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COLLISION NEWS Sports & Imports Donates Vehicle with Recycled Rides Program to Local Family

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Kia Motors Shares A Vision For The Future Of Urban Electric Transportation With The POP Concept Car

Program NCOIL Shelves Steering Model Act at Annual Meeting Continental Sensor Technology Delivers Crash Data at the Speed of Sound

MECHANICAL NEWS Automakers Ensuring Independent Repair Shops Will Have Vehicles Repair Information

DEALER NEWS House Judiciary Subcommittee Holds Antitrust Hearing on Healthcare NADA Economist: Several Factors Will Sustain NewVehicle Sales Increases in Future Months

Making its North American debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show alongside Kia Motors' first-ever hybrid for the U.S. – the 2011 Optima Hybrid (arriving early next year) – the all-electric Kia POP concept vehicle provides a glimpse into the future of urban transportation and takes its inspirations from outside the world of automobile design. Less than 10 feet in length, the chrome-colored three-seater was created

by Kia's European Design Center in Frankfurt under the direction of Peter Schreyer, chief design officer, Kia Motors Corporation and can travel up to 100 miles on a single charge. The POP comes to the U.S. shortly

after the "Ray" plug-in hybrid concept, which was developed at Kia's Southern California design studio and introduced at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show, and is the result of Kia Motors' expanding green car investments and research and development efforts around the world.

Born from Kia's EcoDynamics philosophy, the POP concept is the result of a global collaboration between designers and engineers to bring ultra efficient vehicles to life and symbolizes Kia's dedication to creating a sustainable future POP Please Turn to Page 4

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POP From Page 4 through vehicles with significantly reduced environmental impacts.

Conceived as a stylish city car, the ultra-compact Kia POP requires little

mer gel batteries created in partnership with LG Chem, which are lightweight and require little space. The batteries offer the same power performance as a lithium ion battery but with a 20-percent reduction in battery size and reduced

manufacturing complexity. Capable of reaching a top speed of 87 miles per hour and completely recharging in six hours, the fully-electric, zero-emissions concept vehicle with a 50kW, 190Nm motor offers a range of up to 100 miles.

Striking Exterior With its oblong-shaped side windows and full-length glass roof, the POP concept is a smart blend of form and function and its eye-catching design distinguishes it from all electric car concepts that have come before it. POP's unique characteristics are enhanced with the high-tech feel of the dot-pattern grille and taillights and the simplistic, clean look of the wheels.

Continuing the POP's high-tech, highstyle theme, the trademark Kia signature grille illuminates at night and the protrusions at the bottom corners of the doors are actually rear-view cameras that relay images to small screens in the cabin.

m o r e t h a n three y a r d s of parking space and features unique oblong windows that reflect the designers' wish to give the driver a wide and unencumbered view of the surroundings, like the cockpit of a helicopter.

"The P O P doesn't point at the style of the next generation of cars, but looks even further into the future," said Schreyer.

"There are many never-before-seen design elements on POP, for example the side-window graphic is like a signature, unique with its own character."

Intriguing Interior Style Inside, the POP is more modern sculpture than small car, with a flowing front seat influenced by sleek modern furniture and a color scheme that is atypical, sporting a purple hue for a

Efficient Power Driving the POP concept are highly efficient compact lithium poly

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January 2011

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calm and peaceful environment. Breaking from automotive tradition, a dashboard is absent from the cabin and in its place is a transparent organic LED panel for speedometer and battery charge gauges, while traditional buttons and dials are replaced by a single touch screen.n

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Southern Automotive Journal

The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado Heavy-Duty Trucks Are Ready For Any Job Redesigned for 2011, the Silverado heavy-duty lineup is broader than ever, with 10 2500HD models and eight single- and dualrear-wheel 3500HD models – including a new 3500HD Crew Cab with a 6.5-foot cargo box. WT, LT and LTZ trim levels are offered, and popular features such as the EZ Lift tailgate and rearview camera system return. All models bring greater capability, improved ride and handling and a greater feeling of driver control.

In the quest to comprehensively redesign the Silverado HD chassis to improve durability and ride, while also supporting increased capability, engineers developed 18 allnew, fully boxed frame assemblies. The frames have increased cross sections and use more high-strength steel for greater durability, higher towing capacity and improved ride and handling; the front sections are hydroformed.

The bending and beaming stiffness of the frames is increased 92 percent and 20 percent, respectively, with the fully boxed sections enhancing torsional stiffness by a factor of five. Also, larger engine and transmission mounts, coupled with a 125-percent-stiffer front frame structure, provide greater vibration control, while hydraulic body mounts are incorporated 678.802.5000 under the cab Toll Free section on 800.522.2345 extended and Fax crew cab mod678.802.5018 els for a more isolated feel inside.

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January 2011

designing the new frames, including adding access holes to the rear frame section to enable easier installation of fifth-wheel/gooseneck-style hitches. Also, the frame-mounted hitch for conventional trailering is stronger, with a box-tube design. It supports up to 17,000 pounds (7,727 kg).

A completely redesigned independent front suspension system offers up to a 25-percent greater front axle weight rating – up to 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg) front gross axle weight rating (FGAWR) – enabling a snow plow to be used on all 4WD cab configurations with the available snow plow prep package, while also supporting improved ride and handling characteristics.

Silverado’s signature short-long arm/torsion bar front suspension design is retained, but now features new, forged steel upper control arms that are stronger and lighter than their predecessors. The new lower control arms are made of precision-machined cast iron to handle the greater loads. Five different torsion bar rates support five different front gross axle weight ratings (a single torsion bar was previously used for all models). This helps stabilize the range of trim heights of various models under load, while enhancing appearance, handling, durability, tire wear and alignment. The trim height is adjusted on each bar via a single bolt, easily allowing the height to be changed to account for the weight of a snow plow or other accessories.

The Silverado HD front suspension now uses a pair of urethane jounce bumpers on each side, instead of one, for improved load management; and there’s Silverado Continued on Next Page www.IneedOEMparts.com

models, the rating is 6,200 pounds (2,818 new heavy-duty trucks, along with a a new upper shock mount attachment kg) – up from 6,084 (2,765). On 3500HD strengthened version of the Hydra-Matic design that’s positively connected to the models, the rating increases to 7,050 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission. frame with two fasteners. This design pounds (3,204 kg) on single-rear-wheel This combination delivers excellent pereliminates squeaks and clunks, while models and 9,375 pounds (4,261 kg) on formance and efficiency, with a greater supporting higher load capability and dual-rear-wheel models – the latter repemphasis on low-rpm power. increased durability. resenting a nearly 14-percent increase Brake feel and performance are Commensurate with the Silverado over the previous 8,200-pound (3,727 greatly improved with the 2011 Silverado HD’s greater strength and capability is a kg) rating.

HD trucks. The standard four-wheel disc rear suspension designed to system is completely support greater loads.

It features a new, larg- Stronger frames, suspension systems with greater weight ratings and enhanced revamped to deliver smoother, more immeer asymmetrical leaf- powertrain systems contribute to greater towing and payload capability. diate and confidentspring design that also feeling performance. contributes to improved ride Four-wheel, four-chanand handling characteristics. nel ABS is standard on all The asymmetrisingle-rear-wheel models cal design is derived from and a three-channel sysunequal front and rear tem is standard on dualspring half lengths, which rear-wheel models. minimize axle hop and The front and rear enhance traction control rotors are larger in diameefficiency. 2500HD models ter – 14 inches (355 mm) – feature a two-stage leafand width on all models to spring design, while 3500HD Stronger frames, suspension syssupport their increased capacity, weight models have a three-stage design. All tems with greater weight ratings and ratings and trailering ratings, while the models feature 3-inch-wide (76 mm) leaf enhanced powertrain systems contribcalipers are stiffer and stronger. The springs that are 20-percent wider than ute to the Silverado HD’s greater towing hydroboost brake booster calibration is previous models. and payload capability. revised for reduced pedal effort and the The larger leaf-spring design supThe venerable Vortec 6.0L gas V-8 travel of the pedal is also revised for a ports increased rear gross axle weight with variable valve timing returns to the more comfortable, confident feel.n ratings across the board. On the 2500HD

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Southern Automotive Journal

Kbb.com Study: Only Seven Percent of Shoppers Likely to Consider Electric Car for Next Vehicle Purchase; Concerned About Range, Charging Stations Kelley Blue Book, www.kbb.com, the leading provider of new car and used car information, reports the results of a recent Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence study gauging consumer attitudes on electric vehicles. The latest results show that only seven percent of car shoppers say they are likely to consider an electric vehicle for their next new-vehicle purchase or lease.

For the majority of survey respondents, the primary concerns about electric vehicles included the drivable range on a single charge (87 percent) and availability of charging stations (84 percent).

Most car shoppers (78 percent) said that if they were to purchase an electric vehicle, it would primarily be used as an everyday or commuter vehicle. In addition, on average, respondents said they would expect an electric vehicle to get 340 miles per charge in order for it to meet their needs.

Concerning value, nearly all car shoppers (91 percent) feel that electric vehicles are expensive, and 43 percent

expect that electric vehicles will not retain their value as well as conventional gas cars.

Less than half of respondents (45 percent) said they are interested in electric vehicle technology. For those interested in electric vehicle technology, the primary reason cited was reduction in reliance on foreign oil (85 percent), reduction in pollution (83 percent) and reduction in vehicle emissions (83 percent). Only 37 percent said they were interested in electric vehicle technology due to potential tax credits, and a mere 8 percent said they were interested because of potential access to carpool lane stickers.

Of those interested in electric vehicle technology, the majority (65 percent) said they were open to purchasing an electric vehicle from a company that has not previously sold vehicles in the United States.

In gauging awareness of particular electric vehicle models, shoppers identified that they were most aware of the

Chevrolet Volt at 71 percent, followed by the Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid at 68 percent. The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid came in third for awareness at 46 percent, while the Nissan LEAF came in fourth at 45 percent. The Tesla Roadster came in fifth, with 39 percent awareness among consumers.

When shown pictures of electric vehicles that are currently or soon-to-be available for purchase/lease in the United States, the highest percentage of respondents (44 percent) said they would consider purchasing or definitely purchase the Chevrolet Volt, with the Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid coming in close second (43 percent), the Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid placing third (42 percent), the Ford Focus Electric reported in fourth (39 percent), and the Nissan LEAF finishing in fifth (34 percent).

However, according to recent newcar shopper activity on kbb.com, the KBB Sutdy Please Turn to Page 30

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January 2011

OEConnection Marks 10th Anniversary OEConnection LLC marked its 10th anniversary on December 4, 2010. A joint venture between Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation, and SnapOn Business Solutions, OEConnection provides online solutions for the multibillion dollar original equipment (OE) replacement parts market.

OEConnection is currently recognized as the leading Online Parts and Service Exchange (OPSX) for the automotive industry. It serves more than 20,000 dealerships and repairers who perform 60 million OE parts searches a year and

creates close to $12 billion in annual OE replacement parts trade. The company’s 200 associates support 12 technology solutions used by customers throughout North America.

Within 23 months of formation, OEConnection achieved profitability and has experienced consistent growth in revenues and profits ever since. The company was named to the Weatherhead 100 list of Northeast Ohio’s fastest growing companies in 2007, 2009, and 2010. In addition, OEConnection is a seven-time winner of the coveted NorthCoast 99 Award, which

recognizes leading workplaces for top talent in Northeast Ohio, and a four-time winner of the Best Employers in Ohio Award, a statewide competition honoring excellence in the workplace.

“A ripe market, proven technology, and clear corporate vision are among the reasons that this ecommerce company has survived and thrived,” said OEConnection President & CEO Charles Rotuno. “Since the beginning, we have OEConnection PLease Turn to Page 30

Honeywell Gasoline Turbocharger Technology Challenging Many Top Hybrids for Better Fuel Economy Honeywell’s turbocharged Chevrolet Cruze Eco engine is putting pricier--and less efficient--hybrids and other compact vehicles on notice with a best-in-class 42 mpg highway rating from the U.S. EPA. With the benefits of the turbocharged 1.4-liter engine, the fuel economy in the Cruze Eco will significantly outpace the Honda Civic (34 mpg highway) and Toyota Corolla (35 mpg highway), and boasts better fuel economy than several hybrids including the Toyota Camry Hybrid (34 mpg) and Ford Fusion Hybrid (36 mpg) in highway fuel economy ratings.

“Small gasoline turbocharged vehicles will play a huge role in the

future of the U.S. auto industry as automakers develop cars that meet drivers’ needs for better fuel economy, without compromising performance or price,” said Alex Ismail, President and CEO of Honeywell Transportation Systems.

“The Cruze is a great example of a vehicle that refuses to compromise on fuel efficiency, affordability and fun-todrive responsiveness.”

Honeywell expects penetration of turbocharged gasoline vehicles to reach up to 20 percent of all vehicles sold in the U.S. by 2015, and expects the U.S. market for all turbocharged vehicles to grow from nearly one million vehicles sold today to more than

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four million in five years. Honeywell currently provides turbocharger technology on twenty gas and diesel vehicles in the U.S. including the Ford Flex and Taurus SHO, Lincoln MKS and MKT, and a number of Audi, Mercedes and BMW models in addition to the Chevy Cruze Eco. Honeywell Turbo Technologies is the leading automotive turbocharger developer in the world, and is a business unit of Honeywell Transportation Systems. As a leading automotive supplier, Honeywell Transportation Systems enhances vehicle performance, efficiency and appearance through stateof-the-art technologies.n

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NADA Economist: Several Factors Will Sustain New-Vehicle Sales Increases in Future Months New-vehicle sales, which are a key indicator of economic growth, were strong in November and will continue to show signs of strength over the next couple of months, says Paul Taylor, chief economist of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA).

“Several economic factors, such as an aging U.S. fleet, strong trade-in values and an improving stock market,

10

Southern Automotive Journal

are helping to sustain new-vehicle sales,” Taylor says.

On average, cars and trucks on the road today are more than 10 years old.

“Many consumers simply will feel the need to buy a new car or truck as the mileage on their current vehicles move beyond the 120,000 miles mark,” Taylor says.

According to data from NADA

January 2011

Guides, the run up in used-vehicle prices is also pushing some shoppers into the new-vehicle market.

“The used-vehicle market will remain short of low-mileage cars and trucks, which for car owners will increase their trade-in equity when buying a new vehicle,” Taylor says. “This is another key economic factor that will sustain new-vehicle sales increases in future months.”

Sales of light trucks were a source of strength in November. Compared to the same month a year ago, large pickup truck sales were up 21 percent, SUV sales were up 17 percent and CUV sales were up 25 percent. Yearto-date, CUV sales are up 23 percent, large pickup trucks are up 19 percent and SUVs are up 12 percent.

Notably in November, the CUV segment accounted for more than 27 percent of total U.S. new-vehicle sales.

Top-selling CUV models include the Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

A relatively strong U.S. stock market also helped drive luxury car sales up 21 percent in November.

“Today’s new-vehicle market remains largely about the ‘needs’ of consumers, while it was about the ‘wants’ of consumers during the boom years of 2002 through 2007,” Taylor added. “An improving outlook for employment and rising consumer confidence will help sustain real GDP growth of more than 2.5 percent for the second half of 2010.”n www.IneedOEMparts.com

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Sports & Imports Donates Vehicle to Local Family with the Recycled Rides Program Georgia Collision Industry Association (GCIA) members Gene Hamilton and Michelle Coombs, owners of Sports & Imports Collision in Duluth, Georgia, contributed to a nationwide vehicle donation program called Recycled Rides. This program is a community awareness project whereby members of National Auto Body Council (NABC) repair and donate recycled vehicles to families in need.

The family was sponsored by the “The Impact Group”, a local non-profit agency that provides transitional housing and support to families in need.

The family was chosen because of their commitment to achieve a better life.

Each qualifying family was required to be employed, undergo a mental evaluation, drug testing and attend monthly financial planning meetings to qualify for this program. The family was also

supports. Being able to give a family in need a form of transportation is an honor for an organization in the transportation business. We pride ourselves on the work we do at both of our locations, Chamblee and Gwinnett and are thankful they can help someone in need. *The National Auto Body Council is

responsible for providing their own car insurance and purchasing the vehicle tag.

We are very proud to have worked with Sports & Imports on this project, Senior Case worker Phoebe Buckley from the “The Impact group” stated.

Their dedication to the community and collision repair industry is a true testament to the human spirit.

Sports & Imports Collision has always been proud of the charities it

a not-for-profit organization committed to the goal of improving the image of all dedicated professionals in the collision repair industry.n

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Continental Sensor Technology Delivers Crash Data at the Speed of Sound The latest passive safety innovations from Continental continue to improve occupant protection in frontal and side-impact collisions. Continental’s new Crash Impact Sound Sensing technology is changing the way airbags deploy in frontal collisions - where occupant safety is measured in milliseconds - by using structure-borne noise as the determining factor, while the new clipSAT pressure satellites offer both time and cost advantages in installations for automakers.

Whereas today’s impact sensors measure changes in acceleration or air pressure, Continental’s new technology, called Crash Impact Sound Sensing, features a revolutionary new sensing principle. Currently in production on a high-volume European platform, Crash Impact Sound Sensing measures the structure-borne noise generated in a

14

Southern Automotive Journal

collision.

Continental estimates that a Crash Impact Sound Sensor can transmit critical information about crash severity to a vehicle’s restraints control module three times faster than an acceleration sensor.

“Our goal is to get as much data about a crash event to a vehicle’s restraints module as quickly as possible so that the airbags and pre-tensioners can be fired with the right force at precisely the right time,” said Dean McConnell, head of business development for Continental’s North American Passive Safety Active Driver Assistance (PSAD) Business Unit. “Every millisecond counts when it comes to optimizing crash protection.”

With the Crash Impact Sound Sensor speed advantage, data can be received by the restraints control mod-

January 2011

ule up to 15 milliseconds faster, which is significant considering that the firing decision must be made within 10-40 milliseconds in a front-impact collision.

“Just like a seismograph that measures vibrations when layers of the earth move in an earthquake, Crash Impact Sound Sensing measures sound waves,” McConnell said. “Then the collision is analyzed and evaluated within just a few milliseconds using specially developed algorithms and a complex signal analysis, deciding what measures to initiate in order to mitigate the accident’s severity.

That’s critical information when it comes to deploying restraint systems. Better information leads to better decisions.”

In addition to its safety performance, Crash Impact Sound Sensing can provide a cost savings to automakers in markets outside of the United States where safety regulations can be met without using acceleration-based sensors. Initial testing shows that we may be able to replace two acceleration sensors with one Crash Impact Sound Sensor, reducing cost and complexity.

Another way Continental is helping OEMs improve the manufacturing process efficiency is through its new clipSAT sensormounting technology.

ClipSAT is a side-mounted impact pressure sensor with a new mechanical design that makes installation faster and easier - without the need for tools or additional fasteners. ClipSAT is simply pressed into place within the side door panel in a single motion, improving installation speed and manufacturing cost in the process.

Side-mounted pressure sensors (pSAT) detect the change of pressure within the door cavity and quickly react. Because the sensor uses the entire side door as a sensing area and does not rely on acceleration values of rigid structures within a crash, it can deliver excellent results, especially when side impacts with narrow obstacles occur. n www.IneedOEMparts.com

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House Judiciary Subcommittee Holds Antitrust Hearing on Healthcare The U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Committee’s Courts and Competition Policy Subcommittee held a hearing to discuss antitrust laws and their effects on healthcare providers, insurers and patients. Witnesses included Richard Feinstein, director of the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Competition; Sharis Pozen, chief of staff and counsel to the assistant attorney general of the Antitrust Division; Arthur Lerner, there on behalf of America’s Health Insurance Plans; and David Balto, Senior Fellow with the Center for American Progress.

Feinstein mainly focused on health insurer concerns, stating, “The FTC has played, and will continue to play, an important role in protecting and promoting competition to lower costs and improve quality, and believes that continued effective antitrust enforcement is a necessary component of any plan to improve health care.”

Meanwhile, Pozen, of the U.S.

email jculp@jimburke.com

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Department of Justice, highlighted the impact of the McCarran-Ferguson Act during her testimony: “When we discuss health care and antitrust, McCarran-Ferguson often enters the discussion, and it will here.

The department supports efforts to bring more competition to the health insurance marketplace that lowers costs, expands choice and improves quality. In February, the House voted overwhelmingly, 406-19, in passing the Health Insurance Industry Fair Competition Act (H.R. 4626), to amend the McCarran-Ferguson Act to provide that nothing in the act shall modify, impair or supersede the operation of any of the antitrust laws with respect to the business of health insurance.”

Balto also presented comments on the McCarran Ferguson Act during his testimony when he brought up the need for clarification of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) jurisdiction to bring enforcement action against health insur-

email lkiedinger@jimburke.com email jtatum@jimburke.com

ers: “Some may suggest that the FTC lacks jurisdiction over health insurance.

I urge this committee to ask the FTC to clarify its position on this issue. Is the claim of no jurisdiction the law or simply an urban legend? As I understand it, there is a limitation in Section 6 of the FTC Act that prevents the FTC from performing studies of the insurance industry without seeking prior congressional approval. This provision does not prevent the FTC from bringing either competition or consumer protection enforcement actions. There may be arguments that the McCarranFerguson Act limits jurisdiction, but that exemption is limited to rate making activity.”

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) advocates the repeal of the McCarran-Ferguson Act for all insurers.

To view the panelists’ full testimony, visit ASA’s legislative website at www.

TakingTheHill.com. n

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16

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January 2011

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Senate Fails to Repeal 1099 Rule In December, 2010 the Senate rejected two amendments that would have eased expense-filing requirements on small businesses. The amendments would have done away with requiring businesses to file annual expenses to vendors if the amount is more than $600. The rule is part of the health-care reform legislation. The Senate failed to pass two similar bills in the fall of 2009.

Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., U.S. Senate Finance Committee chairman, and Sen. Mike Johanns, R-Neb., sponsored the two amendments, which would have been part of the food-safety legislation. Senate rules for these amendments required 67 votes for approval; however, both of the amendments fell short of the two-thirds requirement. The Baucus amendment was rejected by a

vote of 53-44, and the Johanns amendment failed by a vote of 61-35.

Repealing the 1099 rule by approving the Baucus amendment would have lowered U.S. tax revenue by more than $19 billion over the next 10 years’ budget estimates. The Johanns amendment, however, would have been offset by

The National Conference of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL) PropertyCasualty Insurance Committee voted to postpone indefinitely the Proposed Model Act Regarding Insurer Auto Body Steering at its annual meeting in Austin, Texas. The committee had delayed action on this Model Act during the past two NCOIL meetings.

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) opposed the Model Act Regarding Insurer Auto Body

Steering as it was drafted. ASA had several concerns with the original proposal.

The draft lacked criteria to be used in insurer shop recommendations. ASA supported language requiring insurers to base shop recommendations on the level of training, equipment and certifications held by the repair facility and its staff. ASA, in a letter to Ruth Teichman, the NCOIL Property-Casualty committee chairwoman, stated, “The current NCOIL draft encourages a system seeking the

lowest common denominator within the marketplace; punishing those shops with higher standards.”

ASA also requested that the bill include language to ensure that there is no interference with a consumer’s selection of a repair facility once it has been determined.

To view the text from the proposed model bill as well as ASA’s comments, visit ASA’s legislative website at www.

TakingTheHill.com.n

1099 Rule Please Turn to Page 30

NCOIL Shelves Steering Model Act at Annual Meeting

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Ford Questions Safety, Repair Costs of Aftermarket Copy Parts New Ford Motor Company crash tests show that not all replacement vehicle parts are created equal when it comes to safety and the cost of repair when an accident occurs.

The low-speed crash tests conducted by Ford showed that a commonly used copy bumper beam absorbs less crash energy than the vehicle’s original bumper beam or a genuine Ford replacement bumper beam. The tests also showed that vehicles with the copy part were more likely to experience unintended airbag deployments during low-speed collisions.

All of this can lead to higher repair costs when accidents occur. Repair estimates show aftermarket copy bumper beams can more than double the repair costs after even a low-speed accident compared to a genuine Ford replacement bumper beam.

“This should be an eye-opener for all consumers. These tests raise more questions about unintended airbag deployments in the event of a future crash,” said Paul Massie, Ford powertrain and collision product marketing manager. “They also highlight the dangers of being penny-wise and pound-foolish, as less-expensive copy parts could lead to much higher repair costs down the road.

All drivers should be aware that copy

parts can compromise both the safety performance and the long-term repair costs of your vehicle.”

Aftermarket copy parts are parts unauthorized by the vehicle manufacturer, often constructed with substandard materials in order to be marketed as a cheaper alternative to authorized replacement parts. Ford replacement crash parts, including all structural parts, are identical to those used in new vehicle production and operate seamlessly with the vehicle’s safety system.

The crash tests underscore the results of Ford’s previously released Computer Aided Engineering testing, definitively showing that the copy parts are not “like kind and quality” to the original equipment manufacturer parts - as is required by many states - and will not return a vehicle to pre-accident condition.

Ford’s efforts, spurred by concerns voiced about copy parts throughout the collision repair industry, examined OEM and aftermarket copy bumper beams for the Ford Mustang from the 2005 through 2009 model years. The parts were first put through a 6-mph frontal impact sled test, then corresponding bumper absorbers and bumper isolators were added for 5-mph and 8-mph full-vehicle flat barrier crash tests.

Data from the 8-mph crash barrier test demonstrated that the amount of crash energy absorbed by the aftermarket copy bumper beam is less than that of the OEM beam. The data also showed that the frequency of airbag deployments at low speeds will increase with the use of the copy bumper beam, absorber and isolator because the copy parts do not transmit the crash pulse as effectively to the crash sensors to indicate when an airbag should be deployed.

“Genuine Ford parts are designed to work properly with the entire vehicle structure, just like a brand-new car,” said David Bauch, Ford sensor technical specialist. “The pulse to the airbag sensors will change with the aftermarket bumper, affecting the sensor’s decision to deploy or not to deploy an airbag.”

Side-by-side visual comparisons following each test also offered striking differences, with the aftermarket beam failing to perform in a manner consistent with that of the genuine Ford part. Click here for images comparing a Ford bumper beam with an aftermarket copy part, following the crash tests.

“The copy bumper beam had an aftermarket absorber made of polystyrene and an aftermarket isolator. The Aftermarket Parts Turn to Page 26

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Nissan LEAF Power System Named to Ward’s ‘10 Best Engines’ Ward’s recently announced that Nissan LEAF’s 100-percent electric, zero-emission drive system is included on its prestigious ‘10 Best Engines’ list for 2011. It is the first time in the 17year history of the magazine’s ‘10 Best Engines’ that the selection committee has chosen a power system which doesn’t have an engine and will never burn a drop of gasoline.

“We engineered Nissan LEAF to have drive characteristics that would impress drivers, whether you’re comparing it with other electric vehicles or those powered by internal combustion engines,” said Carlos Tavares, Chairman, Nissan Americas. “The inclusion of Nissan LEAF in Ward’s ‘10 Best Engines’ demonstrates that the Nissan LEAF can compete with all top vehicles, no matter the propulsion system.”

For 2011, 38 competitors were considered, marking the largest group

in the history of the award. The competition included both naturally aspirated and forced induction internal combustion engines, diesels, hybrid electrics and the all-electric Nissan LEAF. The editors evaluated the vehicles based on horsepower and torque; noise, vibration and harshness; the engine’s technical attributes; and their relevance among direct rivals.

The all-new Nissan LEAF features a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor powered by a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery manufactured at the Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC) operation in Zama, Japan, which is a joint-venture of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and NEC Corporation. Both motor and inverter have been developed by Nissan, and the power system generates 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque.

The power is transferred to the wheels through a single-speed reduction gear.

Unlike a conventional internal combustion engine, Nissan LEAF delivers maximum torque from start, providing smooth, consistent acceleration.

Performance in the low-to-medium speed range is equivalent to that of a vehicle powered by a V6 gasoline engine. This power system provides a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience consistent with consumers’ expectations for traditional, gasolinepowered vehicles.

The 2011 Nissan LEAF went on sale in December, 2010 in selected markets in the United States and will be available nationwide in 2012.

The Ward's '10 Best Engines' awards will be presented at a January 12, 2011 ceremony in Detroit during the North American International Auto Show. A full story on the ‘Ward’s 10 Best Engines’ is now available on WardsAuto. com.n

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January 2011

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The Nissan LEAF – Internal Combustion Engine Not Included

December 11, 2010 will be remembed as the christening day of pioneering electric technology with the world’s first delivery of the Nissan all-electric vehicle.

I proclaim this day as National Green Car day. I googled it and currently there is no National Green Car day. Who doesn't want another day of celebration? So mark your calendar. Look for the National Green Car parade next year.

Of course, I am talking about Nissan's first total electric vehicle named the LEAF. I'm sure it’s some kind of environmental acronym. When I think about a leaf; it is born in the spring, enjoys the summer and then falls to the ground and eventually is recycled into food for the tree that gave it life. So I think of the LEAF as a sort of machine that must recycle itself every time you plug it in.

As I recall from my 4th grade class, leaves produce oxygen through photosynthesis. Imagine if the Nissan LEAF could produce oxygen too. using the photovoltaic solar panel on the spoiler!

Think about it, a car that uses no fossil fuel and spits out oxygen. Now that would put every environmentalist in a very happy place. Ok, maybe with next year’s model.

Wait, what? This can’t be an electric car. It has four tires, four doors and a trunk will really hold all your stuff. Open the hood and you will find a motor that looks just like an internal-combustion engine. The motor is not engineered to be clandestinely hidden under the driver’s seat. Which means it can be easily serviced and admired by your friends.

Trust me, every real car guy will want to take a look under the hood. An electric motor means no oil changes and no spark plugs, but engine access will always be important to us retired shade tree mechanics who still think about that old school stuff.

The LEAF is not a funny cigar shape thing with the back wheels secretly concealed under the body shell. It has no aircraft type canopy doors set to hover over you when you enter the vehicle.

The full size doors open as they should and I have to admit the body styling is just enough. The headlight lines sweep gracefully down the fender to the side mirrors. The engineers claim it’s all about that aerodynamic stuff. Bottom line is if it were a gasoline drinking, carbon emitting car it would still be one of the most stylish small cars around. For some reason it doesn’t look like an economical, compact car, it just looks good.

My friends will bear witness to my www.IneedOEMparts.com

relationships with extension cords. They are usually short lived. Just about every bladed power tool I own has a shorter cord than it came with. Every extension cord in my workshop has a non-OEM end installed. So I can’t help but think that I would be the first person to back out of my garage with my LEAF in the recycling mode. One end of the cord plugged into the LEAF and the other end still plugged into the wall. Now, Nissan has vehicles that know when I am driving out of my lane, they have vehicles that will brake to a stop for me when I’m not paying attention. That makes for some pretty intelligent cars. My LEAF will have to warn me when I start to back out while still plugged in. It won’t be enough to warn me with a simple light on the dash; after all, all of my power tools came with a warning tag. My LEAF will need to have an “I refuse to move - you idiot” safety system of some kind.

Any vehicle that looks this trendy on the outside demands a glowing interior. The LEAF instrumentation glows a nice cool blue. The speedo cluster is stacked above all the conventional, essential information displays with a few newbie indicators. Throw in the very cool luminescence that surrounds the radio and HVAC control units and you’ve got a habitat (now that’s a very environmental word) that gives you the feeling you’re in command of your own Starship Enterprise.

Any well-built starship has no need for a gear selector and neither does the LEAF. It does have a button knob where you would expect to find a gearshift selector. Press the button - move the knob back to go forward, move the knob forward to go back. This confuses me as much as the video games I try to play with my son. Maybe the engineers were thinking that in a conventional car with a normal gear selector pattern the reverse selection is before the forward selection.

Using this theory I guess the button knob design would be correct. It still makes no sense to me.

In my short excursion around the block the LEAF drove very quietly. In fact it runs so quietly it is designed to emit a sound at low speeds to let folks on the sidewalk know you are coming. The first thing I thought about were all those cool ring tones I can choose for my cell phone.

Wouldn’t it be great if you could choose your LEAF’s low speed sound just like you choose your cell phone ring tone? I think mine would be that happy, tinkly song from the ice cream truck.n January 2011

The LEAF is not a funny cigar shape with the back wheels secretly concealed under the body shell.

Instrumentation glows a nice starship blue.

Under the hood it looks just like an internal combustion engine.

The New Fuel Filler Door

Southern Automotive Journal

21

2011 Honda Odyssey “The Ultimate Family Vehicle” The comable models – the pletely redeOdyssey LX, EX, EXsigned 2011 L, Touring and now, Honda Odyssey Touring Elite – more improves on its than 50 new stanalready award-windard and available ning, class-leading features have been design with a more added for 2011 to distinctive style, enhance comfort, higher fuel econconvenience, effiomy and greater ciency and travel interior versatility. fun. The Odyssey The Odyssey has Touring Elite model been an estabdebuts as the mostlished minivan luxurious Honda segment leader minivan ever. for more than a The 2011 decade in terms of Odyssey is truly an packaging innovation, handling, American-made vehicle, designed, passenger accommodation, safeengineered and assembled in the ty, quality, long-term value and United States, and it represents overall refinement. Improvements the vast and ever-growing capato the fourth-generation Odyssey bilities of Honda in North America. represent a new Honda vision for Virtually every aspect of the 2011 the “ultimate in family transportaOdyssey has been envisioned, tion.” developed, tested and finalized The 2011 Odyssey’s enhanced

by Honda associates throughout aerodynamic shape with a lower California, Ohio and Alabama.

New technology includes a rear entertainment sysroofline contributes to class-leadMade by Odyssey owners for tem with a 16.2-inch ultrawide split-screen display. ing highway fuel economy, while Odyssey owners, many of its engithe improved interior packaging neers and designers are also longin place in the second row. The third maintains similar vertical functionality time Odyssey drivers themselves, bringrow provides improved legroom, along as the previous model. A wider stance ing real-world family experience into with better sight lines out of the side creates a more accommodating interior the design of the vehicle. windows – a functional improvement while accenting the exterior’s dynamic Powering the Odyssey is a robust, resulting from the exterior’s signature appearance. Significant improvements yet efficient 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine “lightning-bolt” belt line. for convenience include a new “3-mode” with Variable Cylinder Management New technology available on cersecond-row seat design that expands (VCM). To conserve fuel when power tain models includes a rear entertainlaterally, along with a simpler-to-operrequirements are low, the VCM technolment system with a 16.2-inch ultrawide ate, one-motion, 60/40 split 3rd-row ogy can allow the engine to operate split-screen display and an auxiliary Magic Seat®. The “3-mode” second row using only three or four of its six cylinHigh-Definition Multimedia Interface can better accommodate three pasders as conditions permit. A six-speed (HDMI) video input, an “intelligent” sengers with improved comfort for all, automatic transmission, standard on Multi-Information Display (i-MID) with and the new “wide mode” supports the Odyssey Touring, helps it achieve customizable wallpaper, integration of third-row pass-through access from the a best-in-class city/highway EPA fuelFM traffic data on navigation modside with as many as two child seats els and much more. Across all availOdyssey Please Turn to Page 29 Jim Tucker Publisher Michele Tucker Editor

Contributors Dennis Martin Ami Vonesh Joyce Ethridge Russ Heaps

Southern Automotive Journal P.O. Box 675097 Marietta, Ga 30006-0009 (770) 321-9920

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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 2010. All rights reserved.

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Automakers Committed to Ensuring Independent Repair Shops Have Information Needed to Repair Vehicles Continuing to demonstrate why New York State doesn’t need so-called ‘right to repair’ legislation, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers and the Automotive Service Association (ASA) this week sponsored a training program for independent repair shop technicians in Queens, held in conjunction with the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA), State Senator Jose Peralta (D-Queens), Chair of the Senate Consumer Protection Committee, and Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer (D-Queens), Chair of the Assembly Consumer Affairs and Protection Committee. The event was held at GNYADA’s Center for Automotive Education and Training.

The Alliance and ASA, along with Sen. Peralta and Assemblywoman Pheffer, are working to ensure that independent repair shops have the training needed to repair today’s vehicles and satisfy consumers.

“Automakers are committed to making sure that independent repair shops have all the information they need to be able to repair any vehicle,” said Matthew Godlewski, Vice President of State Affairs for the Alliance. “We know

that more than 75 percent of post-warranty vehicle repairs are performed by independent repair shops, and it’s in our industry’s best interest that consumers bringing our products to those repair shops have good experiences.”

Technicians representing nearly one dozen different New York area independent repair shops attended the free training program, which was led by Donny Seyfer, General Director of the Automotive Service Association (ASA).

“Our industry has made great strides with a voluntary solution to information availability concerns. These include training programs like the event in Queens, as well as other education initiatives across the country,” said Ron Pyle, President of the Automotive Service Association. “In addition, repairers have access to the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) to assist with information availability issues. NASTF has been an asset to independent repairers and has a great future.”

“Automakers are committed to making available all of the information necessary for independent repair shops to repair vehicles,” Godlewski said. “We don’t want, however, a government

mandate that sounds good on the surface, but is actually an invitation for litigation to get at automaker’s intellectual property.

“The Alliance is very grateful to Sen. Peralta and Assemblywoman Pheffer for their cosponsorship of this training program, and for their continued commitment to work with automakers, dealers and repair shops to ensure that the needs of consumers are met,” Godlewski said.

“In addition to the adverse impact ‘right to repair’ legislation would have on automakers, there are concerns for consumers,” said Godlewski. “The way it’s written now, it would require automakers to release sensitive vehicle security information, such as key codes and engine immobilizer override information. This will compromise vehicle security systems and jeopardizing consumers’ anti-theft insurance discounts.

“Automakers continue to stand ready to work with New York State leaders to ensure that independent repair shops are able to serve auto consumers.

We will continue, however, to oppose any legislation with hidden agendas that do not actually serve the driving public’s interest,” Godlewski said.n

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higher repair costs.

Damage estimates following the 5-mph crash test put the repair cost for stacking up of these parts changed the the vehicle fitted with aftermarket copy crash characteristics of the entire bumparts at $2,982 (using aftermarket prices per assembly, which is why Ford confor the bumper beam, absorber and isoducts both component-level crash testlator, and OEM parts for the remainder), ing and system-level testing on all of its nearly two-and-a-half times the $1,224 vehicles,” said Roger Chen, Ford crash (using all OEM parts) estimate for the development engineer. vehicle with genuine Ford parts.

The sled test, a component-level Estimates after the 8-mph crash test used to determine how a single came in at $3,816 for the aftermarket part will react under dynamic crash convehicle and $3,441 for the Mustang with ditions, showed the aftermarket copy genuine Ford parts.

However, in cases bumper beam failed to absorb energy where the crash resulted in unwarranted deployment for both front airbags, the repair cost for the vehicle with copy parts would jump to at least $5,394.

Statistics show the vast majority of injury accidents occur at speeds below 35 mph.

In low-speed accidents, the bumper beam plays a significant role in absorbing crash energy and ensuring the proper operation of the safety system of the vehicle as a whole.

“A vehicle is required to pass a multitude of crash Direct tests before the vehicle is sold to consumers,” said Massie.

“In sharp contrast, aftermarket copy parts face no crash Toll Free test requirements prior to distribution, and have not been proven to work effectively with the rest of the vehicle’s components. Copy parts should be FAX subjected to the same government safety tests as the origiYour order: nal parts so consumers can see the true costs that come with is urgent to your business using many copy parts.”

Ford is working with the needs to be accurate National Highway Traffic Safety is essential to your customer Administration, collision industry trade associations, state governmental and regulatory agencies, elected officials, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers and others, to help improve the oversight of Call Kenny McMillan aftermarket copy structural kmcmillan@jacksonacura.com parts and monitor their impact on the safety of the driving www.Jacksonacura.com public.n Aftermarket Parts From Page 19

like that of the genuine Ford beam, with deceleration and velocity measurements inconsistent with those of the OEM part. The copy part crushed nearly flat on each end and displayed little energy absorption, while the Ford part suffered only slight intrusion on the sides and absorbed more crash energy before rebounding close to its original form.

In each test, the genuine Ford parts performed as designed and resulted in a substantially lower estimated repair bill, while the copy parts led to significantly

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Southern Automotive Journal

January 2011

Allan Vigil Ford (770) 960-1208 (800) 324-3814 FAX (770) 960-6268 6790 Mt. Zion Blvd Morrow GA 30260

Gwinnett Place Ford (770) 813-6825 (866) 665-9318 FAX (770) 662-6156 3230 Satellite Blvd.

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Jim Skinner Ford (205) 854-8967 (800) 692-9905 FAX (205) 854-6149 9924 Parkway East Birmingham, Al 35215

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Direct 770-963-6263 • Toll January Free 800-241-8124 • FAX 770-237-8174 www.IneedOEMparts.com 2011

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cabin for an open and spacious feeling.

A key exterior design element, the lightning-bolt belt line, improves the interior

Odyssey From Page 22

economy rating1 of 19/28 mpg (+2/+3 compared to 2010 Odyssey Touring). A five-speed automatic transmission is standard on the Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L. VCM uses both an audio system-based Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC) system and a chassis-based Active Control Engine Mount (ACM) system to cancel noise and vibration that can occur during cylinder deactivation.

The 2011 Odyssey becomes The interior of the Odyssey lower and wider on the outside, resulting embraces a “cool and intuitive” theme. in a more spacious and functional interior compared to the 2010 Odyssey. The 2011 Odyssey’s overall exterior length of 202.9 inches is 0.8 inches longer, the width of 79.2 inches is 2.1 inches wider and the height of 68.4 inches is 0.4 inches shorter. The interior of the Odyssey embraces a “cool and intuitive” theme consistent with its increased levels of technology and family versatility. The dashboard’s simple and clean lines accent the depth of the

Mike

205-380-3106 800-633-4304 x 3106

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sight lines from the third row. Upscale materials available on certain models consist of metallic-look trim, glossy black panels and luxuriously grained soft surfaces.

To fulfill its mission as the ultimate family vehicle, the 2011 Odyssey interior focuses on providing three rows of comfortable, adult-friendly seating together with a large interior volume and plentiful storage capabilities. Overall, the interior has been widened as more convenience and functionality features have been added to all three rows. Nine fundamental seating configurations (EX and above) can accommodate between one and eight passengers (seven on LX) simply by adding, folding or removing the modular seating elements. Innovations can be found throughout the cabin, including such features as a new second-row “3-mode” seating configuration and a third row that is more comfortable for adults. n

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January 2011

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29

KBB Study From Page 8 Chevrolet Volt and Nissan LEAF are trending quite similarly. Since hitting kbb. com in August 2010, both vehicles have had triple digit month-over-month activity increases, with the Volt increasing 138 percent and the LEAF increasing 191 percent for September 2010. The latest activity levels for October 2010 indicate the Volt has a 178 percent month-over-month increase in new-car shopper activity on kbb.com, while the LEAF has a 167 percent month-over-month increase.

OEConnection From Page 9 followed the same guiding principles: increase dealer efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and help dealers sell more OE parts,” Rotuno said. “As our relationships with dealers, repairers and OEMs have grown, along with our expertise in the automotive and vehicle manufacturers industries, we have continued to introduce new solutions to 1099 Rule From Page 18 using 5 percent of unobligated and unspent federal accounts.

Sen. Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, opposed the reporting rule and said,

30

Southern Automotive Journal

“While it seems the car-shopping public still has a long way to go concerning electric vehicle consideration and understanding the realities of electric vehicle technology, the fact that there are allnew methods of propulsion becoming available to drivers is another great step forward for the automotive industry,” said James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com. “The Volt versus LEAF race continues to heat up, and there are many other players coming to market in the alternative energy space in the near future. Time will tell whether this technology will be readily adopted by a

large number of mainstream car buyers, or if this will just be another flash in the pan of vehicle history.”

This Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence study gauging consumer attitudes on electric vehicles was fielded to 219 in-market car shoppers on Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com from October 10 - 25, 2010.

Cited new-car shopper activity was based on month-over-month page view changes for the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan LEAF on Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com. Monthover-month changes were compared for August vs. September and September vs.

October 2010.n

achieve these goals.”

According to Rotuno, OEConnection has come a long way in ten years. “We have consistently received awards and recognition for superior technology, quality leadership, and excellence in customer care and workplace practices,” he said.

“But our greatest achievement is the fact that thousands of loyal customers now rely on our technology solutions as part of their daily operations.”

Currently, the company is releasing its next-generation technology – a datarich, integrated parts and service portal that seamlessly meshes near real-time information and puts all OEConnection solutions at customers’ fingertips. In 2011 and beyond, OEConnection has plans to expand beyond North America and pursue new opportunities with automakers and vehicle manufacturers in select international markets. n

“This new reporting requirement hits small businesses hardest because they typically don’t have in-house accounting departments and have to hire outside help. Government mandates, like the new 1099 requirement, have a real cost, and it is small businesses who end up having to pay them.”

More than 40 million organizations will be affected by the law, including government entities, nonprofit organizations and businesses of all sizes.

To view further information on the Baucus and Johanns amendments, visit ASA’s legislative website at www.

TakingTheHill.com. n

January 2011

www.IneedOEMparts.com

BMW of South Atlanta Your success is the "part" that counts

Our parts, Your peace of mind Your customers expect maintenance and repairs of the highest quality.

And the first step towards meeting those expectations is using only Original BMW Parts - the same ones used in Series Production

Wholesale Parts 678-479-4622 678-479-4623

Mike Bennett Asst Manager 678-479-4694

Jeff Braswell Parts Manager 678-479-4601

mbennett@sonsautogroup.com

jbraswell@sonsautogroup.com

BMW of South Atlanta 4171 Jonesboro Road Union City, GA 30291

866.961.SONS (7667) 678-479-4695 Fax

Photos are for illustrative purposes only and are based upon the latest information available. European vehicles or product may be shown. Vehicles may also be pictured with non-US or optional equipment. We make reasonable efforts to provide accurate information but we do not provide a warranty of accuracy. Consult your authorized BMW center or www.bmwusa.com for more information. ©2005 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name and logo are registered trademarks. All rights reserved.

ORIGINAL MINI PARTS: POWER HARNESSED FOR THE GOOD OF MOTORINGKIND. While much about the MINI’s boundless energy remains a mystery, some of its vigor can be traced to Original MINI Parts. Built to strict OE specifications for stellar fitment and performance, MINI Original Parts are the same parts used in MINI production. They’re backed by a potent, 24-month, gajillion-mile limited warranty. And they come with technical support available from your servicing MINI dealer.

Now that’s a powerful combination, indeed.

YOUR SUCCESS IS THE "PART" THAT COUNTS! Wholesale Parts 678-479-4622 678-479-4623 Mike Bennett-Asst Manager 678-479-4694 mbennett@sonsautogroup.com Jeff Braswell-Parts Manager 678-479-4601 jbraswell@sonsautogroup.com

MINI OF SOUTH ATLANTA 4171 Jonesboro Road Union City, GA 30291 866.961.SONS 678.479.4695 FAX We are in the Overnight Parts Alliance

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719 W Pike Street © 2011, Chrysler Group LLC. All rights reserved. Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and MoparLawrenceville, are registered trademarks of GA Chrysler30045 Group LLC. www.hayeschrysler.com ®

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