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October 2010

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Mazda SHINARI – Fast And Strong Motion That Strikes The Heart

I-Car Introduces Inspecting Repairs For Quality Control Program To The Industry

DEALER NEWS TVA Forum Promotes Electric Vehicle Network in Tennessee World’s First Inflatable Second-Row Seat Belt NADA to Co-Sponsor Dealer Day Conference at 2010 SEMA Show Mercedes-Benz USA Officially Opens New Facility in Jacksonville

The Mazda SHINARI is a pure design concept model of a four-door, four-seater sports coupe which perfectly expresses the ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ design theme in a graceful and carefree form.

The Japanese word shinari describes the powerful yet supple appearance of great resilient force when objects of high tensile strength, such as steel or bamboo, are twisted or bent. It also refers to the appearance of a person or animal as it flexibly transforms

its body to generate a fast movement.

Within this movement, Mazda designers discovered the potential to realize ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’.

One glance at SHINARI stirs the emotions. Its form expresses the powerful movement of a lean body with highly developed muscles, supple but at the same time filled with tension. Mazda’s SHINARI Please Turn to Page 4

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SHINARI From Front Cover desire is to reach car lovers’ hearts and go beyond the notion of rational logic. This form purely embodies that desire.

Designer’s challenge Yasushi Nakamuta, the designer who led the design of the third generation Mazda MX-5, was the first to begin the ideation of the SHINARI concept: “The challenge for us was to create an innovative new expression for energetic and powerful movement; something that we had never attempted before. We began by developing the design around the image of a predator, as it strikes at its prey, or the stabbing movement in kendo, Japanese fencing, to express the instant where accumulated force is released.

Translating this initial moment of ‘instantaneous movement’ being pursued

by Mazda design into the

chief

den release of pent-up energy, and the interplay of beautiful, supple movements – this form is the expression of all of these elements.

All of SHINARI's body surfaces appear as if constantly undergoing transformation. There is no static shape to be found, as if the car is in perpetual motion.

SHINARI's body surfaces appear as if constantly undergoing transformation

SHINARI concept car presented various challenges to both the designers and the modelers working on the project.

The process involved a series of activities that saw the team draw inspiration from a variety of places. This included each team member creating sketches and freely sculpting models from clay to represent their own perceptions of ‘KODO

– Soul of Motion’. It then continued with the exploration of the functional beauty seen in traditional Japanese crafts and the motion witnessed in Japan’s ancient martial arts.

As the team continued this exploratory process, Nakamuta focused on a force so powerful that it can bend a

Southern Automotive Journal

strong section of steel plate. The Mazda SHINARI design adds subtle twists and tension to create forms that express agile and powerful movement, resulting in the expression of ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’.

With an image of strength emanating across every panel and component, the Mazda SHINARI looks ready to leap at any second. The strong backbone running through the body, the sudOctober 2010

For instance the subtle control of the angle of the upper surface of the side sill, from the front to the rear, results in a form that suggests a flash of speed along the body of the car.

The threedimensional sculpting of the front grille proudly emphasizes the Mazda lineage. A powerful line of movement originates at the grille and continues through the bonnet, fender, front lamp modules and bumper. In particular the floating bar – which links the grille with the headlights – is a three-dimensional expression of speed, an accent that represents a new signature element for Mazda.

For the headlights, Mazda's designers have created a headlamp structure with www.IneedOEMparts.com

SHINARI's driver focused interior - "dedicated driving ergonomics" no outer lens, exposing the deep-set lights and suggesting the eyes of a wild animal about to pounce on its prey.

When creating the SHINARI concept interior Mazda's objective was to design a distinctive premium cockpit that incorporates its interior DNA. While the exterior design can be appreciated through

motion, the interior, meanwhile, is experienced in a static, seated position. A commitment to essential mechanical function and excellent ergonomics has created a driver focused interior that embodies the ‘ultimate athletic space’ while expressing a sense of speed inside the vehicle.

Mazda design wanted to re-define

the proximity of the driver to the instrumentation and controls by establishing intuitive ‘reach zones’; what Mazda calls ‘dedicated driving ergonomics’. All instrumentation and controls have been designed and positioned to enhance the driving experience. By separating the instrument panel into two individual zones, the driver cockpit is isolated from the rest of the interior and allows the driver to focus on the task of driving. To reinforce the message of driver orientation, the design of the primary and secondary instruments echo the main cockpit shape, to provide a clean uncluttered view from the driver’s seat. Seated behind a thickrimmed, three-spoke steering wheel the driver sits within a uniquely contoured seat, providing maximum comfort and support.

Mazda's SHINARI represents the profound connection of driver and machine and the beginning of Mazda's latest design theme ‘KODO-Soul in Motion’.

SHINARI exhibits a functional aesthetic that will continue to evolve as Mazda continues to define its next generation of vehicles.n

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October 2010

Southern Automotive Journal

World’s First Inflatable Second-Row Seat Belt Latest Innovation In Ford Explorer Safety Story The new 2011 Ford Explorer has been reinvented, raising the bar on SUV safety by combining technologies to help avoid crashes with those that set new standards of protection in the event of one.

The comprehensive Explorer safety story adds new features plus an innovative new Ford safety technology – inflatable rear seat belts.

“The new Explorer combines – all at once – our best technologies to not only help prevent a crash, but to help pre-

vent injuries to occupants when a crash is unavoidable,” said Erika Low, Ford safety supervisor. “The use of high-strength steels such as boron in the Explorer body structure also offers a greater level of protection, while meeting the most stringent roof crush standards.”

The new Explorer offers a Ford technology unique in the automotive industry in the first-ever inflatable second-row seat belts. Rear seat passengers – often children or mature passengers – can be more vulnerable to head, chest

and neck injuries.

Rear inflatable seat belts demonstrate Ford’s ongoing commitment to occupant safety. The Ford inflatable belts spread impact forces across five times more area than conventional seat belts. This reduces pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion.

Seat belt comfort also should help increase usage rates. Studies show inflatable belts to be more comfortable for passengers due to added padding.n

The Fiat 500 Sport - Arriving Soon to America The reborn and reimagined Fiat 500 is arriving soon to America. Born in Italy, perfectly tailored for America, the Cinquecento is as vibrant and engaging as it is fit and nimble. The Sport model, illustrates Fiat's smart and stylish design aesthetic. Like the original Fiat 500 a halfcentury ago, the new Cinquecento continues its timeless value while embracing individual expression and opportunity – all infused with world-class craftsmanship.

The Cinquecento offers unique adaptations for the North American market and is designed for individuals who demand that style and fashion can coexist with practicality and functional-

ity. Matching its sport-tuned suspension, the Fiat 500 Sport features athletically styled front and rear fascias with a larger grille and flared aerodynamic treatment.

Between its unique 16-inch aluminum wheels with Mineral Gray painted pockets, the Cinquecento incorporates new body-side sill cladding for an enhanced sport appearance.

Completing this athletic vehicle's appearance are Performance Red painted brake calipers, a chromed exhaust tip and gloss black shadow-line window trim. The Fiat 500 will be also available in the Pop and Lounge models with unique exterior cues and different equipment options.

The world-class 1.4-liter engine with Fiat's state-of-the-art MultiAir™ technology powers the Fiat 500 Sport. MultiAir significantly reduces emissions while improving fuel economy and power delivery by up to 10 percent when compared to similar engines.

The Fiat 500's technology, driving dynamics and interior features have been intelligently adapted for the North American market, and it will offer smallcar buyers a stylish, high-value alternative. The all-new Fiat 500 will be available for ordering later this year in the Sport, Pop and Lounge models, followed by the all-new Fiat 500C (cabrio) in the spring of 2011. n

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Contributors Dennis Martin Ami Vonesh Joyce Ethridge Russ Heaps

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.

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October 2010

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Nissan Commends Tennessee for Rebate That Will Advance Zero-Emission Mobility in Volunteer State Nissan North America, Inc. applauds the state of Tennessee and Governor Phil Bredesen on the announcement of a $2,500 rebate toward the first 1,000 purchases of an electric vehicle in the state. Governor Bredesen announced the rebate recently during the Fuel Solutions Forum hosted by the Tennessee Valley Authority.

“This announcement is just one more step on the path to a green economy in the state of Tennessee and the nation,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, Nissan North America. “The state has been a leader in the promotion of zero-emission mobility and is to be commended for creating the right environment for all-electric vehicles like the Nissan LEAF to be an option for consumers in Tennessee.”

Tennessee is a primary launch market for the Nissan LEAF, with sales commencing in the state in December. The rebate will be offered through Nissan’s network of dealerships in the state and will be applied at the time the vehicle is purchased. Tennessee’s $2,500 rebate combined with an eligible maximum $7,500 federal tax credit could bring the value of a MY 2011 Nissan LEAF, which carries a manufacturer’s suggested retail of price of $32,780, to as low as $22,780. Other states that are offering financial incentives for the purchase of an electric vehicle include California, Georgia, Hawaii, Oregon, Washington, Maryland, and South Carolina.

Nissan has been working with the state of Tennessee and the Tennessee Valley Authority since forming a partnership in 2008 on the promotion of zero-emission mobility in the state. The partnership has worked together on the planning and deployment of an infrastructure for electric vehicles, including charging stations that will be located throughout Middle Tennessee at retail centers, parking garages, airports, tourist attractions, major employers and schools.

The state of Tennessee also www.IneedOEMparts.com

will be the manufacturing home for the Nissan LEAF beginning in 2012. Earlier this summer, Nissan broke ground on a production facility in Smyrna, Tenn. that will produce the lithium-ion batteries that power the Nissan LEAF. The Nissan LEAF also will be produced at the company’s vehicle assembly plant in Smyrna. Nissan LEAF and battery production will create up to 1,300 jobs when the plants are operating at full capacity. Nissan received a $1.4 billion dollar loan by the U.S. Department of Energy for the construction of the battery plant and the retooling of the assembly plant. Nissan will repay the loan in full with interest.

The Nissan LEAF is a five-passenger compact electric car that uses no gas, creates no emissions while driving and has no tailpipe. It has a top speed of 90 mph and is powered by advanced lithium-ion bat-

October 2010

teries, which provide the car with a range of 100 miles on a single charge as tested on the LA4 test cycle, enough to satisfy the daily driving needs of more than 90 percent of Americans.

Nationwide, more than 19,000 consumers have reserved a Nissan LEAF. Nissan is continuing to take reservations through its website, www.nissanusa.com.

Interested consumers are encouraged to place a reservation, which entails a $99 fully refundable fee to reserve a spot on the list to place an order for a MY 2011 or MY 2012 Nissan LEAF depending upon availability. Consumers who already have reserved the Nissan LEAF online will be invited to place orders through their dealer for the vehicle in advance of a market rollout timing, allowing time for consumers to select a dealer and assess home charging needs.n

Southern Automotive Journal

GAO Report Faults Oversight of FHLB’s Small Business Collateral Policies U.S. Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski, D-Pa., chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Capital Markets, Insurance and Government Sponsored Enterprises, recently released a report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in which the GAO investigated and analyzed the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s (FHFA) oversight of the Federal Home Loan Banks’ (FHLB) small business collateral policies, and how they could be improved. Kanjorski has called on the FHLB system to do more to help create job growth and to mandate a steady flow of funding to small businesses.

Each of the 12 regional FHLBs make loans or advances to member financial institutions in its district, such as banks, which traditionally are secured by single-family home mortgages. In 1999, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) authorized FHLBs to accept alternative forms of collateral, such as small business loans, from small members’ financial institutions. These alternative forms of collateral represent just a mere 1 percent of all collateral that is used to secure advances.

The GAO was asked to assess factors that may limit the use of alternative collateral and selected aspects of

the FHFA’s related regulatory oversight practices. GAO reviewed FHLB policies and FHFA documentation and interviewed FHLB and FHFA officials, as well as a nongeneralizable random sample of 30 small lenders likely to have significant levels of small business loans in their portfolios.

Kanjorski, after reviewing the report, expressed his opinion on the matter: “This GAO report confirms my suspicions about the unfortunate lack of progress by too many FHLBs during the last decade in facilitating small business and agricultural lending. During these difficult economic times, we must use an ‘all hands on deck’ approach, including involving the FHLBs. “Small businesses are the engine of job growth, and the banks must work to support small business development in communities throughout the country.

The failure of too many banks and their regulators to make economic development a priority is extremely disappointing, and it ignores the reforms adopted

by Congress more than a decade ago.

Simply put, the FHLBs must do more to promote job growth.”

FHLB and FHFA officials cited several factors to explain why alternative collateral represents about 1 percent of all collateral that is used to

secure advances. These factors include a potential lack of interest by small lenders in pledging such collateral to secure advances or the view that many such lenders have sufficient levels of singlefamily home mortgage collateral.

Officials from two FHLBs said their institutions do not accept alternative collateral at all, at least in part for these reasons. Further, FHLB officials said alternative collateral can be more difficult to evaluate than single-family home mortgages and, therefore, may present greater financial risks. To mitigate these risks, the 10 FHLBs that accept alternative collateral generally apply higher discounts to it than any other form of collateral, which may limit its use.

“While I agree with GAO’s recommendations that FHFA needs to modify how it examines the FHLBs’ small business and agricultural lending initiatives and [how it] regulates enforcement of them to ensure that such programs take place in their full capacity, these actions are merely first steps,” says Kanjorski.

“FHFA and the FHLBs must do more. I have therefore sent letters to the FHFA acting director and the 12 bank presidents demanding expeditious action on these matters. I have also asked for GAO Report Please Turn to Page 17

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October 2010

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I-Car Introduces Inspecting Repairs For Quality Control Program To The Industry Industry professionals interested ous inspection tools to access hard-toin learning ways to improve efficiency see repair areas and reduce “come-backs” will soon have • Identify refinish defects and a new training resource from I-CAR, signs of improper masking The Inter-Industry Conference on Auto • Explain how to verify corrosion Collision Repair. On September 7, I-CAR protection has been properly applied premiered its newest training program, • Describe considerations for preInspecting Repairs for Quality Control delivery and post-delivery inspections (QUA01). The course marks the first I• Understand how to effectively CAR training opportunity to be offered communicate information regarding as either an instructor-led course taught repair to the customer in the classroom or an online course.

Bill Stage, I-CAR Director of Marketing and Distribution said, “Interest in improving efficiency continues to grow as members of the inter-industry look for ways to improve customer satisfaction through achieving complete, quality repairs - the first time. This new training opportunity, offered both live and online, reinforces the importance of quality control and outlines important steps to take when conducting inspections both during and after the repair process.”

Stage continued, “Every individual involved in the repair process, including those in roles of repair facility supervisors and managers, is a stakeholder; and identifying the steps taken during a vehicle inspection plays an important role in completing a safe repair. Those who are responsible for the repair quality and completeness of repair Your order: network participants – like is urgent to your business insurers, fleet managers, and rental car companies – will also needs to be accurate benefit from this training. ”

Registration for Inspecting Repairs for Quality Control is currently open for classes and new classes are being added to I-CAR’s class schedule on a continual basis. Information on scheduled instructor-led classes can be found on the ICAR website at www.i-car.com or by contacting I-CAR Customer Care at 800422-7872. The online course is also available on the I-CAR website at www.i-car. com/online. n

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2011 Ford Edge Blends Technology, Design And Class-leading Powertrains In Revamped Package

Dramatic freshening of the 2011 Ford Edge and Edge Sport includes extensive exterior redesign, improved materials and craftsmanship on the interior, class-exclusive technology and new powertrains With available MyFord Touch™ driver connect technology, the 2011 Ford Edge crossover wraps an engaging package with superior craftsmanship, capability and performance Ford’s advanced engine valvetrain technology – TiVCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) – helps Edge V6 achieve best-in-class power and torque with fuel economy of unbeatable 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway (front-wheel drive, SEL and Limited) Style and technology – the hallmarks of Ford Edge since it took the midsize crossover segment by storm starting in 2006 – come together in an all-new way, offering customers even more of what they love for the 2011 model year.

“Customers told us how much they like Edge’s design and dynamic driving quality,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “We listened and made sure the new 2011 Edge delivers that and more – including fuel economy leadership, unexpected levels of quietness, a strong new design with quality materials, and MyFord Touch driver connect technology that will change how people interact with their vehicles.”

“The new Edge demonstrates how a refresh at Ford has become more than just a few design and interior tweaks,” explains Elaine Bannon, chief engineer. “We have taken every element of the Edge and completely reworked it, including three new powertrains, two new transmissions, a bold new exterior design and a completely new intewww.IneedOEMparts.com

rior. If you add in our industry-exclusive MyFord Touch system, you have a vehicle that will continue to stand out above all the competition on

the road.”

In addition to delivering customer-focused technology, the new Edge also showcases Ford’s impressive drive to bring new powertrain options to the customer. Both the Edge 3.5-liter V6 and Edge Sport 3.7-liter V6 use advanced engine valvetrain technology (twin independent variable camshaft timing, or Ti-VCT) and clever control strategies to increase horsepower and torque to bestin-class levels versus other standard V6 entries. The 3.5-liter V6 produces 285 horsepower and 253 lb.-ft. of torque while the 3.7-liter V6 delivers 305 horse-

power and 280 lb.-ft. of torque.

With this best-in-class power, 2011 Edge delivers unsurpassed fuel economy of 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway (3.5-liter V6 FWD, SEL and Limited). This means the new 3.5-liter V6 with Ti-VCT in the 2011 Edge delivers highway fuel economy that is 15 percent better than the Nissan Murano and with 20 more horsepower.

Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. The SelectShift Automatic™ transmission is standard on the 2011 Edge SEL and Limited series, with classexclusive paddle activation of the SelectShift standard on the 2011 Edge Sport.

In addition, the arrival of the new 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ I-4 engine in the months ahead will give Edge customers still more choice and will deliver class-leading fuel economy with impressive power and torque. Fuel economy benefits are projected to be at least 10 percent better than a comparable V6 but with class-leading power and torque for an I-4.

New four-wheel disc brakes provide enhanced stopping power. Key brake system upgrades include steel pistons, larger rear rotors, revised brake friction materials, upgraded brake booster and revised pedal ratios, all of which enable more initial bite and a firmer, more confident feel when customers press on the brake pedal.

The 2011 Edge offers several new brake-related features: hill start assist, which reduces rollback on hills; trailer sway control, which provides greater towing stability when equipped for trailer tow; hydraulic brake assist, which provides greater braking force in emergency stops; and available segmentfirst adaptive cruise control and Ford Edge Please Turn to Page 27

October 2010

Southern Automotive Journal

11

TVA Forum Promotes Electric Vehicle Network in Tennessee Leaders from federal, state and local governments, the automotive industry and electric utilities met recently in Tennessee – soon to host what is believed to be one of the nation’s largest electric vehicle charging networks – to discuss a national transition to electric transportation.

The Fuel Solutions Forum, sponsored by the Tennessee Valley Authority, addressed electricity as a transportation fuel, with an emphasis on education and strategy to help consumers, communities and industry achieve “plug-in readiness.”

“The single best way to reduce our energy consumption and dependence on foreign sources of oil would be to electrify our cars and trucks,” said U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, who delivered the morning keynote address. “Tennessee, with strong leadership by our governor, Nissan North America and TVA, has the opportunity to move the country a step closer to electrifying half our cars and trucks, which would reduce our dependence on oil by about a third and has strong bipartisan support in Congress.”

Gov. Phil Bredesen said the TVA forum in Nashville shows the enthusiasm and teamwork contributing to a growing electric vehicle industry in Tennessee.

“With partners like the Tennessee Valley Authority, Nissan North America and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the

state of Tennessee has rapidly emerged as a national leader in electric vehicle manufacturing, technology and deployment,” Bredesen said. “We are committed to promoting the use of zero-emission electric vehicles to help ensure a clean energy future and to create more clean energy jobs in Tennessee.”

Kim Greene, TVA group president for Strategy and External Relations, said TVA is leading efforts with several partners to develop advanced electric vehicle charging stations that are solar-assisted, fast-charging and able to store energy or send power to the TVA electric grid during high-demand periods.

The emissions reductions and technical innovations associated with electric vehicles align with the renewed vision announced by the TVA Board of Directors in August, Greene said. The vision emphasizes cleaner air through lower emissions, and electric vehicles can play a role.

“TVA is working to be one of the nation’s leading providers of cleaner and low-cost energy by 2020,” Greene said.

“An electric transportation system that is well designed and carefully integrated with the power system can help us achieve both.”

A major focus for Wednesday’s forum was the plan for Tennessee to have one of the nation’s largest systems for this rapidly emerging technology by 2013. This is largely due to TVA’s key role

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in The EV Project, an approximately $230 million public-private initiative established last year with a $114.8 million grant from the Department of Energy, funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The project involves 16 cities in six states and the District of Columbia and is the largest electric vehicle rollout to date.

Under the EV Project, which is managed by ECOtality North America, the Nashville-Knoxville-Chattanooga corridor will serve as a national pilot for connecting three metropolitan areas with an electric vehicle charging network. The Tennessee project also will include infrastructure for 1,000 Nissan Leaf plug-in electric cars, more than 2,200 standard charging stations, 60 fast charging stations and 125 solar-assisted charging stations – more than any other area in the nation to date.

“The level of support, collaboration and enthusiasm we’ve seen from TVA, the state’s congressional and gubernatorial leadership and key stakeholders at every step of the planning process is proof positive that Tennessee is ready to step into the spotlight as a national leader in the rollout of electric transportation,” said Jonathan Read, CEO and president of ECOtality. “As we begin installing the nation’s largest electric vehicle charging corridor in Tennessee, TVA Forum Please Turn to Page 17

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I-Car President And CEO Shares Plans To Retire At Year-end At a meeting of I-CAR staff held on Thursday, September 2, President and CEO John Edelen shared his plans to retire from I-CAR, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, at the end of 2010.

“It has been a privilege to work with the staff, the instructors and the volunteers of I-CAR, and its outstanding Board of Directors and supporters over the past three years,” said Edelen.

“And, it has been an honor to work with the industry on the ICAR Professional Development Program – a training and development framework that we hope will serve the training needs of the industry for years to come.”

Tom Moreland, Chairman of the I-CAR International Board of Directors, offered, “On behalf of the I-CAR Board, we thank John for his efforts and contributions over the course of his tenure as President and CEO.” Moreland continued, “With the introduction of the I-CAR Professional Development ProgramTM in 2010, the planned introduction of a more robust online training curriculum, and a new training and development program for the technical schools and colleges in 2011, the near-term strategies and activities of the organization have been defined. Given the significant improvement in the financial condition of the

organization and its improved efficiency and effectiveness at a staff level, I-CAR is very well positioned, financially and operationally, to serve the collision industry in the coming years.”

“I’d also like to share with the industry,” Moreland added, “that John’s decision to leave at the end of the year does not come as a surprise. The Executive Committee of the I-CAR International Board of Directors and the Board have planned for this succession and the transition of leadership to a new President and CEO, to ensure that the quality and value of I-CAR’s training, products and services continue to meet the needs of the industry.”n

I-CAR, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, has announced that, on behalf of the I-CAR International Board of Directors, Board Chairman Tom Moreland has issued a Call for Candidates to identify a replacement for current President and CEO John Edelen. Edelen announced his decision to retire at a company meeting at the I-CAR Training Support Center, on Thursday, September 2.

“Based on John’s decision to leave at the end of 2010, we are officially opening the search for his successor with a Call for Candidates for the position of President and CEO of I-CAR, said Moreland.

The Board has appointed a CEO Search Committee, comprised of current and past board members. The committee has retained the services of Automotive Recruiters International,

Inc., to assist in the CEO search and selection process.

To review an in-depth profile that was created for this position, please visit www.automotivestaffing.com/about. htm and click on the I-CAR logo. To be considered for this position, please forward a letter of interest and a copy of your resume to Jeff Ketchum, President – candidates@automotivestaffing.com or call 239-344-9514, ext.101.n

I-Car International Board Of Directors Issues A Call For Candidates For New I-Car President And CEO

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An End to Motor Vehicle Collisions Now in Sight?

Mobileye, the global pioneer and leader in vision-based collision prevention systems, announced recently that it has launched the Mobileye C2-270(TM), a revolutionary system featuring the EyeQ2(R) vision chip, which detects pedestrians, vehicles, bicycles, and lane markings. Now available globally as an off-the-shelf product for all vehicles, this technology saves lives, alerting and prompting drivers in the critical seconds before a collision occurs, and thus boosting pedestrian, road and vehicle safety.

Despite the stiffening of laws in various countries on driving behavior in recent years, countless distractions continue diverting the attention of drivers - a ringing cell phone, noisy road construction, or even a baby crying in the back seat. Momentary distractions that

affect everyone, even the most experienced of drivers, raising the chances for a collision. These dangers can now be averted with the Mobileye C2-270(TM).

“The Mobileye C2-270(TM) has unprecedented alert capabilities for drivers,” says Isaac Litman, CEO of Mobileye Products, “and best of all, drivers can drive reassured with the feeling that an extra eye is constantly at work in the car, giving them another line of defense in an increasingly dangerous road environment.”

The process is simple. The Mobileye C2-270 (TM) camera, mounted behind the windshield of the car, constantly monitors the road in front of the vehicle while the car is in motion. The camera is connected to a display unit placed within the driver’s field of view.

If the camera spots a danger in the way,

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the display will flash bright color-coded icons and sound a warning to alert the driver up to 2.7 seconds before impact - precious time in which the driver can take immediate action to avert a collision.

The most exciting feature of the Mobileye C2-270(TM) is the Pedestrian Collision Warning, which allows the system to identify pedestrians or bicycles and warn the driver before a collision.

The new system also detects motorcycles, and when coupled with Mobileye’s award-winning technology, which brought the consumer forward collision warnings, unintended lane departure warnings, and insufficient distancekeeping, the Mobileye C2-270(TM) will lead the market as the most effective driver assistance tool for collision prevention.n

Southern Automotive Journal

October 2010

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Mercedes-Benz USA Officially Opens New 415,000 sq. ft. Facility in Jacksonville, Florida Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) recently held a grand-opening ceremony for a new cutting-edge facility in Jacksonville, Florida.

Strategically located less than three miles from the Jacksonville airport, the new Southern Region facility centralizes several business units into one complex for more efficient dealer support and correspondingly higher levels of customer satisfaction.

The recently constructed building totaling a combined 415,000 sq. ft., is a leased facility built to accommodate MBUSA’s needs. It is located off Interstate 95 at 13470 International Parkway.

MBUSA took official occupancy in July with four business units operating from the site including: Sales Operations Southern Regional Office; Parts Distribution Center (PDC); Quality Evaluation Center (QEC); and Learning & Performance Center (LPC). Approximately 160 employees work at the new facility, which incorporates innovative environmental systems and design using the same criteria

as LEED certified buildings within each of the four business areas.

“This new facility is an integral part of our commitment to more efficiently and effectively support our dealers so

that they in turn can provide the unparalleled ownership experience that our buyers expect from Mercedes-Benz,” said Ernst Lieb, president and CEO of MBUSA, who presided over the ceremony. “This facility represents our best thinking in terms of how Mercedes-Benz looks and functions.”

The new complex incorporates the company’s unique Autohaus design which has been adopted by Mercedes-Benz dealerships across the country. The modern aesthetic concept skillfully incorporates signature design elements in a way that is designed to promote interaction and create an appealing functional environment...

The new Jacksonville facility houses the following business operations: SALES OPERATIONS SOUTHERN REGION OFFICE -- The Southern Region MBUSA office supports 102 MBUSA dealerships with sales and fixed operations across 12 states including

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TVA Forum From Page 12 we’ll continue working closely with all our partners to leverage the lessons learned in Tennessee in communities throughout the United States.”

TVA’s role includes investigating new electric metering and control technologies for electricity demand GAO Report From Page 8 a GAO progress review in six months.

Small businesses are currently clamoring for credit, and we must help them out.”

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) reports that “The Small Jobs and Credit Act of 2010,” H.R. 5297, an essential part of helping job growth and boosting the economic recovery of small businesses, has stalled

response and more efficient integration; analyzing charging station impacts on the power grid; and analyzing power system processes to achieve the most energy efficiency with electric vehicle charging systems.

TVA also leads a solar-assisted charging station project called the Smart Modal Area Recharge Terminal, or SMART

station. The first prototype station, due this fall, will feature power generation by solar photovoltaic panels, stationary battery storage and key elements of smart grid technology at the Electric Power Research Institute facilities in Knoxville.

EPRI, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and local power companies are partners in the SMART station project.n

in the Senate and will not be picked back up until Congress reconvenes in September. The original bill, sponsored

by Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, aims to “boost lending to small businesses by authorizing a fund of up to $30 billion that will be available to financial institutions with no more than $10 billion in assets.” Bill co-sponsors say these funds can be leveraged to up to $300 billion in loans for small

businesses. In addition, the bill provides another $2 billion to state lending programs that support small firms. Small businesses employ approximately half of all Americans and alone account for almost 60 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product.

To view more on these issues, along with the full text of the GAO report and H.R. 5297, visit ASA’s legislative website at www.TakingTheHill. com.n

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NADA to Co-Sponsor Dealer Day Conference at 2010 SEMA Show The National Automobile Dealers Association will co-sponsor the third annual Dealer Day conference at the Specialty Equipment Market Association’s (SEMA) 2010 convention, at the Las Vegas Hilton (Pavilion 1), on Nov. 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Dealer Day conference features an information-packed agenda designed to provide auto dealers with the feedback, tools and resources they need to expand or build accessory operations to benefit their business operations across the board.

Dealers who attend the Dealer Day conference will receive an added bonus, a free Learning Hub course from NADA University, titled “Accessorizing Your Way to Additional Profits.” NADA University, an online education and training resource for dealers, was launched this year.

“Dealer Day is an outstanding program that was developed specifically to address the accessory sales opportuni-

ties for dealers and we’re proud to be a part of it,” said NADA Chairman Ed Tonkin. “Any dealer who is looking to build profitability in the accessory area should be there.”

The conference, developed with NADA’s input and dealer feedback, will show dealers how to use a successful accessory program to differentiate product lines, create customer value and loyalty, and generate additional revenues.

It will feature individual sessions on such key topics as: • Aligning goals among various departments to drive overall sales and profitability; • Ensuring quality in an accessory program, while addressing concerns over warranty and liability issues; • Capturing the attention of online customers to drive them to your Web site; and • Understanding the day-to-day

challenges and opportunities of running an accessory program and capitalizing on them, as discussed by “real life” dealership employees.

• Dealers who have attended a previous Dealer Day conference gave it high marks. “I thoroughly enjoyed Dealer Day last year,” said Carl Lindsey, senior parts manager for Rick Keffer Dodge Jeep in Jacksonville, Fla. “It was very informative and helped me understand the success that others were having with their respective programs, so I could come back to my dealership and try these things out,” Lindsey added. “We have had great success in installing leather in our vehicles, as well as accessorizing them.”

The Dealer Day conference is open to vehicle dealers only. The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association is co-sponsoring the event with NADA. To learn more about the program or to register, visit www.semashow. com/dealerday.n

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October 2010

Southern Automotive Journal

19

Talladega Superspeedway Offers Kid’s Free in Allison Grandstands Talladega Superspeedway announced that kid’s 11 and under will be admitted free to select rows in the Allison Grandstands for the AMP Energy 500 weekend.

“The Allison Grandstands are one of the best values in all of motorsports,” said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. “With the tough economy weighing most heavily on families, we are looking to make it more affordable than ever to experience the excitement of Talladega Superspeedway.”

Children 11 and under are free in the Allison Grandstands on Saturday for the Mountain Dew 250 and free in rows 1-5 and only $10 in all other rows of the Allison Grandstands on Sunday for the AMP Energy 500. Adult two-day Saturday and Sunday tickets are only $49.

For more info on these special offers check out www.talladegasuperspeedway. com. To reserve kid’s seating, race fans must call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA. Kid’s seating must be reserved in advance. n

Fans Vote Kasey Kahne and Jim Paschal to Talladega-Texaco Walk of Fame The fans have spoken... and Kasey Kahne and Jim Paschal will be the next drivers enshrined to the Talladega-Texaco Walk of Fame on Saturday, Oct. 30.

The Talladega-Texaco Walk of Fame in downtown Talladega is both a focal point saluting NASCAR’s greatest names and a tribute to one of racing’s brightest stars – the late Davey Allison. Developed in 1994, the Talladega-Texaco Walk of Fame has inducted one active driver and up to two inactive drivers since 1995 based on the fans’ vote chosen from a ballot of nominees selected by strict guidelines.

This year’s active driver nominee, Kasey Kahne, has thrived in the NASCAR ranks, but his early career began in open-wheel cars. Hailing from Enumclaw, Wash., Kahne tore through the open-wheel world earning a 2000 USAC Midget Series championship and National Midget Driver of the Year honors. His success caught the attention of owners in NASCAR and in 2002 he made his rookie campaign in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. In 2004 he raced his first full season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, earning the Raybestos Rookie of the Year title and finished 13th in the driver point standings.

His most successful season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series came in 2006 when he won six races and six pole awards to finish eighth in the final season standings. Now in his seventh year at the Sprint Cup level campaigning for Richard Petty Motorsports, Kahne has amassed 11 career wins and 18 career pole awards.

Inactive driver nominee, James Roy Paschal, Jr. known to fans as Jim Paschal, was a driver during NASCAR’s formative years. Originally from Highpoint, North Carolina, Paschal competed in his first race at the Charlotte Fairgrounds on June 19, 1949. He won 25 races and 12 poles during his 23-year career. He won the World 600 twice, now known as the Coca Cola 600, in 1964 and 1967.

His remaining wins came on short tracks, less than a mile and a half in length. He competed in his last race in 1972, shortly after; Paschal was inducted into the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame. Paschal passed away in 2004 at the age of 77.

Past active driver inductees have included Dale Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Ernie Irvan, Dale Jarrett, Bill Elliott, Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, Bobby Hamilton, Ricky Rudd, Mark Martin, Kyle Petty, Darrell Waltrip, Kevin Harvick, Matt Kenseth, Bobby Labonte and Morgan Shepherd. Richard Petty and Benny Parsons were the first inactive drivers to be inducted, later joined by Alan Kulwicki, Cale Yarborough, Ned Jarrett, Buddy Baker, David Pearson, Junior Johnson, Harry Gant, Lee Petty, Tim Flock, Fireball Roberts, Buck Baker, Joe Weatherly, Red Byron, Bobby Isaac, Fred Lorenzen, Fonty Flock, Herb Thomas, Terry Labonte, Rex White and Jack Smith.

The first inductees – “ Alabama Gang” drivers Bobby Allison, Donnie Allison, Red Farmer and Neil Bonnett – were inducted by decree of the board.n 20

Southern Automotive Journal

October 2010

Talladega Superspeedway Establishing Fan Advisory Network Talladega Superspeedway announced it is establishing a Fan Advisory Network (FAN) to gain insight on race fan interactions with the track, from the ticket buying process all the way through to the exit procedures after a race. Race fans that would like to participate in the Fan Advisory are encouraged to download an application at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/tssfan.

FAN committee members will begin their duties in January 2011. Members will be asked to meet four (4) times per year; each event weekend and two (2) other dates to be determined. In addition to four annual meetings, Talladega Superspeedway will host multiple teleconferences. The idea is to allow race fans to share thoughts and ideas with the track, while the committee can serve as a focus group for the track when considering facility upgrades and more.

“Our fans are the reason we are in business,” said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. “This Fan Advisory Network will allow us to bounce ideas off each other. It’s a way of making sure that every improvement we make at Talladega Superspeedway will have the most positive impact on our fans. It also allows them to bring ideas to the table that we can consider implementing. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

All applications must be downloaded, completed, and mailed to Talladega Superspeedway in order to be considered. Applications can be found at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/ tssfan. Completed applications should be mailed to the following address: Talladega Superspeedway, Fan Advisory Network, PO Box 777, Talladega, AL 35161.

Applications must be received no later than November 8, 2010.

Will more NASCAR history be made when racing returns to Talladega Superspeedway for the AMP Energy 500 weekend? Race fans will have to be here to find out. NASCAR action returns with the Mountain Dew 250 fueled by Fred’s NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race and Race Number Seven in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, the AMP Energy 500, Oct. 29 - 31. n www.IneedOEMparts.com

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Solera Holdings, Inc. and Founder/CEO Together Contribute Largest Donation Ever Received by I-CAR Education Foundation Solera Holdings, Inc. the leading global provider of software and services to the automobile insurance claims processing industry, has announced a $100,000 combined cash contribution to the I-CAR Education Foundation, a not-for-profit organization and industry-leading foundation that provides support to secondary and post-secondary technical schools’ collision programs

22

Southern Automotive Journal

and their students. This $100,000 contribution, comprised of a $50,000 donation from Solera and a matching personal $50,000 donation from Solera’s founder and CEO Tony Aquila, is the largest cash donation ever received by the notfor-profit organization. It is earmarked primarily to provide scholarships and grants for students aspiring to establish a career in the automotive industry.

October 2010

“We are proud to do our part and support the Education Foundation’s mission to help arm tomorrow’s workforce with the tools and the talent they need to raise the bar in the automotive industry,” said Tony Aquila, founder and CEO of Solera, a supporter of the Foundation.

“I am extremely grateful for my success in this industry, and we are committed to giving back both through Solera’s corporate giving efforts as well as my personal donation,” Aquila added.

An industry entrepreneur, Aquila began working during his teenage years sweeping floors in his uncle’s auto body shop.

He is now the founder and CEO of a company that is the leading global provider of software and services to the automobile insurance claims processing industry.

Solera recently announced a strategic growth plan for its newly aligned “HEMI” group that includes targeted investments of approximately $150 million. The “HEMI” group includes Solera’s businesses in the United States, the Netherlands and Canada.

“This $100,000 combined contribution marks a new era of corporate support for the Education Foundation. With help from Solera and Tony Aquila, we can assist aspiring students to achieve their educational and career goals and better prepare them for the workplace,” said the Education Foundation’s Executive Director Scott Kruger. “We believe Solera’s leadership and generosity will inspire other companies to step up as well,” he added.n

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2010 Nissan Maxima Continues to Hold Unique Position as the “4-Door Sports Car" Premium Performance Sedan In 2009, the popular Nissan Maxima returned to its roots as a commanding “4-door sports car” – a premium performance sedan with dramatic styling, a refined interior and a range of available technology features. As a fusion of sedan practicality and the soul of a sports car, the Maxima enters the second year of the allnew design with its category leadership unchallenged. For 2010, Maxima adds a few new touches, including the fine-tuning of its color palette and available option packages.

Maxima is again offered in two well-equipped models, Maxima 3.5 S and Maxima 3.5 SV, each equipped with a responsive 290-horsepower

3.5-liter V6 engine and Xtronic CVT™ transmission. “ M a x i m a ’s ‘ground-up’ redesign one year ago provided a stunning infusion of

emotional design, driving exhilaration and advanced technology in the mid-size sedan segment,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “Our targets were set high and we exceeded each and every one, creating in Maxima a vehicle with an unmatched combination of style, performance, comfort, technology and value.”

Revisions to the 2010 Maxima include new wheel finishes for 18-inch (Fine Silver) and 19-inch (Hyper Silver) wheels; Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System is now standard on all models; a 7-inch color monitor, RearView Monitor, auxiliary audio/ Maxima Please Turn to Page 30 Maxima Please Turn to Page 30

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Ford Edge From Page 11 collision warning with brake support.

Adaptive cruise control allows the driver to set the vehicle’s speed, using advanced radar technology to monitor traffic ahead and scan for slower vehicles.

The system slows the vehicle to adapt for traffic conditions and maintain the preset distance between vehicles.

Once traffic clears, the set speed returns.

Gap distance settings can be customized from four predetermined options.

Collision warning with brake support uses radar to detect moving vehicles ahead and warns the driver of danger with an audible alarm and warning light. The system also automatically precharges brakes and engages an electronic brake assist system to help drivers stop more quickly.

“To me, craftsmanship isn’t just fit-and-finish,” said Bannon. “It’s also the layout and the ergonomic experience.

It’s where we put the material – the

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stitching, the cutlines – and all the attention to detail to give the customer a great experience.”

Industry-first MyFord Touch driver connect technology powered by SYNC® provides a smarter, safer, simpler way to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives. It replaces traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, crisp LCD screens and fiveway controls like t h o s e

f o u n d on cell phones and MP3 players. It also uses intuitive voice commands.

Standard on the 2011 Edge Limited and 2011 Edge Sport, the MyFord Touch system displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the center

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stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens. The screens can be personalized to display information relevant to each individual driver.

The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where the driver’s hand falls as he or she grabs the wheel. The five-way buttons feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player.

MyFord Touch driver connect technology headlines the list of 11 class-exclusive standard and available features and technologies for the 2011 Ford Edge, joining SYNC; Easy Fuel® (standard); SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad; blind spot mirrors (standard); MyKey® (standard); AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™, standard); adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support; cross-traffic alert; and 22-inch wheels and paddle activation on the 2011 Edge Sport.

“You can jump in the 2011 Ford Edge and bring your technology – your lifestyle – with you and have everything at your fingertips,” said Bannon. “The 2011 Ford Edge gives you all the capability and flexibility you want along with great style.”n

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Nissan Leaf Reservationists Move One Step Closer To An Emission-free Future Nissan North America, Inc. announced the start of order specification for the 2011 model year Nissan LEAF – the industry’s first 100-percent electric car for the mass market – for those customers who have placed a reservation online. Consumers will now be able to choose the color and trim level of their Nissan LEAF, bringing them one step closer to a tailpipe-, gas- and emission-free future.

The ordering process for Nissan LEAF will be prioritized based on when consumers submitted their original reservations online and by the consumer’s market. Over the next several weeks, reservation holders will begin to receive

emails informing them how to submit an order. They will contact a dealer to negotiate their price and finalize the order for the purchase or lease of Nissan LEAF. Once a consumer’s order has been agreed with a dealer it will be placed in sequence for production and delivery according to the consumer’s market.

These future Nissan LEAF drivers will be informed of an estimated delivery timing upon completing the order process.

“Today Nissan moves one step closer to placing thousands of zeroemission electric cars on American roadways,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing,

Nissan North America. “As more than 80 percent of those customers placing a reservation are new to Nissan, we look forward to welcoming them as they embrace Nissan’s innovation and begin zero-emission driving.”

Nissan previously announced SV and SL trim introductory pricing for the 2011 Nissan LEAF on March 30. Today, the company is providing additional information to reservationists, including detailed factory and port installed options content. Currently, more than 18,600 people in the United States have made a reservation for the Nissan LEAF, drawing closer to the target of 20,000 reservations by December. n

2011 Nissan LEAF SV: $32,780 Well-equipped high technology features with surprising customer convenience items, including: All-New Dedicated EV Platform 3.3 kW Onboard Charger Standard Charge Port (240V) Palm-Shift Drive Selector Recycled Cloth Seat Fabric No Charge For 36 Months CARWINGS (Telematics) Roadside Assistance 5 Exterior Colors

2011 Nissan LEAF SL: $33,720 In addition to standard SV features, includes: Photovoltaic Solar Panel Spoiler Fog Lights Cargo Cover RearView Monitor (RVM) Automatic On/Off Headlights Homelink® Universal Transceiver Quick Charge Option: $700 Available with the SL trim, this charge port on the vehicle will allow for charging to 80 percent capacity in 30 minutes at compatible high voltage public charging stations.

Destination & Handling: $820 Quick Charge Option: $700 Available with the SL trim, this charge port on the vehicle will allow for charging to 80 percent capacity in 30 minutes at compatible high voltage public charging stations.

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MB Jacksonville From Page 15 Florida, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Texas as well as Puerto Rico. MBUSA has three other regional offices in the U.S.: Parsippany, NJ, Rosemont, IL and Costa Mesa, CA. PARTS DISTRIBUTION CENTER -- A new addition to MBUSA’s operation in Jacksonville, the Parts Distribution Center (PDC) supports approximately 70 MBUSA dealers in the Southeast with parts supply. The PDC will house about 15 percent of MBUSA overall parts inventory, shipping over 1.3 million lines annually. The company has four other Parts Distribution Centers in U.S.: Carol Stream, IL, Fontana, CA, Fort Worth, TX and Robbinsville, NJ. QUALITY EVALUATION CENTER -With more than 70 personnel from various engineering and logistics disciplines representing a diverse collection of work

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experience and backgrounds, the Quality Evaluation Center in Jacksonville is one of only two operational units of its kind outside of Germany. The QEC team includes Daimler Quality personnel, placing engineers closer to the market and to the dealers served by MBUSA. This market proximity brings greater knowledge of market-specific issues directly into the quality management process through faster parts evaluation and feedback to Daimler development. Local parts analysis also helps to improve diagnostic tools and technical information while the resulting rapid feedback to dealers increases the diagnostic skills necessary for improved “Fixed First Visit” performance - a key customer satisfaction component.

LEARNING & PERFORMANCE CENTER -- The Learning & Performance Center is a leading edge training facility for dealership and MBUSA personnel. MBUSA facilitates over 120 classes

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per year in the Jacksonville Learning & Performance Center, with a total of about a thousand participants from across the Southeastern United States.

Classrooms, workshops, a computer lab, a virtual classroom webcast area, a student lounge, offices and a cafeteria are designed in an intelligent and integrated fashion all for the learners’ benefit while at the same time providing increased operational effectiveness and efficiencies. MBUSA operates five Learning & Performance Centers in the U.S.: Houston, TX, Itasca, IL, Jacksonville, FL, Montvale, NJ, and Rancho Cucamonga, CA. “I am extremely pleased that Mercedes-Benz chose Jacksonville for its Southern region headquarters,” said Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton. “This is a testament to the favorable business climate we enjoy in our city and our talented workforce. I am proud to have Mercedes-Benz as a member of our business community.” n

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Maxima From Page 25 video input jack, iPod® net and 2GB Music Server are added to the new optional Monitor Package (USB connectivity also included); DVD playback capability, streaming audio via Bluetooth® technology and XM NavWeather® are added to Technology Package; XM® Satellite Radio becomes standard on Maxima 3.5 SV; and the previous iPod® connectivity is changed to USB connectivity. Also added are two new exterior colors, Crimson Black and Ocean Gray.

On the road or standing still, Maxima offers a dynamic presence that clearly distinguishes it from other mid-size sedans on the market today.

With an exterior design theme that its creators call “Liquid Motion,” Maxima’s exterior is highlighted by the flow of its powerful and beautiful surfaces, like the undulation of a wave. The look starts with Maxima’s aggressive stance and powerful fender volume, which is not unlike that of many exotic sports cars.

This deeply sculpted body/fender treatment is seldom used for mass market vehicles because of the engineering and manufacturing complexity required to physically accomplish it. Maxima’s stance is created by its sporty proportions – a careful balance between wheelbase and overall length, along with a wide front and rear track. Maxima’s dynamic performance stance is accented by 18-inch and available 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels

with low-profile performance tires.

Maxima’s exterior also imparts a strong premium presence. The large, wraparound Lshaped headlights add a unique dimension to the overall design, while the light surrounds suggest a powerful “turbine”

appearance of energy and strength.

Another unique styling feature is the available Dual Panel Moonroof, which combines a front section that moves like a normal moonroof (positioned farther forward than typical) and a fixed translucent rear section that provides light to rear seat passengers. The overall design gives the appearance that the entire roof is composed of black glass. The Dual Panel Moonroof includes dual power sunshades for both the front and rear glass sections, adding a level of convenience.

In creating driving performance worthy of Nissan’s flagship, the Maxima body and chassis engineering teams worked together to create a secure feeling, virtually no torque steer during acceleration and a level of nimbleness that ultimately makes a car fun to drive. A range of enhancements (versus the previous generation Maxima) helped achieve these targets, including increasing body rigidity and adjusting the wheelbase and track dimensions.

Utilizing Nissan’s advanced “D platform” as its foundation, Maxima features a standard 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 engine rated at 290 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. Also utilized are a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), a variable induction system, a silent timing chain and electronically controlled throttle.n

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

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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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