For API, the highlight of 2021 was definitely the completely redesigned FlexiRamp for the Volkswagen Caddy 5. This new design offers many benefits for customers, conversion specialists, and the environment. Customers benefit from greater seating flexibility and easier operation. For conversion specialists, installation is easier because the original fuel tank and exhaust system remain untouched. And since the new FlexiRamp is lighter overall, it saves fuel and thus reduces the environmental impact. If you’d like to read more about it, you can do so here.
This year, we’ve already begun adapting the FlexiRamp for the electric eVito. Together with Haag Engineering, we’ve already developed a smart solution that will effectively bridge the gap until the completion of the FlexiRamp variant custom-built for the eVito. We expect it to be completed by the end of the first quarter or the beginning of the second quarter of 2022.
E-mobility: The Megatrend of the Coming Years
Speaking of e-mobility: Of course, we’re responding to the growing market share and will increasingly offer conversion kits for these vehicles in the future—see the eVito. However, converting electric vehicles presents us with some very specific challenges.
The biggest challenge is the lack of space, especially in small electric cars. The batteries are often located exactly where we would normally install our ramps. In addition, the infrastructure in electric cars is more delicate, especially when it comes to the electrical system and wiring. This makes the conversion more complex, time-consuming, and therefore more expensive.
At the same time, we expect the market share of electric cars to continue to grow, as their range—especially for larger vehicles—is already sufficient for everyday use. Prices are falling as production capacity increases. Government incentive programs are providing additional momentum.
API is currently participating in several bids to retrofit electric vehicles for the transport of wheelchair users. Electric mobility is here to stay.
Supply shortages of new cars and expensive raw materials
Alongside these positive developments, however, there were also some setbacks. COVID-19 has caused lasting disruptions to supply chains and manufacturing cycles. This has led to significantly longer wait times for new cars. All automakers are affected by this. For us, this means longer development times for new car models. Rising prices for many materials are another factor holding back growth. Aluminum, for example, has become nearly 40 percent more expensive compared to last year.
All trade shows have been canceled
Once again this year, all relevant trade shows fell victim to COVID-19. This had a negative impact on our in-person interactions with partners, manufacturers, and customers—and, of course, on new business. To stay in touch with our partners despite this, we simply visited them in person. For example, the API team visited ACA in France, Steve Goossens in Belgium, and ARC Soluciones in Spain. Of course, we also had many meetings with our German business partners.
Outlook for 2022
We have big plans for 2022. We’re counting on a better market environment, hoping that industry events will resume, and aiming to grow again. Together with our partner Aktiva, we’ll be developing a conversion kit for the Renault Kangoo Diesel. A particular challenge here is the cutout for the ADBlue tank. We’re planning to develop a new solution specifically for this.
We would like to thank all our customers and partners for their successful collaboration, even under conditions that were not always easy, and wish everyone a wonderful holiday season with their families.
Stay healthy—see you in 2022.
