NEWS BRIEFS FOR THE WEEK OF AUG. 8, 2006
NEWS BRIEFS FOR THE WEEK OF AUG. 8, 2006 Honda Hybrid Buyers Still Qualify
for Tax Credit WASHINGTON (July 20, 2006) - The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that purchasers of American Honda Motor Co. Inc. qualified vehicles may continue to claim the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit. The announcement comes after the IRS concluded its quarterly review of the number of hybrid vehicles sold. The tax credit for hybrid vehicles applies to vehicles purchased on or after Jan. 1, 2006, and it may be as much as $3,400 for those who purchase the most fuel-efficient vehicles. The IRS Quarterly Report of Qualified Vehicles for the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit for the quarter ending March 31, 2006, shows that Honda sold 9,072 qualifying vehicles to retail dealers. The make and model of qualified Honda vehicles include the 2005 and 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid (SULEV) CVT, 2005 and 2006 Honda Accord Hybrid AT, 2006 Honda Accord Hybrid Navi and 2006 Honda Insight CVT. Consumers seeking the credit may want to buy early because the full credit is only available for a limited time. Taxpayers may claim the full amount of the allowable credit up to the end of the first calendar quarter after the quarter in which the manufacturer records its sale of the 60,000th vehicle. For the second and third calendar quarters after the quarter in which the 60,000th vehicle is sold, taxpayers may claim 50 percent of the credit. For the fourth and fifth calendar quarters, taxpayers may claim 25 percent of the credit. No credit is allowed after the fifth quarter. (Source: IRS, Bulletin IR-2006-20) Aftermarket Sales Projected To Grow 3.7 Percent Annually Through 2008 WYCKOFF, NJ (July 18, 2006) - The recently released "Aftermarket Annual Report" from Lang Marketing Resources Inc. projects an average 3.7 percent growth rate for the U.S. automotive aftermarket through 2008. Sixteen major product groups will generate nearly 80 percent of total car and light truck product sales; this group is expected to drive virtually all growth in the light vehicle aftermarket. Five of the 16 product groups will top 4 percent annual growth, while three groups will suffer sales declines. Leading U.S. Aftermarket
Growth SegmentsProduct SegmentProjected Average Annual Growth Rate Through 2008Accessories6.2%Brake System Products6.0%Car Repair Equipment5.2%Drivetrain Components4.2%Tools4.2%Heating & Cooling Equipment3.4%Electrical System Parts3.3%Fuel System Products3.2%General Service Parts3.1%(Source: Lang Marketing)According to Jim Lang, president of Lang Marketing Resources Inc., the 3.7 percent combined annual growth of the 16 major product groups will generate $7.9 billion annually in additional car and light truck product sales through 2008. "This will provide a strong growth core for the car and light truck aftermarket which we project will top $95 billion by 2008 in product sales at user-price," he adds. (Source: Lang Marketing Resources Inc.)Put An Instant Man in Your Glove Box
* Keep your car in good working order, have it serviced regularly and top-up your fuel levels to avoid a breakdown.
* Project confidence with your body language. Drop your shoulders, lift your chin and try not to clench the driving wheel too tightly. Try and look as relaxed as possible.
* Have a tolerant and considerate attitude towards other drivers. This will keep you calm and you will be less likely to engage in any conflict while driving.
* Never take risks that could compromise your own or someone else's safety - be aware, prepared and responsible.
* Think ahead when planning your journey. Work out what type of roads you will be traveling on (i.e. busy, quiet, town, country) and procure an up-to-date road map to avoid asking for directions in unfamiliar areas. Be it from road-rage attacks, car jacking or intimidating behavior by other motorists, "Buddy on Demand" is a blow-up figure that fits inside a glove box and inflates at the flick of a switch if and when a "passenger" is needed. According to the company's "Driving Solo" study, nearly one in three women admit that they have been a victim of road rage or intimidation when traveling alone, as well as other experiences: * 82 percent of women surveyed said they feel safer behind the wheel when there's someone sitting beside them. * 71 percent of women drivers feel most at risk by intimidating behavior from a male driver, when traveling in unfamiliar areas (65 percent) or after dark (46 percent). * 20 percent women admit they have taken a diversion or changed their route to escape the threatening behavior of another driver. According to Jacky Brown, spokesperson for Sheilas' Wheels, "Almost half of female motorists tell us they feel vulnerable driving alone at night - many never even get behind the wheel after dark - and that they would feel safer with someone next to them in the passenger seat. We're not saying that an inflatable man is the only answer, but we do hope it will give women extra confidence and make journeys in the dark less fearful." "The great thing about our 'Buddy' is that you only inflate it when you need it. Then when you're finished with him, you can just pull the plug and put him back in the glove box," says Brown.(Source: Sheilas' Wheels)In-Vehicle E-Mail Product Keeps
Eyes On The Road WATERLOO, CANADA (July 26, 2006) - Intelligent Mechatronic Systems Inc. (IMS) has introduced iLane, a product it says is the world's first hands-free and eyes-free e-mail solution for in-vehicle use. ILane's patent-pending technology provides drivers with a safe and convenient voice-based interface to fully access their e-mail messages while in transit. iLane automatically notifies the driver of incoming e-mails and other important information by reading a brief summary in a natural sounding voice in the driver's language of choice. The driver can then listen to the entire message; forward it; compose a response; and manage meeting requests using verbal instructions. Phone calls, SMS messages and some types of e-mail attachments also can be managed using this interface.
for Tax Credit WASHINGTON (July 20, 2006) - The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that purchasers of American Honda Motor Co. Inc. qualified vehicles may continue to claim the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit. The announcement comes after the IRS concluded its quarterly review of the number of hybrid vehicles sold. The tax credit for hybrid vehicles applies to vehicles purchased on or after Jan. 1, 2006, and it may be as much as $3,400 for those who purchase the most fuel-efficient vehicles. The IRS Quarterly Report of Qualified Vehicles for the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit for the quarter ending March 31, 2006, shows that Honda sold 9,072 qualifying vehicles to retail dealers. The make and model of qualified Honda vehicles include the 2005 and 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid (SULEV) CVT, 2005 and 2006 Honda Accord Hybrid AT, 2006 Honda Accord Hybrid Navi and 2006 Honda Insight CVT. Consumers seeking the credit may want to buy early because the full credit is only available for a limited time. Taxpayers may claim the full amount of the allowable credit up to the end of the first calendar quarter after the quarter in which the manufacturer records its sale of the 60,000th vehicle. For the second and third calendar quarters after the quarter in which the 60,000th vehicle is sold, taxpayers may claim 50 percent of the credit. For the fourth and fifth calendar quarters, taxpayers may claim 25 percent of the credit. No credit is allowed after the fifth quarter. (Source: IRS, Bulletin IR-2006-20) Aftermarket Sales Projected To Grow 3.7 Percent Annually Through 2008 WYCKOFF, NJ (July 18, 2006) - The recently released "Aftermarket Annual Report" from Lang Marketing Resources Inc. projects an average 3.7 percent growth rate for the U.S. automotive aftermarket through 2008. Sixteen major product groups will generate nearly 80 percent of total car and light truck product sales; this group is expected to drive virtually all growth in the light vehicle aftermarket. Five of the 16 product groups will top 4 percent annual growth, while three groups will suffer sales declines. Leading U.S. Aftermarket
Growth SegmentsProduct SegmentProjected Average Annual Growth Rate Through 2008Accessories6.2%Brake System Products6.0%Car Repair Equipment5.2%Drivetrain Components4.2%Tools4.2%Heating & Cooling Equipment3.4%Electrical System Parts3.3%Fuel System Products3.2%General Service Parts3.1%(Source: Lang Marketing)According to Jim Lang, president of Lang Marketing Resources Inc., the 3.7 percent combined annual growth of the 16 major product groups will generate $7.9 billion annually in additional car and light truck product sales through 2008. "This will provide a strong growth core for the car and light truck aftermarket which we project will top $95 billion by 2008 in product sales at user-price," he adds. (Source: Lang Marketing Resources Inc.)Put An Instant Man in Your Glove Box
LONDON, U.K. (July 24, 2006) - Sheilas' Wheels, a car insurance brand for women, has just launched a new product designed to make women feel instantly safer when driving alone after dark. The new product gives the appearance of two silhouettes in the front of the car, instead of a single female figure behind the wheel.
Stay SafeSheilas' Wheels gives advice to female motorists to promote their safety:* Keep your car in good working order, have it serviced regularly and top-up your fuel levels to avoid a breakdown.
* Project confidence with your body language. Drop your shoulders, lift your chin and try not to clench the driving wheel too tightly. Try and look as relaxed as possible.
* Have a tolerant and considerate attitude towards other drivers. This will keep you calm and you will be less likely to engage in any conflict while driving.
* Never take risks that could compromise your own or someone else's safety - be aware, prepared and responsible.
* Think ahead when planning your journey. Work out what type of roads you will be traveling on (i.e. busy, quiet, town, country) and procure an up-to-date road map to avoid asking for directions in unfamiliar areas. Be it from road-rage attacks, car jacking or intimidating behavior by other motorists, "Buddy on Demand" is a blow-up figure that fits inside a glove box and inflates at the flick of a switch if and when a "passenger" is needed. According to the company's "Driving Solo" study, nearly one in three women admit that they have been a victim of road rage or intimidation when traveling alone, as well as other experiences: * 82 percent of women surveyed said they feel safer behind the wheel when there's someone sitting beside them. * 71 percent of women drivers feel most at risk by intimidating behavior from a male driver, when traveling in unfamiliar areas (65 percent) or after dark (46 percent). * 20 percent women admit they have taken a diversion or changed their route to escape the threatening behavior of another driver. According to Jacky Brown, spokesperson for Sheilas' Wheels, "Almost half of female motorists tell us they feel vulnerable driving alone at night - many never even get behind the wheel after dark - and that they would feel safer with someone next to them in the passenger seat. We're not saying that an inflatable man is the only answer, but we do hope it will give women extra confidence and make journeys in the dark less fearful." "The great thing about our 'Buddy' is that you only inflate it when you need it. Then when you're finished with him, you can just pull the plug and put him back in the glove box," says Brown.(Source: Sheilas' Wheels)In-Vehicle E-Mail Product Keeps
Eyes On The Road WATERLOO, CANADA (July 26, 2006) - Intelligent Mechatronic Systems Inc. (IMS) has introduced iLane, a product it says is the world's first hands-free and eyes-free e-mail solution for in-vehicle use. ILane's patent-pending technology provides drivers with a safe and convenient voice-based interface to fully access their e-mail messages while in transit. iLane automatically notifies the driver of incoming e-mails and other important information by reading a brief summary in a natural sounding voice in the driver's language of choice. The driver can then listen to the entire message; forward it; compose a response; and manage meeting requests using verbal instructions. Phone calls, SMS messages and some types of e-mail attachments also can be managed using this interface.
iLane automatically notifies the driver of incoming e-mails and other important information by reading a brief summary in a natural sounding voice in the driver's language of choice.
(Photo: Intelligent Mechatronic Systems Inc.) The product's intelligent information management allows e-mail messages to be filtered and prioritized based on personal preferences and notification settings. Communications not requiring an immediate response can be automatically managed with a preset user preference. "iLane is the first and only solution to provide users with complete mobile data connectivity in a manner that focuses on driver safety," says Dr. Otman Basir, president and CEO of IMS. "In this regard, iLane is truly a 'world first' and we are extremely excited to offer this innovative solution to mobile professionals." The system consists of a small device that interacts directly with existing Bluetooth-enabled handheld devices and vehicle audio systems or headsets to read messages out loud and to listen to driver instructions. The presence of the driver is automatically detected by the system, which then assumes control to intelligently capture and manage inbound information as soon as it arrives on the driver's wireless e-mail device. The driver does not need to remember to do anything differently to start taking advantage of the product's benefits. (Source: Intelligent Mechatronic Systems Inc.)Electric Safety Flares
Eliminate Fire Hazard LOUISVILLE, CO (July 27, 2006) - Most automotive safety kits contain at least one incendiary (strike) flare. However, with burn temperatures above 5,000 degreesF and an ingredient list full of toxic chemicals, the flares themselves are dangerous to both the user and the environment. Now there is an alternative. FlareAlert from the Keystone Group is a battery-powered safety flare visible for miles from both the ground and air. Twelve high-output LEDs make the electric flare highly visible from any angle. Requiring only two AA batteries to operate, the FlareAlert provides up to 20 hours of flashing light. The product is also very durable; the company says it is even strong enough to be run over by most passenger vehicles. "From accident scenes and engine trouble to flat tires, there are countless situations where motorists need to alert other drivers to their presence," said Brent Jones, vice president of The Keystone Group. "The FlareAlert is a safe and versatile alternative to strike flares," "Incendiary, or strike, flares are extremely dangerous; they can ignite spilled gasoline or oil and can cause brush fires. The FlareAlert can be used in any situation, near any material, on any surface."(Source: The Keystone Group)J.D. Power: Lexus Ranks First In 2006 CSI Study Results
(Photo: Intelligent Mechatronic Systems Inc.) The product's intelligent information management allows e-mail messages to be filtered and prioritized based on personal preferences and notification settings. Communications not requiring an immediate response can be automatically managed with a preset user preference. "iLane is the first and only solution to provide users with complete mobile data connectivity in a manner that focuses on driver safety," says Dr. Otman Basir, president and CEO of IMS. "In this regard, iLane is truly a 'world first' and we are extremely excited to offer this innovative solution to mobile professionals." The system consists of a small device that interacts directly with existing Bluetooth-enabled handheld devices and vehicle audio systems or headsets to read messages out loud and to listen to driver instructions. The presence of the driver is automatically detected by the system, which then assumes control to intelligently capture and manage inbound information as soon as it arrives on the driver's wireless e-mail device. The driver does not need to remember to do anything differently to start taking advantage of the product's benefits. (Source: Intelligent Mechatronic Systems Inc.)Electric Safety Flares
Eliminate Fire Hazard LOUISVILLE, CO (July 27, 2006) - Most automotive safety kits contain at least one incendiary (strike) flare. However, with burn temperatures above 5,000 degreesF and an ingredient list full of toxic chemicals, the flares themselves are dangerous to both the user and the environment. Now there is an alternative. FlareAlert from the Keystone Group is a battery-powered safety flare visible for miles from both the ground and air. Twelve high-output LEDs make the electric flare highly visible from any angle. Requiring only two AA batteries to operate, the FlareAlert provides up to 20 hours of flashing light. The product is also very durable; the company says it is even strong enough to be run over by most passenger vehicles. "From accident scenes and engine trouble to flat tires, there are countless situations where motorists need to alert other drivers to their presence," said Brent Jones, vice president of The Keystone Group. "The FlareAlert is a safe and versatile alternative to strike flares," "Incendiary, or strike, flares are extremely dangerous; they can ignite spilled gasoline or oil and can cause brush fires. The FlareAlert can be used in any situation, near any material, on any surface."(Source: The Keystone Group)J.D. Power: Lexus Ranks First In 2006 CSI Study Results
(Graphic: J. D. Power &
Associates) WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA (July 26 2006) -J.D. Power and Associates has released its 2006 Customer Service Index (CSI), noting that Lexus has once again been ranked first by owners/lessees of 2003 to 2005 model-year vehicles who evaluated their visits to dealerships during the first three years of ownership. The annual study evaluates the auto industry's treatment and handling of customers who had brought their vehicles in for repair and maintenance work, and it is designed to objectively measure service use and customer response to dealer service. CSI studies six key areas: initiating service, service advisory, in-dealership experience, service delivery, service quality, and user-friendly service. The study finds that customers who are satisfied with the in-dealership experience are more likely to return for service, more likely to refer the business to friends and associates and more likely to repurchase the same make. Lexus' scored 912 out of a possible 1,000 points this year, 52 points higher than the industry average. It is the eleventh time in 27 years that Lexus has been ranked first.(Source: J.D Power &
Associates)Softening the Blow For Pedestrians LONDON, U.K. (July 27, 2006)- Endura, a new vehicle frontal protection system from Concept Moldings, is designed to cut pedestrian injuries in a crash. Introduced at the 2006 British International Motor Show, the company says Endura also can prevent damage to a vehicle front from a minor impact.
Endura Frontal Protection System.
(Photo: Concept Moldings) "One of the great advantages of our Endura products is that they will be available for most common SUVs, 4x4s and vans," commented Ian Finney, managing director of Concept Mouldings. "It can also be fitted to current vehicles as an aftermarket item which means we can start saving lives and serious injuries now." The Endura FPS meets new European Union regulations (Directive 2005/66/EC ) that will become effective in May 2007. Testing of the new plastic frontal protection system was carried out at the Motor Industry Research Association (MIRA), one of Europe's leading vehicle design, development and certification centers. The tests showed the frontal protection system reduced the risk of head injuries from more than 99 percent in the worst case down to less than 2 percent; MIRA also reports that the system can also substantially reduced the potential for injuries to the upper leg, abdomen and pelvis. Details of the results and information on this development in pedestrian safety are available at at the Concept Mouldings Web site. Between now and September, the company is inviting national and international companies meet with them and discuss distribution rights.(Source: Concept Moldings)Bridgestone Matching Tire Compounds To Driving Conditions TOKYO, JAPAN (July 20, 2006)-Bridgestone/Firestone LLC announced it has succeeded in the development of a synthesis technology that allows control of the rubber morphology at will, and as a result, fabricates compounds that can draw out desirable features required for different applications. The innovation - Nanostructure-Oriented Properties Control Technology - enables the control of chemical bonding of a polymer known as "high Cis butadiene rubber" (Cis BR) with silica at its molecular chain end. The rubber compound used in tires is a complex mixture of polymers, such as natural and synthetic rubbers, reinforcing fillers, such as carbon black and silica, and other ingredients. Cis BR has superior low-temperature flexibility, abrasion resistance and flex fatigue resistance on account of its microstructure, and its effectiveness is widely known. Silica, on the other hand, displays excellent performance in wet conditions and reduces rolling resistance. Efforts over the years have focused on optimizing these two materials, but the poor affinity of Cis BR and silica has been a limitation. Bridgestone's new technology improves the reactivity of cis BR with silica. The process improves the dispersion and the distribution of the silica in the rubber compound, delivering improved flexibility in cold conditions that allows superior contact between tread and road surface. At the same time, Bridgestone says the new compound can retain comparative stiffness compared with compounds based on ordinary polymers in warm conditions. In addition, the compound displays reduced rolling resistance and better wet-braking performance. Bridgestone plans to create various compounds and apply them to specific applications. For example, the company has already implemented this new technology as a means to controlling changes in the properties of the rubber caused by changing road surface temperatures in the compound for its new studless tire in Japan. (Source: Bridgestone/Firestone North America LLC)CBS Enters Aftermarket In Partnership With AutoNetTV
(Photo: Concept Moldings) "One of the great advantages of our Endura products is that they will be available for most common SUVs, 4x4s and vans," commented Ian Finney, managing director of Concept Mouldings. "It can also be fitted to current vehicles as an aftermarket item which means we can start saving lives and serious injuries now." The Endura FPS meets new European Union regulations (Directive 2005/66/EC ) that will become effective in May 2007. Testing of the new plastic frontal protection system was carried out at the Motor Industry Research Association (MIRA), one of Europe's leading vehicle design, development and certification centers. The tests showed the frontal protection system reduced the risk of head injuries from more than 99 percent in the worst case down to less than 2 percent; MIRA also reports that the system can also substantially reduced the potential for injuries to the upper leg, abdomen and pelvis. Details of the results and information on this development in pedestrian safety are available at at the Concept Mouldings Web site. Between now and September, the company is inviting national and international companies meet with them and discuss distribution rights.(Source: Concept Moldings)Bridgestone Matching Tire Compounds To Driving Conditions TOKYO, JAPAN (July 20, 2006)-Bridgestone/Firestone LLC announced it has succeeded in the development of a synthesis technology that allows control of the rubber morphology at will, and as a result, fabricates compounds that can draw out desirable features required for different applications. The innovation - Nanostructure-Oriented Properties Control Technology - enables the control of chemical bonding of a polymer known as "high Cis butadiene rubber" (Cis BR) with silica at its molecular chain end. The rubber compound used in tires is a complex mixture of polymers, such as natural and synthetic rubbers, reinforcing fillers, such as carbon black and silica, and other ingredients. Cis BR has superior low-temperature flexibility, abrasion resistance and flex fatigue resistance on account of its microstructure, and its effectiveness is widely known. Silica, on the other hand, displays excellent performance in wet conditions and reduces rolling resistance. Efforts over the years have focused on optimizing these two materials, but the poor affinity of Cis BR and silica has been a limitation. Bridgestone's new technology improves the reactivity of cis BR with silica. The process improves the dispersion and the distribution of the silica in the rubber compound, delivering improved flexibility in cold conditions that allows superior contact between tread and road surface. At the same time, Bridgestone says the new compound can retain comparative stiffness compared with compounds based on ordinary polymers in warm conditions. In addition, the compound displays reduced rolling resistance and better wet-braking performance. Bridgestone plans to create various compounds and apply them to specific applications. For example, the company has already implemented this new technology as a means to controlling changes in the properties of the rubber caused by changing road surface temperatures in the compound for its new studless tire in Japan. (Source: Bridgestone/Firestone North America LLC)CBS Enters Aftermarket In Partnership With AutoNetTV
CBS will soon be delivering
customized content to repair shop waiting rooms through the
AutoNetTV network.
(Photo: AutoNetTV) AMERICAN FORK, UT (July 25, 2006) - AutoNetTV and CBS Corp. will soon be providing custom programming for the waiting rooms of automotive service centers throughout North America. The "Rev It Up!" brand and content will air exclusively on the AutoNetTV network for customers waiting for their vehicles to be serviced. The agreement is a first-ever partnership with a national television network to create customized automotive programming for AutoNetTV's in-store network. AutoNetTV will continue to produce its own custom reporting segments, focused on educating drivers about the performance, safety and cost-saving benefits of performing regular maintenance services. The specialized programming is targeted at helping the aftermarket combat decreasing profits and assist shops in boosting maintenance service work. "Our partnership with CBS validates the quality of both the AutoNetTV programming content and personnel for communicating directly with customers," says Sean Whiffen, co-founder of AutoNetTV. "The entertaining CBS "Rev It Up!" content combines perfectly with the informative AutoNetTV. Our programming has received a 98 percent approval rating, prior to the addition of CBS, and has demonstrated incredible ability to increase the sales of parts and services." (Source: AutoNetTV)RI Body Parts Bill Becomes Law PROVIDENCE, RI (July 19, 2006) - Rhode Island passed House Bill 7705 (H7705) titled "Motor Vehicle Body Replacement Parts," a bill that supporters say protects vehicle owners; the bill takes effect Jan. 1, 2007. The bill states that owners of vehicles that are less than 30 months past the date of manufacture must receive written notice that says the owner is entitled to "original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts in the repair of a motor vehicle body replacement part." The written notice must be sent to the vehicle owner by both the insurer and the auto body repair facility. Additionally, the bill states "no insurance company may require the use of aftermarket parts when negotiating repairs with any repairer unless the repairer has written consent from the vehicle owner to install aftermarket parts."(Source: Rhode Island General Assembly)U.S. House Approves Perkins Act Conference Report; Legislation Sent
to President Bush WASHINGTON (July 31, 2006) - Two days after the U.S. Senate adopted by voice vote the Conference Report on the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2005 (S. 250), the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Conference Report as well. This legislation cleared the U.S. House with a vote of 399-1 with Representative Jeff Flake (R-AZ) being the only congressman to vote against the legislation. Another 32 members of Congress were not present for voting. Under the Perkins Act, states receive grants for career and technical education at the secondary and postsecondary levels. High schools and community colleges are able to prepare students for careers that do not require a four-year degree. Last year, the Perkins Act provided $1.18 billion in state grants. The Senate and House conferees agreed to reauthorize $1.3 billion in grants in July. Both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate approved individual vocational education bills last year but could not reconcile differences between the two bills. The bill has been sent to President Bush, who is expected sign the bill into law. Bush proposed eliminating the programs covered by the legislation and spending the $1.3 billion in high schools. Major provisions that would reauthorize the Perkins Act through 2011 include: * Both the state and local levels must measure the performance of vocational and technical education programs. * Providing grants for Indian tribes for technical and vocational programs. * Perkins grants to states will be distributed at the local level as well, with 30 percent going to programs based on local populations of school-aged minors and 70 percent based on local populations of children from underprivileged families. Despite President George W. Bush's proposal to leave the program unfunded in his next two fiscal year budget proposals, House and Senate conferees had no trouble agreeing to renew the Perkins Act.(Source: Automotive Service Association)Surviving The Aftermarket Business Jungle POMONA, CA (July 24, 2006) - Outwit, outlast and outsmart your competition. It sounds like a line from TV's "Survivor," but these important business skills will be taught at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum, presented by the Automobile Club of Southern California. The courses are part of the Cal State University San Bernardino's (CSUSB) College of Extended Learning program. Courses will be held August 21, 23 and 25, and topics include "Managing the Growth of your Business;" "Leading and Managing for Success;" and "Marketing your Business." The program is available as a series for $267, or courses can be taken individually for $99 each course. Working lunches will be provided. Seating is limited, so early enrollment is encouraged. Classes run from at 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. According to Tony Thacker, executive director of the Parks Museum, the workshop will offer a range of classes relative to real-world situations and are oriented toward the automotive aftermarket business. "The practical and fast-paced courses are ideal for business owners, managers, supervisors and anyone who wants to become a viable leader in their workplace or niche market." says Thacker. "This is a great opportunity to help teach people how to do business in the aftermarket," says Dick Dixon, director of the CSUSB International Motorsports Alliance, College of Business and Public Administration program. "The workshop is for anyone wanting to develop a foundation of strong management, marketing and communication skills. Courses are geared specifically to small- and medium-sized aftermarket businesses. Attendees will receive a certificate of completion from the university for finishing any of the courses in the series, but more importantly, participants will leave with a set of skills that will give them an advantage over the competition." Dixon said "The Parks Museum is ideal for this program. The CSUSB IMA program is a strong supporter of the museum and what it represents. With its rich historic collection and enduring dedication for the automotive aftermarket industry, it is appropriate that the event is held here at the Wally Parks NHRA Museum. This educational workshop is a first part of additional workshops to come" Dixon says this is the first in a series of workshops to come. For more information and to register, contact Dixon at (909) 537-3280 or via e-mail at [email protected] Walk-in registrations are welcome.(Source: Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum)DENSO Launches
A/C Compressor Program LONG BEACH, CA - DENSO Sales California recently launch its "Go Racing With DENSO" promotional program last month; the promotion runs through Sept. 15, 2006. The winners will receive a two-day/one-night stay during the month of February 2007 at the Richard Petty Driving Experience in Las Vegas. The prize includes airfare, meals and lodging. One representative from each of the five repair shops that purchase the most DENSO-brand compressor units during the promotion period will win the trip. DENSO First Time Fit compressors are available for GMC, Pontiac, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick, Oldsmobile, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Acura, Audi, BMW, Honda, Jaguar, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes, Porsche, Suzuki, Toyota and Volkswagen vehicles. For more information, visit to www.densoaftermarket.com.
(Photo: AutoNetTV) AMERICAN FORK, UT (July 25, 2006) - AutoNetTV and CBS Corp. will soon be providing custom programming for the waiting rooms of automotive service centers throughout North America. The "Rev It Up!" brand and content will air exclusively on the AutoNetTV network for customers waiting for their vehicles to be serviced. The agreement is a first-ever partnership with a national television network to create customized automotive programming for AutoNetTV's in-store network. AutoNetTV will continue to produce its own custom reporting segments, focused on educating drivers about the performance, safety and cost-saving benefits of performing regular maintenance services. The specialized programming is targeted at helping the aftermarket combat decreasing profits and assist shops in boosting maintenance service work. "Our partnership with CBS validates the quality of both the AutoNetTV programming content and personnel for communicating directly with customers," says Sean Whiffen, co-founder of AutoNetTV. "The entertaining CBS "Rev It Up!" content combines perfectly with the informative AutoNetTV. Our programming has received a 98 percent approval rating, prior to the addition of CBS, and has demonstrated incredible ability to increase the sales of parts and services." (Source: AutoNetTV)RI Body Parts Bill Becomes Law PROVIDENCE, RI (July 19, 2006) - Rhode Island passed House Bill 7705 (H7705) titled "Motor Vehicle Body Replacement Parts," a bill that supporters say protects vehicle owners; the bill takes effect Jan. 1, 2007. The bill states that owners of vehicles that are less than 30 months past the date of manufacture must receive written notice that says the owner is entitled to "original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts in the repair of a motor vehicle body replacement part." The written notice must be sent to the vehicle owner by both the insurer and the auto body repair facility. Additionally, the bill states "no insurance company may require the use of aftermarket parts when negotiating repairs with any repairer unless the repairer has written consent from the vehicle owner to install aftermarket parts."(Source: Rhode Island General Assembly)U.S. House Approves Perkins Act Conference Report; Legislation Sent
to President Bush WASHINGTON (July 31, 2006) - Two days after the U.S. Senate adopted by voice vote the Conference Report on the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2005 (S. 250), the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Conference Report as well. This legislation cleared the U.S. House with a vote of 399-1 with Representative Jeff Flake (R-AZ) being the only congressman to vote against the legislation. Another 32 members of Congress were not present for voting. Under the Perkins Act, states receive grants for career and technical education at the secondary and postsecondary levels. High schools and community colleges are able to prepare students for careers that do not require a four-year degree. Last year, the Perkins Act provided $1.18 billion in state grants. The Senate and House conferees agreed to reauthorize $1.3 billion in grants in July. Both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate approved individual vocational education bills last year but could not reconcile differences between the two bills. The bill has been sent to President Bush, who is expected sign the bill into law. Bush proposed eliminating the programs covered by the legislation and spending the $1.3 billion in high schools. Major provisions that would reauthorize the Perkins Act through 2011 include: * Both the state and local levels must measure the performance of vocational and technical education programs. * Providing grants for Indian tribes for technical and vocational programs. * Perkins grants to states will be distributed at the local level as well, with 30 percent going to programs based on local populations of school-aged minors and 70 percent based on local populations of children from underprivileged families. Despite President George W. Bush's proposal to leave the program unfunded in his next two fiscal year budget proposals, House and Senate conferees had no trouble agreeing to renew the Perkins Act.(Source: Automotive Service Association)Surviving The Aftermarket Business Jungle POMONA, CA (July 24, 2006) - Outwit, outlast and outsmart your competition. It sounds like a line from TV's "Survivor," but these important business skills will be taught at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum, presented by the Automobile Club of Southern California. The courses are part of the Cal State University San Bernardino's (CSUSB) College of Extended Learning program. Courses will be held August 21, 23 and 25, and topics include "Managing the Growth of your Business;" "Leading and Managing for Success;" and "Marketing your Business." The program is available as a series for $267, or courses can be taken individually for $99 each course. Working lunches will be provided. Seating is limited, so early enrollment is encouraged. Classes run from at 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. According to Tony Thacker, executive director of the Parks Museum, the workshop will offer a range of classes relative to real-world situations and are oriented toward the automotive aftermarket business. "The practical and fast-paced courses are ideal for business owners, managers, supervisors and anyone who wants to become a viable leader in their workplace or niche market." says Thacker. "This is a great opportunity to help teach people how to do business in the aftermarket," says Dick Dixon, director of the CSUSB International Motorsports Alliance, College of Business and Public Administration program. "The workshop is for anyone wanting to develop a foundation of strong management, marketing and communication skills. Courses are geared specifically to small- and medium-sized aftermarket businesses. Attendees will receive a certificate of completion from the university for finishing any of the courses in the series, but more importantly, participants will leave with a set of skills that will give them an advantage over the competition." Dixon said "The Parks Museum is ideal for this program. The CSUSB IMA program is a strong supporter of the museum and what it represents. With its rich historic collection and enduring dedication for the automotive aftermarket industry, it is appropriate that the event is held here at the Wally Parks NHRA Museum. This educational workshop is a first part of additional workshops to come" Dixon says this is the first in a series of workshops to come. For more information and to register, contact Dixon at (909) 537-3280 or via e-mail at [email protected] Walk-in registrations are welcome.(Source: Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum)DENSO Launches
A/C Compressor Program LONG BEACH, CA - DENSO Sales California recently launch its "Go Racing With DENSO" promotional program last month; the promotion runs through Sept. 15, 2006. The winners will receive a two-day/one-night stay during the month of February 2007 at the Richard Petty Driving Experience in Las Vegas. The prize includes airfare, meals and lodging. One representative from each of the five repair shops that purchase the most DENSO-brand compressor units during the promotion period will win the trip. DENSO First Time Fit compressors are available for GMC, Pontiac, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick, Oldsmobile, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Acura, Audi, BMW, Honda, Jaguar, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes, Porsche, Suzuki, Toyota and Volkswagen vehicles. For more information, visit to www.densoaftermarket.com.
(Source: DENSO
Corp.)