Experian Automotive has teamed up with JATO Dynamics to roll out a Vehicles in Operations report for Mexico to allow auto aftermarket companies to have a clear picture of the Mexican vehicle market and its needs, thus providing more potential profit opportunities.

The VIO database for Mexico will be updated semiannually. The report incorporates data from the government; vehicle associations on the manufacturer, dealer and parts levels; OEMs; and car importer vehicle information.

Currently, the data is based on national figures, but there are plans for it to be expanded to include state and metropolitan figures.
“Aftermarket companies have realized that the Mexican market has great potential, but they haven’t had the tools to properly estimate and plan accordingly,” stated Marty Miller, Experian Automotive’s senior product manager.

“There were only five primary vehicle brands in Mexico 20 years ago, and certainly a lot has changed since then. The VIO count has grown considerably and now is comprised of 30 makes and more than 250 different models,” he continued.

David Mitchell, president Americas of JATO Dynamics, added: “Our VIO gives the aftermarket the understanding and insight they need to be competitive and successful down to their target market/geographic segment. This business intelligence will help our clients quickly make profitable strategic planning decisions.”

That coding on the data adheres to Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association standards. For models that are from 1995 or newer models, the report can sort figures by the following categories: make, year, model, engine size, fuel type, body style, doors, drive wheels as well as transmission type and speed.

There is data on vehicles from model years 1983 to 1994 vehicles, and these can be counted by make, year and model.

“This new business intelligence, in addition to our existing U.S. and Canada VIO, will help our clients make profitable strategic planning decisions quickly for North America,” stated Scott Waldron, president of Experian Automotive. "Our customers can now identify target market opportunities by product segment and geography while analyzing their performance relative to the competition.”

Officials noted that aftermarket companies can also employ VIO data as they launch new products, cut certain products and cut costs.
Companies can utilize this report in their assortment planning, site selection and forecasting, officials contend.