Episode 64: PHINIA VP and GM Russ Stebbins on Powering a Carbon-Free Future

In this episode of DriveTime, Russ Stebbins, VP and GM, North American Aftermarket at PHINIA, talks about the company’s vision to lead the transformation toward a sustainable, carbon-free future in the automotive aftermarket. The company has historically focused on internal combustion engine (ICE) solutions. It is now actively advancing new initiatives to support the industry’s shift toward sustainability, Stebbins explained. Additionally, PHINIA is focusing on AI training for technicians.

From OE Expertise to Aftermarket Agility PHINIA bases its approach on a philosophy of OE expertise and aftermarket agility. “We don’t shy away from the fact that we’re an OE company; rather we embrace it and take that to the aftermarket with the speed that’s needed for our aftermarket channel partners,” Stebbins said.

PHINIA is focused on delivering the right parts at the right time, supported by relevant training and information for its channel partners down to the technician.  Multilingual Support in 2025 PHINIA sees future growth in Canada, Mexico and Central America.

In 2025, it will launch websites for French Canadian and Mexican Spanish-speaking audiences. Additionally, innovation remains a priority, especially through the integration of AI, explained Stebbins.  Driving Global Innovation Through AI Training for Technicians PHINIA is launching global AI-driven training programs. These will let the company create content in one language and translate it easily for global technician education.

 To hear more about PHINIA’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

 Episode Overview: • Stebbins’ career and how he landed at PHINIA (1:10);
• PHINIA’s vision and value proposition to customers across the North American aftermarket (3:22);
• How PHINIA is strengthening customer relationships (6:56);
• Details about how PHINIA is leveraging emerging technologies to become a more recognized and trusted name in the aftermarket (13:36);
• Insights into the Delphi Training Academy (19:14);
• Lightning Round (22:29).