BEDFORD, TX (Sept. 30, 2005) - The Automotive Service Association (ASA) extended the deadline for "early-bird" registration discounts for the Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) to Oct. 25. Depending on registration category, most attendees can save $100 or more off standard registration fees.
Held Nov. 3 through 5 at The Mirage in Las Vegas, CARS will feature eight technical courses and five Automotive Management Institute-approved management courses. The fourth annual Service Professionals Industry Reception, co-sponsored by ASA and the International Automotive Technicians' Network (iATN), will be held the evening of Thursday, Nov. 3, and Saturday's luncheon, will feature keynote speaker Patrick T. Grady.
ASA members who purchase a full registration to CARS before Oct. 14 will also be eligible to receive a complimentary ticket to the Celebration of Excellence dinner Nov. 4 at The Mirage. Non-members may purchase tickets through Oct. 14 online at www.ASAcelebration.com.
CARS registration can be completed online at www.CARSonline.org or by calling the ASA Meetings and Travel Department at (800) 272-7467, ext. 235.
DOE Kicks Off CampaignTo Save Energy
WASHINGTON (Oct. 3, 2005) - U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Samuel W. Bodman unveiled a comprehensive national campaign, "Easy Ways to Save Energy," to highlight how American families, businesses and the federal government can save energy in response to rising winter energy costs.
"Because of increasing demand for energy and the damage inflicted upon America's energy infrastructure in the Gulf Coast region by hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Americans can expect to see higher costs to heat and power our homes, schools, and places of business," Bodman stated. DOE has set up a reference Web site with a number of conservation ideas.
Regarding businesses, Bodman said, "America's businesses, factories and manufacturing facilities use massive amounts of energy. To help them during this period of tightening supply and rising costs, our department is sending teams of qualified efficiency experts to 200 of the nation's most energy-intensive factories. Our Energy Saving Teams will work with on-site managers on ways to conserve energy and use it more efficiently."
The goals are to realize a 10 percent improvement in efficiency, and send a wave of best energy practices throughout industry.
(Source: DOE)EU Legislation To IncreaseAutomotive Competition
LONDON (Oct. 1, 2005) - A final piece in the European Union's (EU) legislation aimed at enhancing competition for the sale and servicing of passenger cars and light commercial vehicles went into effect Oct. 1, 2005, the British Broadcasting Corp. reported.
The new rule eliminates the "location clause," eliminating the practice that allows automakers to carefully manage the distribution of franchised dealers. Countries had been divided up into territories; only one franchised dealer had been allowed in each territory, effectively restricting competition and pricing. EU Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroes said, "This measure stands to further increase competition in the car distribution sector.
Proponents say the new law enables dealerships to open up new franchises in any area, as well as the creation of multibrand dealerships. This will open up price competition for new vehicles within Europe, as well as encourage competition for service and repair, say proponents.
Opponents suggest that the increased competition will drive out smaller dealerships from the industry, leaving fewer, but larger multibrand dealerships. This, they argue, effectively replaces one kind of restrictive competition with another.
(Source: European Union)
Lead Wheel Balancing WeightsLive To Roll Another Day
WASHINGTON (Aug. 10, 2005) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) denied a petition from the Ecology Center of Ann Arbor, MI requesting that EPA prohibit the manufacturing, processing, distribution in commerce, use and improper disposal of lead wheel balancing weights.
EPA stated that it had reviewed the information in the petition, as well as other data on lead weights. Upon consideration, it could not find sufficient evidence to warrant any action at this time with respect to the Toxic Substances Control Act. Specifically, there was not enough data to indicate that the use, release or disposal of lead wheel weights impacted the air, land, surface water, groundwater or soil as claimed in the petition.
The denial by EPA is the second rejection issued to the Ecology Center, after its petition to ban lead weights on automobiles was turned down last month. One recourse the Ecology Center may resort to is to seek state or federal legislation similar to that in the European Union (EU) where lead wheel balancing weights have already been banned.
(Source: EPA, EU, Ecology Center)
The Camless EngineBecomes A Reality
FRANKFURT, GERMANY (Sept. 13, 2005) - Valeo recently presented its latest technology for reducing fuel consumption and pollutant emissions by 20 percent using an engine cylinder head design that adopts Smart Valve Actuation (SVA) in place of the conventional mechanical operation of engine valves by the cam belt, camshaft and hydraulic cam followers.
"SVA is the first of many innovative systems that Valeo intends to actively develop and market in order to meet increasing demand for reduced fuel consumption and pollutant emissions following the recent acquisition of Johnson Controls' Engine Electronics Division. Engine management and power electronics are now core technologies for the group which will drive strong future growth," said Valeo Chairman and CEO Thierry Morin.
Morin said the camless engine is a whole new technology, wherein each engine valve is operated individually by an actuator that is placed on the upper surface of the cylinder head, directly above the valve guides. Each actuator is linked to an engine-mounted Valve Control Unit (VCU) that ensures the optimal positioning of all valves and performs the power drive function.
By controlling residual gases, minimizing pumping losses and deactivating cylinders and valves, this environmentally friendly technology reduces fuel consumption and pollutant emissions by 20 percent, says Valeo. Consumers will also benefit from enhanced performance and driving comfort, due to an increase in low-end engine torque.
The SVA development program is currently being undertaken with support from several leading car manufacturers and is scheduled for volume production in 2009.
(Source: Valeo)
(Photo: Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.)Nissan Unveils Drive-By-Wire Concept TOKYO (Sept. 30, 2005) - Kyoda News reported that Nissan unveiled its new concept car at a preview held just prior to the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show on Oct. 22, 2005.
The all-electric Pivo, named after the word "pivot," features an egg-shaped cabin atop a wheeled platform that can swivel around 360 degrees, doing away with the need to reverse when emerging from narrow spaces.
"With this feature, parking in tight spots is a cinch," said Masato Inoue, chief designer for Nissan. At the preview, a driver slid the 8-foot long Pivo into a tight imaginary parking spot, then rotated the cabin with the push of a button to face backwards and maneuver out of the space in one motion.(Photo: Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.)
The Pivo is powered by the automaker's high-performance lithium-ion battery and Super Motor. The Super Motor features dual rotors on both the inside and outside of a single stator and can output power through two shafts under the application of a compound current. To avoid torque interference between the rotors, magnets having different numbers of pole pairs are used for the inner and outer rotors.
Having greater power density than conventional motors, the motor has increased heat generation, says the automaker. Nissan engineers addressed the heat issue by placing the cooling system in between the stator teeth. The power output of each shaft is controlled separately, making it possible to drive the right and left wheels independently. This technology is targeted for a variety of applications, including in fuel cell vehicles or as a generator in hybrid vehicles.
The Pivo also employs a drive-by-wire system, which uses electronic signals, rather than mechanical linkages, between cabin and chassis to provide steering, braking and shifting.
"With the Pivo concept, we want to demonstrate the myriad possibilities that drive-by-wire could achieve," Inoue said. Nissan's said the real-world application of the concept could be only a decade away.
(Source: Nissan)
GM, Toyota Team Up To Research Automated Driving SystemTOKYO (Sept. 30, 2005) - Toyota Motor Corp. and General Motors Corp. have agreed to collaborate on research towards developing an automated driving system, says a Kyoda News report. This system will be designed to prevent collisions and conceivably let vehicles reach destinations without driver control.
The automated driving system is aimed at preventing congestion and accidents by enabling vehicles to communicate wirelessly and manage speed and location. Each automaker has been pursuing its own technologies, such as employing laser detection, video and infrared systems. The announced agreement will allow each company to save on research and development, as well as production costs, by sharing proprietary information and using jointly developed systems.
(Source: Kyoda News)
Nanotechnology: PathwayTo Innovation
EVANSTON, IL (Oct. 6, 2005) - Ford Motor Co., Boeing Co. and Northwestern University are in the final negotiations to form an alliance to jointly research commercial nanotechnology applications. The agreement, which the parties expect to be finalized by month-end, is targeted to find transportation-related advancements including vehicles powered by clean hydrogen rather than fossil fuels.
Nanotechnology - the world of engineering at the molecular level - commonly involves working with things smaller than 100 nanometers in size. One "nano" is a measurement that is one-millionth of a millimeter. By comparison, a human hair is approximately 50 nanometers in diameter. The potential to improve current products as well as engineer better products in the future is driving research and funding.
Nanotechnology offers a pathway to innovative improvements to the automobile, says Ford, such as using nano-scale materials to help boost power from hybrid batteries or developing higher capacity hydrogen storage tanks to extend the range of fuel cell powered vehicles. Other applications include specialty metals, coatings, thermal materials and sensors used in automobiles. Outside of transportation, researchers see nanotechnology improving medicine, electronics and manufacturing.
(Source: Ford Motor Co.)
Toyota's Biotech Research MakesIts Way Into Your Car
TOKYO (Oct. 9, 2005) - Toyota Motor Corp. (TMC) recently released its 2005 Environmental and Social Report, which describes ongoing research and development (R&D), especially in the field of biotechnology.
Some of the biotech successes in the pursuit of using renewable resources have impacted our lives already - in areas like bioengineering, bioagricultrue and bioplastics - that while having uses elsewhere, continue to be used in automotive applications. Consider the following examples:
Bioengineering TMC has been able to genetically engineer new versions of the cherry sage plant, Compared to the traditional plant, the new version absorbs 30 percent more nitrous-oxide, sulphur-dioxide and other gases in the air than the original plant. The product is designed for use in city rooftop, parks and boulevard locations, as a means to helping deal with emissions. Bioagriculture Toyota also has gotten into the sweet potato growing and research business. With world population increasing and the space for traditional raising of cattle, pigs and other meat sources maxing out, Toyota is developing new livestock feed ingredient capable of replacing corn and barley and is promoting its use in foodstuffs through the development of improved varieties and new the promotion of large-scale cultivation and processing technologies.In another initiative, TMC has been able to adapt the use kenaf, a highly fibrous plant, into the manufacture of several interior vehicle parts now in Toyota vehicles.
Bioplastics Another of TMC's objectives is the development and use of "bioplastics," which break down faster and result in less disposal problems than conventional petroleum-based plastics used in vehicles and other manufactured goods. The company has developed a sweet potato-based bioplastic using sugar cane and corn. It has already used the bioplastic in its concept cars, and looks forward to cost-efficient manufacturing applications, from electric appliances and household items to motor vehicle components.TMC also developed a thermoplastic polymer that has better recoverability compared to conventional polypropylene. Furthermore, it doesn't deteriorate even after repeated recycling. The new polymer, known as TSOP, is used in both interior and exterior parts in Toyota models. Toyota's major future project is to make biodegradable plastic from sweet potatoes, sugar cane and corn. Unlike conventional plastics, which are petroleum-based, this cost-effective, poly lactic acid "bioplastic" breaks down naturally without posing a disposal problem.
This development of biodegradable plastics, in the words of Kozaburo Tsukishima, general manager of TMC's Biotechnology and Afforestation Business Division described bioplastics as being a secret weapon with the potential to become a homerun. The company has stated it continues its efforts to help achieve a sustainable world environment and a healthier place for its inhabitants, as well as improved, cleaner and safer vehicle technology.
(Source: Toyota Motor Corp.)
Delphi Files For Chapter 11TROY, MI (Oct. 8, 2005) - Delphi Corp. announced today that it has filed voluntary petitions for business reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in New York City, on behalf of all of its U.S. based operations, which include the corporation and 38 domestic U.S. subsidiaries.
Operations outside the U.S. are not included, and remain operating on a normal basis. Delphi is hopeful it can complete U.S. restructuring and emerge from Chapter 11 by mid-2007. The company also submitted a bridge plan for the interim for the court's consideration, allowing it to carry on American business operations between now and the hearings that will consider the Chapter 11 petitions. This bridge plan was approved Oct. 8, granting this and other relief, including the authority to continue customer programs. Under Chapter 11 provisions, if approved, the companies included in the filing will be subject to supervision by U.S courts, as well as other requirements.
The company stated the action was taken "in order to preserve the value of the company and complete its transformation plan designed to resolve Delphi's existing legacy issues and the resulting high cost of U.S. operations." Specifically cited were the renegotiation of labor agreements, executive incentive contracts, retiree health and pension plans, and other liabilities.
The existing global management team will continue to manage all worldwide and American operations. Delphi's Chairman and CEO Steve Miller stated, "Our global operations, both U.S. and non-U.S., will continue without interruption. Our customers all over the world can be assured that we will continue to meet their scheduling, delivery and production needs in a timely manner."
The corporation has $4.5 billion in current financing and is making arrangements for additional funding to get it through the reorganization. Miller added the Chapter 11 filing was needed to address high costs within the United States: "We simply cannot afford to continue to be encumbered by high legacy issues and burdensome restrictions under labor agreements that impair our ability to compete." He added that a substantial segment of American operations would be wound down during the reorganization, although Delphi would work to preserve its core businesses.
In a related announcement, Delphi announced that Robert J. Dellinger, formerly with Sprint Corp., would replace John D. Sheehan as executive vice president and chief financial officer, who in turn was promoted to vice president and chief restructuring officer.
Details of Delphi Corp.'s and the 38 subsidiaries' filings, as well as contact telephone numbers for interested parties can be seen online at www.delphidocket.com.
(Source: Delphi)
Toyota Buys Into Fuji Heavy Industries To Secure Key TechnologiesTOKYO, JAPAN (Oct. 6, 2005) - What a difference a week can make.
Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), the parent of Subaru, has been in the headlines as a result of General Motors Corp. selling its 20 percent stake in the manufacturer, just as Toyota Motor Corp. was buying in. Interestingly enough, the switch in ownership stakes may well end up being mutually beneficial to all.
As both the quarter's and year's end draw near, GM gets two cash infusions to help offset some of the financial losses faced yet again this year, primarily from its American operations. The sale of part of GM's Canadian subsidiary's stake in FHI to Toyota garnered $315 million immediately, and the Detroit giant will be selling the remaining 11.3 percent shareholding in Fuji to realize more cash.
With Subaru worldwide sales less than a tenth of Toyota's, Fuji gains a partner interested in its strengths - hybrid batteries, all-wheel-drive systems and fuel-efficient minicars. Fuji's Chief Executive Officer, Kyoji Takenaka, said his company's hybrid batteries will be offered to Toyota, as well as other automakers.
Toyota, having acquired an 8.7 percent stake in Fuji, is now able to gain access to some technologies the company will be able to utilize going forwards. Toyota Executive Vice President Mitsuo Kinoshita said Toyota valued the technologies that Fuji was strong in. Additionally, the acquisition may help Toyota to surpass GM in global vehicle sales.
With Toyota planning to ramp up its hybrid sales, securing a supply of an integral component is a good fit. For example, current Prius models use Panasonic EV Energy Co.'s nickel-hydride batteries. According to Fuji, it's manganese lithium-ion battery lasts 50 percent longer.
As the deal closes, Toyota and FHI have established a steering committee to help determine the best course of action for future collaboration between the two Japanese companies, including identifying common synergies.
(Source: Subaru)
Intrigue Surrounds Volkswagen, Porsche and Daimler Chrysler By Bob Chabot, Contributing Editor
FRANKFURT, GERMANY (Oct. 9, 2005) - Perhaps you've heard of the story of Little Red Riding Hood?
DaimlerChrsyler AG (DCX) and Volkswagen AG (VW) have discussed the possible sale of a cross-ownership stake a number of times over the last few years, but have been unable to finalize any deal. At least, not yet.
The fourth and fifth largest automakers in the world have been close to agreeing that each take a cross-stake in the other sometime in the coming year, once senior management changes had been finalized, according to reports in several leading European news publications. Der Speigel news magazine reported that the cross-shareholding would be aimed at securing both companies against hostile takeover.
Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), a leading national newspaper in Germany, and Bloomberg also reported that hedge funds may now own a stake as high as 20 percent of DCX. According to the newspaper, an analyst said that one threat posed by hedge fund ownership is the possibility they might want to break up the automaker group to crystalize potential paper profits. Neither VW not DCX would confirm the reports.
The reports come just a week after luxury sports car maker Porsche announced that it aims to raise its stake in VW, Europe's biggest carmaker. Porsche currently owns 18.5 percent, making it the largest voting shareholder in VW. Although Germany has a law limiting the maximum voting ownership in VW to 20 percent, the legality of the law is being reviewed by the European Union (EU), and a decision is expected by 2007.
In a press release, VW welcomed the participation by Porsche, stating it helped to ensure a stable ownership structure. In 2004, although VW produced more than 50 times as many vehicles as Porsche, it only made three times the profit of Porsche. So what's in it for Porsche?
Porsche said that one purpose of the buy-in was to secure its supply of parts from VW, which account for nearly 30 percent of the content in Porsche vehicles. Another was to protect VW against possible hostile takeovers. Porsche is also seeking a number of new positions on VW's supervisory board.
According to a German-edition report in Financial Times, a UK-based major financial newspaper, the family of Ferdinand Pi
