How ABS Affects Braking Distance and Safety on Slippery Roads

During seasons when road conditions become more hazardous due to rain or slippery surfaces, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) plays a crucial role in maintaining safety. But how exactly does it work, and does it really affect braking distance? How ABS Works When you slam on the brakes, wheel sensors detect if any wheel is about to stop spinning (lock up). The ABS system then automatically modulates the brake pressure, rapidly “grabbing and releasing” the brake pads up to 16–50 times per second. This high-speed pulsing prevents wheel lock and allows the tires to maintain traction. Drivers often feel a pulsating sensation in the brake pedal—this is a normal sign that the ABS is working properly. Impact on Braking Distance and Safety On dry or normal roads: ABS may shorten braking distance or make it comparable to standard braking systems, especially during hard braking. The key advantage is better control and stability. On wet or slippery roads: ABS performs at its best, helping maximize traction and prevent skidding or hydroplaning. As a result, braking distance is generally shorter or comparable to non-ABS systems, with the added benefit of steering control. On loose surfaces (gravel/sand/dirt): ABS may increase braking distance slightly compared to non-ABS systems because the wheels don’t lock and dig into the surface to help stop the car. However, ABS allows the driver to maintain steering control, which is vital for avoiding obstacles. ABS is a safety feature designed to prevent wheel lock during hard braking, helping drivers maintain directional control—especially on slippery roads. Still, it’s important to regularly check your brake pads, discs, and brake fluid, and follow maintenance schedules to ensure your braking system performs at its best under all road conditions.

GP Mobility Congratulates “Changnu Service Sukhothai” on the Grand Opening of Its New ACDelco Service Center

GP Mobility proudly congratulates “Changnu Service Sukhothai” on the official launch of its new ACDelco service center, aimed at raising the standard of automotive services in Sukhothai province. On July 5, 2025, the teams from GP Mobility and ACDelco joined in celebrating the grand opening of Changnu Service Sukhothai as a full-service ACDelco-certified automotive workshop — offering comprehensive car inspections and maintenance services, all under global ACDelco standards. This milestone marks a significant step forward for car owners in Sukhothai and surrounding areas, who will now have access to high-quality parts and trusted automotive services. Partners in Progress GP Mobility, we believe this collaboration goes beyond product distribution. It reflects our shared commitment to delivering the best to customers and strengthening our bond as long-term business partners. We are proud to walk alongside our partners every step of the way, and we wish Changnu Service Sukhothai continued growth and success in this exciting journey ahead. 📍Changnu Service SukhothaiOpening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMClosed on SundaysPhone: 082-774-9682Address: 10 Moo 5, Pa Faek Subdistrict, Kong Krailat District, Sukhothai 64170 #ACDelcoGarage #อู่มาตรฐาน #ศูนย์บริการรถยนต์ #อะไหล่คุณภาพ #สุโขทัย #เปิดศูนย์บริการใหม่ #GrandOpening #Congratulations

ICE, HEV, or BEV – Which Type of Car Is Right for You?

The Thai automotive market is undergoing a major transformation! Between the familiar Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) cars, the fuel-efficient Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV), and futuristic Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) — which one suits your lifestyle best? This article breaks down the pros and cons of each type to help you decide.   ICE – Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles These are traditional vehicles powered solely by combustion engines. They operate by converting the chemical energy from fuel (gasoline or diesel) into mechanical energy. Fuel is mixed with air and ignited inside the cylinders, producing high pressure that pushes the pistons. This motion is then transferred to the crankshaft, ultimately driving the wheels. Pros: Time-tested and widely adopted technology. Fully supported infrastructure, including fuel stations and service centers everywhere. Considerations: Requires regular maintenance such as oil changes. Loses some energy to heat and friction, reducing overall efficiency. HEV – Hybrid Electric Vehicles HEVs combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor. The two systems work together to improve fuel efficiency. There are variations such as: Full Hybrid – can run on electric power alone for short distances. Mild Hybrid (MHEV) – the electric motor only assists the engine but cannot operate the car on its own. Pros: Significantly better fuel economy, especially in city driving. Electric motor boosts acceleration and reduces engine lag. Considerations: More complex systems mean maintenance for both engine and battery components. Still uses gasoline, so emissions are lower but not zero. BEV – Battery Electric Vehicles BEVs run entirely on electricity with no internal combustion engine. They use a large battery to store energy, which is sent through an inverter to power an electric motor that drives the wheels. BEVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them an eco-friendly option. Pros: Instant torque from the electric motor allows fast, responsive acceleration. Zero emissions at the tailpipe — better for the environment. Considerations: Charging takes significantly longer than refueling, requiring careful planning. Battery replacement can be very expensive once the warranty expires.

What Is Brake Fade – and How Dangerous Can It Be?

Brake fade refers to a condition where your car’s braking system loses effectiveness — a situation commonly described as “brakes not responding” or “brake pedal sinking”. This is highly dangerous as it leads to increased stopping distances or, in severe cases, the inability to slow down or stop the vehicle even when pressing the brake pedal all the way down. How to Recognize Brake Fade The brake pedal feels softer or sinks deeper than usual. You have to apply more force to get the same braking effect. The car doesn’t slow down as expected and continues to glide forward. You notice a burning smell near the wheels due to overheating of the brake pads or discs. Why Is Brake Fade Dangerous? Brake fade means losing control of the vehicle’s ability to stop. It typically occurs in these situations: Long downhill driving: Constant braking builds up heat in the system. Sudden hard braking at high speed: Puts intense, immediate load on the brakes. Overloading the vehicle: Increases braking demands beyond normal limits. Main Causes of Brake Fade 1. Friction Fade (Pad/Disc Fade) Occurs due to extreme and continuous friction between the brake pad and disc, generating high heat (typically over 400–500°C). At such temperatures, the brake pad material can break down and release gases that form a barrier between the pad and disc, greatly reducing friction. Symptom: The brake pedal still feels firm, but the car doesn’t slow down effectively. 2. Fluid Fade (Brake Fluid Fade) Heat from the brake discs and calipers transfers to the brake fluid. If the brake fluid has a low boiling point or has absorbed moisture over time, it can boil and create vapor in the brake lines. Symptom: The brake pedal feels soft or “spongy” and sinks almost to the floor, with minimal braking force. How to Prevent Brake Fade Keeping your braking system in optimal condition is critical for safety. Here’s what you should regularly check and replace: 1. Brake Pads Check pad thickness regularly. If the brake pad is 3 mm or less, it should be replaced immediately. 2. Brake Discs Replace discs if they are worn down to the minimum specified thickness. Overused thin discs lose heat dissipation ability and may crack. 3. Brake Fluid Change the brake fluid every 2 years or 40,000 km, whichever comes first. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and increases the risk of fluid fade. Brake fade is a serious risk that can compromise your safety. Regular inspection and maintenance of your brake pads, discs, and fluid are essential to ensure your vehicle can stop effectively — especially under heavy braking or tough driving conditions.

ACDelco Strengthens Partnership with ‘Janthong AraAir ’ to Expand Automotive Parts Market in Nonthaburi

GP Mobility reinforces its leadership in the automotive parts market with Janthong AraAir Companny limited, a trusted partner, to further the success of ACDelco leadership in the automotive parts market. On July 2, 2025, the ACDelco team, led by Mr. Weerayut Leesomboonpol, Sales Manager – ACDelco Products, and Mr. Somkiat Karunsakultert, Senior Manager – Domestic and Export Sales at Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) Co., Ltd., visited Janthong Air Parts Co., Ltd., a specialized automotive air conditioning parts provider. The purpose was to explore new business opportunities and strengthen support for local customer needs in the Nonthaburi area. Get to Know Janthong AraAir Companny limited– A Key ACDelco Partner by GP Autoparts Janthong AraAir Co., Ltd. is a comprehensive provider of automotive air-conditioning components and services in Nonthaburi. Their offerings include: Complete AC Parts Center: A wide range of car air-conditioning parts and accessories. Installation & Maintenance Services: Provided by skilled technicians equipped with modern tools. Industrial Hose Distribution: As an official NCR Hose Shop, they also supply rubber and industrial hoses for both automotive and industrial applications. Expanding the Partner Network and Looking Ahead This visit aimed to explore growth opportunities by introducing ACDelco’s diverse product range to the Nonthaburi market, while also listening to partner feedback and gaining a deeper understanding of local customer needs. Insights gathered from this visit will help ACDelco further improve its product offerings to meet real-world demands with greater precision and efficiency. Ultimately, the goal is to make high-quality automotive parts and services more accessible and comprehensive for customers in the region. #ACDelco #Partnership #BusinessVisit #AutomotiveParts #Thailand

GP Mobility Supports “Sin Auto Service” Football Team from the Sidelines

In today’s fast-moving and highly competitive business world, having trusted partners is a key driving force behind progress — and that’s something GP Mobility has always prioritized. GP Mobility is proud to be part of a meaningful story by supporting the “Sin Auto Service” football team, one of our key partners. This collaboration reflects a relationship that goes beyond business — it’s about growing together, side by side. GP Mobility has provided the Sin Auto Service team with newly designed football kits to use in competitions and other sports activities. These uniforms are more than just attire — they are symbols of pride and motivation for every match played. The Sin Auto Service football team proudly posed together in their new uniforms.   Not Just a Sponsor — But a True Teammate “We don’t see Sin Auto Service as just a customer, but as a partner who has grown alongside us. This sponsorship is like standing right by the field, cheering them on, and saying, ‘We’re always here by your side.’” Growing Together Through Strong Partnerships This initiative is just one of the many ways GP Mobility builds lasting relationships with partners across the country. We believe that sustainable success begins with genuine connection. GP Mobility will continue to support and care for our partner network — both in business and in meaningful activities that inspire positivity and long-term growth.                  

หน้าฝนนี้ ลุยน้ำยังไงให้ปลอดภัย?

เมื่อเข้าสู่ฤดูฝน อย่าประมาทหากต้องขับลุยน้ำท่วม วันนี้เรามีเทคนิคขับรถลุยน้ำท่วมมาฝาก ทั้งการประเมินระดับน้ำก่อนลุย และวิธีดูแลรถหลังลุยน้ำ เพื่อความปลอดภัยของคุณและรถที่คุณรัก 1.ประเมินระดับน้ำก่อนลุย น้ำไม่ควรเกินครึ่งล้อ (ไม่เกิน 30 ซม.) หากน้ำสูงเกินนี้ควรหลีกเลี่ยง เพราะเสี่ยงที่น้ำจะเข้าเครื่องยนต์หรือห้องโดยสารได้ โดยสังเกตจากรถคันอื่นที่ขับผ่าน หรือดูระดับน้ำเทียบกับฟุตบาท ถ้าท่วมถึงขอบประตู = หยุด! อย่าลุย หยุดรถทันทีและไม่ลุยต่อ เพราะน้ำอาจไหลเข้าห้องโดยสารและระบบไฟฟ้า ทำให้เครื่องยนต์ดับหรือเกิดความเสียหายได้ ควรโทรแจ้งประกันภัยหรือหน่วยช่วยเหลือ และหากน้ำเข้ารถ ให้ปิดแอร์ ปิดสวิตช์ไฟ และถอดแบตเตอรี่ออก (ถ้าทำได้) เพื่อป้องกันไฟฟ้าลัดวงจร 2.เทคนิคขับลุยน้ำ ใช้เกียร์ต่ำ / ลดความเร็ว สำหรับเกียร์กระปุกควรใช้แค่ เกียร์ 1  หรือ เกียร์ 2 สำหรับเกียร์ออโต้ควรใช้เกียร์L หรือ เกียร์ 1 พร้อมลดความเร็วให้อยู่ในช่วง 60-80 กม./ชม เพื่อรักษารอบเครื่องยนต์ 1,500-2,000 รอบ/นาที ลดโอกาสเครื่องยนต์ดับและป้องกันน้ำเข้าสู่เครื่องยนต์ เว้นระยะห่างจากคันหน้า การเว้นระยะห่างจากคันหน้าเมื่อขับรถลุยน้ำท่วมขังควรเพิ่มเป็นประมาณ 50 เมตร เนื่องจากระบบเบรกที่แช่น้ำจะมีประสิทธิภาพลดลง และช่วยให้มองเห็นทัศนวิสัยได้ดีขึ้น นอกจากนี้ยังช่วยป้องกันอุบัติเหตุและลดความเสี่ยงที่เครื่องยนต์จะดับ ปิดแอร์ ถ้าน้ำท่วมสูง เมื่อขับรถลุยน้ำท่วมที่ระดับน้ำสูงเกิน 10 เซนติเมตรควรปิดแอร์ทันที เพราะพัดลมแอร์ที่ทำงานอยู่จะพัดน้ำเข้าสู่ห้องเครื่องทำให้มีโอกาสเครื่องยนต์ดับและระบบไฟฟ้าช็อต รวมถึงป้องกันใบพัดพัดลมเสียหายจากเศษขยะในน้ำด้วย ห้ามเร่งเครื่องแรง การเร่งเครื่องจะเพิ่มแรงดูดอากาศและน้ำเข้าสู่เครื่องยนต์ ทำให้เสี่ยงเครื่องยนต์ดับและเกิดความเสียหายมากขึ้นควรขับช้า ใช้เกียร์ต่ำ และรักษารอบเครื่องยนต์ให้สม่ำเสมอเพื่อความปลอดภัย รถดับ = ห้ามสตาร์ดเครื่อง การสตาร์ทซ้ำจะทำให้น้ำเข้าสู่เครื่องยนต์ผ่านท่อไอดีหรือระบบกรองอากาศ ส่งผลให้เครื่องยนต์เสียหายรุนแรงและอาจเกิดไฟฟ้าลัดวงจรได้ ควรตั้งสติ เปิดสัญญาณไฟฉุกเฉิน และหากเป็นไปได้ให้เข็นหรือเรียกรถลากออกจากพื้นที่น้ำท่วม 3.หลังลุยน้ำท่วมต้องทำอะไรบ้าง จอดไว้ให้ไอเสียแห้งก่อนดับเครื่อง ควรจอดรถทิ้งไว้สักพักเพื่อให้ไอเสียและความชื้นในท่อไอเสียระเหยออกก่อนดับเครื่อง หากพบความชื้นหรือน้ำขังให้รีบเช็ดหรือเป่าลมให้แห้ง และนำรถเข้าศูนย์บริการ เพื่อตรวจสอบระบบต่างๆ อย่างละเอียดเพื่อป้องกันความเสียหายระยะยาว เหยียบเบรกย้ำ ๆ ไล่น้ำ ตรวจสอบระบบเบรกโดยเหยียบเบรก 2-3 ครั้งเพื่อไล่น้ำออก ช่วยให้เบรกกลับมาทำงานได้ดี ตรวจเครื่อง-เบรก-ระบบไฟ ว่าปกติดี ตรวจเครื่องยนต์ : ไม่มีเสียงผิดปกติ หรือควันขาวผิดปกติ ตรวจระบบเบรก : เหยียบเบรกหลายครั้งเพื่อไล่น้ำและความชื้นออก และตรวจสอบว่าการเบรกยังมีประสิทธิภาพดี ตรวจระบบไฟฟ้า : ไม่มีไฟกระพริบหรือดับการตรวจสอบเหล่านี้ช่วยป้องกันอุบัติเหตุและความเสียหายหลังขับลุยน้ำ เช็กห้องโดยสาร-พรม-กล่องฟิวส์ ให้แห้งหมด ควรเช็กและทำให้ส่วนต่างๆ ภายในรถแห้งอย่างทั่วถึงเพื่อป้องกันความเสียหายและกลิ่นอับ ห้องโดยสาร: เปิดประตูและหน้าต่างให้ลมถ่ายเท ช่วยลดความชื้นและป้องกันเชื้อรา พรมปูพื้น: ยกพรมออกมาตากแดดหรือใช้ผ้าซับน้ำออกให้แห้งสนิท เพื่อป้องกันเชื้อราและกลิ่นเหม็นอับ กล่องฟิวส์ : ตรวจสอบและเช็ดให้แห้งทันที หากมีน้ำเข้า ควรใช้ผ้าแห้งหรือเครื่องเป่า ลมเย็นเป่าให้แห้งสนิท เพื่อป้องกันการลัดวงจรหรือความเสียหายของระบบไฟฟ้า ขับขี่อย่างระมัดระวัง และดูแลรถให้พร้อมทุกสภาพอากาศนะ #หน้าฝน #ลุยน้ำอย่างปลอดภัย #ดูแลรถหลังฝนตก

GP Mobility Signs MOU with Two Leading Educational Institutions to Revolutionize Thailand’s EV Ecosystem

GP Mobility Public Company Limited has officially announced a landmark collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with two leading educational institutions. This partnership aims to address structural challenges and build a sustainable future for the electric vehicle (EV) industry in Thailand. Thailand’s EV market has been growing rapidly and undergoing a profound transformation. Thai consumers now exhibit more complex decision-making behaviors, demanding comprehensive information, with EVs becoming a key disruptor of the automotive market structure. Between 2022 and 2024, nearly 100 new EV models were launched in Thailand, with an influx of new players—particularly Chinese manufacturers—entering the market. As a result, the market share of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has surged from just 5% in 2014 to 18% in 2023. However, behind this exciting growth lies a set of structural challenges within the aftermarket ecosystem, which is emerging as a major bottleneck for the industry. These challenges are evident in the high insurance premiums for EVs, primarily due to four key factors: High repair and parts costs: Most EV components are still imported, resulting in high costs and long delivery times. Battery replacements, in particular, can cost up to 60% of the vehicle’s value. Shortage of skilled technicians: There is currently a lack of qualified EV technicians, leading to dependence on limited specialized service centers, which charge higher-than-average fees. Limited insurance providers: Only about 10 out of 20 Thai insurance companies currently provide EV coverage, due to concerns over high loss ratios. Higher accident severity: Even low-speed EV accidents tend to result in significantly higher damage costs than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. According to SCB Economic Intelligence Center (EIC), these conditions will likely keep the average annual EV insurance premium high—around THB 25,500 per vehicle—until at least 2030. These factors highlight a critical truth: the future growth of Thailand’s EV market cannot be sustained without a robust and well-developed aftermarket ecosystem. Specifically, there is an urgent need to invest in skilled personnel and to develop standards for locally manufactured replacement parts. In response to this need, GP Mobility Public Company Limited, as a leader in automotive aftermarket services, has signed a historic MOU with two prominent educational institutions—the Faculty of Engineering at Bangkok Thonburi University and Polytechnic College of Bangkok—on June 19, 2025. This initiative marks a concrete step toward addressing structural challenges and establishing long-term sustainability. The signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from all three parties: Mr. Kawit Silpinimittham – CEO, GP Mobility Public Company Limited Assoc. Prof. Sommat Thongkham – Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Bangkok Thonburi University Mr. Kantinan Sriprasong – Academic Director, Polytechnic College of Bangkok 5 Pillars of Collaboration Toward a Sustainable EV Future Under the MOU, all parties have committed to driving initiatives in five strategic areas: Future-Focused Curriculum Development: Jointly create EV Technician and EV Aftermarket Business programs to produce skilled graduates for the market. R&D Collaboration: Conduct research on EV replacement parts and study consumer behavior to support continuous innovation. EV Learning Hub: Establish a comprehensive EV parts knowledge and innovation center within the university. Model Service Center Standards: Develop a prototype EV parts service center covering sourcing, quality testing, and technical consultation. Skills Upgrade for Technicians: Organize hands-on workshops for students and current technicians to stay up-to-date with evolving technologies. A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Future This MOU is more than just a formal agreement—it serves as a strategic blueprint for collaboration across three key sectors: industry, higher education, and vocational education. For GP Mobility, whether the future lies in ICE or EVs, the core value remains unchanged: quality parts and reliable service. The company sees EVs not just as a trend, but as a responsibility to every driver.      

5 Critical Warning Signs of a Failing Timing Belt

The timing belt is a critical engine component that synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft to ensure the engine’s valves and pistons move in perfect harmony. If the timing belt becomes damaged or worn, it can cause severe engine failure—possibly requiring a complete engine rebuild. Here are 5 key warning signs that your timing belt may be in trouble: 1. High-Pitched or Unusual Engine Noise Unusual sounds, such as squealing or whining from the engine, often come from a loose timing belt or worn belt teeth. If you hear this, don’t wait — get it checked by a technician immediately. 2. Hard Starting or Engine Doesn’t Start If the timing belt slips or fails, the engine timing becomes misaligned, making the car hard to start — or unable to start at all. 3. Engine Vibrations or Rough Idling When the belt no longer accurately controls the opening and closing of valves and piston movement, it can cause the engine to run unevenly or vibrate abnormally. 4. Engine Overheating A damaged timing belt can interfere with the cooling system, especially if it powers the water pump. This may lead to coolant circulation failure and excessive heat buildup in the engine. 5. Check Engine Light Turns On Modern vehicles use sensors to monitor the crankshaft and camshaft timing. If the timing is off, the Check Engine light may illuminate. This is a sign that your car needs immediate inspection. ✅ Timing Belt Maintenance Tips Follow your vehicle’s recommended replacement interval, usually between 95,000 – 160,000 kilometers. Check the belt tension regularly — avoid belts that are too loose or too tight. Prevent fluid leaks, such as oil or coolant, from contacting the belt, which can weaken the rubber material. Pay attention to unusual sounds — if something doesn’t sound right, get it checked right away.