Mr. Transmission/Milex is a force in the automotive aftermarket industry, and it’s cruising into the electric vehicle (EV) revolution with strength, sustainability and unprecedented growth. By Lizzy Yeserski

Mr. Transmission/Milex is a force in the automotive aftermarket industry, and it’s cruising into the electric vehicle (EV) revolution with strength, sustainability and unprecedented growth.

“We’ve had three record years in a row,” said Pete Baldine, president of the Moran Family of Brands since 2014. “Part of the reason is because the industry dynamics are in a great place. People are hanging on to their cars; they’re fixing them. It’s been really strong.”

Baldine also addressed the potential long-term impact of electronic vehicles on the automotive repair industry, emphasizing the current challenges of EVs. He pointed to a recent incident in Chicago where cold weather created long lines at charging stations and equipment malfunctions highlighted the unpreparedness of the infrastructure for widespread EV adoption.

“I think you’re going to see the shift from pure EVs to more hybrids,” Baldine explained. “That’s what makes more sense. With a hybrid, you have an alternator that can keep charging the battery, so when you’re running on the gas engine you’re charging your battery.”

Regardless of the model, cars will always require maintenance and repair. Additionally, EVs having multiple sensors has only increased the possibility of electrical problems, creating a demand for specialized diagnostic and repair services.

“You still have parts that wear out, whether electric or not. You still have brakes and shocks,” said Baldine. “Electrical diagnosis has to be done right, so EVs will not make the automotive repair industry go away.”

Mr. Transmission/Milex has stayed far ahead of the technology curve. The brand features a robust technical department that researches EVs and develops information and training programs for franchisees to diagnose and fix problems properly. The team routinely fields phone calls from franchise owners, retrieves data firsthand and consults with car manufacturers to provide feedback and coaching.

“From a technology standpoint, that is super important in the automotive repair industry and the automotive window film industry,” Baldine said. “We have done a great job of staying on top of the technology, training and sharing new, cutting-edge information with our franchisees to help them run their businesses more effectively and profitably.”

Regarding the car window film industry, it’s worth noting that Turbo Tint®, also under the Moran Family of Brands’ umbrella, has boomed with the advent of Tesla.

“When someone buys a Tesla, they do their research and understand that tinting their windows causes the air conditioner to work less, and you’ll extend your battery life,” explained Baldine. “Tesla owners come to our shop typically in the first week and have us tint everything.”

That brand loyalty is a testament to the Moran Family of Brands’ versatility and adaptability. This loyalty has promoted legacy franchisees who’ve participated in the system for over 20 years.

As the automotive landscape evolves, Mr. Transmission/Milex remains committed to providing reliable, high-quality services and maintaining a community of thriving, happy franchisees.

“The stability and long-term sustainability of our business model is what’s important,” emphasized Baldine. “In fact, it typically improves in a recession because of the industry dynamics.”

Lizzy Yeserski