Automotive Newsbytes

September 2006

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September 29, 2006

Shops in Crisis? The Tech Shortage - You’ve heard about it. You’ve read about it. Perhaps you’ve experienced it. It’s ‘The Tech Shortage,’ the most critical personnel issue facing businesses involved in automotive repair, including tire dealers. It’s a disaster waiting to happen. -- Or is it?
Harrassment Lawsuit Filed Against San Jose Shop - The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission today slapped a San Jose auto repair shop with a lawsuit alleging sexual and racial harassment, claiming that a handful of workers barraged a former employee with daily degrading comments and that management knew about it but failed to react.
Universal Technical Institute, Inc. Clarifies Fiscal 2007 Impact of Cost Savings Related to a Reduction in Force - It is expected that these cost savings will be reinvested in sales and marketing efforts during fiscal 2007 to increase capacity utilization. As such, it is unrealistic to expect the savings to significantly improve net income in fiscal 2007 due to the timing lag
between lead generation and anticipated student starts.
Sign Experts wrap cars in ads - Part of what they do is to "wrap" vehicles in printed vinyl to give the appearance of a custom paint job.
SEMA Exam Deadline Moved - The deadline to register for SEMA Installer Certification Exams has been extended to this Friday, Sept. 29.
La. Owner Wins Babcox Scholarship - Automotive Management Institute (AMI) and Babcox Publications announced that Steve Sallinger, owner and president of Ole Metairie Car Care Inc. in Metairie, La., is the recipient of the 2006 Tom B. Babcox Memorial Scholarship.
"Right to Repair" legislation may offer consumers more choices - Congress may soon decide where certain auto repair work is performed.
NWRA Issues Fall Conference Updates - The National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA) Fall Conference has joined the auto glass extravaganza that will co-locate its event with the Auto Glass Expo @ NACE at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas in early November. The conference schedule includes a presentation about working with LYNX Services, given by Fahmy Mechael of LYNX, as well as an update on the ROLAGS and AGRSS Standards work.
NWRA Launches New Website - The National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA) launched its new website recently, unveiling a new look and new home page.
China delays WTO probe into auto parts - China on Thursday exercised its right to delay a World Trade Organization (WTO) probe into its rules on auto part imports sought by the United States, the European Union and Canada. -- The case, the first involving China to reach litigation, will automatically proceed, however, as soon as Washington, Brussels and Ottawa make a further request.
Identify the Day-to-Day Developments in the Automotive Components Market -Research and Markets has announced the addition of Automotive Components Manufacturers - September 2006 Issue to their offering. -- Automotive Component Manufacturers is a dedicated round-up of all the latest global happenings on all the activities of the world's automotive suppliers.
AIAG Hosts Third Annual Summit - The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) will host its third annual IMDS/ELV Summit on Oct. 12, 2006, at the Rock Financial Showplace in Novi, Mich., to help the automotive supply chain better manage and comply with materials content reporting as required by the European Union End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) Directive.
Philly Residents Fight Proposed Auto-Salvage Yard - Residents crowded into a city zoning hearing to oppose a high-tech auto-salvage yard proposed for a 20-acre site in the Holmesburg section. -- “You’re talking 3,000 customer cars a week,” Peter Montini told the Zoning Board of Adjustment at a third hearing on the proposal by Atlanta-based Pull-A-Part.
Northeast Ohio police see rash of car parts thefts for scrap - Thieves in search of valuable scrap metal are stealing parts off of new cars from northeast Ohio dealership lots.
Plastics material solution for dashboards - Borealis, innovative plastics solutions provider, and the BMW Group, have developed a new material and testing solution for instrument panel carriers. -- This innovation will help to reduce system costs and development lead times for future models and has, as a result, been awarded a second prize in the Society of Plastics Engineers’ (SPE) 10th Automotive Division Award 2006 in the category body interior.
Investor pushes for outside review - General Motors Corp. may not want an alliance with Renault SA and Nissan Motor Co., but its biggest shareholder, Kirk Kerkorian, is determined to push GM in that direction.
Deal numbers don't add up for GM - Just because Las Vegas mogul Kirk Kerkorian is determined to bend General Motors Corp. to his will -- that is, force an alliance with Renault-Nissan that puts industry superstar Carlos Ghosn atop GM -- doesn't mean GM will do it.
GM to build new car for U.S. off new global platform - General Motors Corp, will build at least one car from its new global family of rear- and all-wheel-drive cars at a plant in the United States, company vice chairman Bob Lutz revealed in an interview at the Paris auto show today.

September 28, 2006

I-CAR To Conduct Qualification Tests At NACE 2006 - For the first time ever, I-CAR will be conducting both the Automotive Steel GMA (MIG) Welding and Automotive Aluminum GMA (MIG) Welding Qualification Tests (QTs) at NACE. The prep class and test for both steel and aluminum QTs will be held from 8 a.m. - 12 noon and 1 - 6 p.m. respectively November 2 - 4, 2006 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center parking lot.
I-CAR Education Foundation 2006 school survey reveals need for funding and support - The I-CAR Education Foundation 2006 school survey revealed that lack of funds is the biggest issue confronting career and technical schools and colleges today. A full 40.9 percent of schools surveyed are seriously affected by this problem.
Avoid registration lines at NACE, save with CCIF affiliation - Haven't registered yet for NACE? Do so online to avoid long registration line-ups at the show, and to take advantage of a promotion discount available to CCIF participants. -- CCIF is the official Canadian endorser of NACE.
Watch your car's back - Truck tailgates and SUV third-row seats are latest cash-making targets for thieves. -- Though 60 percent of all cars stolen are returned, the rest end up on the black market, shipped overseas or in chop shops, where vehicles are dismantled and the parts sold on the black market, said Frank Scafidi, spokesman for the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
Universal Technical Institute, Inc. Announces Reduction in Force - Universal Technical Institute, Inc., a provider of technical education training, announced a reduction in force of approximately 70 employees nationwide effective today. The nationwide headcount of the Company following these terminations is approximately 2,400 employees.
Settlements cut PPG results - PPG Industries Inc. said Wednesday it will reduce its third quarter earnings by 72 cents a share because of the costs of proposed environmental remediation of sites in Louisiana and New Jersey, plus a proposed settlement of a class action lawsuit by the U.S. automotive refinishing industry. -- The company has agreed to settle a federal class-action lawsuit related to alleged antitrust violations in the U.S. automotive refinish industry from 1993 through 2000. -- PPG said it does not believe it violated any laws, but settled to avoid costly legal expenses.
NWRA Announces New Director of Operations - The National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA) has named Patrick M. Smith as its new director of operations.
Lilbuddy Scores at Best of Belron - At the recent Best of Belron competition in Nurberg, Germany earlier this month, the top three finishers all used the Lilbuddy Pro windshield tool for one-man sets.
Manheim Honored with the 2006 Vehicle Remarketing Client Value - For its innovation in technology and its focus on continuously providing outstanding service to customers, Manheim has today been recognized with the 2006 Vehicle Remarketing Client Value Enhancement Award in by Frost & Sullivan.
Sales for the Automobile Aftermarket Reached $35 billion in the US - Report encompasses auto parts or products used to modify the appearance, performance and/or handling of automobiles, including light trucks/SUVs and passenger cars. The focus of this report is on non-original equipment products that are purchased for passenger vehicles.
Washington Automotive Professional Selected as 2007 NAPA/ASE Parts Specialist of the Year - NAPA Auto Parts and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) have named Ernesto Cerrillo the 2007 NAPA/ASE Parts Specialist of the Year. Cerrillo, who is employed by Allen’s Auto Parts, Inc. in Tonasket, Washington, is the eighth individual to receive this special parts professional honor within the NAPA system.
Verio Survey Reveals Small Business Data Left Vulnerable to Loss - Small businesses at risk say the impact of data loss would be costly and want to remedy the problem. -- As a vehicle collision repair shop with locations across the state of Pennsylvania, The Body Shop @ Andretti says it regularly provides repair estimates to insurers, and it’s vital for the company to back-up those estimates for future reference, not to mention customer information and financial data.
Mitchell 1 adds record amount of data - Mitchell 1 added a record amount of data to its OnDemand5.com program this past quarter.
Atlantis Holding Corp Signs LOI With GoFastParts.com for Exclusive Software License - Atlantis Holding Corp has signed a letter of intent for an exclusive license to use proprietary software and a database developed by GoFastParts.com for automotive aftermarket parts order processing.
Steel's Innovative Role in Automotive Design Being Showcased in TV Segment Airing on CNBC-TV Network - "The steel industry has been connected with the evolution of the automobile since the early 1900s," Ron Krupitzer, vice president, automotive applications of AISI said.
DuPont Offers Titanium Powder for Parts - Chemical maker DuPont Co. on Wednesday said it developed a new process for making high-purity titanium metal powder that could reduce cost and boost efficiency in parts manufacturing for the aerospace and automobile industries.
Visteon Up on Buyout Rumors - Shares of Visteon Corp. rose Wednesday, a day after cutting its profit guidance for the year, on analyst predictions of long-term growth and speculation that the auto supplier may be bought.
Visteon, Johnson Controls close plants - Parts makers seek cut in expenses as competition increases, car production dips, materials costs rise.
Delphi to Outsource to HP, EDS - Delphi Corp. said it has struck deals with two of the world's biggest providers of outsourcing services to shift its information-technology operations to them, a move that will shrink the company's global roster of IT suppliers by 90 percent.
Lutz lauds GM's progress in leveraging company on a global scale - The Renault Nissan alliance and General Motors issued a joint statement saying that their leaders had met today, on the eve of the biennial Paris Car Show, and decided to carry on examining the merits of the proposed alliance, and report their findings in mid-October.
GM's pricing for new trucks almost the same as the old trucks - General Motors has announced pricing for its new 2007 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups, with many of the new models priced the same as the trucks they're replacing.
Ford's bigger, badder Super Duty - New line of F-Series pickups aims to lasso more sales despite tough economy, shootout with GM.
GM seeks new life for Saturn - Brand hopes stylish lineup helps it leave the doldrums light-years behind
Ford Exec Says Jaguar Not for Sale Now, but That Could Change - Lewis Booth, chairman of Ford of Europe and vice president of the company's Premier Automotive Group, told industry analysts in a webcast from Paris that Jaguar's status could change as the company goes through a strategic review of all its assets.
Airbags, Antilock Brakes Not Likely to Reduce Accidents, Injuries - Researchers have determined that airbags and antilock braking systems do not reduce the likelihood of accidents or injuries because they may encourage more aggressive driving, thwarting the potential benefits of such safety features.
Bills.com Presents Insurance 101 - Bills.com presents 5 basics for keeping home, car and auto covered.
AG, rating bureau submit steep cuts in auto insurance rates - Boston: The attorney general and the state Division of Insurance on Wednesday proposed steep cuts in Massachusetts auto insurance premiums that could save some drivers between $85 and $180 annually on their bills, depending on the proposal.
Safeco Names Director - Property and casualty insurance company Safeco said Wednesday its board appointed John Hamlin a director effective Nov. 1.
Progressive offers concierge service, opens Lynnwood office - WA: The Progressive Group of Insurance Cos. recently unveiled its concierge level of claims service for the Puget Sound region, an effort to reduce the amount of time drivers have to spend repairing or replacing their cars after accidents.
Drivers Involved In Crashes Report Spending Four Days’ Time Managing Claims/Repair Process - New Service from Progressive Cuts That to 15 Minutes
Federal judge refuses to block testimony of State Farm employees - A federal judge says employees of State Farm Insurance Company will have to testify in a Hurricane Katrina lawsuit despite the company's claim they might incriminate themselves in ongoing investigations.
Sisters who turned over insurer's records on Katrina now sued - Depending on whom you ask, Cori and Kerri Rigsby are either whistleblowers or law breakers. It'll apparently be up to a court to decide.

September 27, 2006

CIECA Collaborate, Begin Work on Subrogation Vendor Assignment Project - Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA) and the Accredited Standards Committee (ASC) X12 announced the beginning of a joint effort to collaborate on the development of standards used in the collision electronic commerce environment.
Restoration shop gears for growth - OK: Trinity constructs auto repair facility, awaits broadcast of reality TV show -- Trinity Restoration owner David Miller expects sales at his collision repair and restoration firm to approach $6 million annually after he opens a new 25,611-square-foot automobile repair facility in south Tulsa next year.
Find an Auto Repair Shop for Your Automotive Needs; Brakes, Glass, Tires, Auto Body, Transmission, Oil Changes, Tinting, Stereo, Tune up, and Many More - MechanicAdvisor.com is excited to announce the release of their Auto Repair Finder. The Auto Repair Finder is built from a large database of auto repair facilities in the United States. Each auto repair shop is carefully selected and categorized into its service specialties. Giving consumers the ability to quickly search through the database for a qualified repair facility for their auto needs.
BASF Coatings Inc. receives award from Nissan as best supplier - BASF Coatings, Inc. receives a plaque of commendation from Nissan Motors Philippines, Inc. as a QCD Top Performer for the year 2005.
Love bugs could turn your car to rust - Florida: You might be seeing a lot of love bugs as you drive. They like to hang out near roadways. All the car exhaust attracts them. -- "Eventually the bugs will deteriorate the clear coat and just start eating into it, because apparently their, whatever they've got in them, guts, is stronger than what's on the paint," said Arlington Car Wash owner Mark Pfiester.
Tarzana man faces charges in fraud case - CA: A Tarzana man was arrested Tuesday on charges that he allegedly duped and defrauded customers who brought cars into his two local auto repair shops, authorities said.
Central Texas program allowing many veterans to become small business owners - Central Texas businessman Don Dwyer created “Vet-Fran” for his fellow veterans in the early 90's. His daughter now runs the program and says retired military personnel make great franchisees.
Delphi buyouts add 1,400 more - The number of workers deciding to leave the auto parts supplier totals 20,100 -- 70% of staff.
Auto-parts supplier Visteon Corp. warns - Auto-parts supplier Visteon Corp. said Tuesday it would not meet its financial targets for the rest of the year because of production cuts by auto makers and other factors.
GM reportedly demands billions for tie-up - General Motors is reportedly demanding a "multibillion" dollar payment from Renault and Nissan as the price to join the French and Japanese companies' alliance, according to a published report on Wednesday.
Ghosn to GM: Deal could save $10B yearly - Carlos Ghosn was expected today to tell General Motors Corp. Chairman Rick Wagoner that GM could save at least $10 billion a year by entering into an alliance with Renault SA and Nissan Motor Co., according to people close to the situation.
Chrysler will cut, LaSorda warns - Chrysler Group CEO Tom LaSorda said Monday that the company will continue to focus on cost cutting and warned again of possible structural cuts -- not just production cuts -- in response to bloated inventories, high incentives and an expected $1.5-billion operating loss for the three months ending Sept. 30.
Toyota, Nissan Shelve Heavy-Duty Truck Plans...For Now - In the meantime, Ford is rolling out a redesigned Super Duty pickup in spring 2007. The redesigned heavy-duty Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups will arrive from General Motors about the same time.
Small Sells Big--For Now - Fuel prices have been dropping the past few weeks. No one knows how low they will go or when they will begin to climb again. Nevertheless, it is reasonable to think that recent experience is making buyers more cautious when it comes to big and fuel-thirsty sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks.
Honda Showcases Next Generation Automotive Power - Honda has unveiled a new diesel drivetrain that it hopes to employ in its US passenger cars by 2009.
Volkswagen's 2007 portfolio streamlined to offer generous standard features at "Volks" pricing - "City" line, Rabbit, and Eos offer driving excitement at 'people's price'; 2007 New Beetle and New Beetle Convertible models benefit from lower pricing
GM's bitter pill - Automaker spends billions on drugs for aging workers, retirees
Automakers win bid to fight Calif. rules - General Motors Co., Ford Motor Corp. and other automakers won a court bid to challenge California rules limiting emissions linked to global warming.
Distressed Debt Hits 8-Year Low - No surprise to anyone keeping up on business news, automotive companies feature prominently on the list of companies in the distressed speculative-grade bond market. For example, Ford Motor Co., Exide Technologies, Keystone Automotive Operations, and Metaldyne had distressed credits having 600 bps and 800 bps spread minimums as of September 15. Still, the automotive sector had some of the largest declines in the share of distressed credits in late summer.
MIA to run UKTI-supported mission to SEMA exhibition - The Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) is mounting an initiative to help capture business on the West Coast of the USA by running a UK TI-supported Business Development Mission to the SEMA exhibition, open from October 31-November 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Centre.
October is 'Michigan Car-Deer Crash Safety Awareness Month' - October and November are two of the most dangerous months in Michigan, especially for the state's 1.75 million white-tailed deer and the motorists who crash into them each year.
NHTSA Releases List of Model Year 2007 Vehicles For Crash and Rollover Testing - A total of 38 passenger cars, 40 sport utility vehicles, three vans, and five pickups will be tested in NHTSA’s crash test program. This testing will provide consumers with access to frontal crash ratings for almost 84 percent of all 2007 models offered for sale in the U.S. Side crash ratings will be available for nearly 70 percent of the 2007 fleet.
"Watch Your Car Program" Deters Theft, Reduces Insurance - New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Commissioner Nancy A. Naples today announced that Buffalo area residents had an opportunity to make their vehicles less attractive to car thieves and safer for their children.
Progressive Commercial Auto Releases Insurance Claims Data; Pinpoints When Most Crashes Occur - Progressive Commercial Auto, part of The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, which ranks third in the nation for commercial auto insurance based on premiums written and sells commercial auto insurance to small businesses over the phone and through independent insurance agents and brokers, recently reviewed claims data from crashes that occurred between September 2005 and August 2006 involving commercial vehicles it insures.
What You Need To Know About A Car Insurance Adjuster? - If you’re in need of a car insurance adjuster then there are a few facts you should know before you meet with him/her. The first rule of thumb is that if your car insurance adjuster is over friendly remember, he is there to save money for the company he works with, not especially for you.
US court to hear appeal by insurers on credit law - The U.S. Supreme Court said on Tuesday that it would decide the level of proof required for insurers to be held liable for violating a federal law requiring that consumers be notified when their rates have been increased based on their credit reports.

September 26, 2006

I-CAR Gold Class Professionals Highlighted On Motorweek's Goss' Garage - Tune in and watch as I-CAR Gold Class Professionals designated businesses will be highlighted on Goss' Garage, a segment of the television program MotorWeek, which is scheduled to air on Saturday, October 14, 2006.
I-CAR Training Approved For CEU Credit In Ontario - I-CAR Live training programs have been approved for continuing education unit (CEU) credit in Ontario by the Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO). RIBO is the self-regulatory body for insurance brokers in Ontario established in 1981.
I-CAR Education Foundation Chair Thanks Industry For Support Of Perkins Act - After passing Congress with near unanimous support, the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2005 was signed into law by the President of the United States on August 12. As a result, Federal funding will continue to those states and schools that offer technical education, including collision repair programs.
XPEL develops new, larger automotive paint-protection line - XPEL Technologies Corp. has expanded the company's line of automotive paint and headlight protection kits to begin offering larger sizes for cars and trucks.
EPA Releases Final Rule for Particulate Matter - ASA: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published its final rule for the national ambient air quality standards for particulate matter (PM). The final standards cover both fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers in diameter and inhalable coarse particles smaller than 10 micrometers. -- The Automotive Service Association (ASA) supports vehicle emissions testing for vehicles nationwide and is participating in the upcoming Clean Air Conference hosted by the EPA and Colorado State University.
Classic car graces calendar - Jernander's four-door sedan gained some special attention at the Spring Green Car Show in August when two men from parts manufacturer CARS Inc. out of Detroit approached him and started to ask about his car.
Auto Glass Technician Olympics Fields More Competitors than 2005 - "We've already got more contestants registered to compete in the Auto Glass Technician Olympics than were in the 2005 event," said event manager Holly Biller.
Dam to block pollutants at PPG - OH: PPG will be required to sample the water from Lower Hudson Run twice a year for five years to prove to the EPA that the remedy worked.
Valeo to sell motors division to fund Visteon buy - Valeo is to sell its motors and actuators division to fund the acquisition of certain parts of troubled US peer Visteon Corp, newssheet La Lettre de l'Expansion reported, without naming its source.
Stanley Downbeat On Valeo-Visteon Linkup - Valeo edging higher on talk that it's backing away from an alliance with Visteon. Valeo spokesman won't comment on speculation, but notes that "many European suppliers are talking to the Americans these days.
Visteon Celebrates Opening of $10 Million Technical Center in India - New automotive embedded software facility to house more than 1,000 software employees
Dash Navigation Unveils First Internet-Connected Auto Navigation Device - Drivers Get Up-to-Date Traffic Information for Multiple Routes, Can Search For Relevant Destinations and More
FJ Cruiser a delightful off-road machine - Toyota's FJ Cruiser SUV has so many blind spots it ought to come with a white cane.
New tune for Silverado - GM, which is launching patriotic ad campaign this weekend, expects new truck to be key to turnaround.
GM and Ford: Cost Cuts Only the Start - US automakers General Motors and Ford Motor have taken increasingly aggressive steps in 2006 to slash costs and bolster performance in their North American operations.
Honda's domestic auto output rises 12% in August vs. year - Honda Motor Co. said Monday it increased domestic production for the third straight month in August, lifting it by 11.8% from a year earlier to 90,278 vehicles in response to strong exports to North America.
Stranglehold - How General Motors and the nation are losing an epic battle to tame the health care beast
House Lawmakers Introduce Legislation to Disclose Totaled and Flooded Vehicles to Public - Support Growing for Effort as Legislation Gets New Backers
Diplomacy, humor take new NHTSA chief far - Bubbly personalities can be misleading. The 36-year-old lawyer and former Republican Capitol Hill aide is an accomplished political strategist who uses good humor and charm where others might snipe.
Best Companies for Working Moms Listed - Working Mother magazine released its annual list of the top 100 places to work, with its chief executive touting an improvement in mother-friendly benefits in corporate America.
ACIC Urges Veto of Punitive Damages Bill - The Association of California Insurance Companies (ACIC) is urging the governor to veto punitive damage recovery legislation that “makes no public policy sense from either a fiscal or legal perspective,” according to Jeff Fuller, ACIC general counsel and executive vice president.
Countrywide brings auto insurance program to Arizona - Countrywide Financial Corp., known in Arizona for its home loan programs, announced Monday that it is adding auto insurance to its lineup of products in the state.
Advocates to push Calif. auto insurance rules elsewhere - After a study of insurance rates in the state led California's insurance regulator to push insurers to cut their auto and homeowner policy prices, activists involved say they will push for similar changes in other states, while insurers question the study's validity.
GEICO's Jon Coachman Named IASIU Investigator of the Year - GEICO's Jon Coachman, a special investigator in Houston, was named 2006 Investigator of the Year by IASIU (International Association of Special Investigation Units) for his contributions to GEICO and to the insurance industry as a whole.

September 25, 2006

The Estimator as Super Salesperson - I recently visited a shop that had invested a significant sum in contacting the agents of a major insurance company to promote for referrals over a period of several years. -- It's been my experience that effective sales people have an unusual talent and skill that not many people possess.
Vehicle Damage Disclosure Bill Introduced in House - ASA: U.S. Rep. Cliff Stearns, R-Fla., has introduced legislation that would call for The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to require the disclosure of all information pertaining to the fair market value and safety of damaged vehicles.
MQVP Inc. launches Anti-Fraud Campaign to protect consumers - Recently the collision repair industry has reported numerous situations to notify consumers of risk in attempts to rectify a situation.
GEICO Didn't Mislead, Co-Star Says - Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, who likes to take on fights big and small, may have met his match - Stanley Smith, the customer featured in a GEICO commercial that the state official called deceptive. -- He believes he was truthful in the ad because the repair was done through GEICO's Auto Repair Xpressprogram at a company-approved shop.
AutoWatch service catches on - "In general, people don't trust car places," said Lori Roberts, an estimator at Johnson Body Shop in Durham, which has AutoWatch. "But when they get to see the repair online, they know we're being honest and fixing it the way we said. They are less suspicious."
Automotive customizing program first in state - NC: Lenoir Community College is geared up to offer the state’s first and only automotive customizing degree through the business and industry department. -- After a year of planning and sequencing coursework — including training in auto upholstering, welding, machining, glass and fiberglass customization and painting and detailing — the state approved the degree program in July. Courses will begin this spring.
Making a wish come true - IN: Five locally-owned CARSTAR collision repair centers recently joined together to host the CARSTAR Charity Golf Tournaments, with proceeds going to the Northwest Indiana branch of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Held at the White Hawk Country Club in Crown Point on July 26 and Aug. 16, the tournaments raised $6,000 to help fulfill the wish of a local three-year-old girl.
Harmon Solutions Group Signs on as Sponsor of Windshield Repair Olympics - Harmon Solutions Group, headquartered in Eau Claire, Wis., has signed as a sponsor of the first ever Walt Gorman Memorial Windshield Repair Olympics (WRO).
Safelite® AutoGlass Donates Windshields to Community Center to Help Storm Victims - Safelite AutoGlass recently donated five windshields to the Northfield Community Action Center (CAC) to help uninsured victims of an area hailstorm.
AADCO Announces Agreement to Purchase Dominion Auto Recycling Inc. - AADCO Automotive Inc. (the "Company"), the parent company of AADCO Vehicle Disposal Services Inc, a leading supplier of quality (LKQ) used auto parts, announces that it has entered into a letter of intent providing for the purchase of Jorama Holdings Inc. of Stoney Creek Ontario.
A different kind of pioneer - Kelly Kulick, who worked in her father’s auto body shop in Elizabeth, N.J., is the first woman to qualify for a full season on the men’s Pro Bowling Association Tour.
More auto parts suppliers are cutting jobs - Suppliers are sharing their customers' pain
Auto alliance hunts for CEO - There's another auto industry CEO job open. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, a Washington-based trade group that represents nine automakers, has begun searching for a new leader, officials said this week.
Ford cutbacks may mean good news to local dealerships - TN: To some local car dealers, cutbacks at Ford Motor Co. could represent good news, eventually fueling sales at dealerships across the country. -- But for some auto parts suppliers, the cutbacks are ominous, representing a loss of livelihood for thousands of workers nationwide, including some close to home.
Struggle in Detroit - Can the nation's Big Three automakers break bad habits and reshape themselves to innovate and succeed in an intensely competitive marketplace?
DaimlerChrysler may sell China-built car here - DaimlerChrysler AG is close to finalizing a deal with China's Chery Automobile Co. Ltd. to produce Dodge-branded subcompacts for sale in the United States, in what is likely to be the first such arrangement between a leading global automaker and an aspiring Chinese manufacturer.
French wary of GM alliance - As General Motors Corp. and Renault-Nissan near the end of their 90-day investigation into forming a three-way alliance, many people inside Renault and around the French auto industry have yet to be convinced the deal makes sense.
Nissan To End Hybrid Tie-Up With Toyota - Nissan Motor Co. and Toyota Motor Corp decided to end their hybrid car-related technology tie-up as Nissan plans to develop its own hybrid model, Daily Yomiuri reported on Saturday.
Buying American increasingly not in vogue - The U.S. auto industry has long wrapped itself in red, white and blue to appeal to American consumers.
Mitsubishi to recall 27,367 minivans - Japan's Mitsubishi Motors Corp. will recall more than 25,000 minivans over an airbag defect, the transportation ministry announced Friday.
China-Ford tie worth pondering - What if the Ford "Way Forward" plan included an alliance with a Chinese auto manufacturer?
Certified Dangerous: Used Cars' Airbags - Many "Certified" Used Cars are Rebuilt Wrecks with Bogus Titles
Airbag scientist dies - Carl Cyrus Clark, an internationally known expert whose research contributed significantly to the development of car airbags has died. -- "The bottom line in discussing Carl Clark is that people are safer because of his work. He did more for humanity than 99.9 per cent of the world's scientists," consumer advocate Ralph Nader said.
Government under pressure over tire safety - Rules don't protect drivers from blowouts, advocates say
What are you putting in your tires? - "People wonder why should they pay for something that's already in the air, and we say why are you drinking that bottled water?" Tire Warehouse manager Sean Bailey said.
Road Rules - Each day, millions of motorists are at risk of a wreck. -- How can you avoid being one of them?
Auto insurers' use of credit scores criticized - The practice is drawing criticism from consumer groups and doesn't sit well with some automobile owners. -- Insurance companies have insisted that there is a strong correlation between the way that individuals handle credit and the likelihood that they will file a claim.
Auto insurance companies aim to lower rates - CA: Eight auto insurance companies filed applications to lower rates to comply with a state reform program, a move that could save San Diego motorists more than $28.5 million annually, it was announced Friday.
State Farm officers' testimony - State Farm's top management petitioned the Oklahoma Supreme Court in an effort to avoid giving testimony in a class-action lawsuit filed against the company, but were in the end compelled to submit to questioning.

September 22, 2006

Hurry! Only Two Days Left to Sign Up to Compete in the Olympics - The deadline for becoming a contestant in the Auto Glass Technician Olympics in either the replacement or repair category is only two days away.
Shops Rely on Internet - AutoInc: Ninety-nine percent of ASA collision repair facilities, and 94 percent of mechanical shops, access the Internet to communicate and retrieve business-related material. Fifty-six percent of collision shops and 53 percent of mechanical respondents confirmed operating a Web site. Both collision members (43 percent) and mechanical members (38 percent) report their established Web site is used for attracting customers.
CIC Database Task Force meets with Audatex - The Collision Industry Conference (CIC) Database Task Force, comprised of representatives from the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers (AASP), the Automotive Service Association (ASA) and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) met recently with representatives from Audatex, a Solera company, as part of a series of meetings with information providers.
Scene Genesis Partner Program Seamlessly Connects Insurers and Claim Information Providers: Carriers and Partners Linked Through Single ASP Solution - Scene Genesis, Inc. (SGI) has launched the SceneConnect Partner Program for property-casualty information providers. Copart Auto Auctions, Carfax, Metro Reporting and Insurance Auto Auctions are the initial partners whose applications and data will be available to carriers through the program.
Apogee 2nd Quarter Earnings Per Share Increase 30 Percent; Full-Year EPS Guidance Reconfirmed - Apogee Enterprises, Inc. announced fiscal 2007 second quarter earnings. Apogee develops and delivers value-added glass products and services for the architectural, large-scale optical and automotive industries.
ARA Urges Support for House Bill Calling for Disclosure of Damaged Vehicles - The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) commended the United States House of Representatives today for taking a crucial step to make America's roadways safer by ensuring valuable information is easily accessible to consumers.
Used Cars Can Have Hidden Damage - In Connecticut and around the northeast the spring flooding has now led to a bumper crop -- of flooded cars.
Group 1 Automotive shares driving ahead - Buoyed by recently announced financial results and Wednesday's strong market surge, shares of auto retailer Group 1 Automotive Inc. gained $2.34, or 5 percent, to close at $48.96.
UnitedAuto Group to Participate in Thomas Weisel Partners Consumer Conference 2006 - United Auto Group, Inc., an international automotive retailer, announced today that Roger Penske, Chairman, and Anthony Pordon, Senior Vice President, will be presenters at the Thomas Weisel Partners Consumer Conference 2006 in New York, NY. The presentation is scheduled to occur at 10:20 a.m. Eastern Time on September 25, 2006.
Asbury Automotive Group to Present at Thomas Weisel Partners Conference - Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., one of the largest automotive retail and service companies in the U.S., today announced that Company management will present at the Thomas Weisel Partners Consumer Conference at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in New York City.
DuPont Recognized for 'Exceptional Support' of National Guard and Reserve - The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) announced that DuPont is among a select group of companies chosen to receive a 2006 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award.
Automotive Hall of Fame to Recognize Bridgestone Founder - Bridgestone Corp. founder Shojiro Ishibashi will be among seven individuals that will be inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame on Tuesday, Oct. 3 in Dearborn, Mich.
Union boss says Delphi will close Moraine plant - Union leader Willie Thorpe expects that sometime next year, Delphi Corp. will close its Moraine automotive compressors factory and transfer production to Mexico.
Lear profits take backseat to vehicle production cuts - Lear Corp., a maker of vehicle interiors and seats, lowered its profit forecast for this year by about 15 percent because of U.S. automakers' production cuts.
Reviews on the Developments and Trends in the Automotive Components Industry, and Discussion on the New Product Initiatives Undertaken By the Top 20 Component Manufacturers Worldwide - Research and Markets has announced the addition of A Review of the Top 20 Automotive OEM Suppliers' Product Development Management Briefing to their offering. -- In the last couple of years, the automotive industry has been witness to intense levels of strategic business activities undertaken by players worldwide.
Toyota Start Work on New Canadian Plant - The shovels are in the ground for a new state-of-the-art Toyota assembly plant in Woodstock.
Chrysler Group Creates Mentoring Competition During Seventh Annual Matchmaker Event - Minority and woman-owned businesses compete for a year-long mentorship with Tier One suppliers -- Six finalists present business plans to Tier One judges -- Matchmaker has generated more than $1 billion in new business opportunities since 2000
Mileage is fine, but how about that carpool lane? - L.A. Prius owner shares trials and tribulations of driving Toyota's hybrid star
Has she got a deal for you - Woman quit job to start Automotive Consignment
Four Arrested in Staged Auto Collision Insurance Scam - CA: A scam involving staged auto accidents and false claims of bodily injury led to the arrests Thursday morning of four Bay Area residents, state Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi announced
State Farm to probe Haag firm - Policyholders' lawyer calls it just a spin tactic

September 21, 2006

Greg Horn Joins Mitchell International as Vice President of Industry Relations - Mitchell International, a leading provider of information, workflow, and performance management solutions to the automotive insurance claims and collision repair industries, today announced that Greg Horn had joined the company as Vice President of Industry Relations. Prior to joining Mitchell, Horn served as Vice President of Material Damage Claims at St. Louis-based GMAC, and before that he served as Director of Material Damage Processes for National Grange Mutual.
Bureau of Automotive Repair Seeks to Shut Down Southern California EZ Lube Shops -The California Department of Consumer Affairs/Bureau of Automotive Repair (DCA/BAR) is taking disciplinary action that may result in the suspension or revocation of the Automotive Repair Dealer registrations of 76 Southern California EZ Lube auto repair shops. This marks the largest Bureau investigation in recent history against an independently owned automotive repair corporation.
Response From EZ Lube to BAR Allegations - EZ Lube said that allegations made today by the Bureau of Automotive Repair are flat-out wrong and libelous.
CARS Management Seminars Take Businesses, Income to 'Next Level' - The Automotive Service Association's (ASA) Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) is offering three management seminars for 2006 that will take businesses and income to the "next level."
The Most Technical Training Education Offered In CARS History - From EVAP systems to hybrids to technology trends, the Automotive Service Association's (ASA) Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) will offer 12 technical courses for this year's event - the most technical training in CARS history.
Radiator.com Teams Up With 1-800 Radiator Franchises in Augusta - Partnership Between Web Based Radiator Sales Outlets Increases Options for Georgian Customers
Dow Automotive Asks: Are You Ready for the Auto Glass Olympics? - With the second annual Auto Glass Technician Olympics right around the corner, Dow Automotive Technical Manager, Aftermarket, Dale Malcolm wants to make sure every entrant is prepared with the most up-to-date training and certification - and that everybody else is fired up to see this exciting and educational event.
Kryger Glass to Host Vendor Fair and Product Expo - Kryger Glass has announced that it is busy planning the second Vendor Fair & Product Expo. Back by customer request, OktoberFair 2006 will be held in Kansas City on Saturday, October 14th at the company's Kansas City Distribution Center. -- According to a Kryger press release, the event is for the independent glass shops that would like to save the expense of going to the larger shows in Vegas or Florida.
PPG Industries Inc. Has Taken Out The Highs Of The Day - PPG Industries Inc. gapped up and moved higher during the first hour of Wednesday's session and climbed further just before 2:00 in the afternoon.
TYC Surprises Investors With Minor Loss in Q2 - Taipei: TYC Brothers Industrial Co., Ltd., one of the top-two auto-lamp manufacturers in Taiwan, suffered a loss of NT$3.05 million (US$92,987 at US$1: NT$32.8) in the second quarter, surprising most investors. -- The auto-lamp maker stressed that the aftermarket (AM) auto-parts business peaks in the third quarter; plus its operation is expected to see clear growth due to the increasing number of Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA)-certified lamps being produced; and European buyers are returning with orders.
Copart, Inc. to Webcast Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2006 Results - Copart, Inc. announced today that it will release earnings for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006 after the close of market on Wednesday, October 4, 2006.
Tower Automotive receives new contract - Less pay means that jobs are safe
Missouri court hears appeal in $80 million verdict against GM - Six years after an unusual driveway accident, the Missouri Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday on whether an $80 million judgment against General Motors Corp. was improperly influenced by the evidence a judge allowed jurors to hear.
Attorney General Lockyer Files Lawsuit Against “Big Six” Automakers for Global Warming Damages in California - Attorney General Bill Lockyer today filed a lawsuit against leading U.S. and Japanese auto manufacturers, alleging their vehicles’ emissions have contributed significantly to global warming, harmed the resources, infrastructure and environmental health of California, and cost the state millions of dollars to address current and future effects.
Exclusive: Inside GM talks with Renault-Nissan - Alliance talks bog down
Toyota poised to surpass GM - Worldwide sales could reach 9.8 million by 2008; company gains with fuel-efficient cars.
Nissan Warning Leaves Driver Miffed - Carmaker Offers Instruction, Not Fix
2007 Ford Edge Will Debut Under $26,000 - Crossovers Poised to Become Industry's Largest Segment
Deer Can Be Deadly (and Expensive) to Drivers - According to claims information collected and analyzed by Erie Insurance, one in every 100 drivers nationally is likely to have a collision with a deer. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates that deer/vehicle crashes rack up $1.1 billion in property damages, tens of thousands of injuries, and more than 200 deaths every year.
Over 2,200 auto claims filed after southern NM hailstorm - More than 2,200 automobile claims and 950 homeowner claims have been filed through insurance companies as a result of last week’s hailstorm in southern New Mexico.
Safeco to achieve savings of $75 mln by end-2006 - Safeco Corp. said on Wednesday it expects to achieve savings of $75 million in expenses by the end of 2006, including terminating some employees and taking pretax charges of $10 million to $15 million. -- The expense reductions are part of an ongoing business process improvement program, the Seattle, Washington-based auto and home insurer said.
790 more jobs: An inside look at GEICO today - VA: GEICO adding still more jobs in Stafford County
Insurers pass profits to drivers in Virginia - Safer cars and better enforcement of drunken-driving laws have been a boon to auto insurers' profitability in recent years. Now some vehicle owners are starting to benefit with lower insurance rates.

September 20, 2006

Shifting Gears, Changing Lanes - AutoInc: Everyone deals with change differently. Knowing how you deal with it can shed light on your work style.
Prairie Profiles, Jim O’Byrne: Just doing it - We’ve come a long way in two years,” is how Jim O’Byrne explains the extent of the business he now operates with his wife, Dede. In fact, the first letters of their names are used to identify this distinctive business as JD-Autobody.
"Golden Gun" for the world champion automotive refinish trainer - Throughout the world, BASF Coatings' trainers provide the company’s automotive refinish expertise to painters at local companies and bodyshops. In October, the world’s eight best trainers will be competing against each other face to face at Glasurit®’s headquarters in Münster, where the Global Trainer Grand Prix finals are taking place.
Recognition for innovation and entrepreneurship: Four projects win BASF Awards - BASF honors exceptional team projects that go beyond innovation and make a major contribution to the company’s success, present and future. Such projects are best-practice examples of teams that act as entrepreneurs within the company and accomplish outstanding results for BASF with a perfect mix of pioneership, passion and proficiency.
Earl Scheib Announces Financial Results for the First Quarter of Fiscal Year 2007 - Net sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2007 were $12,652,000, a decrease of 2.8% from the first quarter of fiscal 2006. This resulted primarily from a decrease in car volume in the retail paint and body shops and operation of five fewer retail shops, partially offset by an increase in the average transaction value and one additional selling day in the first quarter of fiscal 2007. On a same-day basis, same-shop retail sales in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 decreased by 0.2%.
33 Sikkens Acoat selected Shops Saluted for Sales Growth - Akzo Nobel Car Refinishes Americas recently honored the growth and achievements of some of the leading collision repair centers in the US and Canada.
Team Safety to release New Collision Industry OSHA/EPA Compliance Program at NACE 2006 - The program was developed with the input of shop owners and their personnel and its release coincides with the recent industry scrutiny by OSHA and EPA.
Maaco opens training centre and new head office - Maaco welcomed industry guests to its dazzling, pristine training centre and new head office during the official opening celebration in mid-September. The new facility in Milton, ON, will have several functions, says Gary Dohring, president of Maaco Systems Canada Inc., the franchising organization for Maaco collision repair and autobody painting shops in Canada.
Oregon Shop Makes It Easy, Profitable to Be Green - The commitment of AJ's Auto Repair Inc. to its community and state is so strong that it is reflected in its goal as a business.
Thomas Bessel Crowned Best of Belron; Five Others Receive Honors - Twenty one employees of Belron-owned shops competed in the Best of Belron competition last week at the Formula 1 race track "Nürburgring" in Germany.
AEGIS Tools Joins List of Official Sponsors of the Windshield Repair Olympics - AEGIS Tools International has become an official sponsor of the Walt Gorman Memorial Windshield Repair Olympics as an emerald level sponsor.
Custom 1956 Ford F-100 Pickup - Timeless - Four Years of Time and Pressure Has Turned This F-100 Into a Diamond That Will Not Be Forgotten. -- Few people have the opportunity to perform this extensive a number of modifications to a production ’50s Ford pickup and to assemble one in such a precise way.
When it comes to color, no one can touch ''Junior" - The famous auto painter (full name Hershel Conway), who is being honored at the California Hot Rod Reunion, Oct. 6-8, Bakersfield, has been called the "Picasso of the Parking Lot" and the "Raphael of the Road" by none other than Sports Illustrated.
New Research Reveals Strong Growth in Chinese Auto Aftermarket Business - Parts and service in China's light passenger car market reached an estimated US$18.3 billion in 2005, driven by strong expansion of the vehicle parc, according to new research conducted by Technomic Asia, an international market consultancy specializing in China strategies for U.S. companies.
Auto parts company gets tax break - To help stay competitive with its foreign counterparts, Behr Industries Corp. is investing $4.5 million in equipment.
2006 Mobile Electronics Buyer's Guide: Automotive GPS Navigation Systems - As always, the big question remains, which GPS Navigation unit is right for your needs?
Tower Automotive to close Sandusky plant - Tower Automotive Inc., a bankrupt supplier of automobile frames primarily to Ford Motor Co., will close its Sandusky, Ohio, plant, eliminating 135 jobs, the company said yesterday in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Rumored Ford, GM merger unlikely - Automakers talked about it, report says
Ford offers 3 buyout plans - 10,000 white-collar cuts start this year
Ford to close or sell 2,200-worker Indianapolis plant - Dennis Virag, president of Automotive Consulting Group Inc. in Ann Arbor, Mich., said the plant, which employs about 2,200 workers and is Ford's primary supplier of steering components, could prove problematic to sell.
Is Chrysler next? - First GM restructures, then Ford, now everyone wonders
GM Showing Anti-Rollover Technology in Indianapolis - Making families safer on the road is the focus of a special safety tour that is in Indianapolis. Tuesday morning GM showed off its electronic stability control technology.
Honda reports door problem in 8 vehicle models - Honda Motor Co. said Tuesday that it has discovered a problem in the rear doors of its Life minivehicle and seven other models.
Bill calls for loan guarantee for Big 3 - $20B in federally backed funds would help automakers develop fuel-efficient technologies.
Science center awarded grant - Carnegie Science Center has been awarded a grant of more than $400,000 by PPG Industries to develop three science education programs to be offered in a five-state region.
U.S. companies with Thailand operations aren't panicking over coup - Ford Motor Co. (F) has a large stake in Thailand and uses its plant in Pleukdang as a major export base for smaller pickup trucks. -- DuPont Co. has offices in Bangkok and manufacturing facilities at Bangpoo Industrial Estate in Samutprakarn province. -- Rohm & Haas Co. (ROH) produces coatings, adhesives and sealants and performance chemicals at facilities in Maptaphut, Thailand.
Thai coup disrupts Japanese auto makers' production - Production at Japanese auto makers' factories in Thailand was disrupted on Wednesday after the country's armed forces seized power in Bangkok, with Nissan Motor Co., Mazda Motor Corp. and others calling off work for the day.
Why the National Insurance Act Would Be Good for Everyone - AutoInc: Sen. John Sununu explains how the National Insurance Act would create a more uniform system for regulating life and property/casualty insurance.
Sharing the Road: Designers Answer Vehicle Safety Challenge - The following is an excerpt from the first in a four-part transportation design safety series
GEICO Vice President Receives Prestigious Doughboy Award - Sergeant Major of the Army Richard Kidd (Retired) Recognized for Outstanding Contribution to the U.S. Army Infantry

September 19, 2006

Finding a Needle in a Digital Haystack of Information - AutoInc: From ordering parts online to accessing information, the Internet has changed the way automotive service and repair shops do business. Find out how to effectively manage the changing ways of doing business.
Make New Neighbors Your Customers - AutoInc: While you've been busy running your auto repair business, working hard to provide good service and struggling to keep your car counts growing, something has happened out there in the non-automotive world: the "accepted" rules of marketing have died. Gone. Kaput. And in their wake, a brand new promotional ballgame has risen.
I-CAR Education Foundation Chair Thanks Industry For Support Of Perkins Act - After passing Congress with near unanimous support, the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2005 was signed into law by the President of the United States on August 12. As a result, Federal funding will continue to those states and schools that offer technical education, including collision repair programs.
Abra executives buy out investors with help of Prudential - Abra Inc. has pulled a rabbit out of its hat. -- The Brooklyn Center-based company that runs Abra Auto Body & Glass collision repair shops faced an October deadline to refinance or repay a $25 million round of venture-capital investment made in 2001.
Glass Doctor® Franchise Owners Elect New Leadership Council - Glass Doctor, a chain of full-service glass replacement providers, has announces the election of its new Leadership Council.
COO of eAutoclaims, Inc. Resigns - Mr. S. Reed Mattingly resigned his position as Chief Operating Officer of eAutoclaims, Inc. effective September 15, 2006 in order to pursue other business interests returning to his home in South Carolina. Mr. Mattingly will be entering into a consulting agreement for his services to eAutoclaims, Inc. subsequent to his departure in order to ensure a smooth transition of his duties.
Ohio EPA Launches Mercury Switch Removal Program for Auto Recyclers - The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is launching an automobile mercury switch removal program. The Agency, partnering with End-of-Life Vehicle Solutions Corp., will provide licensed auto salvage yards $3 for each mercury switch they remove prior to dismantling or crushing vehicles.
Dura Automotive Systems to Expand Operations at Three Tennessee Facilities - The cities of Lawrenceburg and Milan will provide tax abatement assistance on new equipment purchases, while TVA has committed to working with the DURA Automotive on energy savings opportunities through its loan and growth credit programs.
Bosch looks to the future - 100-year-old supplier to automakers continues to expand
ThyssenKrupp Looking for U.S. Deal Soon - German industrial conglomerate ThyssenKrupp AG expects to reach an agreement over the sale of the body and chassis operations of its U.S. automotive unit in coming weeks, perhaps by the end of October.
Steel Parts Corporation Announces Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Filing - Steel Parts Corporation announced today that due to worsening conditions in the automotive supplier marketplace and unsustainable debt, Steel Parts filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in Detroit on Friday, September 15, 2006.
Ford plan includes sale or closure of former Visteon plants - Ford's accelerated restructuring plan includes a deadline of 2008 to sell off or close 14 plants that the automaker took over last year as part of a bailout of parts supplier Visteon.
Ford restructuring seen dogged by uncertainty - As Ford Motor Co. moves to implement its biggest job-cut and plant-closure program in its 103-year history, uncertainties about the turnaround plan risk complicating its execution, analysts said on Monday.
Ford to buy Rover name from BMW - Ford Motor Co. said Monday it will buy the Rover name from BMW AG, which sold the Land Rover sport utility vehicle business to Ford in 2000.
Toyota unveils new pickup - Toyota Motor Corp. unveiled today at its Technical Center in Ann Arbor long-bed versions of the 2007 Tundra full-size pickup aimed at winning hardcore truck buyers. -- The Tundra Long Bed will be available in both Regular- and Double-Cab.
GEICO names Greg Kalinsky to head California and West Coast operations - GEICO's board of directors this week announced that Greg Kalinsky will head GEICO's California and West Coast operations as regional vice president. Kalinsky previously served as vice president for the company's national underwriting practices in GEICO's Washington, D.C., headquarters.
The Hartford's New Auto Insurance Plan Reaches More Customers, with Greater Choice and Convenience - Company's 'Dimensions with Auto Packages' now available in more states; four coverage options, fast quoting technology and one-stop shopping help agents meet their clients' needs.
Allstate CEO to Step Down at End of 2006 - Allstate Corp. said Monday CEO Edward Liddy, who has led the insurer for nearly eight years after orchestrating its 1994 spinoff off from Sears, Roebuck and Co., is stepping down at the end of 2006 and will be succeeded by No. 2 executive Thomas Wilson.

September 18, 2006

I-CAR Annual Meeting Report - Rod Enlow joked that in mid-2005, as he became chairman of I-CAR’s board of directors, it looked like it was going to be a fairly smooth and calm year for the training organization. The destructive forces of hurricanes Katrina and Rita turned out to be just one of the issues that ended up buffeting I-CAR during what Enlow now calls a challenging but successful year.
Flawless Auto Body starts new Dent Doctor franchise - Flawless Auto Body at 1111 38th St. N. in Great Falls is the first collision repair shop in the country to land a Dent Doctor Express franchise, company officials say.
Answering Critics, GEICO Pulls Ad - Auto insurer GEICO said Friday it won't run a commercial again in Connecticut that Attorney General Richard Blumenthal charged is misleading until his concerns are resolved. -- Blumenthal, fearing some viewers could take that literally, noted that insurers aren't licensed to repair vehicles and don't.
PPG to showcase new offerings at NACE 2006 - It marks the first time PPG will exhibit in one arena its full range of automotive aftermarket products and services.
Through hail and back - NM: Hundreds of auto damage claims have been filed in the wake of Wednesday's powerful storms that dumped large hail, heavy rain and generated strong winds that included a small tornado in Doña Ana County.
Keystone Automotive Inc.: Knowing Which Products Are in Demand - Connecting the manufacture of car bumpers to actual demand keeps inventory levels in line
China criticizes WTO auto parts case - China has expressed regret over a decision by the European Union, the United States and Canada to request a World Trade Organization (WTO) panel to hear their complaint about China's tariff treatment of auto parts.
Michigan firm bets on global alliance - Auto supplier sees link with low-cost Chinese companies as blueprint for survival in downturn.
Part suppliers share in misery - For companies that supply parts to Ford, things just went from bad to worse.
Ohio Governor Taft Celebrates Grand Opening Of New Automotive Parts Plant - German-based company expansion to create new jobs for Central Ohioans
Plastic company buys Michigan manufacturer - Plastic Trim LLC has acquired a Michigan plastic company and will be moving all of its operations to the Dayton area. -- The local plastic company bought Chesterfield, Mich.-based Unibond Inc., a manufacturer of plastic exterior trim for the automotive industry. It's clients include General Motors, PPG, Magna and Lexus.
Ford and GM have discussed merger, alliance: report - Senior executives at General Motors Corp. and Ford Motor Co. have discussed a merger or alliance, industry newspaper Automotive News reported on Monday.
Toyota moves to unseat GM, outpace Ford - Toyota Motor Corp. is quickening its quest to unseat ailing rival General Motors Corp. as the world‘s biggest automaker and widen its lead over Ford Motor Co. with reported plans to boost overseas production by 40 percent to 5 million vehicles by 2008 and blueprints for higher output in North America.
Advanced Road Traffic System, Nissan - Nissan Motors Co., Ltd., will begin testing a newly developed intelligent transportation system which allows vehicle-to-infrastructure communication to help reduce traffic accidents and ease congestion.
Arrogance and Complacency Damaged Ford - It wasn't just inconsistent cars and labor costs that crushed the automaker—for years, its leadership has had a pattern of doing dumb things.
Chrysler warns of $1.5B loss - Analysts blame truck lineup; automaker to cut output
For enthusiasts, dream of steam-powered cars lives on - When it comes to alternative sources of fuel for automobiles, corn-based ethanol attracts most of the attention these days. -- But some car lovers still dream of a future with steam-powered cars.
Peugeot-Citroen and Proton Consider Link - French automaker PSA Peugeot Citroen SA said Monday it has agreed to study possible cooperation with Malaysian state-controlled auto group Proton that would give the French group a strong foothold in Asia.
Vehicle Stability Begins With the Driver - That sums up the reaction here to news that the U.S. Congress, acting through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is recommending that all new cars and trucks sold in America be fitted with electronic stability-control systems.
Uninsured drivers jack up costs for all - WA: Last year, 2,995 motorists were cited for driving without insurance in the county, according Cowlitz County District Court records. This year, 2,400 infractions have already been filed. The court handles citations for all law enforcement agencies in the county.

September 15, 2006

DuPont Announces Hot Hues Winners for 2007 Calendar - DuPont announced the Grand Prize winners of the 2006 Hot Hues. contest. The 12 winning vehicles will appear on the 2007 DuPont Hot Hues.
High Performance Scratch Remover Coming to U.S. - QUIXX Scratch Remover, a new two-step repair system from Germany, is certified and proven to remove scratches from all paint finishes, providing professional results. -- QUIXX will be at booth 13280 during Sema Show, October 31 - November 3, 2006, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada.
Contestant Registration Steady for Auto Glass Technician Olympics - With a little more than two weeks left before contestant registration ends, the Auto Glass Technician Olympics is already on track to bring in more competitors than last year.
Glass Sales Scam Hits Canada - A reader in Alberta, Canada, has notified GlassBYTEs.com staff that the scam first reported on the newsletter in late August has reached the Canadian provinces.
He's a real car cutup - Leading remaker of celebrities' cars to be at Glenmoor for auto gathering.
OEConnection Earns 3rd Consecutive Distinction As NorthCoast 99 Best Places to Work in Northeast Ohio - OEConnection, LLC, a technology leader in parts exchange and analysis solutions for the automotive original equipment (OE) replacement parts business, has earned its third consecutive award as a NorthCoast 99 winner, honoring the 99 Best Workplaces in Northeast Ohio.
Nationwide Accident Repair reports rise in interim profits - UK: The collision repair group Nationwide Accident Repair Services, floated on the AIM last July, has reported that its underlying first-half year pre-tax profits rose to £4.2m from £3.4m for the six months to 30 June.
U.S. parts supplier consolidation inevitable - Consolidation is inevitable among U.S. auto parts suppliers after two years of bankruptcies and declining Big Three vehicle production, but mega-mergers may not be in the cards, industry executives and investors said this week at Reuters Autos Summit in Detroit.
MotivNation Presents Show Vehicles at Annual SEMA Event - MotivNation, an Orange County, California-based provider and manufacturer of "tools and toys for the automotive enthusiast," today announced they will showcase some of their customized vehicles at the 2006 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show being held October 31 - November 3, 2006 in Las Vegas.
New side crash tests: performance of two Fords improves with side airbags -The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently tested four 2007 model vehicles with side airbags: Toyota FJ Cruiser and Ford Freestyle (midsize SUVs); Ford Fusion (midsize moderately priced car) and Ford Crown Victoria (large family car). The FJ Cruiser and Freestyle earn good ratings for protection in side crashes.
Ford Accelerates 'Way Forward' - North America “Way Forward” plan accelerated to deliver faster progress through 2008
Ford to offer 75,000 buyouts - Ford will offer buyout and early retirement plans to all of its hourly U.S. employees — more than 75,000 of them — as part of a broad restructuring plan aimed at cutting its costs in light of slumping sales. -- Ford confirmed the plans Thursday after union officials disclosed the company would make the buyout offers of up to $140,000 each to workers.
Driver of Ford restructuring quits - A senior Ford executive seen as a key architect of the company's latest restructuring effort left the struggling carmaker on Thursday just one day before the company was scheduled to reveal its latest strategy.
Wrangler breeds new species - Jeep's marketing campaign aims to generate buzz for brand, which has suffered a 16.9 percent sales slump in the past year.
Toyota sets big goal for Tundra - Japanese automaker wants to put 200,000 new pickups on roads.
GM shows off its redesigned trucks - GM officials showed off the new version of the GMC Sierra full-size pickup to dealers Wednesday.
Recalled Dodge trucks fill lots - Dodge Ram 1500 pickup trucks can't be sold until dealers get replacement parts.
GM-Nissan talks may run out of gas - With a month to go in GM-Nissan-Renault alliance negotiations, most experts doubt it'll happen.
U-M, GM team up on smart materials - Collaboration working on 'mechametronics'
DaimlerChrysler Opens Chinese Factory - DaimlerChrysler AG on Friday formally opened its first factory in China to make Mercedes-Benz and Chrysler sedans, joining a rush of foreign automakers scrambling for a share of the booming Chinese car market.
First Chinese MG Rover due in 2007 - Nanjing Automobile Corp aims to celebrate its 60th birthday next year by having the first Chinese-built MG car roll off its brand-new assembly line, Deputy Chairman Lu Zhenxin told Reuters.
Chinese automakers Cherry, JAC plan merger - Cherry, China's sixth largest carmaker and JAC, the country's largest producer of chassis and second largest producer of light trucks, will merge if the plan is approved by central authorities, the 21st Century Business Herald reported Thursday.
J.D. Power buys Chinese automotive strategy firm - Consumer information giant J.D. Power and Associates announced the purchase of a Chinese automotive strategy firm Tuesday, highlighting the growing importance of the Asian nation's exploding economy.
Progressive August Profit Soars - Auto insurer Progressive Corp. said Thursday profit more than doubled during August because of comparisons to the year-ago period which featured an active hurricane season.
State Farm(R) Celebrates Inspirational Women and Helps Families Plan Today to Fulfill Dreams Tomorrow - State Farm Life Insurance Companies today will honor five women who persevered and inspired others after the deaths of their spouses at the third Embrace Life(R) Awards gala luncheon in New York. The Awards program helps families understand that proper financial planning is crucial to protect their hopes and dreams for today and tomorrow.
Two State Auto Insurers Lower Their Rates - CA: The state's fifth-largest auto insurer will lower its rates to comply with new regulations requiring rates to be based on driving record instead of ZIP code, Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi said Thursday.
GEICO Celebrates 70th Anniversary - GEICO marks its 70th anniversary today and associates in its regional office locations across the U.S. and in Washington are celebrating all that the company has accomplished. Associates are also paying tribute to GEICO's founder and inspiration, Leo Goodwin.
Progressive Named One of the Best Places to Work in Northeast Ohio - Third Largest Auto Insurance Group Selected as a 2006 NorthCoast 99 Award Recipient

September 14, 2006

State Targets Geico TV Ad - Body Shops Raise Issue Of `Steering' -- The state attorney general and the Auto Body Association of Connecticut attacked a GEICO commercial as misleading Wednesday, reopening fiery debate about whether auto insurers improperly steer customers to use "preferred" repairers.
LORD Corporation Debuts New Rigid Acoustical Foam - LORD Corporation, maker of Fusor Automotive Repair Adhesives -- the leading metal and composite bonding solution for automotive body repair – will debut its new LORD Fusor 130 Rigid Acoustical Foam at the National Autobody Congress and Exposition (NACE), to be held Nov. 2-4 in Las Vegas.
Legislation Could Help Independent Repair Shops - Claiming car dealers do not provide information to independent repair shops, the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association is pushing Congress to pass the Right to Repair Act — legislation which would force car companies to make details on vehicles available.

Consumers, insurance and VOC regulations on tap for collision repair seminar - Speakers from a number of sectors that directly influence the collision repair industry will be gathered for a two-hour seminar organized by The Collision Industry Information and Assistance on Sept. 30. The collision repair seminar/conference takes place during CarFixWORLD, at the Direct Energy Centre (formerly National Trades Centre), Exhibition Place, Toronto.

W.Md. Collision Center marks fifth anniversary - The Western Maryland Collision center at Naves Crossroad in Cumberland is celebrating its fifth-year anniversary. -- Owners and operators Greg Wilson and Larry Higson offer 60 years of experience specializing in collision repair.

Mygrant Announces Time, Place of First Annual Glass Product Fair - Mygrant Glass has announced the holding of its First Annual Mygrant Glass Product Fair on September 22, 2006, from 5 - 8 p.m.

ProQuest Business Solutions Closes Acquisition of Dealer Computer Services, Inc. Electronic Parts Catalog (CPD) Business - ProQuest Business Solutions will now begin updating the CPD product used by Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealers with the latest vehicle and parts information.

Bed liner shows off true colors - Henry Ford would have loved pickup truck bed liners. After all, just like Ford's original Model T, you can get a bed liner in any color you want -- as long as it's black. -- But not anymore. DynaLiner is a clear, spray-on bed liner material that allows the color of your truck's paint to show through.

TIA Has Full Slate of Special Events Planned For SEMA Show - The Tire Industry Association (TIA) continues as the presenting sponsor of the Performance Tires & Wheels section of the 2006 SEMA Show – Oct. 31 to Nov. 3 – and is developing a wide range of seminars and special events for attendees.

Council denies auto salvage permit - ME: The Rockland City Council on Monday night declined to renew an automobile recycling permit for Mid-Coast Auto Sales at 164 New Country Road.

Automotive Training Institute teams with AAA - The Automotive Training Institute (ATI) was recently named an "Automotive Preferred Supplier" for the American Automobile Association (AAA).

Michigan Ops reborn Saturday - Dow Chairman and CEO Andrew Liveris has talked about comebacks before. After what he deemed the company's "near death experience," he announced last year its amazing recovery. -- Project Daytona, the Dow Automotive star on the scene and the contributor of a major chunk of the investment, was among the first to put new steel in the ground and has already been hiring.