Automotive Aftermarket Catalog Data Standards and ACES & PIES: The Cornerstones of Automotive Aftermarket Digitalization

The automotive aftermarket industry requires accurate, consistent, and standardized data management due to rapidly evolving vehicle technologies, an expanding spare parts portfolio, and global supply chains. OSS Catalog Data Standards and global frameworks such as ACES & PIES have been established to address this need, ensuring that all industry stakeholders use a common language.

The Importance of OSS Catalog Data Standards

Without standardization in the automotive aftermarket sector, issues such as incorrect orders, customer dissatisfaction, and operational inefficiencies arise. OSS Catalog Data Standards help prevent these challenges by offering the following benefits:

• Accurate Part Matching: Properly structured datasets prevent incorrect orders.

• Consistency and Compliance: Ensures data integrity among manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors.

• More Efficient Supply Chain Management: Optimized stock management and logistics through accurate data flow.

• Digitalization and Integration: Facilitates integration with e-commerce and B2B platforms in the global market.

Core Components of OSS Catalog Data Standards

OSS Catalog Data Standards consist of the following key components:

a. Vehicle Fleet Data

• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)-based verification

• Detailed technical data such as vehicle model, engine type, and production year

• Comprehensive datasets covering regional vehicle fleet variations

b. Part and Product Data

• OE (Original Equipment) and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) numbers

• Product specifications (dimensions, material details, installation instructions)

• Alternative part matching and cross-references

c. BOM (Bills of Material) Management

• Comprehensive component lists based on vehicle models

• Compatibility and replacement process information

• Standardized definitions for manufacturers and suppliers

d. Data Format and Standards

• XML and JSON-based data structuring

• API integrations for data sharing with e-commerce and B2B platforms

• Multi-language support for global markets

ACES & PIES Standards: A Global Framework for the Automotive Aftermarket

When OSS Catalog Data Standards are aligned with ACES (Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard) and PIES (Product Information Exchange Standard), which are widely used in the North American automotive aftermarket, they facilitate data sharing, integration, and global competitive advantage.

ACES (Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard)

ACES, developed by the AutoCare Association, standardizes vehicle compatibility data (fitment data). This standard allows parts manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to operate using a unified data format.

• Includes fitment data such as vehicle model, engine type, and production year.

• Provides VIN-based verification.

• Creates a common data language for distributors and e-commerce platforms.

PIES (Product Information Exchange Standard)

PIES, also developed by the AutoCare Association, standardizes product information.

• Includes technical data such as product name, weight, dimensions, material information, and installation instructions.

• Ensures compatibility through stock codes, manufacturer references, and cross-references.

• Offers global standardization for product descriptions, preventing data inconsistencies.

Regulations and Resources Related to OSS Catalog Data Standards

The development and implementation of OSS Catalog Data Standards take into account the following international and local regulations:

• GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation - EU): Ensures the protection of personal data of customers and vehicle owners in catalog systems.

• ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) Standards: Contributes to the standardization of vehicle spare parts catalogs in Europe.

• TecDoc Standard: A widely used data format and cataloging structure in the automotive aftermarket.

• SAE J1939: A standard for communication between electronic control units (ECUs) in commercial vehicles.

• ACES & PIES Standards: The foundation of aftermarket data standardization in the United States.

The Future of OSS Catalog Data Standards

With advancements in digitalization and artificial intelligence technologies, OSS Catalog Data Standards are expected to progress in the following areas:

• AI-Powered Automated Part Matching: AI-based recommendation systems to minimize incorrect part selection.

• Blockchain for Data Security: Protection against data manipulation for manufacturers and suppliers.

• IoT Integration: Aligning catalog data with real-time vehicle sensor data.

• Global Compliance with ACES & PIES: Ensuring more consistent and harmonized data exchange in international markets.

OSS Catalog Data Standards play a critical role in the digitalization and data-driven operations of the automotive aftermarket sector. When integrated with global standards like ACES & PIES, they enable accurate and standardized data management, contributing to a more transparent, accessible, and efficient industry.