collapse around aggressive receivables structures and possible double-pledging of collateral, with restructuring teams and forensic accountants now combing the books.2

Titi’s take:
For Europe’s IAM, First Brands owns well-known brands sold across the region; any freeze in supplier credit or logistics could hit availability and terms (esp. wipers, filters, lighting). Distributors should review open payables/receivables, check credit insurance, and clarify title/assignment on any factored invoices. Expect tighter credit from funds and banks on trade-receivables programs until examiner findings land.

MAHLE adds high-voltage charging components to the aftermarket

Germany - Oct 7, 2025

MAHLE is expanding its aftermarket portfolio with high-voltage input filters and on-board chargers (OBCs) in OE quality, with first references available to parts wholesalers from October 2025. Initial coverage targets popular Stellantis/Renault group EVs; MAHLE also highlighted support tools like TechPRO 2 and E-HEALTH-Charge for diagnostics. The company positions the move as a response to a growing pool of EVs entering their second-life service phase, where HV components begin to show wear and require safe replacement. 3

Titi’s take:
This is a concrete step toward electrified repairability in the IAM: stocking OBCs/input filters moves independent garages beyond low-voltage consumables. Distributors should prepare HV logistics (danger-goods procedures) and market bundled “part + training + diagnostic” propositions. Early movers can lock in workshop loyalty before HV volumes scale.

BYD’s UK sales jump – implications for the European aftermarket

United Kingdom - October 10 2025

The Chinese automaker BYD delivered 11,271 vehicles in the UK in September 2025, representing an 880 % year‑over‑year increase and making Britain BYD’s largest international. The Seal U plug‑in hybrid SUV accounted for much of the volumecity. Analysts noted that the surge reflects the growing acceptance of Chinese electric vehicles in mature European markets and positions BYD to target one million overseas sales in 2025.4

Titi’s take:
The rapid adoption of BYD vehicles will challenge the independent aftermarket to familiarise itself with Chinese EV platforms. Workshops across Europe may need diagnostic tools, software updates and training specific to BYD models. Parts distributors should explore supply agreements and anticipate demand for wear components (brake pads, filters) and high‑voltage battery service equipment.

Garrett Motion & Derendinger showcase turbo technologies at the Swiss Automotive Show

Switzerland - October 10 2025

At the Swiss Automotive Show 2025, turbocharger manufacturer Garrett Motion presented innovations such as its E‑Turbo and variable nozzle turbine products. Garrett collaborated closely with Derendinger, the official master distributor and event organiser, to display solutions for emission reduction and energy.

The company emphasised an open‑plan booth with the message “We don’t just make turbos; we build peace of mind” and delivered technical presentations in French and German. Attendees showed strong interest in Installer Connect, a free multi‑language online training platform designed to help mechanics become turbo specialists. Garrett Sales Manager Peter Buehler said the show allowed the company to exchange ideas directly with mechanics and gather feedback for future technological innovations.5

Titi’s take:
Garrett’s engagement shows us the importance of professional training and knowledge‑sharing in the independent aftermarket. Turbocharger technology is evolving alongside stricter emission standards and electrification, so platforms like Installer Connect can help technicians stay up to date.

Inter Cars posts strong September sales

October 9 2025 – Poland

A brief Reuters report noted that Polish parts distributor Inter Cars SA recorded September 2025 revenue of 1.81 billion złoty (c. €413 million). The company, one of the largest independent aftermarket distributors in Central Europe, did not provide further commentary on margins or growth rates. The figure follows Inter Cars’ earlier announcement of H1 2025 revenue rising 7.6 % year over year.6

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