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Trading Standards seizes counterfeit parts worth £100k in raid

South Gloucester Trading Standards has seized counterfeit parts estimated to be worth £100,000 in a raid on a self-storage facility in the region.

Some 3600 components were taken from the lock-up, including spark plugs, air-, oil- and fuel filters, windscreen wipers, sensors and sensors.

The raid was conducted in partnership with enforcement teams from eight major car manufacturers, the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) said.

A 2024 survey by the IPO found that 58% of those who bought counterfeit parts did so knowingly, with lower prices being among the most significant reasons for doing so.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of motor industry body the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said: "The automotive industry invests billions developing parts and components that are safe, reliable and built to last, with many governed by stringent UN ECE Regulations for on-road use. Parts which fail to meet such standards, or are counterfeit, pose a safety and environmental risk to motorists and other road users.

"Clamping down on their availability and building consumer awareness is crucial to keep Britain’s roads safe so this collaboration between manufacturers, law enforcement and regulators is essential."

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