Avtomotiv se predstavi

Mr. Černjavski, your service center has decided to specialize entirely in vehicle engine restoration. Can you briefly explain what sustainable engine restoration means and what new approach this service brings to the Slovenian market?

Changes in vehicle production and society in general have led to a new wave focused on more rational and eco-conscious management of our time and possessions. In the automotive field, we are seeing a shift, as vehicles are no longer as durable as they once were, lasting 300,000 km or more. Today, the average age of vehicles in the EU is around five years, and after four or five years, cars start showing signs of failure (e.g., excessive oil consumption, serious engine malfunctions). We have responded to this market by offering a solution that addresses these anomalies through engine restoration, and sometimes the entire vehicle. This way, we extend the life of vehicles that still perform well, except for the most stressed component—the engine. It often happens that a vehicle is still under financing (leasing), but the engine fails, making it practically unusable.

How did you come up with the idea to specialize in engine restorations and develop the Automotiv® method?

We try to separate curative interventions, which typically address symptoms, from preventive ones, which are more predictable and sustainably solve issues for a certain period of the vehicle’s lifespan. We established a standard for what needs to be checked, addressing both causes and consequences, and ensuring reliable restoration of the vehicle to its normal functionality. This is where we differ with our engineering approach, as opposed to traditional mechanics who often only address the consequences (e.g., replacing the EGR valve or DPF filter) while the underlying issue, engine wear, remains.

As a former national rally champion, you have a special connection to engines and vehicles. How have your experiences from the rally world influenced your entrepreneurial path and the development of this service?

I wouldn’t want to mix them up too much, except in one point—everything I do, I do with passion. In any sport, you can strategize, observe the competition, but ultimately, you compete against yourself to push the limits higher. The same goes for the automotive after-sales business. You can engage in the typical story where vehicles break down, mechanics fix the symptoms, and customers eventually get tired of repairs and sell the vehicle, hoping for a break until the next new car. Of course, if finances allow for a new car every few years, this is understandable. However, sometimes it’s worth extending a vehicle’s life by restoring the “weakest” part—the engine. This is based on the saying, “I’m not rich enough to buy cheap (many times).” But this isn’t about my personal role; it’s the idea we execute with my fellow mechanics who are dedicated to a more in-depth approach. The sporting spirit definitely connects us, as serious athletes never hesitate to put in the effort to achieve new milestones.

What are the key advantages of sustainable engine restoration compared to buying a new or used vehicle?

The basic philosophy of consumer society is increasingly focused on maximizing the use of time and money for temporary things. A vehicle, which represents a form of freedom (the desire for faster movement), should last as long as possible. This expected lifespan has moved up to an average of 15 years or more in the EU. Slovenia is catching up to this average, as in the last 10 years, the average age of vehicles has increased from seven to 13 years, and this number continues to grow. As a society, we are no longer as “hungry” for new cars as our predecessors were 70 years ago, since vehicles were less accessible. Once we own a vehicle, it makes sense to maximize its lifespan. In case of a major breakdown, buying a new vehicle generates a certain cost per kilometer or time period. For example, if we buy a new car for €20,000, after 80,000 km, it breaks down, and we sell it (damaged) for €6,000. This means we’ve spent €14,000 for 80,000 km, then spent over €20,000 on a new car. With sustainable restoration, after 80,000 km, we could invest €4,000–5,000 in restoring the engine and save €11,000–12,000 compared to buying a new vehicle. This is suitable for vehicles within the average age of the fleet that owners are happy with, except for certain engine issues. When buying a used vehicle, however, you risk getting a car that’s about to break down, just like your previous one.

When does a vehicle owner decide to restore their engine? Can you give a few practical examples?

Most customers decide to restore their engine when serious issues arise, such as excessive oil consumption (e.g., 0.5 to 1 liter per 1,000 km), loud noise, lack of power, emission problems during technical inspections, coolant consumption, oil leakage, etc. At that point, customers either sell the car or choose restoration. Before restoration, it’s wise to check the overall condition of the vehicle, including the bodywork (rust), transmission, electronics, suspension, etc.

What feedback have you received from customers who have used your service, and how does this influence service improvement?

The feedback is mostly very similar. Initially, customers are skeptical, wondering if it’s worth it or if the result will meet expectations. Some have had bad experiences in the past, etc. But after the restoration, all those doubts disappear when they start using the vehicle again. The investment, which may seem high compared to the vehicle’s value, is quickly forgotten once the vehicle is functioning flawlessly. The most satisfied customers are those whose repair exceeds the vehicle’s value, but after restoration, it’s again functional without defects. More and more customers are wondering why they would continually work for a new car when they can invest their time and money in a higher quality of life.

What types of vehicles are suitable for your sustainable engine restoration service, and who are your main target customers?

The market defines the answer. With our engineering approach, we can restore almost any vehicle, but we have to consider the practicality in terms of time and cost (and sometimes emotions). Currently, the highest demand is for vehicles aged 4 to 7 years, with newer three-cylinder gasoline engines that consume a lot of oil, then vehicles aged 10–15 years with high mileage, and vintage cars and motorhomes.

How important is sustainable management in the automotive industry, and what benefits does your approach bring to the environment?

Dr. Gruden could provide a more detailed answer, as he knows a lot about automotive ecology. We observe that the global industry is trying to reduce the number of vehicles produced and increase their utilization. I believe that by extending a vehicle’s lifespan, an individual contributes to reducing environmental impact.

Your team consists of experienced experts and uses your own method, an engineering approach, and the latest technology. How does this impact the quality and reliability of your services?

Our team constantly educates itself, enhances its knowledge, and applies a new approach to restorations. All the technical knowledge we have is complemented by our experience to ensure the reliable functioning of Otto and Diesel engines.

Can you explain how the five-year warranty on the engine restoration works and what conditions customers must meet to claim it?

Every service and agreement requires responsibility, so we provide a warranty on the completed restoration. The warranty applies to regular maintenance at our facility, ensuring the vehicle is managed economically and any potential issues are addressed in a timely manner.

How do you collaborate with local automotive workshops, and what benefits does this cooperation bring?

Every customer has their trusted mechanic. For local workshops that don’t have the resources to restore engines, we help by taking the engine, restoring it, and returning it so the mechanics can reinstall it as a replacement part.

How do you see the future of sustainable engine restoration, and what are your plans for expansion and development in the future?

Our operations are following the changes around us. We believe that if something can be restored, a sustainable solution is definitely the best choice. In the future, we will manage things more economically and use them until the end of their lifespan.

What advice would you give to vehicle owners considering engine restoration instead of buying a new car?

I would advise everyone with engine or vehicle issues to consider technical solutions that are economical, time-efficient, and environmentally friendly. It requires trust and the courage to embrace something different, which we can call sustainability.