Autodata Backs the Future of Independent Repair at GROUPAUTO Global Congress 2026

LISBON, PORTUGAL — Autodata, a Solera company and provider of automotive technical information, exhibited at the GROUPAUTO Global Congress 2026, held in Lisbon from 13 to 15 October. The congress brought together distributors, suppliers and aftermarket leaders to examine the evolving demands of independent repair.

At the event, GROUPAUTO International recognised Solera as a strategic provider of digital solutions to its members, who use solutions including Audatex, Autodata and Kromeda.

As vehicles become more complex, independent repairers need technical information that is accurate, accessible and practical to use. Autodata provides a comprehensive reference of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) technical data for service, maintenance and repair, compiled for professional technicians. Information sourced directly from OEMs is cleansed, normalised and standardised, with an interface designed to help technicians find the right guidance quickly. Autodata also offers an extensive source of OE labour times, helping workshops prepare accurate estimates. Its technical-data capabilities include fast compilation of information for Chinese vehicles, alongside comprehensive electric-vehicle coverage across OEMs.

Discussions at the congress reinforced the importance of high-quality damage-repair and service, maintenance and repair (SMR) information to the success of independent workshops. Autodata also supports integration into workshop systems through a dedicated in-house professional-services team. Using APIs, its technical information can be integrated with dealer management systems (DMS), garage management systems (GMS) and electronic parts catalogues (EPC), helping make critical data available within established workflows.

The conversations in Lisbon underscored the value of closer collaboration between technology providers and repair networks. Looking ahead, accurate identification of replacement parts is one area in which digital solutions could further support workshop efficiency and repair quality.

"The future of independent repair depends on getting the right technical information into technicians' hands at the right time. Autodata transforms OEM-sourced data into clear, practical guidance, with coverage that keeps pace with electric vehicles and the growing range of Chinese models. What we heard from GROUPAUTO members reinforces the need to make that information easier to access, including directly through the systems workshops already use." - Jog Lall, VP of Business Development at Solera.