Alistair Carlton has joined National Windscreens as technical manager in line with the company’s continued focus on meeting the needs of new technologies.

Alistair Carlton

Carlton brings more than 23 years’ experience within the auto glazing sector, most recently as tools and technology support manager at Belron.

Pete Marsden, managing director at National Windscreens, commented: “Alistair will take responsibility for maintaining our technical leadership in all aspects of automotive glazing. Alongside his work with vehicle manufacturers, Alistair will be working with companies such as Dow Chemicals and Hella Guttman to maintain our competitive advantage through innovation and technical excellence. Alistair will also drive the technician development and training programmes that are a key part of delivering outstanding service in all aspects of our operations.”

Carlton’s appointment comes as the automotive glazing sector moves through a period of rapid change, with the growing use of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) meaning more vehicles now need to be calibrated in workshop conditions.

Carlton added: “More than 10% of vehicles are already fitted with ADAS and this is set to grow to 40% of all vehicles on UK roads by 2020. Most of these systems work through cameras mounted on the windscreens so, if a replacement is needed, it is essential that the calibration work is carried out at the same time.

“National Windscreens has fully committed to maintaining a truly national network of 108 fitting and calibration centres. This year alone it has invested over £1m in training and equipment for ADAS calibration and opened three new centres with the expanded facilities needed to meet the rapidly growing demand for these services.

“I am working closely with manufacturers so motorists can be assured that they can drive away after a single visit to one of our ADAS centres with all of their vehicle’s safety features working as intended.”