Automotive News: Autobody, Auto Body, Collision Repair, Auto Insurance, Automotive Industry

Get the Beyond Parts daily newsletter directly to your inbox! Enter your email here to start receiving it:

April 2007

Monday - April 30, 2007

BASF Automotive Coatings and Hyundai Partnership - BASF Coatings to form global partnership to provide automotive refinish coatings products, training services and support for Hyundai aftermarket network.
Mitchell International Integrates APU Solutions'(R) PartsNetwork(TM) With Estimating Solution - UltraMate(R) Premier Suite With PartsNetwork Delivers Industry's Only "Real Steel, Real Time(R)" Alternative Parts Management System
Dealing With Personnel Changes Pt 2 - AutobodyOnline: Smarter ways to respond when inevitable changes in personnel occur
ARA endorses CIECA's XML standards - The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) has endorsed the XML Business Message Specifications established by the Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA).
PPG Donates $10,000 TO SkillsUSA - PPG Automotive Refinish has donated $10,000 to SkillsUSA,
a national non-profit organization serving teachers, high school, and college students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical, and skilled service occupations.
IGA Conference Pre-Registration Deadline Fast Approaching - GlassBytes: Those planning to attend the 2007 Independents' Days and Spring Auto Glass Show™ have just one week to pre-register. Pre-registration closes Friday, May 4. Attendees can save $50 per person by pre-registering.
Shareholder Class Action Filed Against U.S. Auto Parts Network, Inc. by the Law Firm of Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler, LLP - The Complaint charges U.S. Auto Parts and certain of its officers and directors with violations of the Securities Act of 1933. U.S. Auto Parts, a portfolio company of Oak Investment Partners, is an online provider of aftermarket auto parts, including body parts, engine parts, performance parts and accessories.
Alcoa sees opportunity to add aluminum to U.S. cars - Aluminum makers see an automotive business opportunity in the push to cut carbon emissions, an Alcoa executive said this week. -- As U.S. automakers seek to make their vehicles lighter and more efficient, that opens the door for aluminum makers to add more of their metal to cars.
Profit at American Axle goes up 79% - Job cuts led to a boost in productivity as its net income grows to $15.4M in first quarter.
Nerd-A-Palooza: 2007 SAE Show - The Society of Automotive Engineers Cuts Loose in Detroit -- The first thing to coat some new Ford body shells will be a new material called Bonderite, by Henkel.
Consumer Perceptions of New Vehicle Brands With Best Exterior Styling Revealed - Kelley Blue Book Marketing Research's 'Brand Watch' Finds Ford's Exteriors Lead Among New Truck and SUVs Shoppers
Automakers are increasingly going global - In the quest to lower the cost of parts, companies look outside of North America
Chrysler revamps sales, marketing - Two executives promoted to aid dealership recovery and reduce fleet sales dependence
GM's Wagoner Gets $10.2 Million in 2006 Total Pay - General Motors Corp., the largest U.S. automaker, said Chief Executive Officer Rick Wagoner's total compensation for last year was $10.2 million, as the company narrowed its loss.
Blackstone, Cerberus Collide as Buyout Firms Overrun Detroit - The decision had been made. DaimlerChrysler AG's management in Stuttgart, Germany, weary of the struggle to keep its U.S.-based Chrysler unit in the black, was ready to sell.
GM ruled not liable for man's crash injuries - General Motors Corp ., the biggest U.S. automaker, isn't responsible for injuries to a 57-year-old dockworker left paralyzed after his GM pickup truck rolled over, an Illinois jury said. Richard Yeruski was injured in December 2000 after he lost control of the 1989 GMT 400 truck on a highway near Joliet, Ill. Yeruski claimed the roof was defectively designed and collapsed on him during the rollover, causing his injuries, according to his attorney Tom Plouff. GM denied any roof defect or liability.
NHTSA administrator predicts more technology and fewer wrecks - When more than 30,000 vehicle engineers gather to present concepts about the future of vehicle design and technology, the event gets attention from government and industry alike.
Silicone Materials Driving Innovation in Automotive Safety - Revolutionary automotive systems focus on prevention and protection
Congress considers bill to equip cars with devices to reduce fatal runovers - A bill now before Congress would require automakers to equip new cars with three types of safety systems aimed at reducing so-called "non-traffic" deaths among children.
Driving through loopholes - 'Total loss' vehicles may be sold to unwitting motorists because of a crazy quilt of state laws.
Electric car company financier arrested for fraud - OR: A California man who negotiated to buy a Roseburg company working to bring an electric car manufacturing plant to Sutherlin turned out to be a con man.
Lott Settles with State Farm - Senator Trent Lott has agreed to settle the lawsuit he filed against State Farm after Hurricane Katrina.
Proposal would give attorney gen. muscle in insurance disputes - Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood didn't wait long to take on the insurance industry for denying the claims of thousands of policyholders after Hurricane Katrina.
Personal Or Commercial Car Insurance: Which Is Right For You? - If, like many Americans, your family car is also used for purposes that could be considered commercial use, you may want to steer yourself into a chair and look over your insurance policy.
American Idol, Save the Children and Allstate Partner to ''Give Back'' to Children in the Gulf Region - Save the Children and the Allstate Insurance Company have joined forces to benefit Gulf-Coast-area children and young people living in extreme poverty as part of the two-night, star-studded “Idol Gives Back” Charity event that recently aired on Fox network’s popular “American Idol” television program.

Friday - April 27, 2007

Metamorphosis remakes Mitchell - What began as a publisher of loose-leaf automotive manuals has morphed into a digital-age business that supports millions of online transactions a month among insurance claims administrators, damage appraisers and auto repair specialists.
OEConnection Named One of the Best Employers in Ohio - OEConnection LLC, a technology leader in parts exchange and analysis solutions for the automotive original equipment (OE) replacement parts business, has been named one of Ohio's Best Employers for a second consecutive year..
GCIA releases results from Atlanta labor rate survey - The Georgia Collision Industry Association (GCIA) has released the results of their labor rate survey of collision repair facilities in the Metropolitan Atlanta market. With recent changes occurring in the industry related to insurance DRP (Direct Repair Program) and concierge programs, GCIA wanted to determine the average competitive labor rate for the Atlanta market.
PPG Announces Body Shop Business Development Seminar Series - PPG Automotive Refinish has announced the schedule for its MVP Business Development Training Series for spring and summer 2007. This business management series includes courses that encompass all aspects of managing a profitable collision repair business, from marketing and estimating to administration and production.
PPG Body Shop Management Series Schedule >>>
Brothers close WL auto-body business after 50 years - CT: For the Quagliaroli brothers, Peter and Frank, who have been in the auto-body business for 50 years, this month marks the end of an era as they close Brothers Auto Body on King Spring Road.
Orlando AutoBody and SIKKENS Debut New Paint Scheme on Cadiente’s No.38 Hot Rod - The G&R Racing No.38 Trophy Truck driven by Garron Cadiente under went a recent transformation from what has become an easily recognizable red and yellow G&R Racing Trick Truck to a new design that includes a black and yellow paint featuring the G&R Racing flames, which Cadiente’s truck is well-known for.
Maaco paint job upsets customer - PA: I got my pickup truck repainted at Maaco in Bethlehem for about $680 and I am extremely disappointed.
Major Alert For Minnesota Companies - GlassBytes.com: The Independence Glass Association (IGA) has learned from its state chapter in Minnesota (MIAGA) that the auto insurance lobby has attached an amendment to a major omnibus environment, natural resources, and energy appropriations bill (SF2096) that could force network pricing on all independent shops that do business in that state.
Female competitor shakes up national auto repair contest in Warren - Katy Younglove hopes to someday make a name for herself as Ms. Goodwrench.
New auto academy tunes up fast-track training - Eighteen "pioneers" will launch KVCC's entrance into an accelerated training model to provide the next generation of automotive technicians.
U.S. Auto Parts Network, Inc. Expands International Workforce - Company Takes Control of Outsourced Call-Center Employees
Toyota Uses New Soliant Fluorex(R) Bright Film for Branding, Styling, Cost Saves & Environmental Benefits - Soliant Fluorex(R) bright film and paintfilm is gaining popularity amongst automakers looking to improve vehicle exterior quality and appearance with more durable finishes. Gravelometer laboratory tests and field tests show that paintfilm is much more chip resistant and weather resistant than paint. This gives automakers more value and less warranty issues.
Mazda Profits Rise on Solid U.S. Sales - Mazda posted a 24 percent jump in profit for the January-March quarter and chalked up its third straight year of record earnings Friday on strong U.S. demand for a new sport-utility vehicle and other popular models.
GM delays vehicles at 2 plants on UAW cost-cut row - GM has suspended development activities on vehicles at two major U.S. assembly plants as the United Auto Workers union has backed out of negotiations on cost cuts at the facilities, according to labor and company sources.
Detroit News Reporter Wins Top Honor in Detroit Press Club Foundation's Wheel Awards Automotive Journalism Competition - The Detroit Press Club Foundation (DPCF) presented its 2007 Wheel Awards for excellence in automotive in journalism at the Automotive Hall of Fame this evening.
Sneak peek: Chrysler Cuda - Our illustrator nearly fell off his feet when he heard mention of a possible Chrysler Cuda -- twin to the upcoming Dodge Challenger -- during an interview with Chip Foose, hot rodder, television talent and all-round good guy, at the New York auto show.
Overstock.com Cars Forms Alliance With Carfax - Addition of the Carfax Vehicle History Reports Will Assist Automobile Shoppers in Making a Well Informed Buying Decision When Visiting Overstock.com Cars
Ford rebound gains ground - So far, so good. -- If there was a message to be read in Ford Motor Co.'s first-quarter earnings, that was it.
Toyota exec replaced at Texas plant - Toyota Motor Corp. said Thursday that it was replacing the head of its new pickup plant in Texas, the latest in a string of reassignments in the Japanese automaker's North American operations.
Calif. Assembly Insurance Committee Passes Fraud Measure - According to the California Department of Insurance, the measure would provide the DOI with additional investigators to fight insurance fraud. AB 1401 would also require the CDI to post investigative program performance outcomes on its Web site.
Hartford quarterly net income rises 20% - Insurer lifts 2007 forecast, says variable annuity outflows improve

Thursday - April 26, 2007

NABC's Leave Something Behind campaign sponsors free prostate cancer tests, plus awareness of early detection - Collision industry participants have rallied to raise $1,600 toward providing 70 free prostate cancer screenings for patients unable to afford the procedure. The donations were collected over the course of the April 10-12 National Auto Body Council (NABC) board meeting and Collision Industry Conference (CIC), which were both held in Atlanta.
New York Shop Owners Taking Issues to State Capital - Subscription required: The New York State Auto Collision Technician's Association has announced that it will be holding its annual Lobby Day on May 1, 2007. -- Shop owners from all over the state of New York will convene in Albany to discuss collision repair issues with their state representatives.
LKQ Corporation Announces 2007 First Quarter Net Income Results Up 30.7%, Record Earnings, and Expansion of its Bank Credit Facility - LKQ Corporation today announced results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2007, with revenue of $235.3 million, net income of $15.8 million and diluted earnings per share of $0.28.
Akzo Nobel opens new production facility in Michigan - “In this demanding period where much of the automotive industry is cutting costs and reducing resources, Akzo Nobel Automotive Plastics Coatings and Car Refinishes North America has chosen to invest in an innovative new production floor,” says Jim Rees, general manager Akzo Nobel Car Refinishes.
BASF Q1 profits beat forecast, reaffirms outlook - German chemicals group BASF posted a 13.5 percent rise in quarterly pre-exceptional operating profit on Thursday, driven in part by strong demand and higher prices for its products.
Two BASF coatings facilities receive Ohio Chemistry Technology Council award - Sites recognized for excellence in EHS and security performance
IGA Conference Attendees To Be Shown Tricks Of The Trade - GlassBytes.com: Attendees at the Independent Glass Association (IGA) Conference and Spring Auto Glass Show™ will be shown first hand how to increase their profitability through two great business marketing sessions.
Asbury Automotive Group Reports First Quarter Financial Results - Company Reports Record First Quarter Results in All Four Regions -- Parts, service and collision repair revenue increased 3%, and gross profit rose 6%.
Custom 1959 GMC Apache Truck - Indian Outlaw - The crew at Better Than New laid down a combination of '03 Mustang Yellow and PPG Metallic Gray.
Saline High Seniors Are Michigan's best young auto techs - Ford Motor Co. and AAA sponsor the annual Student Auto Skills Competition as part of their ongoing effort to encourage talented high school students to pursue careers as automotive technicians.
Going to the Max - American Car Care Centers Inc. (ACCC) and CARQUEST Auto Parts formed a new strategic marketing partnership that will be marketed by ACCC as MaxPak.
Delphi Investor Hasn't Pulled Out - A key investor in Delphi Corp.'s plan to exit bankruptcy protection says it has not pulled out of the deal as expected by the troubled auto parts supplier.
Chrysler pours millions into paint shop - Investment continues in Sterling Heights manufacturing facilities after the Chrysler Group said it would pour $300 million into the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant paint shop.
Toyota to trim 370 temps at Princeton - Princeton, Ind: About 370 temporary workers will lose their jobs with Toyota by the end of the year, in part because of declining demand for the Sequoia sport utility vehicle made at the Gibson County plant, a company official said.
GM Chief Vows To Fight `For Every Sale' - General Motors Corp.'s leader is vowing to "fight hard for every sale" after Toyota Motor Corp. said it sold more cars and trucks in a quarter than GM did for the first time ever.
Honda Posts Strong Quarter, But Sees Problems Ahead - Honda Motor booked a deceptive 20% decline in profit for the fourth quarter, but in reality, business was strong, as rising demand for its fuel-efficient models in the U.S. and Europe helped it to book record sales for the seventh consecutive year.
Twenty-Three States Declare Support for National Tire Safety Week - Twenty-three states have issued proclamations or statements to support the tire industry's education efforts for this year's National Tire Safety Week, which runs April 22-28.
Flood victims cautioned about disaster-related scams - NJ: If your motor vehicle has been damaged by the floods, check out auto repair shops by calling Consumer Affairs' Consumer Service Center and asking about any past actions and/or consumer complaints.
Claims officers, underwriters must talk way through litigious environment - Given that litigation against insurers is on the rise in Canada – and the country’s courts have responded with “unpredictable” decisions regarding policy coverage – it is critical for insurance claims and underwriting departments to be in constant communication, a seminar leader told the CIP Society Symposium 2007 in Toronto
Fraud trial becomes test of patience - NY: An insurance fraud trial already rife with controversy inched into its seventh week of testimony on Monday amid insinuations of witness tampering, the anticipated appearance of its star witness and the impending exit of the second-to-last alternate juror.
Thousands of drivers scrimp on insurance - More drop collision and theft coverage as economy takes toll.

Wednesday - April 25, 2007

PPG Launches Partners In Education Program - PPG Automotive Refinish has launched an exciting new program, intended to create a partnership with the top post secondary technical schools and colleges across North America - called the PPG Partners in Education Program. The program is a collaborative initiative between PPG and the leading technical schools to develop skilled entry-level technicians for employment at PPG customers.
Automotive industry loses 40-year veteran Al Bresnahan - Alfred (Al) Bresnahan, an active industry professional with 40 years in the automotive aftermarket, passed away March 25 after a long fight with cancer, in Highland Beach, Fla.
UK’s Auto Industry competitions shift up a gear in 2007 - SkillAuto, the national organisation that manages Auto Industry skills competitions in the UK, has announced a dynamic new corporate identity to support the forthcoming 2007 competitions cycle. -- A brand new redesigned website is also launched today, giving details of the 2007 competitions including the Craft Awards for Young Painter of the Year and Young Panel Technician of the Year, and the Light Vehicle Repair competition.
eAutoclaims sets executive pay levels - eAutoclaims.com Inc. has entered into employment agreements with Jeffrey Dickson, chief executive officer, and Larry Colton, chief financial officer. -- The company also announced the appointment of Don Thomas, as the new chief information officer.
LKQ Corp. 1Q07 Earnings Preview - Jerry Marks (AutoRetailStocks.com) submits: Before the market opens on April 26, 2007, LKQ Corporation will issue a press release telling us how many recycled and generic auto parts they sold in January, February and March of 2007 (first quarter).
OEConnection Relocates to New Headquarters - OEConnection LLC, a technology leader in parts exchange and analysis solutions for the automotive original equipment (OE) replacement parts business, today announced it has moved in to its newly constructed headquarters, at 4205 Highlander Parkway.
Car restoration project earns senior coveted award - Her senior project won Josvette Colon a $1,500 scholarship and provided a car in mint condition for her father. -- Colon, a senior at William J. Dean Technical High School, has been studying in the auto body department for four years. Her senior project this year was to fix the trunk area of her father's Mitsubishi Eclipse, which was leaking and had rusted.
Reinventing the Corvette - The custom chassis that Dawson’s shop builds are double-rail frames that keep the “body flex” out of the auto body. “It drives like a uni-body car, and the design keeps the squeaks and rattles out,” Dawson said.
Washington Law Major Victory for IGA - GlassBytes.com: On Wednesday April 18, Washington Governor Chris Gregoire signed legislation that severely limits the ability of an insurer or its third-party administrator (TPA) to steer business away from independent glass shops.

Washington State Passes Anti-Steering Legislation - GlassBytes.com: The new law requires that a third-party administrator (TPA) inform customers that they have the right to choose a retail glass shop. It also mandates that call center representatives tell customers that the TPA is a separate entity from their insurer with an arrangement to process automobile glass claims on the insurance company's behalf. In addition, under the new law, any glass retailer owned by an insurer or TPA will have to inform the consumer of that relationship through a written notice posted at the facility.

Valeo says studying bid approaches - French car parts group Valeo said on Wednesday it had received several expressions of interest by various funds and added it was studying these approaches.

Snap-on Announces First Quarter 2007 Results - Net earnings up 76.5% over prior year on 19.6% sales increase

Refocused Akzo Nobel reports strong first quarter results - The combined Coatings and Chemicals business posted autonomous growth of 6%, while operational results before incidentals were 18 percent higher than the corresponding period last year.

Akzo weighs up acquisition targets - Akzo Nobel , the world's biggest paint maker, on Tuesday said it was willing to spend "a considerable amount of money" on an acquisition, sparking renewed speculation that it may be mulling a move for ICI, of the UK.

Hella Receives World Excellence Award from Ford - For the third successive year, the Ford Motor Company has given the "World Excellence Award" to Hella.

Visteon Wins Top Quality Award from Hyundai - Two Visteon manufacturing plants, Visteon Climate Control Beijing (VCCB) and Visteon Automotive System India Chennai Plant (VASI), recently received Hyundai Motor Company's coveted Quality Five Star Certification. The award recognizes Visteon's continuous efforts to deliver outstanding quality performance.

Reality Check for the Automotive Market - What the Industry's Top Bosses Need to Know!

Soft sales may hurt Big 3 - Low demand in April will be tough on turnaround plans

DCX unions open to Magna - But they tell Zetsche they don't want Chrysler sold

UAW member perks cut - Tough times force Big Three, union to scale back tuition, other programs

An Insider's Take on How Toyota Dethroned GM to Become the World's Top Carmaker - During my brief time as a GM insider, I saw first-hand how it was only a matter of time before Toyota would overtake GM as the world's top carmaker.

Automakers Plan Safety Training in China - General Motors, Ford and DaimlerChrysler announced Wednesday they will provide training for their suppliers in China on how to keep their working conditions safe, health and legal.

Toyota Driving Expectations Program Attacks Deadly Teen Accident Rates - Unique Safe Driving Program Targets Teens AND Parents with Real-World Scenarios

Goodyear Recommends Giving Tires Some TLC During National Tire Safety Week - With the Observation of National Tire Safety Week, Goodyear Urges Everyone to Show They Care ... about Their Tires

Is Roadside Assistance Safety Net Or Gamble? - Phil Reed with Edmunds.com said roadside service plans are exploding in popularity, so it is no wonder that some of the largest auto insurers are now getting into the driver’s seat. -- Many in the insurance industry said these new plans are offered at a fraction of the cost of traditional motor clubs. -- Four out of five of the top insurers offer safety service, while two said they do consider roadside claims a risk.

LoJack-Equipped Mobile Assets Lead Police to Four Chop Shops, One Illegal Export Operation in One Week - In less than one week in April, LoJack Corporation's Stolen Vehicle Recovery System was instrumental in helping police uncover four chop shops and one international theft operation in five different states, recover 17 cars, four motorcycles, numerous pieces of construction equipment and arrest 11 suspects.

Car Thieves Take the Bait - Modesto, CA Records Dramatic Vehicle Theft Reduction; Las Vegas, NV Now Ranks as Country's Number One Metro Area With Highest Theft Rate

Insurance institute: Lafayette safest in Indiana in car thefts - A report issued today by the National Insurance Crime Bureau shows Lafayette had the lowest per capita rate of auto thefts of any Indiana city in 2006.

Men plead guilty in car fraud - Two men pleaded guilty Tuesday to their involvement in a car “chop shop” that dates back nearly eight years

House committee passes new auto insurance plan - Florida House Republicans offered their first glimpse at how they want to rewrite the state's mandatory automobile insurance laws by pushing a bill through a committee that doesn't normally deal with policy.

e-insurance: law, security slows industry’s evolution - Though insurance industry websites offer electronic services, most companies avoid direct electronic communication when it comes to letting customers apply for insurance.

Tuesday - April 24, 2007

Rhode Island preparing procedures to require certification of collision repair technicians - Collision repair technicians in Rhode Island will eventually be required by law to meet specific certification requirements before being allowed to practice their trade. A committee consisting of state officials and industry representatives is currently promulgating the exact standards.
Clawson Chamber names Business Man of the Year - Michael Auger of Auger's Auto Body & Collision continues a legacy of community involvement.
Giving back is not a money matter - Ronny and Jessica Flores put their body shop skills to good use in the community on a recent visit to a women's shelter. The shop owners nearly overlooked their potential for giving back, until they caught wind of a great opportunity to connect.
AAA Hawaii pushes 'key code' bill - AAA Hawaii is supporting legislation that would allow motorists to get replacement keys for their vehicles sooner rather than later in emergency or lock-out situations. -- Senate Bill 1011, which was approved by both the House and Senate, is in conference committee. -- The bill would allow motorists to replace their stolen, lost or damaged high-technology, electronic vehicle keys with new ones distributed through pre-approved and registered locksmiths, without having to go through their auto dealership or vehicle manufacturer for them.
High School Students Rebuild Cop Cars For Credit - MD: A group of students at Washington County Technical School are taking time during their shop class to rebuild and refurbish patrol cars used by volunteers with the police department.
PTA Holdings, Inc. Launches ProFlow Paint Systems(TM); Signs Contract With Industry Leader PP&G in $50.2 Billion Dollar Automotive Aftermarket Industry - PTA Holdings, Inc. announced today that its recently acquired ProFlow subsidiary has launched a new automotive division called ProFlow Paint Systems(TM). -- ProFlow is a Georgia based multi-location Automotive Service Center that specializes in the repair and maintenance of domestic, foreign and diesel cars and trucks. ProFlow launched this new division to round out the services that it provides to its customer base.
Metokote Announces New Appointments - MetoKote Corporation, Inc., the industry leader in protective coating applications, is pleased to announce the appointments of Joe Beatty to Vice President of North American General Purpose Business and Tim Schira to Vice President of Human Resources.
Auto Suppliers Need To Ramp Up Global Product Development - Only 28% of product development is global says survey.
Visteon Recognizes 28 Global Suppliers for Overall Excellence - "Our suppliers are absolutely critical to Visteon's success in delivering high-quality, cost-competitive, and leading-edge products to vehicle manufacturers," said Jonathan K. Maples, vice president, global purchasing.
DuPont Reports 15% Earnings Growth in First Quarter 2007; Reaffirms Full Year Outlook - "We're off to a solid start in 2007," said DuPont Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Charles O. Holliday, Jr. "We continue to improve operating margin and return on capital as we deliver on our growth strategies and productivity initiatives. Our results highlight the benefits of our global presence and diversified businesses.
Toyota tops GM in 1Q global sales - Toyota Motor Corp. became the world's top auto seller in the first three months of the year, passing rival General Motors Corp. for the first time, the Japanese automaker said Tuesday.
Toyota Industries buys data storage firm - Toyota Industries Corp., an affiliate of the world's second-biggest automaker, will acquire an information management and storage firm from the private equity units of Nomura Holdings Inc. and Millea Holdings Inc., Bloomberg News reported today.
Kerkorian's firm meets workers over Chrysler - Talks in 'very early stages' after billionaire investor made separate $4.5 billion deal.
Fuel economy, auto emissions take center stage - The decision on whether to dramatically increase the regulation of automobile emissions and auto safety returns to the forefront in Congress this week.
Autoliv Receives Four Ford World Excellence Awards - "We are proud to have received not just one but four of these prestigious awards given by the Ford Motor Company,” said Stefan Kronung, Vice President, Autoliv Ford Global Business. ”It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our Ford team as well as our 42,000 global associates. These awards demonstrate that Autoliv is a true worldwide leader in automotive safety."
Ford Promotes Susan Cischke to Senior VP - Ford Motor Co. on Monday said Susan M. Cischke has been promoted to senior vice president, sustainability, environment and safety engineering.
Continental Automotive develops Teasily integrated' safety system - Ralf Cramer, head of the electronic braking and safety systems business unit at Continental Automotive Systems, said the new sensor offers carmakers a system that can make a precrash reaction affordable even for small and midrange vehicles.
Jury awards $10.6 Million Dollars to Woman Injured in Ford Explorer Rollover - NJ: A Toms River woman who suffered a paralyzed right arm after her Ford Explorer rolled over was awarded a total of $10,668,799.89 in damages by a Superior Court jury in New Brunswick. Rebekah Zakrocki-Parks, 28, was injured in the morning of November 10, 2000, when the throttle on her 1997 Ford Explorer became stuck while she was on her way to work on the Garden State Parkway.
Flood-Damaged Cars From Nor’easter May Show Up On a Used Car Lot Near You - The I.I.I. Offers Tips to Avoid Buying a “Flooded Car”
School For Adjusters - Inside a sprawling white stucco building in Windsor, The Travelers Cos. has created a Disneyland of destruction. -- It's called Travelers Claim University, and it's a hands-on training experience for claims personnel that houses everything from real wrecked cars to a floodable building.
Farmers Insurance Participates in WalkAmerica Day April 28 in L.A.’s Griffith Park - “Farmers has supported the March of Dimes for almost two decades, raising millions of dollars for healthy babies. Today, Farmers is the exclusive national insurance sponsor of the March of Dimes and is proud to be its largest insurance company fundraiser,” said Paul Hopkins, CEO of Farmers Group, Inc.
2007 Mitchell Medical Conference Examines Ways to Optimize the Auto Casualty Claim Process and Increase Customer Satisfaction - On March 14th, 2007 the fifth annual Mitchell Medical Conference drew to a close in San Diego, CA, after bringing together more than 130 insurance carrier executives, claims processing experts and consultants.
Cheap Auto Insurance Shouldn't Be A Factor to Any - The cost of auto insurance is expected to rise by just 0.5 percent in 2007, the smallest increase in seven years, reports the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).
Chubb quarterly net income climbs 6% - Results top analyst estimates; insurer could exceed full-year target, CEO says

Monday - April 23, 2007

Insider advises on auto claims - Ex-lawyer for insurers offers industry secrets, tips to help consumers
Internet Usage Extensive, Popular Among Independent Repair Facilities - E-mail communication, accessing service information among top uses.
Dealing With Personnel Changes (Pt 1) - AutobodyOnline: Plan an exit interview to gain valuable information…
Shop pushes students to apply skills sooner rather than later - Two plus two will always equal four, but, for the most part, a carburetor is no longer the device that regulates the air-fuel mixture in a car engine. With that in mind, Gary Maune knew nine years ago when he accepted a position instructing in the auto technician program at Four Rivers Career Center that his job teaching an auto repair class would be different than other teaching positions.
Probe continues at Bridgewater auto shop where Hanover man was crushed to death - MA: Chuckran's is a destination for backyard mechanics and automotive repair shops looking for used parts. The company has no complaints on file with the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, spokesman Ted Fitzgerald said Wednesday.
Community leader, businessman dies - IL: The family of Walter S. Herrick Sr. remembers him as a man who always was active in his community, but not the kind of person who craved the spotlight. -- Herrick opened Herrick Auto Body, now named Herrick Auto Rebuilders, in 1947. It now is run by his son, Skip Herrick, and son-in-law, Gary Riegler. -- “He always believed that if you treat people right, they will treat you right,” his daughter said of his business philosophy.
PPG might unload operations - PPG Industries Inc. is talking with investors and potential buyers of its automotive glass and fine chemicals businesses, CEO Charles Bunch told shareholders Friday. -- Tom Uutala, an analyst with Cleveland-based Victory Capital Management, which holds more than 2.7 million PPG shares said many investors still look at PPG as a "sleepy glass company, producing glass for the automobile and housing industries." He calls it a manufacturing company that wants to be known for its coatings and optical businesses.
PPG Automotive Glass Helps Drivers Stay Cool and Save Fuel - NREL study shows the benefits of Sungate EP automotive glass
Belron US Announces New Field Management Assignments - The recent merger between the two largest vehicle glass repair and replacement companies in the United States has resulted in new staff assignments in the field leadership structure of the new company, Belron US.
ADESA Announces Closing of Acquisition by Private Equity Group - Insurance Auto Auctions is Contributed to Surviving Corporation
Chemical firms met challenges in quarter - DuPont, Dow Chemical seen weathering tricky quarter. PPG already has shown lower prices can eat into earnings.
Collins & Aikman Signs Agreement to Sell its Soft Trim Business to International Automotive Components Group - The Company will file a motion seeking approval of the Agreement subject to higher or better offers through a bankruptcy court-monitored auction process.
Employees of American-owned car parts company strike in Cadiz - MADRID, Spain (AP) — Workers waving banners and handkerchiefs went on strike in southern Spain Wednesday to protest plans to shut down an American-owned car parts factory at a cost of 1,500 jobs. -- Unions said workers honored the one-day stoppage in 14 towns in the coastal Cadiz region over the plan to close the Delphi Corp. plant in Puerto Real.
Chrysler bidding heats up this week - Suitors to jockey for position with 'refined' offers as DCX board meets in Germany.
The Ultimate Road Test - Consumer Reports magazine, looking forward again after an embarrassing mistake, keeps putting cars and car products through every imaginable trial at its 327-acre facility near Hartford.
State Farm(R) Lowers Georgia Auto Insurance Rates - State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, the largest insurer of autos in Georgia and in the nation, is lowering its overall rate level in Georgia an average of 4.0 percent.
Keep an eye on car & home loss file - your insurers will - When you buy car insurance, it makes sense to be honest. As a result of centralized databases, any insurer can quickly discover your history of accidents and traffic convictions. However, it's up to you to make sure the information on file about you is both accurate and complete.
Insurance Premiums Drop After a Very Profitable Year - Insurers are cutting rates in Western New York and elsewhere to capture new business, after the nation's property and casualty carriers posted their best underwriting results in nearly 50 years.

Friday - April 20, 2007

3 auto body shops get injunctions - The Ohio Board of Motor Vehicle Collision Repair Registration and the Ohio attorney general's office have won a permanent injunction against three Lorain body shops that failed to register with the state. -- When I got a news release announcing the injunction, I was stunned. -- Who knew the state had a board that registers auto body shops?
NAPDRT Calls On Insurance Industry to Adopt PDR Certification Process By 2009 - The National Alliance of PDR Technicians (NAPDRT) has called on the Insurance Industry to adopt and enforce a PDR Certification process by the start of the 2009 hail season.
AutoNation Names DuPont’s ProfitNet Technology of the Year - AutoNation, Inc., America’s largest automotive retailer, named DuPont’s ProfitNet Management System the Technology of the Year at its recent annual Vendor Recognition Awards banquet. DuPont is the sole supplier of paint refinishing products for the AutoNation dealerships. ProfitNet has been implemented in AutoNation’s collision centers throughout the country.
Alumni Numbers To Speed AAPEX Registration Process - AAPEX Registration Now Open
Keystone Automotive Industries to Present At Baird's 2007 Growth Stock Conference - Jeff Gray, chief financial officer, will review industry trends, as well as the company's business and growth opportunities.
The Sherwin-Williams Company Reports First Quarter 2007 Financial Results - Commenting on the financial results for the first quarter, Christopher M. Connor, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "We are encouraged by the improvement in domestic commercial architectural and industrial maintenance sales in the Paint Stores Group and continued growth in architectural, industrial maintenance, OEM and automotive finishes sales in the Global Group. The domestic DIY and new residential markets were softer than we had anticipated during the first quarter.
PPG Posts Record First Quarter Sales, Highest Quarterly Sales Ever - Coatings, Optical and Specialty Materials Segments See Double-Digit Increases
Ford sells 3 ex-Visteon glass plants - Agreement with private investor is part of firm's ongoing effort to sell or close supplier's factories.
Research and Markets Releases Study of Global Auto Glass Industry - Research and Markets, an international market research and market data resource, recently released its global strategic business report for the automotive glass industry. In the report, Research and Markets analyzed the global auto glass in terms of thousands of square meters in the products segments of windshields, sidelites and backlites.
Cerberus bailing from Delphi deal is the latest development in already battered auto industry - The private equity shop named after the mythical three-headed dog guarding the gates of hell is running away from bankrupt Delphi Corp., three tails between its legs.
Lear Honored with Three 2006 World Excellence Awards From Ford Motor Company - With three awards, Lear received to highest number of awards for any single supplier.
UAW seen considering bid for Chrysler - The United Auto Workers could seek a majority stake in the troubled auto maker in return for cost concessions, according to a report Friday.
Toyota Motor Sales, USA Announces Top Management Changes - Toyota Motor Sales USA, Inc. announced top management changes for its Toyota and Lexus divisions.
Latest Chevy Volt will be fueled by hydrogen - Although General Motors Corp.'s much anticipated plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt is still years away, the automaker is already planning a sequel -- a hydrogen-powered version.
kbb.com Names Coolest New Cars Selling Under $18,000 - In addition to their sporty stylishness, many of these editor's picks are smaller vehicles that deliver excellent fuel economy, making these cars in this price range even more appealing with gas prices currently surging over $3.00 a gallon in many parts of the country. All but one of the winners on the list returns highway fuel economy of 30 mpg or better.
Auto Safety Report - Bigger Can Mean Safer
Car rate I heard on phone not what I see in my bill! - Auto insurance can take a big bite out of many budgets. So it's not surprising when consumers switch carriers to take advantage of lower premiums. Unfortunately, the rate you ultimately pay may be significantly higher than the low quote you initially receive - and the increase could be the result of wrong information.
Allstate CEO says won't change claim practices after Katrina - Allstate corp's chief executive said Thursday he anticipates no changes in the way it handles catastrophe claims despite the company badly losing its first federal lawsuit over a Hurricane Katrina claim earlier this week.
State Farm announces $15.2 million Arkansas auto policy holder dividend - State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, the largest insurer of autos in Arkansas and in the nation, has announced an auto insurance dividend to its policyholders in Arkansas totaling $15.2 million.

Thursday - April 19, 2007

California Lawmaker Hopes To Stop Auto Body Fraud - Car crash repairs are big business in California. Auto shops work on $1.5 billion in accident repairs every year.
Text of California Assembly Bill on Auto Body Repair - AB 1483 (Carter) - As Amended: April 9, 2007
OEConnection Launches RepairLink - Online Parts Ordering for Fleets and Repair Shops - General Motors Selects RepairLink for Nationwide Dealership Initiative -- RepairLink builds on OEConnection's success with their other online applications for auto manufacturers, auto dealerships and collision shops.
Mitchell International Names Erez Nir as Senior Vice President of Technology - In a move to advance operational execution and accelerate technological innovation, Mitchell International, a leading provider of information, workflow, and performance management solutions to the insurance claims and collision repair industries, today promoted Erez Nir to the position of Senior Vice President of Technology. In his new role Nir will be responsible for driving Mitchell's technology strategy, continuing their efforts to introduce market-leading solutions and elevating the company's commitment to innovation.
Get Lean and Overall Workshop Efficiency With New AMI-Approved Course From Sherwin-Williams Automotive - Imagine a process that helps analyze all aspects of the collision repair business while identifying opportunities to make it run more efficiently and more profitably. A new course approved by the Automotive Management Institute (AMI), and taught by Steve Feltovich, manager of Business Consulting Services, Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes Corporation, will teach shop owners, production managers and fixed operations managers how to do just that.
DuPont Wins Elite Automotive Innovation Award for Paint Advance That Delivers Environmental and Financial Benefits - DuPont has received a prestigious 2007 PACE award from Automotive News for superior innovation, technological advancement and business performance. The award recognizes the company's development and commercialization of EcoConcept, a finishing system that allows automobile manufacturers to eliminate completely an entire coat in the painting process.
AbcCarParts.com to Launch National Auto Parts Marketplace and Inventory Management Network - AbcCarParts.com has officially announced the launch of its nationally centralized online car parts marketplace, inventory exchange and management network. Businesses and individuals can now become a part of the network by registering a free online account to manage and promote sales of their original and aftermarket car parts and accessories.
Junk car measure approved - Algonquin, IL: Village auto repair and auto body shops have one year to rid their grounds of abandoned and inoperable vehicles or screen them under a measure the Village Board approved Tuesday night. -- The ordinance is trying to end what Village President John Schmitt called “sight pollution,” but not all auto repair shops in Algonquin are happy about the change.
Fire Destroys Auto Glass Shop in Clearfield, Pa. - A fire at the Cozy Acres office building in Clearfield, Pa., gutted the local offices of Diamond Auto Glass shop.
Why black is the new silver - UK: Not only are brand new black cars storming up the sales league among customers, second-hand black cars are commanding a £500 price premium over other colors.
Supplier success outlined - Adapt, innovate and look to Asia, parts makers hear at SAE convention
Ford presents World Excellence Award to 55 suppliers - Ford Motor Company on April 17 awarded its highest supplier honor – the World Excellence Award – to 55 of its global suppliers for their exemplary performance in 2006. More than 150 people, including Ford’s largest production and non-production global suppliers, attended the ninth annual event at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Mich.
Chrysler Plans to Build Engine and Axle Plants in Southern Michigan - The Chrysler Group said on Wednesday that it would spend $1.43 billion to build two plants in southern Michigan that would make parts for Chrysler and Mercedes vehicles, even as the American and German companies prepare for a possible divorce.
UAW chief pleads to DCX: Keep Chrysler - He will make case at DCX supervisory board's meeting next week.
UAW says GM wants more buyouts in Ohio - General Motors Corp. and United Auto Workers officials in Lordstown, Ohio, are negotiating an agreement that could allow GM to buy out additional workers at an unprofitable assembly plant that builds small cars, a union official said Wednesday.
CarSoup Provides Tips for Buying New Cars Online - New and Used Vehicle Sales Web Site, CarSoup, Offers Tips on Buying New Cars With the Best Resale Value
How Do Call Centers Transform Into Sucessful Transaction Centers? - A new report by the Aberdeen Group, a Harte-Hanks Company, finds that 58% of companies have adopted revenue generating capabilities by leveraging their call-centers as transaction hubs. No longer must call-centers limit their functions to customer support, many act as the first line of up-sales and cross-sales generation for their organizations.
Group says redesigned vehicles boost U.S. safety - Ford Motor Co. redesigned the best-selling vehicle in the United States, the F-150 pickup, and cut its death rate in half, a leading safety group said in a study set for release on Thursday.
Safety sells with auto buyers - Frontal radar and driver-state monitoring, which determines fatigue, are two new developments, forum told.
New Vehicle Sensor is Designed to Help Prevent Traffic Crashes in Urban Areas - Continental Automotive Systems' new closing velocity sensor is designed to help drivers avoid collisions when traveling at low speeds.
National Insurance Crime Bureau Teams With Experian Automotive to Fight VIN Cloning - Leading vehicle history information used to help law enforcement combat growing automotive industry scam.
Man admits role in auto-theft ring - PA: Bethlehem Twp. man facing 10 years. Ring also involved vehicle 'give-ups' for insurance money.
State Farm Trims Illinois Auto Insurance - State Farm, the largest auto insurer in the nation, will reduce insurance rates an average of 6 percent in Illinois effective May 14, the company said Wednesday.
Geico makes $100,000 donation to hospital - Washington-based Geico has made a $100,000 donation to The Children's Hospital, and some of the money funded a parents room. -- The donation announcement was made during a Tuesday morning ceremony at The Children's Hospital, which is part of The Medical Center of Central Georgia.
enherent Corp. Completes Business Process Automation Project for AutoOne Insurance Companies - The Company implemented, installed, and configured a technology solution that is intended to automate AutoOne's automobile insurance claims process.
Allstate wins premiums in cutthroat insurance market - The Northbrook, Ill., insurer reported Wednesday that its overall property-liability premiums rose 0.4% in the first quarter, compared with the same quarter last year, excluding the cost of reinsurance. But including reinsurance, overall premiums dropped 1.7%.

Wednesday - April 18, 2007

Gary Wano Assumes NABC PRIDE Committee Chairmanship - The National Auto Body Council (NABC) has announced that Gary Wano, of GW & Son Autobody in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, has been appointed Chairman of the NABC PRIDE Committee. He assumes his responsibilities following two years of exemplary leadership from Janet Chaney, outgoing Chair.
United Estimatics Announces New Claims Management Solution - United Estimatics has released its latest product, Estimatics Claims Management Solution (ECMS). This feature will work in conjunction with Estimatics Independent Appraisal Network (EIAN), and allow the use of a dispatcher in the claims assignment work flow. -- United Estimatics has also revised its total loss processing to simplify the process for both adjusters and appraisers.
Ohio seminar covers insurer issues, cost accounting and more - Auto body repairers from all over Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky converged on the Marriott North in West Chester, Ohio on Wednesday, April 11 for a seminar sponsored by the Cincinnati Chapter of the Ohio Body Shop Owners Association Inc. (OBOA).
Missouri Collision Industry Forum to be held in June - The second annual Missouri Collision Industry Forum, co-hosted by the Automotive Service Association of Missouri and Kansas (ASA MOKAN), the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Missouri (AASP MO), and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists of Missouri and Kansas (SCRS MOKAN), will be held from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Select in Columbia, Mo., on June 13.
IGA Conference Pre-Registration Deadline Approaching - Those planning to attend the 2007 Independents’ Days and Spring Auto Glass Show™ have a little more than two weeks to pre-register. Pre-registration closes Friday, May 4. Attendees can save $50 per person by pre-registering.
I-CAR presents award at SCRS 25th Anniversary celebration - In honor of 25 years of excellence in the collision industry, I-CAR presented the I-CAR Industry Excellence award to the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS). I-CAR President & CEO Tom McGee presented the award to SCRS Executive Director Dan Risley, Wednesday, April 11, at the SCRS 25^th Anniversary Celebration at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Atlanta, GA.
Friday storms leave big bill - TX: Hailstones cited for bulk of insurance claims -- Ronda White, co-owner of Perfection Auto Body in Haltom City, said 50 people called her shop Monday to make appointments for estimates.
Free Car Maintenance for the Families of Soldiers in Combat - The Ford Doctors at Beechnut Auto, a local auto repair shop, launch an inventive cost-free program to help deployed soldiers and their families care for the family vehicle.
Audatex and Spies Hecker Provide Estimating Standards Initiative - Recognising the importance of accurate estimating, Spies Hecker, in partnership with Audatex UK, is providing its Colors Unlimited International (CUI) member bodyshops with advanced estimating initiatives for 2007 and beyond.
Vehicle Side Structure Concept Presented with AISI/SAE Sydney H. Melbourne Award for Excellence in the Advancement of Automotive Steel - The authors studied the advantages of rollforming technology using ultra- high strength steel -- a new vehicle side structure concept -- which can satisfy the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) side impact crash test criteria while also achieving considerable weight reduction.
PPG Closes Glendale, CA Call Center - As part of a long-term business plan, PPG Industries recently closed a call center located in Glendale, CA, which housed employees in the company's auto glass and aerospace groups.
PPG Industries Acquires Champion Assets - Glass, paint and sealants maker PPG Industries said Tuesday it acquired certain assets of Champion Coatings Inc. for an undisclosed sum.
Cerberus hits snags at GDX, Delphi - Car-sealing products firm may be sold; talks with UAW on pay cuts facing stiff opposition.
Ford: Quality equal to Toyota - In survey of 31,000 new vehicle owners, Ford beats industry average for problems.
Toyota Named Official Vehicle Manufacturer for 2007 SEMA Show - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced today that Toyota will be the official "Vehicle Manufacturer of the Show" for the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show in Las Vegas from October 30 to November 2.
Magna's Chrysler bid gains steam - Auto supplier has strong ties to DaimlerChrysler, Canadian union
Convention offers look at future vehicles, aids - Automakers and suppliers from around the world who converged for the annual conference of the Society of Automotive Engineers showed off gizmos that seem out-of-this-world today, but could become as common as power windows or anti-lock brakes tomorrow.
Buick offers new GM safety-enhancing technologies - Buick will offer two new safety-enhancing technologies that could serve as an extra set of “eyes” for drivers, helping them to avoid a collision caused by an inadvertent lane change or by colliding with a vehicle in the side blind spot while changing lanes. The technologies will be available on all 2008 Buick Lucerne sedan models this summer
Autoliv’s New Safety Vent Airbag Wins Prestigious Industry Prize - Autoliv Inc., worldwide leader in automotive safety, today announced it has received a 2007 Automotive News PACE Award for its innovative Safety Vent Airbag technology developed at the company’s North American technical centers.
Critics rap 'pay-as-you-go' auto insurance - BOSTON: A proposal to link the mileage drivers put on their cars to the amount they pay for insurance is drawing criticism from those who believe the move unfairly favors those in cities.
Senate Judiciary Committee Reviews Insurance Antitrust Repeal - With the strong backing of key senators, new legislation in the U.S. Senate - with companion legislation in the House - seeks to further competition in the insurance industry.
NAMIC Launches McCarran-Ferguson Online Resource Center - The National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC) unveiled a resource center dedicated to addressing the concerns and misconceptions about the McCarran-Ferguson Act.
NAMIC Applauds NCOIL for Cautioning Congress on McCarran-Ferguson Repeal - The National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC) today praised the National Conference of Insurance Legislators for warning Congress of the potentially devastating consequences of repealing the limited antitrust exemption enacted by the McCarran-Ferguson Act. In a letter sent to key members of the House and Senate, NCOIL cautioned that legislation to repeal the Act could lead to less affordable and available insurance for consumers.
Insurance claims facility heads for final approval - PA: Upper Moreland commissioners on Monday night passed out of committee a request to build a Progressive Insurance claims facility at 2380 Maryland Road. -- The proposal calls for a one-story automotive insurance claims and processing center.

Tuesday - April 17, 2007

New York Shop Owner Fights Progressive - Greg Coccaro persists in his lawsuit against the Progressive Insurance Group. -- Coccaro, the owner of North State Custom, a collision repair shop in Bedford Hills, N.Y., alleges that Progressive has been steering customers away from his shop and into its DRP and/or Concierge program by making "misleading and knowingly false and/or exaggerated statements" about the shop and other independent body shops.
ASA Calls on New York Repairers to Contact State Assembly - The Automotive Service Association (ASA) is urging New York automotive repair shop owners to contact their state Assembly members to ask that they oppose New York state Assembly Bill 5817, the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act.
Cincinnati-based collision chain leaves CARSTAR, re-brands as USA Collision Center - The Sanfillipo Collision Group has converted its Cincinnati-area locations from CARSTAR franchises to the USA Collision Center brand. As part of the change, which took effect on April 1, Sanfillipo is rolling out new customer service offerings.
ALLDATA^® CollisionConnect^SM announces sponsorship of ABRN's Free I-CAR Online Training Day on April 25, 2007 - The promotion begins on Wednesday, April 18 and the first 250 industry professionals to register will receive a complimentary I-CAR Online Training redemption code. These codes will be distributed to the 250 registrants on April 25.
Gold Class Professionals Business featured on Celebrity Build TV - Gold Class Professionals designated business Carl's Collision Center in Fall River, Massachusetts, is restoring a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle with vehicle owner Philadelphia Eagles lineman Jon Runyan.
I-CAR Education Foundation announces date for 2007 golf tournament - The Sixth Annual I-CAR Education Foundation Golf Tournament, sponsored by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., will take place on Thursday, July 26, 2007 in Orlando, FL at the ChampionsGate Golf Club.
VIDEO from Medialink and Ford: Insurance Repair Costs - When your car gets crunched in an accident, you're grateful you have insurance. But, what about when it comes time to get your car repaired?
Kiplinger Magazine - What You Need to Know About Auto Body Shops
Henkel Introduces North American Acoustic Center - Henkel recently opened its new North American Acoustic Center, which analyzes acoustic material properties of automotive body structure panels to determine their effectiveness in vehicle applications.
Allianz Cornhill extends used repair parts scheme - UK: The insurer Allianz Cornhill says motorists have given positive feedback to a pilot scheme to test the use of recycled parts in repairing vehicles. Since October 2006 policyholders from the public and commercial sectors who own vehicles of five years and older have been invited to consider the use of recycled parts to repair their vehicles. As well as reducing the environmental impact of vehicle repair, Allianz Cornhill has looked at whether the scheme helps to reduce claim costs.
Masse demands Canadian auto consumers’ “right to repair” their vehicles - Introduces legislation to ensure choice and fair competition continues in the auto service sector.
Correction: Shat R Proof Announces Expanded Sales Representation In Canada - In a story run on glassBYTEs.com™ last week it was reported that Shat R Proof (SRP) had entered into a sales representation agreement with National Sales Incorporated (NSI) an inaccurate word appeared in the first line of the story.
Meineke parent buys Rapid Service Center - DrivenBrands Inc., the parent company of Meineke Car Care Centers Inc. and Econo Lube N' Tune, has purchased the Wichita-based Rapid Service Center chain.
Sector Glance: Auto Suppliers - Shares of many automotive suppliers got a boost Monday, as the Dow Jones industrials posted steady gains, at times soaring more than 100 points.
Cost Returns as Top Auto Industry Challenge, Invites Collaborative Solutions, According to 2007 DuPont Automotive/SAE Survey - Cost reduction may again be the number one challenge facing automotive engineers and designers heading into this week's SAE World Congress in Detroit, but nearly 70 percent of attendees say there is growing recognition and business practice surrounding "total cost reduction" versus "reduced price," according to results from the 13th annual DuPont Automotive/SAE survey.
Tower Automotive on path out of Chapter 11 - It's been a nerve-jangling ride for Tower Automotive and its president and chief executive officer, Kathleen Ligocki, but the Novi-based automotive supplier is poised to climb out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy this summer, making it the largest of the recently bankrupt auto suppliers to emerge.
GM to buy more auto parts from India - General Motors Corp. is looking at a "multiple increase" in auto parts sourcing from India, Chief Executive Rick Wagoner said on Tuesday.
Cerberus group's plan to buy Delphi hits hurdle: WSJ - An investor group's plans to buy bankrupt auto parts maker Delphi Corp. has hit a snag, with the union not agreeing to cut future wages and benefits for new hires, the Wall Street Journal reported on its Web site on Tuesday.
The buzz at SAE: Fix fuel economy - The race to develop breakthrough technologies to dramatically reduce gasoline consumption will be front and center as 35,000 automotive engineers gather in Detroit this week.
Kbb.com Launches New 'Perfect Car Finder(R)' and Vehicle Comparison Tools - Enhanced Features Launched to Help Vehicle Shoppers Find Their Next Vehicle
Farmers Insurance Promotes Douglas Menges to Senior Vice President—Auto Claims Field Operations - Paul Hopkins, chief executive officer of the Farmers Insurance Group of Companies, has announced the appointment of Doug Menges to Senior Vice President—Auto Claims Field Operations in the Home Office.
Online Auto Insurance Purchases Increase 58 Percent - Auto insurance policies purchased online increased 58 percent in 2006 compared to 2005, according to comScore Inc., which tracks activity in the digital world. In its "2007 comScore Online Automobile Insurance Report," comScore also noted that the total number of auto insurance quotes submitted online increased 15 percent.

Monday - April 16, 2007

How to Multiply Every Customer by 10 - AutobodyOnline: Suppose every customer that brought a vehicle to your shop for repair brought along ten more customers for you.
I-CAR And Sterling Autobody Centers Announce Gold Class Professionals Initiative - Sterling Autobody Centers has announced a new training initiative to earn the I CAR Gold Class Professionals designation in all 60 locations throughout the United States. Currently, Sterling Autobody Center employees are completing I-CAR training to achieve the designation by August 31, 2007.
Collision Wages on the Rise - According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and ASA's annual "How's Your Business?" (HYB) survey, collision repair hourly wages are on the rise.
Doing a bang up job - PA: When Kenneth W. Sperring Jr. moved his auto body and repair shop from King of Prussia to Limerick seven years ago, he never expected his business to take off the way it has.
Salvage yard a salvation for auto parts seekers - MI: Welcome to the do-it-yourself salvage world of Airway Auto Parts.
AutoLign Manufacturing Group closed its doors - MI: AutoLign Manufacturing Group, formed in 1998 from the joint acquisition of Colonel's, manufactured aftermarket plastic bumpers on South Platt Road in Milan. -- One of the company's largest accounts, according to sales staff on site Friday, was Keystone Automotive Industries. Gary Maier, a public relations consultant for Keystone, confirmed that the business had been taken away from AutoLign but said the bulk "was being moved to other U.S. manufacturers."
PPG to Announce First Quarter 2007 Results April 19 - PPG Industries will release its first quarter 2007 earnings before the New York Stock Exchange opens Thursday, April 19.
Magna reviewing Chrysler sale - Canadian auto supplier is working with buyout firm Onex Corp. on a joint bid for automaker.
Toyota's secrets: Excellence and efficiency focus - Toyota Motor Corp. is doing so well in the United States, it seems to defy gravity.
GM program makes used cars more attractive to shoppers - IN: Last month, General Motors began covering its Certified Used Vehicles with a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. -- According to Dale Aaron, assistant sales manager at American Chevrolet Cadillac, Muncie, GM's decision is the latest in a series of automobile market developments making used vehicles increasingly attractive to buyers.
Auto companies teaming up to improve computerized crash tests - Crash test dummies are making way for virtual humans. - Detroit's three domestic automakers and six foreign companies say they will work together to develop computer models that better represent humans and simulated crash injuries. -- The announcement comes today at the Society of Automotive Engineers World Congress in Detroit.
ARA Urges Senate Commerce Committee to Support Legislation Aimed at Curbing Vehicle Title Fraud - In prepared remarks submitted for the record to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation, the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA), yesterday, outlined the growing national problem of vehicle title fraud, and the subsequent need for Congress to pass legislation requiring the insurance industry to report essential total loss information to a national Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) database.
Hurricanes have passed, but the cars may remain - Vehicles damaged in Gulf storms show up in dealer inventory
Tri-State Couple Sues Auto Maker - OH: The auto maker Hyundai may be facing tough questions after an Independence couple filed a lawsuit claiming that the airbags in their car failed to deploy.
Allstate Says New Claims System Puts Customers In Good Hands - The new technology will lead to faster claims processing and help ensure Allstate pays out the "right" amount to every claimant.
Allstate to Discuss First Quarter 2007 Earnings with Investors - The Investor Relations department of The Allstate Corporation will conduct a conference call on Thursday, April 19, 2007 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) to discuss first quarter 2007 earnings. The company will issue a press release announcing the results the day before on Wed., April 18, 2007 at or after 4:05 p.m. EDT.
Two State Farm employees honored as volunteers - OH: State Farm employees Tom Ash and Ginny Grady have been selected as Volunteers of the Year for 2006.
Farmers Insurance Promotes Jim Westerman to Senior Vice President—Sales - Paul Hopkins, chief executive officer of the Farmers Insurance Group of Companies, has announced the appointment of Jim Westerman to Senior Vice President—Sales.
Auto insurance premiums expected to dip in '07 - OH: US drivers are expected to pay less for auto insurance this year compared with 2006, the first decrease since 1999.
Pa. auto insurers clash - The good news: Pennsylvania's largest automobile insurer, State Farm, has asked the state Insurance Department for permission to reduce its rates by 1.2 percent, effective May 7.

Friday - April 13, 2007

AASP/NJ, Travelers Insurance still at odds over estimating practices - One thing that collision repairers and insurance companies often butt heads over is estimating procedures. In New Jersey, however, many collision repairers are just banging their heads against the wall, thanks to clashes with Travelers Insurance comp