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Lexus Accelerates Its Electrified Future With LF-Z Electrified Concept
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The LF-Z Electrified is a BEV concept vehicle that is symbolic of Lexus’s brand transformation and incorporates driving performance, styling, and advanced technology set to be realized by 2025. To realize the significant evolution of basic vehicle performance using electrification technology, which is the aim of Lexus’s “Lexus Electrified” electrification vision, the LF-Z Electrified adopts a BEV-dedicated platform. It features a new four-wheel driv-
ing force control technology known as “DIRECT4”, which uses the instant responsiveness of an electric motor’s driving force to freely control a vehicle’s four wheels for superior and highly flexible driving performance that sets it apart from conventional vehicles. By fusing the electrification technologies and vehicle motion control technologies it has long cultivated, Lexus aims to evolve driving performance in a way
LF-Z Please To Turn Page 4
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While the cockpit is a key focal point, the low positioning of the instrument panel relative to the vehicle occupants and other measures are used to express a refreshing minimalism.
While the augmented reality head-up display, gauges, touch display, and other informationprovision functions are grouped into a single module, driving system functions are concentrated around the steering wheel.
LF-Z From Front Cover that better connects the driver with their vehicle. The LF-Z Electrified’s sculpted and emotional exterior strongly accentuates the uniqueness of Lexus design and expresses the dynamic and agile driving sensation delivered by highoutput electric motors. To provide a uniquely BEV driving experience, the interior is equipped with a “Tazuna” cockpit and features an open and minimalist design. The interior embodies an elevated level of Lexus’s human centered approach, an ethos that has been a foundation of the Lexus-brand since 1989. Also, through dialogue with the driver and based on having learned the driver’s preferences and behavioral traits, AI, acting as a lifestyle concierge, proposes routes and restaurant reservations, among others. By enhancing safety and security along 4
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the way, AI enriches the mobility experience. An Enhanced HumanMachine Connection The LF-Z Electrified evolves the "Lexus Driving Signature," a unique Lexus driving experience that aims for a linear response that is faithful to the driver's intentions, including the feeling of seamlessly connecting deceleration, steering and acceleration in all driving situations. The LF-Z Electrified achieves an ideal balance and inertia by optimally positioning the battery and motors. The electrification technology allows for innovative packaging and design, and raises the Lexus Driving Signature to an even higher level by significantly evolving the basic performance of the vehicle. By orienting the battery assembly longitudinally under the floor of the vehicle, the chassis becomes more rigid and the vehicle’s center of gravity is lowered for improved dynamics. July 2021
In addition, this design helps mitigate vibrations and unpleasant noises from penetrating the passenger cabin. The Lexus DNA of quietness and ride comfort has evolved dramatically yet remains. The new four-wheel drive force control technology, DIRECT4, allows the drive force of the hightorque motors to be controlled freely, enabling the vehicle's posture to be finely controlled according to human senses and inputs. In addition, by controlling the front and rear drive wheels independently, the system can provide the appropriate drive system – e.g. front-wheel drive, rearwheel drive, or all-wheel drive – for each driving situation. The system controls the distribution of driving force through the seamless orchestration and calculation of accelerator pedal application and steering wheel operation, resulting in powerful acceleration and exhilarating corwww.IneedOEMparts.com
nering performance that aligns nearperfectly to the driver's will. The use of steer-by-wire eliminates the need for a mechanical connection through the steering shaft, resulting in a more direct response between steering operation and driving force. This enables the vehicle to turn with less steering angle – and more precision – in response to driving conditions. An Advanced Exterior That Suggests The Direction Of The Evolution Of Lexus Styling The LF-Z Electrified, as a study model that suggests the direction of the evolution of Lexus styling, aims for a simple and captivating shape rooted in strong proportions and a distinctive appearance. Specifically, the overall form, which starts low in the front and peaks toward the rear, as suggestive of a BEV, is composed of a continuous silhouette centered on a smooth cabin. Large-diameter wheels that transmit the power of the high-power electric motors to the road surface are situated as much as possible at the vehicle’s four corners for a wide stance with a low center of gravity. Lexus has taken up the challenge of evolving the Lexus design icon of the spindle shape into a spindle body as the overall body architecture in a new form of expression. The www.IneedOEMparts.com
aim was to create a three- dimensional design that transforms the form of the vehicle body itself into the icon of the Lexus brand and to continuously develop functional expressions and styling that keep abreast with the evolution of technology. The use of DIRECT4, which freely controls the driving force of the four wheels, enabled styling that evokes the image of dynamic driving in which the distribution of driving force is linearly shifted. The accentuation of the doors fluently transitions from the front wheels to the rear wheels, which are surrounded by shiny, projecting, flare-shaped molding. In the rear, a clean and simple horizontal design combines with the molding that emphasizes the projecting wheels to express a powerful stance in support of a torque-strong driving force. Also, horizontally displaying “LEXUS” in the continuous slender rear combination lamp contributes to styling that, along with the front of the vehicle, symbolizes the next generation of Lexus. A Cockpit Based On The New Concept Of “Tazuna” And An Interior With A Sense Of Openness To embody to an even higher degree Lexus’s human-centered approach, which has been the foundation of the Lexus-brand since its birth, July 2021
the cockpit was designed based on the new concept of "Tazuna" (“tazuna” is Japanese for “rein”). Inspired by the relationship between horse and rider, who communicate through a single rein, steering wheel-mounted switches and the vehicle’s head-up display have been highly coordinated to create a space in which various functions, such as the navigation system, audio system, and driving mode selection, can be performed while concentrating on driving and without movement of the driver’s line of sight or need to operate complicated switches. While the cockpit is a key focal point, the low positioning of the instrument panel relative to the vehicle occupants and other measures are used to express a refreshing minimalism and a space that offers true Omotenashi. The entire interior has been made a clean and high-quality space by a form that seamlessly connects the cowl to the front doors and on to the rear doors. Also, a panoramic roof uses long plates of glass that bring about a feeling of openness, emphasizing the minimalist environment. While the augmented reality head-up display, gauges, touch display, and other information-provision
LF-Z Please To Turn Page 18 Southern Automotive Journal
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RepairPal and WrenchWay Partner, Connecting Technicians to High-quality Shops WrenchWay, a software solution dedicated to helping solve the technician shortage in the automotive, collision, and diesel industries, has partnered with RepairPal, the largest trusted auto repair network for high quality and fair prices, to bring solutions with a focus on combating the technician shortage to the RepairPal Certified network. RepairPal Certified shops undergo a rigorous certification process, providing peace of mind to their customers by ensuring prompt, friendly service and quality repairs, backed by a local repair warranty. Through the partnership, RepairPal Certified shops can gain access to WrenchWay’s software tools and solutions that attract technicians, and WrenchWay shops save costs with an exclusive offer to join the RepairPal network.n
“WrenchWay is hoping to solve one of the issues that has plagued the industry for quite some time: the technician shortage. They do this by helping technicians find the best shops to work at, collecting technician input for improving their jobs, and encouraging folks to join the profession. RepairPal is thrilled about this partnership with WrenchWay, which will help our network of over 2,800 Certified shops grow their business by finding and attracting quality technicians." Kathleen Long, VP/GM of Growth at RepairPal
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Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Offers Upgraded Powertrain, Increased Electric Range
Outlander PHEV is substantially upgraded for 2021, and features a significantly revised powertrain, an enlarged battery pack offering extended all-electric range, and increased performance from a new, more efficient, 2.4 liter inlinefour cylinder engine and a higheroutput rear electric motor. The Outlander PHEV 2021 with an extensively upgraded powertrain. The vehicle is equipped with a more powerful and efficient 2.4L internal combustion engine rated at 126 hp and 148 lb.-ft. of torque, and the previous 60kW rear-axle-mounted electric motor has been replaced with a more powerful 70kW unit. Combined, total system output is increased to 221 hp, up 31 hp from the previous model. The Outlander PHEV’s main drive battery capacity also grows from 12.0 kW/h to 13.8 kW/h, resulting in an increase of all-electric range from 22 to 24 miles. Additionally, this also allows increasing the top speed of all-electric operation from 79 mph to 83 mph. Finally, the 2021 Outlander PHEV’s powertrain receives updated 8
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Outlander PHEV comes standard with Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Lane Change Assist (LCA) and Automatic High Beam (AHB) driver assist systems. software for improved synchronization between battery and engine, and improvements that reduce overall noise, vibration and harshness Also new for 2021 are Sport and Snow driving modes, which offer enhanced driver confidence and control in all driving situations. Every 2021 Outlander PHEV is equipped with Mitsubishi’s unique Super AllWheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system.4 With these updates that prioritize enhanced efficiency, economy and performance, the 2021 Outlander PHEV achieves a combined 74 MPGe and 26 MPG. July 2021
Increased Availability of Incentives Thanks to its new, largercapacity battery pack, Outlander PHEV is eligible for additional federal tax incentives for 2021.2 Outlander PHEV is now eligible for $6,587 in federal tax credits, an increase of $751 compared to the 2020 model year. The 2021 Outlander PHEV is available in three trim levels: SEL, Limited Edition (LE) and GT, all of which come standard with S-AWC all-wheel drive. Outlander PHEV Please Turn to Page 38 www.IneedOEMparts.com
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Allstate to Buy Nonstandard Insurer SafeAuto For $300M Allstate announced it would buy nonstandard auto insurer SafeAuto for $270 million in cash and about $30 million worth of “pre-close dividends of certain non-insurance assets.” SafeAuto does business in 28 states and focuses on affordable state minimum auto insurance. Allstate plans to fold it into National General, which Allstate recently bought for $4 billion., following the SafeAuto purchase’s expected third-quarter closing. “It has been an honor to have worked with so many these past 27 years building SafeAuto into a company dedicated to making the purchase of auto insurance
easy and affordable,” SafeAuto cofounder and Vice Chairman Jon Diamond said in a statement. “We are delighted to turn the reins over to Allstate and National General, which together, will take Playing It Safe with SafeAuto to the next level.” Allstate said SafeAuto would “add capabilities and distribution” to National General’s nonstandard auto insurance direct business “and leverage National General’s track record of acquiring and integrating companies to accelerate growth. SafeAuto broadens the company’s product and distribution footprint.” “SafeAuto will accelerate our strategy of offering affordable
protection solutions by lowering costs and lead to higher growth,” National General President Peter Rendell said in a statement Tuesday. “I am confident that combining forces with National General with the backing of Allstate will allow SafeAuto to grow its platform in the non-standard space,” SafeAuto Chairman and co-founder Ari Deshe said in a statement. “I wish to thank all of our past and present associates for their contributions to our success during our 27-year history.” Allstate was the nation’s No. 4 private passenger auto insurer last Allstate Please Turn to Page 11
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Maserati of Atlanta Southern Automotive Journal,Inc. P.O. Box 675097 Marietta, Ga 30006-0009 (770) 321-9920 E-Mail jtucker@sajonline.net Volume 25 Issue No.7
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Southern Automotive Journal (ISSN: 1092-6321) is published monthly by Southern Automotive Journal Inc. P.O. Box 675097, Marietta, Ga 30006-0009.SAJ accepts no responsibility for the opinions, views statements of the authors or for claims made by advertisers. Views expressed by writers are not necessarily those of the publication. Subscription: $12.00 per year. No representation is made as to the accuracy or the completeness of the information provided by this publication. Entire contents copyright 2021. All rights reserved.
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National Survey: 79% Of Car Owners Would Back Law Barring Automakers from Blocking Access to Vehicle Data The CAR Coalition, a growing group of independent automotive parts, management and repair companies, associations, and insurers committed to preserving consumer choice and affordable vehicle repair, is releasing the findings of a national poll focused on consumer choices in auto repair. According to the poll conducted by YouGov, 79 percent of consumers believe that automakers should be prevented by law from restricting access to vehicle data. Vehicle owners feel strongly about this: 85 percent of those who approve of such a law said they would be willing to ask their member of Congress to enact legislation giving vehicle owners the ability to choose Allstate From Page 10 year with nearly $22.73 billion in direct premiums written and a 9.11 percent market share. Prior to its acquisition, National General had been ranked No. 15 with more than $3.15 billion in direct premiums and a 1.26 percent share. Dun & Bradstreet has projected SafeAuto brings in $438.01 mil-
who has access to their vehicle data. 93 percent of respondents believe consumers should decide where they can repair their vehicles. “Consumers get it. They understand that their vehicle data belongs to them, not auto manufacturers,” Justin Rzepka, CAR Coalition Executive Director. “The CAR Coalition is committed to working with policymakers to ensure consumers’ rights are protected and they have options when it comes to their vehicle repair.” Other key findings included: 79 percent of those surveyed believe that car owners should have access to data collected by their vehicle and 74 percent disapprove of automakers blocking independent repair shops
from accessing the data that the car collects and preventing them from repairing cars. And 75 percent of consumers believe that automakers block access to vehicle data so they can earn more money. Launched less than one year ago, the CAR Coalition has become a leading advocate for protecting consumer choices and access to vehicle data, fighting automakers’ attempts to monopolize the post-collision repair market and hoard vehicle data. The CAR Coalition has conducted extensive outreach to a bipartisan group of policymakers and supports federal legislation designed to protect consumer choice in the postcollision repair market.n
lion companywide today, but not all of that is going to be derived from private passenger auto insurance premiums. Even if it were, the addition combined with the National General revenue wouldn’t be enough for Allstate to dethrone Progressive as the nation’s No. 3 auto insurer. Progressive recorded more than $33.17 billion in direct
premiums written last year. “National General’s integration of Allstate’s independent agent businesses has made excellent progress, and the team has the capacity to integrate SafeAuto into its direct insurance business,” Allstate personal property-liability President Glenn Shapiro said in a statement.n
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CIF Announces Axalta as Annual Donor The Collision Industry Foundation (CIF) is delighted to announce that Axalta Coating Systems has joined the “CIF Annual Donor Program” at the URGENT CARE level; with a $5,000 pledge! The Annual Donor Program was designed to bring needed, recurring resources to the Foundation, so it can deliver on its mission to Answer the
Call when those in the industry have been impacted by unforeseen catastrophic events. CIF depends solely on the generosity of donations to conduct its work. The “CIF Annual Donor Program” offers five levels of annual funding options; each comes with a suite of benefits to the donor throughout the
calendar year. All donations to CIF are tax deductible. CIF Treasurer Dan Risley – CCC stated, “Over the years, Axalta has been a steady supporter of the Collision Industry Foundation. We truly appreciate their generosity which allows CIF to assist collision repair professionals in times of need. Thank you.”n
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Stellantis Creates Mopar Certified Glass Installer Program I-CAR announced it would provide training and support for a new Mopar Certified Glass Installer Program — “the industry’s first OEM glass repair certification.” “As vehicle glass installation continues to become a much more advanced repair given today’s technology-laden vehicles, Mopar’s new program is a step forward for the inter-industry,” I-CAR CEO John Van Alstyne said in a statement. “In pursuit of complete, safe and quality repairs, this program reinforces the many new ways we can accomplish this overarching goal.” The shops will use “factoryengineered and factory-backed Mopar Glass,” according to a Mopar Certified Glass Installer fact sheet. They also will be held to OEM repair procedures, according to I-CAR. “FCA US LLC does not approve of or recognize glass replacement procedures where Authentic Mopar Parts are not used for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram and FIAT® brand vehicles,” Stellantis (formerly known as FCA) wrote in a Nov. 20, 2019, position statement. “Any repairs performed not using Mopar Replacement Glass, and not follow-
ing published repair guidelines and procedures, may expose current or future vehicle owners and occupants to unnecessary risk. FCA US LLC vehicles, systems and components are engineered, tested and manufactured to help protect vehicle occupants. They are engineered based upon both governmentmandated and internal corporate requirements relative to Durability, Noise Vibration & Harshness (NVH) and Vehicle Safety.” I-CAR said it would virtually audit glass installers to see if they met Stellantis’ requirements, a list the educational organization said it helped craft. “With the constantly advancing technologies within the glass repair and replacement industry, and the trends to become even more sophisticated moving forward, the need for proper training, procedures and tools is more important than ever,” Mopar product line manager Mike Fisher said in a statement. “Working together with I-CAR and the JRT Agency, our industryfirst Mopar Certified Glass Installer Program addresses all the needs of dealers, repair shops, insurance
agencies and distributors, ensuring our customers receive a factorybacked repair that meets strict original equipment quality and safety standards.” The program requires every vehicle to “have a documented repair process and procedures.” A shop must prove they could document “proof of FCA OEM repair procedure access and usage. Store the record of the procedure used and proof of calibration(s) performed for compliance.” It also includes an OEM scan tool and Stellantis-approved calibration equipment, when applicable. Glass installers working on a vehicle which requires calibration must “have record of wiTech 2.0 scan tool usage,” and they must carry “ADAS calibration tools as specified by FCA or provide documented sublet information.” The shop must also have more common glass-related equipment, including chip repair tools, a power knife and cold knife, a cable reed and wire tools and suction cups. They also need adhesives and adhesive Glass Please Turn to Page 18
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The F-Series Super Duty Is Built Ford Tough Ford F-Series Super Duty high-strength steel frame, highstrength, militarygrade, aluminumalloy body, powerful 6.2-liter gas or 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel, plus An all-new 10-speed heavyduty TorqShift® The 2021 F-Series Super Duty is Built Ford Tough and ready to put it to work. Super Duty comes in a huge array of configurations with a trim level for every need including XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Limited. Super Duty’s capabilities speak for themselves, best-in-class maximum gooseneck towing of up to 37,000 pounds, best-in-class maximum fifth-wheel towing of 32,500 pounds, best-in-class maximum conventional towing of 24,200 pounds, and best-in-class maximum payload capacity of 7,850 pounds. Super Duty comes standard with the proven 6.2-liter V8 developing 385 horsepower and 430 ft.lbs. of torque. Customers can option 14
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the 7.3-liter V8 with best-in-class gas power at 430 horsepower and best-inclass gas twist at 475 ft.-lbs. of torque. The available third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel V8 delivers bestin-class 475 horsepower and best-inclass 1,050 ft.-lbs. of torque. An all-new 10-speed heavy-duty TorqShift® automatic transmission is standard with the 7.3-liter V8 and 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V8. Super Duty features advanced trailering technology including available class-exclusive Pro Trailer Backup Assist™, and Trailer Reverse Guidance, both of which are built to accommodate all trailer styles, including conventional, fifth-wheel and gooseneck designs. July 2021
Keep connected with standard FordPass Connect™ embedded 4G LTE modem with Wi-Fi access for up to 10 devices and charge up with wireless charging and USB-C ports. Available driver-assist technology includes LaneKeeping Alert, Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage, and Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking. The Super Duty with the Tremor Off-Road Package is the most capable off-road Super Duty ever, with the outstanding towing and payload capability heavy-duty pickup truck owners expect. It balances what customers demand in terms of work with what they need for the great outdoors. Ford Please Turn to Page 27 www.IneedOEMparts.com
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CCG Nears 600-Location Mark, It’s Able to Balance DRPs, OEM Certification The CAR Coalition, a growing group of independent automotive parts, management and repair companies, associations, and insurers committed to preserving consumer choice and affordable vehicle repair, commended a unanimous report from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) urging expanded consumer access to auto repair options. The CAR Coalition supports federal legislation to give consumers more options in the post-collision auto repair market and the ability to control their own vehicle data. “The FTC report is a clear signal that there should be federal legislation protecting consumer’s rights in the post-collision repair market,” said Justin Rzepka, Executive Director of the CAR Coalition. “For far too long, the auto companies have dictated where and how consumers can repair their own vehicles. We concur with the FTC that consumers should be empowered to make choices when it comes to repairing products they repair and own, specifically their cars.” Rzepka added, “The CAR Coalition stands ready to work with the FTC and Members of Congress to advance pro-consumer post collision repair legislation. The time has come to put consumers in the driver’s seat on auto repair.”n
Specifically, the FTC report highlights: • The use of telematics to limit independent repair access
and consumer choice in the auto repair industry. )
• The use of automaker-produced parts and affiliate repair networks to restrict repair options. • The practice of VIN burning which constrains the use of parts to a single vehicle. • The attempt of auto manufacturers to create product monopolies with the increased use of technology in cars. • The overwhelming support for a Right to Repair initiative in Massachusetts.
Link to the FTC Report: https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/docments/reports/ nixing-fix-ftc-report-congress-repair-restrictions/nixing_the_fix_report_final_5521_630pm-508_002.pdf
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Tractable announced that No. 2 U.S. auto insurer GEICO would use Tractable’s AI Review photo estimating product to “within seconds” verify the quality of existing sheets. “GEICO customers know us for our speed of service and value,” GEICO CEO Todd Combs said in a statement Wednesday. “Tractable’s artificial intelligence solution delivers both, helping us review estimates more quickly and accurately, getting our customers back on the road faster.” Unlike the Hartford, which is using Tractable’s photo estimating artificial intelligence to prepare estimates on the the front end, GEICO is using its back-end solution AI Review. That product offers oversight on sheets already written by humans. “An appraiser or repairer uploads an estimate and pictures for each claim to the insurer’s claims management system,” Tractable writes of AI Review. “For a large insurer with hundreds of thousands – if not millions – of claims per year, and each one traditionally taking approximately 30 minutes to review, it’s impossible to manually review them all.” But its software “takes just minutes to review all your estimates and spot any inefficiencies or errors.” Tractable said it could not discuss GEICO’s specific plans for the AI Review software. The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday that the scope of GEICO’s deployment would include checking collision repairers’ estimates. GEICO has not yet responded to a Thursday afternoon request for more information. Tractable estimates AI Review can cut eight days out of cycle times and find “$80 additional variance … per claim thanks to AI consistency.” Tractable said the majority of estimates processed through AI Review are found to be fine and “processed without any human involvement whatsoever, but complex cases or those with potential inaccuracies are flagged for follow-up by human experts.” It said 70 percent of claims on average can be reviewed without bringing in a human. “We are honored to be chosen by GEICO, one of America’s largest insurers,” Tractable CEO Alex Dalyac said in a statement. “We are committed to accelerating accident recovery with AI. Through this partnership, our AI will make a positive difference to millions of lives.” In other Tractable news, the company recently announced that France’s largest insurer, Covéa, has expanded Tractable software to its thousands of network body shops. “(I)t will assess auto claims from its three insurance brands (MAAF, MMA and GMF) in real-time, and on a national scale,” Tractable wrote in a news release April 22.
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LF-Z From Page 5 functions are grouped into a single module, driving system functions are concentrated around the steering wheel. This suggests the direction of next-generation Lexus interior styling, with expanded forward visibility and the driver being naturally invited to look forward. Advanced features to enrich your mobility experience In the LF-Z Electrified, Artificial Intelligence (AI), which learns the driver's preferences and behavioral characteristics, provides constant support to the driver. Voice communication contributes to improved operability while driving. The voice recognition system uses the latest AI to recognize, learn, and adapt to a driver’s habits and preferences, supporting with tasks such as determining driving routes and making restaurant reservations. Such interactivity between AI and driver leads to a fruitful dialogue, thus improving the overall ownership Glass From Page 13 equipment “required/recommended per Mopar repair procedures,” and all technicians need “the proper PPE including gloves and safety glasses.” Five I-CAR glass courses will also be required to achieve certification. The shop must finish this curriculum within 90 days after Stellantis accepts their application for the certified network. Stellantis (formerly known as FCA) and I-CAR have collaborated in the past. I-CAR has created Stellantis-specific courses, including “Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Collision Repair Overview” and “2018 Jeep Wrangler JL.” I-CAR said Stellantis also had various ProLevel and Gold Class requirements for its networks of certified shops. The most stringent of these was Alfa Romeo requiring certified shops to reach a minimum 18
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and driving experience, adding color to the customer’s life as a lifestyle concierge. The use of a digital key allows family and friends to access the car without having to hand over a conventional key, in addition to operating the vehicle with a smartphone, such as opening and closing the door locks. Also, by enabling service providers to access the car via the digital key, it will be possible to provide vehicle-linked services such as package delivery to the car or car sharing, making life with a car even richer. The E-Latch system makes door opening and closing smoother and safer. When boarding, the retractable door handle automatically appears above the vehicle’s surface when a driver or passenger approaches with key in hand. The door can be unlocked and opened smoothly by touching the sensor inside the handle. When exiting the vehicle, the door can be opened by pressing the door-opening switch. An added benefit: LF-Z
Electrified’s sensors scan the surrounding environment for oncoming and adjacent traffic prior to passenger egress to provide an additional layer of passenger safety. The panoramic roof, which gives a sense of openness, uses electrochromic glass and is equipped with entertainment functions such as dimming for privacy and shade, or illumination to reflect the passing night sky. In the center of the roof is a touch panel that connects the front and rear seats and is used for communication between passengers. The reclining rear seats are equipped with a massage function, bringing a soothing and peaceful time to all passengers when traveling. The next generation Mark Levinsoni audio system can reproduce a concert hall-like audio experience. With the next-generation sound management function, active noise cancellation facilitates interaction or privacy amongst passengers, providing a quiet and comfortable interior space.n
of ProLevel 3 in all roles in addition to Gold Class. (This is a step up from standard Gold Class, which is initially achievable after staffers in the four roles reach ProLevel 2) “I-CAR’s mission is to provide education, information, services and solutions,” Van Alstyne said in a statement. “This program represents a solution that brings to life the breadth of our mission. Along with education, audits, reporting, and network support in collaboration with the Mopar team, this makes I-CAR a unique and perfect fit for Mopar’s new program.” I-CAR said glass installers could pursue the certification by calling 1-800-I-CAR-USA or by visiting the I-CAR course catalog here. Perks for applying include admission to the I-CAR glass courses for two installers (though all glass personnel must ultimately complete the classes).
The Mopar fact sheet said repairers would get free access to I-CAR’s Repairability Technical Support portal and to “Mopar body and glass repair manuals.” However, certified glass installers won’t receive a free subscription to Stellantis’ official OEM repair procedures on TechAuthority.com, though the automaker said it will offer a “deep” discount on it. Certified glass shops also receive marketing support, including a listing on I-CAR’s shop locator tool “Bodyshopology.com”; “Mopar promotion to certified shops, dealers and insurance agencies”; and “customer referrals, shop locator services,” according to the Mopar fact sheet. Repairers can promote themselves within their own facility with gear “including certification plaque, posters, window clings, counter mat, vehicle stickers and more.” n
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Motor Vehicle Waste Disposal Wells: Achieving EPA Compliance with Automated Wastewater Treatment Automated wastewater treatment systems help motor vehicle service industries remain in compliance with EPA and local standards, while significantly reducing the cost of treatment, labor and disposal Automotive service stations, auto body shops, car dealers, truck stops, and car and truck rental agencies with motor vehicle waste disposal wells – floor drains or sinks in service bays that connect to a septic system or dry well – are regulated by the EPA (www. epa.gov/uic/motor-vehicle-waste-disposal-wells). During normal vehicle repair and maintenance, fluids such as engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze, solvents, and degreasers may drip or spill into floor drains or sinks in service areas. Disposal of these fluids through a motor vehicle waste disposal well may contaminate ground water, so the EPA regulates these wells to prevent ground water contamination in certain areas. According to the EPA, motor vehicle waste disposal wells are banned nationwide if the well was constructed after April 5, 2000 in ground water protection areas near public water systems that provide ground water used for drinking. However, some states may waive the ban and issue a permit if certain procedures are followed. The EPA states that “at a minimum, permits require… [that] waste fluids must meet drinking water standards called Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) at the point of injection. This means that shop wastewater, before it is discharged into the ground, must not exceed any MCL.” Additionally, the EPA requires that “you implement the best management practices described in your permit to minimize the amount of contaminants in your shop wastewater” and “you monitor the wastewater being 22
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discharged into the ground and sludge to ensure continued compliance with MCLs, as required by your permit.” The EPA states that, “If your wastewater does not meet drinking water standards, you have two options: install ‘pretreatment equipment’ that treats the wastewater before it goes to the drain [or] close the well according to the permitting authority’s directions.” For any shop that services motor vehicles, this means installing a wastewater treatment system that effectively separate the contaminants from the water so it can be legally discharged into motor vehicle waste disposal wells. However, traditional wastewater treatment systems can be complex, often requiring multiple steps, a variety of chemicals and a considerable amount of labor. Even when the process is supposedly automated, too often technicians must still monitor the equipment in person. This usually requires oversight of mixing and separation, adding of chemicals, and other tasks required to keep the process moving. Even then, the water produced can still fall below mandated requirements. Although paying to have motor vehicle wastewater hauled away is also an option, it is extraordinarily expensive. In contrast, it is much more cost effective to treat the wastewater at its source, so treated effluent can go into a motor vehicle waste disposal well. As an alternative, if necessary, with sufficient treatment and accommodation, it could also potentially go into a sewer; and if treated sludge passes a TCLP (Toxicity Characteristics Leaching Procedure) test it could be disposed of as non-hazardous waste in a local landfill. Fortunately, complying with EPA and local wastewater regulation has become much easier with more July 2021
fully automated, wastewater treatment systems. Such systems not only reliably meet regulatory wastewater requirements, but also significantly reduce the cost of treatment, labor and disposal when the proper Cleartreat® separating agents are also used. Cost-Effective, Automated Wastewater Treatment In contrast to labor-intensive multiple step processes, automated wastewater treatment can help to streamline production, usually with a one-step process, while lowering costs at motor vehicle service facilities. An automated wastewater treatment system can eliminate the need to monitor equipment in person while complying with EPA and locally mandated requirements. Such automated systems separate suspended solids, emulsified oil and heavy metals, and encapsulate the contaminants, producing an easily de-waterable sludge in minutes, according to motor vehicle service consultants at Sabo Industrial Corp., a New York-based manufacturer, distributor and integrator of industrial waste treatment equipment and solutions, including batch and fully automated systems, Cleartreat separating agents, bag filters, and accessories. The water is typically then separated using a de-watering table or bag filters before it is discharged into motor vehicle waste disposal wells, or potentially sewer systems. Other options for de-watering include using a filter press or rotary drum vacuum. The resulting solids are non-leachable and are considered non-hazardous, so will pass all required testing. These systems are available as manual batch processors, semi-automatic, automatic and can be designed to provide a legally dischargeable effluent suitable for the sewer system. A new, fully customized system is not always required. In many cases, it can be faster and more cost effective to www.IneedOEMparts.com
Separating Agents Despite all the advances in automating wastewater treatment equipment any such system requires effective separating agents which agglomerate with the solids in the wastewater so the solids can be safely and effectively separated out. Because of the importance of separating agents for wastewater treatment, Sabo Industrial uses a special type of bentonite clay in a line of wastewater treatment chemicals called ClearTreat. This line of wastewater treatment chemicals is formulated to break oil and water emulsion, provide heavy metals removal, and promote flocculation, agglomeration and suspended solids removal. Bentonite has a large specific surface area with a net negative charge that makes it a particularly effective adsorbent and ion exchange for wastewater treatment applications
add to or modify a facility’s current wastewater treatment systems when this is feasible. However, because every wastewater stream is unique to its industry and application, each wastewater treatment solution must be suited to or specifically tailored to the application. The first step in evaluating the potential cost savings and effectiveness of a new system is to sample the wastewater to determine its chemical makeup followed by a full review of EPA and local water authority requirements, say motor vehicle service consultants at Sabo Industrial. The volume of wastewater that will be treated is also analyzed, to determine if a batch unit or flowthrough system is required. Other considerations include the size restrictions so the system fits within the facility’s available footprint.
to remove heavy metals, organic pollutants, nutrients, etc. As such, bentonite is essential to effectively encapsulate the materials. This can usually be achieved in one-step treatment, which lowers process and disposal costs. In contrast, polymer-based products do not encapsulate the toxins, so systems that use that type of separating agent are more prone to having waste products leach back out over time or upon further agitation. In the case of a heavy equipment dealer with six locations in New York and Connecticut, an EconoFlow wastewater treatment system using a bentonite-based ClearTreat formulation was required for wastewater created by equipment washdowns. The wastewater contained oil, grease, suspended solids, heavy metals, and cleanWaste Please Turn To Page 38
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Family Business Groups Urge Retention of ‘Step-up’ Tax Rules The Society of Collision Repair Specialists and more than 100 other trade groups have written a letter to lawmakers warning that repealing the “stepped-up” tax policy could hurt family-owned businesses. The letter by the “Family Business Estate Tax Coalition” was slated to be sent to the leaders of the Senate Finance and House Ways and Means Committees on Tuesday. Besides SCRS, familiar automotive aftermarket signatories included the Auto Care Association, American International Automobile Association and the National Automobile Dealers Association. Normally, an asset’s appreciation would be taxed as a capital gain when sold, according to Ernst & Young, whose research the coalition cited in their letter to lawmakers. However, capital gains taxes aren’t imposed on assets received as inheritance, and heirs receive a further break in that the asset would be given a “step-up of basis,” according to the Ernst & Young analysis prepared for the coalition and shared with the lawmakers. Under the step-up rule, a heir who later sells the inherited asset would only face capital gains taxes on the difference between the sale price and the asset’s worth at the time of inheritance, according to EY. All appreciation between the time the business owner purchased the asset and the time of their death is ignored by the IRS, EY wrote. The coalition warned Sens. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, and Reps. Richard Neal, D-Mass., and Kevin Brady, R-Texas, that repealing the step-up rule could devastate a family business. Heirs who inherited the company and planned to keep running it after their relative’s death would instead have to cannibalize it to pay the tax bill. “Repealing stepped-up basis by imposing capital gains taxes when assets transfer ownership at death would force many family-owned businesses to liquidate assets or lay off employees to cover www.IneedOEMparts.com
An example offered by the accounting firm demonstrates how this could benefit a small family business like a body shop: For example, suppose a business was purchased for $1 million and valued at $5 million at the time of the owner’s death. Under current law, there would be no tax on the $4 million appreciation that accrued during the owner’s lifetime. The heirs would take the $5 million value of the business as tax basis – the basis would be “stepped-up” by the $4 million unrecognized capital gain without having to pay tax on that gain. Were the heirs to sell the business in a future year for $7 million, they would owe capital gains tax on just the $2 million in appreciation under their ownership. the tax burden,” the coalition wrote. “This new tax would be imposed on top of any existing estate tax liability, further compounding the negative impacts and creating a second tax at death.” Ernst & Young calculated that even if the heir was allowed to deduct the capital gains tax from the estate tax, a situation where a person facing an estate tax rate of 40 percent and capital gains tax of 20 percent would wind up facing a 52 percent tax rate. “This high tax burden can be especially problematic when the primary asset in the estate is a business as there may be little cash available with which to pay estate and capital gains taxes,” EY wrote. “Furthermore, repeal of step-up in basis would make death a taxable event even for families below the current estate tax exemption threshold ($11.7 million in 2021)—significantly broadening the scope of the United States’ death and inheritance taxes.” Democratic President Joe Biden has proposed an “American Families Plan” which would involve the government spending $1 trillion on initiatives July 2021
including universal preschool, two years of free community college, childcare costing no more than 7 percent of income, and paid family and medical leave. The plan also includes extending $800 billion in tax cuts over a decade. Biden proposed paying for this in part with measures to “make sure that the wealthiest Americans pay their share in taxes,” according to a White House fact sheet April 28. This includes raising the tax rate on capital gains and dividends. It also includes ending the step-up rule for inheritances. “Today, our tax laws allow these accumulated gains to be passed down across generations untaxed, exacerbating inequality,” the White House wrote in the fact sheet. “The President’s plan will close this loophole, ending the practice of “stepping-up” the basis for gains in excess of $1 million ($2.5 million per couple when combined with existing real estate exemptions) and making sure the gains are taxed if the property is not donated to charity. … Without these changes, billions in capiTax Rules Please Turn to Page 28 Southern Automotive Journal
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SCRS and OEC® Announce the Release of a New Update to the Blueprint Optimization Tool needs. It was T h e designed by Society of The newest version of the BOT features: these repairCollision Repair ers, for their Specialists · Over 350 additional operations added to the part code table, own use, and (SCRS) and which now exceed 1500 total entries then made OEC® announce · Specific ADAS, Scanning, Inspection and Calibration operations commercially the release of a available once new update to Existing BOT users will receive detailed instructions via email from it met their the Blueprint OEC on adding these updated operations to their part code table. strict parameOptimization ters. Our focus Tool (BOT, www. has always scrs.com/BOT). been to This update Existing BOT users will receive address the needs of the repair faciliincludes adding hundreds of new detailed instructions via email from ties we support. I think these updates operations and features to the repairOEC on adding these updated operaspeak to the desire to listen to the er-designed estimating resource. tions to their part code table. end-user and incorporate feedback The update features crowdThe hefty upgrade represents into a continually evolving product." sourced end-user feedback to bring the first major addition to the Guide "We are firm believers that the in the most requested operations. since the launch of the BOT. This demBOT technology has the ability to funThese are operations often peronstrates how the product will condamentally change how easily colliformed and overlooked on prelimitinue to evolve alongside the vehicles sion repair businesses realize added nary repair plans. we repair, and with feedback from the value from their existing processes," The newest version of the BOT product’s user base. added Pete Tagliapietra, Director, features: "As an association, our objective NuGen IT an OEC Company. "Our work • Over 350 additional operafirst and foremost is to provide help with OEC® and SCRS has been 100% tions added to the part code table, and solutions to collision repair busialigned since day one, in creating which now exceeds 1500 total nesses," stated SCRS Chairman Bruce meaningful solutions that help conentrie Halcro. "The collision repair profesnect the dots for repairers; to let them • Specific ADAS, Scanning, sionals around our table developed more easily capture the operations Inspection and Calibration operathis product because they couldn’t that make up a proper n tions find an existing solution to meet their
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GEICO From Page 17 “By speeding up decisions and making the process more efficient, the AI makes it possible to analyse claims in a few minutes, instead of a few days. It will also ensure bodyshops follow the most appropriate and safe repair methods, and allow experts to focus their attention on more complex tasks.” Tractable President Adrien Cohen described the process as a way
to approve repairers’ decisions with AI quickly rather than waiting for a human adjuster. Tractable also recently heralded major Polish insurer Warta’s 2020 deployment of AI Review across all claims handled by its network of shops. “Now, 100% of Warta’s network claims are visually checked by the AI, allowing cases without anomalies to be immediately approved, to the benefit of repairers,” Tractable wrote. “Meanwhile, claims with anomalies are flagged to
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engineers along with all the information and photos needed to resolve them – helping Warta review each claim up to 3 times faster.” Warta project manager Jakub Polnik said Tractable allowed it to “make sure every claim is being repaired according to the damage and technology provided by the car producer. As a result, we have a much greater oversight of every aspect of our repair network, ensuring we are providing the best possible service for our customers.”n
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current law.” Ernst & Young estimated that eliminating step-up at death would cost America 80,000 jobs during the first 10 years and see paychecks reduced by $32 for every $100 in revenue collected by the government. The gross domestic product would fall by $100 billion over 10 years, according to EY. The accounting firm also argued that family-owned businesses and the Internal Revenue Service itself could have “significant financial and administrative problems.” “Family-owned businesses may also find it difficult to comply because of problems in determining the decedent’s basis and in valuing the bequeathed assets,” Ernst & Young wrote. “It seems likely that these administrative problems could lead to costly disputes between taxpayers and the IRS. Additionally, if sufficient evidence is not available to prove basis, then $0 may be used for tax purposes. This may result in an inappropriately large tax at death.”n
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tal income would continue to escape taxation entirely.” Biden in a May 3 appearance gave the example of someone who bought stock and saw it go up $1 million. They would owe capital gains on the $1 million appreciation, he said. But if they were killed on the way to cash in their stock, a tax bill due just “two seconds earlier” would suddenly vanish by virtue of the stock’s bequeathment and stepping-up, Biden said, according to a White House transcript. However, the White House promised April 28 that it wouldn’t end the stepped-up rules for family businesses. “The reform will be designed with protections so that family-owned businesses and farms will not have to pay taxes when given to heirs who continue to run the business,” the Biden administration wrote. The White House has not yet responded to a Friday request for details on this exemption.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture also described the possibility of an exemption in reassurance to family farms issued April 28. “Under the proposal, unrealized capital gains (those that have never been previously taxed) are taxed at death above $2 million in gains per couple,” the USDA wrote in a news release. “… Under this proposal, estimates indicate more than 98% of farm estates will not owe any tax at transfer, provided the farm stays in the family. The tax the remaining less than 2% would owe, would be on their non-farm assets.” We asked the USDA Friday if it could direct us to something more detailed than the White House fact sheet. It has not yet responded. SCRS and the scores of other trade groups told lawmakers they had “unequivocal support for the continuation of stepped-up basis. … “We respectfully urge you to protect family-owned businesses from tax increases by defending steppedup basis and opposing any changes to
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Stingray First-Ever Production Mid-engine Corvette
Chevrolet fulfills the long-term promise of the iconic Corvette with the introduction of the 2020 Stingray, the brand’s first-ever production midengine Corvette. The sum of everything that came before it, the 2020 Stingray is re-imagined to bring new levels of performance, technology, craftsmanship and luxury. Design inspired by racing and aeronautics The Stingray’s exterior has a bold, futuristic expression with midengine exotic proportions, but it is still unmistakably Corvette. It’s lean and muscular, with an athletic sculptural shape conveying a sense of motion and power from every angle. “As America’s most iconic performance nameplate, redesigning the Corvette Stingray from the ground up presented the team a historic opportunity, something Chevrolet designers have desired for over 60 years,” said Michael Simcoe, vice president of Global Design, General Motors. “It is now the best of America, a new arrival in the mid-engine sports car class. We know Corvette can stand tall with the best the world has to offer.” A supercar level of craftsmanship, premium materials and attention to detail were critical in designing every component of the Stingray. The new location of the engine is truly the focal point for the car’s 30
Southern Automotive Journal
design. It’s the heart of this next generation Corvette and it sits like a jewel in a showcase, visible through the large rear hatch window. The added attention to detail optimized the appearance of every wire, tube, bolt and fastener, similar to those found in modern track and all-road motorcycle design. True to its aeronautical and racing roots, the new Stingray’s canopyforward stance was inspired by F22s, F35s and other modern fighter jets and Formula One racing. Engineered to be a true supercar for every day Corvette’s structure is built around its backbone: the center tunnel. This enables a light, stiff structure to serve as the foundation for the suspension system to perform in an optimized manner. By removing unwanted body compliance, Corvette customers will experience the ultimate in ride performance with outstanding lateral grip capabilities. The car has a solid, connected-tothe-road feel with minimal vibrations at high speeds or on long road trips. Handling: core to Corvette’s funto-drive DNA The Stingray is designed for superior ride comfort on the highway and well-balanced handling on the track. “Thanks to sophisticated susJuly 2021
pension geometry, tailored tire technology and exquisite attention to structural details, we have improved ride and handling,” said Juechter. “No Corvette has ever felt so comfortable, nimble and yet completely stable.” The new Stingray features coil over dampers that create entirely new ride and handling characteristics. The mid-engine architecture allows for a short, straight and stiff steering system, coupled with an updated electronic steering system, making the driver’s chassis input instantaneous. The new seating position places the car’s center of gravity close to the driver’s inside hip, so the car literally turns around the driver. It completely changes the perception of vehicle handling and responsiveness. The jewel in the center The Stingray’s heart is Chevy’s next-generation 6.2L Small Block V-8 LT2 engine, the only naturally aspirated V-8 in the segment. It will produce 495 horsepower (369 kW) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm) of torque when equipped with performance exhaust — the most horsepower and torque for any entry Corvette. “Though now placed behind the driver, the LT2 gives the same visceral experience we all expect from Corvette,” said Jordan Lee, GM’s Corvette Please Turn To Page 32 www.IneedOEMparts.com
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A cockpit that has not only migrated forward by 16.5 inches, but envelops the driver, conveying the high performance and aeronautic theme. Corvette From Page 30 global chief engineer of Small Block engines. “The LT2 has been designed to deliver excellent low-end torque and high-end power to give thrilling pedal response at any RPM.” The powertrain’s low position enables a low center of gravity for optimal handling. Perhaps the biggest update is found in the lubrication and ventilation system. For the first time ever, the base Stingray will use an engine-mounted dry sump oil system and three scavenge pumps for improved track performance. A shift of a different kind The next generation LT2 is paired with Chevrolet’s first eight speed dual-clutch transmission, 32 Southern Automotive Journal
which provides lightning-fast shifts and excellent power transfer. This transmission is uniquely designed with TREMEC to provide the best of both worlds: the spirited, direct connected feeling of a manual and the premium driving comfort of an automatic. The double-paddle de-clutch feature even allows the driver to disconnect the clutch by holding both paddles for more manual control. The new Small Block V-8 has a torque curve optimized to take advantage of the bespoke DCT’s lightningfast shifts. Engineers set the DCT up with a very low first gear to leverage the additional traction to get the car off the line quickly, and its close-ratio gears 2 through 6 keep the engine near the power peak on track. Tall July 2021
seventh and eighth gears make for easy long-distance cruising with low mechanical stress and excellent fuel economy. The DCT is mated to a new Electronic Transmission Range Selector. With this electric shifter there’s no mechanical interface between the shift lever and the transmission. The Corvette’s electric shifter incorporates two pull toggles for Reverse and Drive and push buttons for Park, Neutral and Low/Manual. The shifter has been designed to be more attractive and compact than a standard shifter. All-new technology improves performance and usability Driver mode choices have been expanded from four to six, allowwww.IneedOEMparts.com
ing drivers to tweak the feel of their Corvettes to their personal preference. The familiar Weather, Tour, Sport and Track modes remain, and there are two new modes: The Stingray benefits from GM’s new digital vehicle platform, an all-new electronic architecture that enables the adoption of the company’s next generation of technologies. The architecture minimizes wiring while allowing for faster signal transmission between different vehicle systems and the higher resolution screens. The platform enables continuous vehicle improvements through over-the-air updates and enhanced cybersecurity measures.n
The all-new Corvette Stingray is built with a smart mixedmaterials strategy, enabling key features such as: • A strong, stiff and lightweight main structure of six high-pressure diecast aluminum parts, also known as the Bedford Six, which are manufactured at GM Powertrain in Bedford, Indiana. These minimize the number of joints within the vehicle, making a stiffer structure that aids in handling and track cornering. • Industry-first carbon fiber curved rear bumper beam for weight reduction. • Front and rear trunk tubs and dashboard molded from ultra-lightweight “float” derived from fiberglass and a proprietary resin. The material is so light that it can actually float in water. It works with other fiberglass and carbon fiber variants to lower mass and reduce noise and vibration.
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New U.S. Chamber Poll of Unemployed Americans Reveals Return-to-Work Barriers, Mounting Workforce Crisis Many Americans who lost their jobs during the pandemic and remain unemployed today never expect to return to work, and among those who do plan to return, steep barriers stand in the way, according to a new poll released today by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce—the same day new federal data show 9.3 million Americans remain unemployed. “We have 9.3 unemployed Americans and 8 million unfilled jobs. We have to do a better job filling these open jobs,” U.S. Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley said. “This new poll shows that barriers like inflated unemployment benefits, lack of childcare access, skills gaps, and an overall lack of available workers are exacerbating this challenge for workers and employers across America.” Bradley added: “We call on elected leaders at the federal and state level to take immediate action to address this workforce crisis, beginning with increasing access to affordable childcare, investing in rapid job skilling, and rightsizing unemployment benefits.” The new poll shows that 30 percent do not expect to return to work any time this year, with nearly half of those (13 percent of the total) saying they never expect to return to work. Extrapolated to 9.3 million unemployed Americans reported today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, that’s an estimated 2.8 million people who will remain on the sidelines this year, 1.2 million of whom never expect to return to work. For those planning to return, the poll reveals significant barriers. Notably, one in six (16%) who lost jobs during the pandemic and are not currently seeking work say it’s “not worth” searching for a job because of the money they currently earn from unemployment benefits. Others report lack of childcare and insufficient skills for indemand jobs as deterrents to reentering the workforce.n
Key findings include: Half (49%) of Americans who lost their job during the pandemic report they are not active at all or not very active in searching for new employment. Less than a third (32%) report that they are strongly active in their job search. Six in 10 respondents (61%) say they are in no hurry to return to work. Three in 10 (30%) say they do not expect to return to work this year, with more than half of those (13% of the total) saying they never plan to return to work. One in eight (13%) who became unemployed during the pandemic and remain unemployed have turned down at least one job offer in the past year One in six (16%) not actively seeking work say the amount of money they are receiving from unemployment benefits and government programs makes it “not worth looking” for jobs. Even more— 28 percent of all respondents—agree that “there are a lot of people who are not looking for work because they can do almost or just as well collecting unemployment benefits.” Other common factors contributing to unemployed Americans not looking for work include childcare and other family care needs (24%), a lack of available jobs due in sectors that are still suffering (28%), and COVID-19 concerns (26%). One in four survey respondents (23%) say they lack the skills or experience necessary for most of the jobs available right now.
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Mercedes-AMG SL Uses Intelligent Material Composition of Aluminum, Steel, Magnesium and Fiber Composites It began in 1952 with a filigree space frame, which in the first SL combined low weight with the highest possible torsional rigidity. This construction was conceived for its original use in motorsport and further developed to provide the backbone for the later production SL model in coupe and roadster form. When the all-new roadster icon takes the stage this year, its basis will be a completely new vehicle architecture developed by MercedesAMG. The lightweight composite aluminum chassis provides the basis for high comfort, precise driving dynamics, optimal packaging and sporty body proportions. The new roadster architecture consists of the combination of an aluminum space frame with a self-supporting structure. It was created - as with the first SL in 1952 - literally on a blank sheet of paper: not a single component was taken over from the preceding SL model or, for example, from the AMG GT Roadster. "The development team in our bodyshell design area was faced with an extremely appealing, but also challenging task: when we were commissioned to undertake the overall development of the new SL, we started from scratch, so to speak, without building on any existing structure. We can be justifiably proud of the result, which proves, once again, the high level of development competence in Affalterbach. On the one hand we have managed to reconcile the high package demands, while on the other we have been able to achieve excellent rigidity values in all areas in conjunction with a favorable weight, so providing the basis for agile driving dynamics and exceptional comfort." says Jochen Hermann, Chief Technical Officer of Mercedes- AMG GmbH. The requirements for the bodyshell architecture of the new luxury roadster were considerable: the Southern Automotive Journal 36
AMG SL Roadster Architecture With a Composite Aluminum Structure for Maximum Rigidity specifications demanded a much more comprehensive scope than for the predecessor model series. In particular, the basic layout with 2+2 seats and the potential to accommodate a wide range of drive systems were realized here for the first time in an SL, a task that presented the developers with completely new challenges in terms of complexity. The aim was to present the Driving Performance characteristic of the brand with a focus on lateral and longitudinal dynamics, as well as to meet the high expectations in terms of comfort and safety. As was the case in 1952: the space frame, the basis of the SL's success almost 70 years ago, is very light and yet has extremely high torsional rigidity. However, in the case of the 1952 SL, it was built so high in the entrance area that regular doors were not possible – thus resulting in the famous gullwing doors of this original design. The frame construction, designed specifically to cope with tensile and compressive stress, allows for small tube diameters. Stability is ensured by numerous closed triangles, which transfer the occurring forces to a tubular pyramid at the end of the engine compartment. July 2021
Intelligent material composition with high aluminum content and new fiber composites In the new SL, the intelligent material composition of aluminum, steel, magnesium and fiber composites ensures the highest possible rigidity in conjunction with low weight. Optimized material cross-sections and sophisticated component shaping create space for the exceptional comfort and safety features, the sophisticated technology and the soft top. Other specific measures include aluminum thrust panels on the underbody and function-integrated struts at the front and rear. The instrument panel support made of magnesium, along with part of the front module cover bridge in a fiber composite material with a mixture of glass fibers and carbon, also demonstrate the engineers' efforts to achieve the best possible, customized use of the most diverse materials. This also applies to the windscreen frame made of high-strength, hot-formed tubular steel. This, in conjunction with a system behind the rear seats that extends at lightning speed if necessary, serves as rollover protection. Cast components with tailor-made www.IneedOEMparts.com
wall thicknesses Cast aluminum components are used at the nodal points where forces come together or where functions are highly integrated, i.e. where large forces have to be transferred. Cast components have the advantage of enabling the specific discharge of forces, and make it possible to vary wall thicknesses locally according to the loads encountered. Areas of greater rigidity can therefore be realized where required, for example at the chassis connections. Moreover, only the necessary wall thickness is provided at any point of the component, which saves weight in the areas subject to low forces. Compared to the previous model series, the torsional stiffness of the bodyshell structure increased by 18 percent. The transverse rigidity is 50 percent higher than that of the AMG GT Roadster, while the longitudinal rigidity is 40 percent higher. The improved introduction rigidity for
the chassis connection ensures sporty driving performance with precise handling and high agility. The weight of the pure bodyshell without doors, hood and trunk lid, as well as without add-on assembly parts, is around 595 lbs. The entire vehicle concept is designed towards the lowest possible center of gravity. This applies both to the low connection points for the powertrain and axles and to the lowest possible arrangement of the rigidityrelevant bodyshell structure. Examples of this are the connections between the front and rear sections and the passenger safety cell, with their high flexural strength and torque rigidity, systematically realized via force paths that are as low as possible. Quality and processing at the highest level Modern joining techniques such as MIG welding, laser welding, punch riveting, blind riveting, MIG soldering, glued seams or flow hole bolts as well as precise toolmaking raise the level
of the bodyshell value appeal to the highest level. This applies equally to gap dimensions and to radii or joint courses. The quality standards were raised again here. It goes without saying that the new Mercedes-AMG bodyshell architecture meets all internal crash requirements, which in many areas are significantly stricter than legal requirements. Despite the extremely high quality requirements, the development was implemented at a record-breaking pace: The pre-development was done in only three months. It took less than three years from the time the commission was given to a team of, initially, just six people to the release of the series. The high quality of the software used in the digital development made it possible to give the go-ahead for the production of the series tools without a physical prototype of the chassis. The structural verification vehicle, which is of immense importance for passive accident safety, received internal top ratings in the first real crash test.n
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Waste Please Turn To Page 23 ing agents. For the application, Sabo Industrial supplied an EconoFlow 10-gallon per minute unit, which included a 24-bag filter tank, a single stage bag filter housing, final polishing vessels, and an 850-gallon storage tank for water reuse. The system also has Human Machine Interface (HMI) capaOutlander PHEV From Page 8 The new LE trim adds sporty visual appeal complemented by a standard sunroof and Mitsubishi Power Sound System, blackedout grille, dark chrome dual spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, and a special blackout design to the front and rear bumpers. Continuing Mitsubishi’s commitment to providing criti-
bilities that allow remote monitoring and adjustment of the equipment as needed. The system provides reliable, one-step wastewater treatment, and legally dischargeable or reusable effluent. Today’s automated systems along with the most effective Cleartreat separating agents can provide motor vehicle service shops with an easy, costeffective alternative so they remain
compliant with the EPA and local ordinances. Although there is a cost to these systems, they do not require much attention and can easily be more economical than paying fines or hauling. For more information, call 845562-5751; Fax:845-562-5909; email:info@ saboindustrial.com; visit http://saboindustrial.com; or write to Sabo Industrial at 2 Little Britain Road Newburgh, NY 12550.n
cal safety features across the lineup, every Outlander PHEV comes standard with Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Lane Change Assist (LCA) and Automatic High Beam (AHB) driver assist systems. The 2021 Outlander PHEV comes with one of the industry’s leading warranties9 – a fully
transferable 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, as well as a fully transferable 10-year /100,000-mile limited warranty on PHEV components and the Main Drive Lithium-ion battery. These limited warranties are in addition to a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty to the original retail purchaser and a 7-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion perforation limited warranty. n
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Parts Manager
Steve Ashe
205-533-5463
Scott Cole 334-300-0592
877.310.5557 205.380.6789
Rhonda Johnson
205-757-2968
Eric Smith 877.310.5532 205-380-6790
eric.smith@hendrickauto.com
Outside Sales Team
866-854-6639 334-514-7640
Andy Polk
andy.poke@hendrickauto.com
888.399.2196 205.909.2196
Tommy Parker
tparker@opaparts.com
Mike McCool
mmccool@opaparts.com
Todd Jones 877.851.1141 205.380.6279
todd.jones@hendrickauto.com
844.442.6894 205.380.5355
jlove@opaparts.com
Justin Love
Moose Simmons
205-907-9068
www.hendrickchevroletbirmingham.com • 1620 Montgomery Highway, Hoover, AL 35216