Autoelectro on challenges of classic car remanufacturing
As modern vehicles continue to evolve, bringing with them increasing complexity and electronic sophistication, Autoelectro is keen to emphasise the unique position of classic car alternators – and the challenges they pose to remanufacturers – as the season hits its peak.
Unlike today’s ECU-controlled or 48V alternators, which rely on digital voltage regulation, integrated microcontrollers, sensors and communication protocols – LIN, for example – classic alternators are much more straightforward in both design and operation. These simpler units slot directly into a classic vehicle’s electrical system with minimal fuss and, consequently, preserve the original functionality.
While this simplicity is a huge advantage for classic owners and workshops alike, it doesn’t mean remanufacturing them is without challenges, as Autoelectro’s Harnek Bhogal explains:
“In 2025, the biggest challenge we have is sourcing quality components. With the decline of British manufacturing and fewer UK-based remanufacturers still operating, sourcing individual alternator components for older applications is extremely tough – it’s limited.
“This has been exacerbated by the rise of mass-produced copy products, which has reduced demand for quality parts and pushed genuine component suppliers out of the market.”
Historical roots but modern approach
Despite the challenges, Autoelectro’s engineers and technicians – many of whom have been with the company for more than 20 years, some 30 – are uniquely placed to overcome these barriers, thanks to the experience they’ve gained and the skills they’ve refined.
While the rotating electrics specialist’s roots lie in vintage motoring, it is also embracing modern tools; its WhatsApp technical support service, for example, has become an invaluable resource for both motor factors and technicians.
By sending detailed images of a unit directly to Autoelectro’s headquarters in Bradford, users allow the team to identify the product, assist with technical enquiries and plan the remanufacture before the unit even arrives. This early visibility allows engineers to assess component needs, streamline production and, crucially, increase the likelihood of successfully restoring even the rarest and most obscure units that might otherwise be beyond repair.
Harnek continued: “Our business thrives on efficiency. The ability to see a unit in advance and prepare for it before it lands on the production line is invaluable. In a product category as tough as rotating electrics, this is just one of the ways we have been able to sustain remanufacturing in the UK for almost 40 years.”
Remanufacturing progression
Looking broadly at the evolution of car design and its impact on remanufacturing, Autoelectro acknowledges there has been a seismic shift in technology that’s occurred over recent years. Modern alternators demand advanced testing equipment capable of simulating live vehicle environments – which Autoelectro possesses.
Furthermore, software integration, stop/start systems and vehicle-specific components have dramatically reduced part interchangeability, which once allowed a single unit type to serve dozens of models.
Harnek said: “In contrast, classic units, like the ACR-style alternator – such as AEA1100 or AEA1101 – could be used across many makes and models. That flexibility simply doesn’t exist anymore. Now, even two versions of the same vehicle might use three entirely different alternators depending on engine type or pollution zone compliance.”
Despite these challenges, Autoelectro remains committed to supporting both ends of the market – from the most advanced modern systems to timeless classics. The company’s knowledge, infrastructure and passion for remanufacturing ensures that whether it’s for a rare, classic or a car with a modern smart-charging system, the result is always the same: quality, reliability and performance.