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Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Infiniti Q60 Concept - Striking Style And High-Performance Powertrain In A Premium Package August 2015
COLLISION NEWS SCRS Addresses IP Auto Renewal Clauses GCIA Selects NABR to Conduct Labor Rate Survey Repair Information for Toyota Vehicles Is Now Available to Collision Repairers ASA Board of Directors Installed During Annual Business Meeting
DEALER NEWS All-New 2016 Honda Pilot SUV Begins Mass Production in Alabama Volkswagen Chattanooga Expansion Could Add 9,800 Jobs and $370 Million to the Tennessee Economy
Fresh from its acclaimed reveal at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit earlier this year, the show-stopping Q60 Concept is an original and bold reinterpretation of an elegant lifestyle 2+2 coupe. Its unique combination of eye-catching contours, heart-pumping power and high-quality finishes gives premium customers a fresh and expressive style icon to which they can aspire. "The Q60 Concept is more than a
design exercise; it is earmarked for production," said Roland Krueger, Infiniti President and CEO. "What you see in this concept vehicle inspires the sports coupe that Infiniti will produce next year." Progressive design Infiniti designers wanted to create a sports car that is power and perforQ60 Please Turn to Page 4
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Q60 from Cover mance personified. They gave the Q60 Concept taut lines, razor-sharp edges, and strikingly deep recesses in the body sides – culminating in a potent road presence. Sitting at 184.6 inches long, 73.4 inches wide and 53.9 inches high, the angular concept is as sporty in motion as it is at rest. The Q60 Concept's sleek and aerodynamic design is anchored by its deep double arch grille, whose elaborate waved mesh pattern gives it a three-dimensional quality. From the grille, the flowing character lines rise and merge into the headlamps, drawing attention to the intelligent LED lights. These adaptive headlamps react to the steering,
speed and elevation of the car and automatically adjust the beam around each bend to illuminate the road ahead. Inspired by the human eye – characteristic of Infiniti's vehicles – the headlamp has very fine fiber optic-like lines branching out from the projector. When lit, these filaments of LED lights look like lines of the iris radiating from the pupil, giving the headlamps a high-tech stare. The character line running the length of the car from the double arch grille to the aerodynamic tail spoiler gives the vehicle its assertive look from front to rear. The highly defined body contours are executed with precision, and where the shoulder dips in with exaggerated depth is reminiscent of chiseled cheekbones or rippling muscles. 4
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Wearing a special color named Arctic Aluminum, the Q60 Concept looks like it is machined from a solid aluminum block rather than painted. The designers also made the wheels more visible than the body to give the Q60 Concept an athletic profile. Donning arresting spokes in matte blacks and high-gloss black chromes, the deep 21-inch wheels fill up the wheel arches and give the concept its domineering stance. The same refinement on the outside extends into the smallest detail on the inside, evoking a premium atmosphere with three-dimensional textures and meticulous craftsmanship. While the familiar asymmetry from the top of the center cluster to the wide center console has been updated to make it more fluid, the center console August 2015
continues to demarcate the driver and passenger zone. Stitched by hand, the leatherwrapped instrument panel, steering wheel and door inserts all bear testament to bespoke finesse. The twotone black-and-white instrument panel adds contrast to the interior, reflecting Infiniti's attention to detail. Carbon fiber in the door accents echoes the performance of the car while high-quality driver-oriented controls intuitively build driver confidence. The seats have also been designed to go with the car's exhilarating character. An array of leathers was used to bring out the best comfort, from premium saddle leather to thick cushion quilting. Even oft-ignored rear passengers get stylish bucket seats, adding to the premium environment in the car. www.IneedOEMparts.com
Audacious performance The Q60 Concept is expected to deliver exceptional performance befitting a true-blue sports car from the next-generation 3.0-liter V6 engine with direct injection and twin-turbocharging. This all-new engine was first previewed in the Q80 Inspiration during the Paris Motor Show last year and will be part of a new family of lighter, smaller, more efficient and more powerful engines. Slated to be introduced within the next two years, this new line of engines significantly reduces fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions while boosting power and torque for a more thrilling drive. The Q60 Concept also showcases a host of ingenious technologies to not only enrich the driving experience but also provide an intuitive level of driving assistance where required. This is in line with Infiniti's philosophy that technology should enhance the driver, not restrict them. For example, the enhanced Infiniti Direct Adaptive Steering™ system allows independent control of the car's tire angle and steering inputs, transmit-
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ting the driver's intentions to the wheels faster than a mechanical system. This increases the direct driving performance feel by quickly and intelligently communicating road surface feedback to the driver. Developed after more than ten years of research, the system was a world's first when it premiered on the Q50. Apart from augmenting the driving experience, the Q60 Concept puts the spotlight back on the desires and needs of the driver and passengers through human-centric systems that provide a higher degree of available personalization. This is made possible with the new Infiniti InTuition™ system, a fully customizable digital environment, which works with the vehicle's advanced Intelligent Keys to recognize the vehicle settings for up to four different drivers, including preferences for driving position, heating and cooling, audio, navigation, telematics. "The Q60 Concept is Infiniti's vision for a sports coupe," said Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti Executive Design Director. "Design, performance and premium quality – these are what makes a sports coupe stand above the crowd. And these are what you'll find on the definitive Q60 Concept."n August 2015
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State Farm® Refines Repair Facility Survey State Farm Insurance announced market refinements to its repair facility survey. State Farm surveys allow eligible auto body repair facilities in the various markets the insurer serves to help identify prevailing competitive prices (PCP) and paint and materials pricing levels. Information provided by repairers through the survey process is used to help identify appropriate pricing for State Farm staff-prepared estimates.
The State Farm Auto Repair Facility Survey has been in place for several years with periodic updates taking place when business needs arise. State Farm spokesman Justin Tomczak said, “We are refining market boundaries used to determine prevailing competitive prices to serve our customers and to better align with government defined market areas.” Updates may result in PCP adjust-
ments in some areas in addition to the periodic changes in PCP relating to updated repairer pricing and capacity information. State Farm said repairers can voluntarily update their repair capacity and pricing information at any time on their b2b website. The insurance company added that it will continue to remind repairers of the survey process. n
Susanna Gotsch CCC, Crash Course, Insurance Automotive claim frequency and costs are on the rise again. The most recent data from the ISS Fast Track Plus™ data reveals Private Passenger Auto Collision losses experienced an increase in claim frequency of 4.3 percent for the rolling four quarters ending Q4 2014 versus the rolling 12 months ending Q4 2013.1 Property Damage Liability and Comprehensive losses were up 1.5 percent and 2.3 percent respectively.2 Paid claim costs were also up. For the 12 months ended Q4 2014 versus the 12 months ended Q3 2014, paid claim costs were up 1.5 percent for collision; 3.5 percent for property damage liability, and 7.2 percent for comprehensive.3 So what seems to be driving these increases? In previous articles we have discussed the impact of weather in many parts of the U.S., as well as improvements in key eco-
nomic factors such as consumer spending, employment growth, miles driven, and new vehicle sales due to pent up demand and low interest rates. In this article, we’ll explore several of these factors in more detail. Vehicle Fleet Shifts Continue Despite negative growth for the U.S. economy in Q1 20154, auto sales remained strong, and are well on the way to nearly 17 million new vehicle sales for the full calendar year.5 In fact, the seasonally adjusted annualized sales rate for May was 17.7 million – a number last seen in July 2005.6 Data from Experian shows 85 percent of new vehicle purchases in Q1 2015 were financed with an overall average loan term of 67 months, and 29.5 percent of new vehicle loans financed were for loan terms between 73 and 84 months.7 With many customers using low interest rates to purchase loaded crossovers and pickups, and move upmarket, the average MSRP of vehicles
sold in May 2015 was $33,363, up 4.3 percent from the same time the prior year.8 With continued strong vehicle sales (new vehicle registrations up 1.8 percent Q1 ’15 vs Q1 ‘14), and vehicle scrappage rates at record lows, the number of vehicles in operation in the U.S. is growing again.9 Experian reports growth of 2.4 percent to 253 million light duty vehicles in operation from Q1 2014 to Q1 2015.10 Analysis of overall claims data (including vehicles repaired and totaled with collision and liability loss coverage) reveals a shift in the mix of vehicles by age towards those in the 0-3 year age bracket and those 16-years plus.11 The significant drop-off in new vehicle sales in CY 2009 can also be seen as the MY 2009 vehicle share is much smaller than other model years.12
Insurance Claims Frequency and Costs Rise Again
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New Joining Manual Supports Rapid Growth of Aluminum in Automotive
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Lincoln Motor Company Introduces New Level of Power and Beauty on Luxurious Navigator sions.
A redesigned exterior, updated interior, more powerful engine, additional customer-focused technologies and new luxurious appointments elevate Lincoln Navigator in the full-size luxury SUV market A new 3.5-liter, twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® engine delivers more power; available Lincoln Drive Control with Continuously Controlled Damping provides a smoother ride; electric powerassisted steering improves handling; and puddle lamps that create a “welcome mat” below both front doors offer a new level of elegance An available Reserve Package includes 22-inch wheels and ultra-luxurious leather with premium Ziricote wood trim The Lincoln Motor Company introduces the new 2015 Navigator, offering a fresh interpretation of a classic vehicle that has long defined the full-size luxury sport utility segment. At the Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 6, the public got its first look at a new Navigator that takes on a changed presence for the 2015 model year. Exterior design changes are accentuated by the reintroduction of Lincoln’s iconic split-wing grille. Interior enhancements include luxurious leather and additional customer-focused technologies. The more refined appearance complements enhanced power and hauling capabili8
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ties that Navigator customers demand. The sleeker front end includes a newly designed hood, and the reimagined back end features a power up/ down tailgate. On both ends, the vehicle wears jewel-like light-emitting diode (LED) lights, as well as high-intensity discharge (HID) adaptive headlamps with LED accents. “We knew what our customers wanted,” said Elaine Bannon, chief engineer of the 2015 Navigator. “Navigator has always had great features, and we were able to keep those things. I’m proud that we were able to give our customers so much more.” Navigator comes standard with 20-inch, machined aluminum wheels, while Reserve Package vehicles are equipped with 22-inch, polished aluminum wheels. Reserve Package Navigators also offer optional chromeaccented running boards. As with current-generation models, the 2015 Navigator will be available in standard-length (207.4 inches) and extended-length (222.3 inches) verAugust 2015
Extended-length models provide 128.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, 86.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, and 42.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row; standard wheelbase models deliver 103.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, 54.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row. “We have this iconic vehicle with untapped potential,” Bannon said. “Now it’s got more of what our customers want. It’s got the new Lincoln design DNA on the exterior, a redesigned instrument panel, a leather Reserve Package, 22-inch wheels. Once we were able to include all of those elements, I knew we had a winner.”
Luxuriously appointed interior Navigator has long been synonymous with large-scale luxury. On the 2015 Navigator, the Reserve Package introduces a new level of luxury to the vehicle’s interior, providing customers with: An updated cabin that extends ultra-luxurious leather to all three rows of seats, as well as to the armrests, center console and transmission shifter A hand-wrapped, leather instrument panel with contrast stitching and leather glove box door Premium Ziricote wood trim, a luxNavigator Please Turn to Page 20 www.IneedOEMparts.com
GCIA Selects NABR to Conduct Labor Rate Survey in partnership with the new data.” technology to power our survey, the Georgia Collision Industry Association “NABR is very excited to work GCIA Labor Rate Survey is real-time (GCIA), National AutoBody Research with GCIA again,” said Sam Valenzuela, and continuously available online 24-7President of NABR. “They’ve recognized (NABR) announces the launch of the 365,” said Howard Batchelor, Executive GCIA VRS Labor Rate Survey in the state the value of the VRS survey technolDirector for GCIA. “This enables shops of Georgia. Georgia shops can access ogy and online tools to help Georgia to impact the prevailing market rate the free survey shops price their labor both online from either competitively and profitably, For the second consecutive year, NABR conducts the in the context of their marthe GCIA website or ket area, quality, and cost of the NABR website. labor rate survey for GCIA, leveraging its innovative Variable doing business.” The survey is availBeyond taking the able 24 hours a day Rate System technology to produce real-time survey results labor rate survey, all Georgia for the next full year that show the true, market-based labor rate ranges in shops have the opportunity and will take shops Georgia. to request a free demo of less than 10 minthe VRS online toolset, to utes to complete. As repair shops complete the make an informed, educated decision ranges immediately whenever their free online survey, NABR’s VRS technolabout using it in their own business. labor rates change. For example, when ogy automatically calculates the range In addition to Georgia, VRS a shop receives a cost increase from Labor Rate Surveys are currently active of market-based rates for several labor their paint supplier, they can raise their in several other states including Florida, rates including body, paint, frame, rates accordingly to maintain their aluminum, mechanical labor, paint & Idaho, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, profitability, submit the new rate to the material rates, and more. and Texas, with more states coming survey, and the VRS instantly recalcu“Because we use the VRS soon, including Indiana and California.n lates the market labor rate using the
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SCRS Addresses IP Auto Renewal Clauses During the association's open board meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) announced communication efforts on behalf of the industry to address automatic renewal terms with information service providers (IPs) AudaExplore, CCC and Mitchell. SCRS had fielded concerns from different members in varying areas of the country who were involved in complications surrounding the automatic renewals of their contracts. As a result of these conversations, SCRS posed the following questions to the IPs: The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) has received communication from our membership surrounding some of the standard terms and conditions found within your company's license agreement. Specifically, there has been concern expressed surrounding the "evergreen" clause found in the terms of the agreement which commits the end-user to a perpetually renewing contract, unless the end-user provides written notice ninety (90) days prior to the conclusion of the existing term. SCRS, and your customers who have expressed concerns over the term condition, both understand the value of auto-renewal terms and commitments, and have no objection to the ongoing
use of auto-renewal language. However, transparency between end-users and their service providers is important to our membership and we believe, to your full customer base. We are writing to better understand the reasoning behind your existing contract renewal process, and to inquire whether your company would consider adoption of a more proactive notification system prior to auto-renewal. With terms often extending for lengthy periods of time, many business owners do not have recollection of the exact date that the current term expires, or the date by which they have a duty to opt-out of the renewal if they so desire. It is our believe that your company would provide a great service to the industry by providing a written notification prior to the deadline for notification, reminding clients that their current contract term is ending, and that their subscription will be automatically renewed unless they provide written response within a defined period of time. This notification would seemingly protect your interest in a newly renewed contract term, and would provide the end-users the opportunity to responsibly manage their account. We understand that contracts between the ser-
vice provider and the user are individual business agreements, but we hope that your company sees equal value in providing transparency in the transition between contract renewals. If there are reasons you are unable to adopt a more transparent notification process, we ask that you justify that reasoning so that we can pass that on to our membership. As a result of the inquiry, AudaExplore provided a return letter advising that "beginning June 1st, 2015, all new contracts for repairers will continue to have an evergreen clause," but "subsequent renewal terms will only be for one year, regardless of the initial term length." The company also committed to apply this policy retroactively to existing client contracts on a case-bycase basis, and to research a potential future solution to facilitate an automated notification of an upcoming renewal. Click here to see the full response from AudaExplore. CCC's written response highlighted the benefits of the auto-renew feature, and pointed out existing language within their standard master license agreement where "there is a provision that provides [their] customers an opportunity to communicate their intent to not renew the agreement." It Renewal Clauses Turn to Page 33
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2015 Toyota Avalon Marks 20 Years of Blurring the Lines of Luxury Sometimes, bigger is just right. That’s been a key to the success for the Toyota Avalon premium midsize sedan for 20 years. With crystal clarity, the 2015 Avalon shows how this model blurs the lines between mid-size, full-size and entry-luxury categories. The 2015 Avalon ushers in a new round of refinements in the third year of its fourthgeneration design. Taking advantage of the Avalon’s coupe-like silhouette and chiseled lines, a new XLE Touring Sport Edition makes a striking style statement. Available exclusively in Attitude Black contrasted by dark blue interior trim and stitching, the best looker in the premium midsize segment just got even sharper – and even a bit sinister looking. The Avalon XLE Touring Sport Edition cuts through the night with standard HID Quadrabeam headlights from the Limited trim line. By day, LED daytime running lights (DRLs) – also from the Limited -- announce this special Avalon model’s arrival. Exclusive 18-inch black-painted machine-finished wheels complete the exterior makeover. In other Avalon news for 2015, Toyota value rises with the inclusion of standard paddle shifters on all models (formerly only on Touring and Limited) and with an upgrade to new Entune® multimedia audio systems. The XLE Touring and XLE Hybrid Touring gain Blind Spot Monitor as a standard feature. The luxuriously spacious cabin makes the Avalon a standout in the segment. Its accommodations are among the roomiest in the entire midsize category. With 103.6 cu. ft. of cabin space and a 16-cu. ft. trunk, the Avalon approaches full-size stature, yet its trim dimensions and svelte weight of 3,505 lbs. (XLE Touring grades) keep it firmly in the sporty/agile camp. The 2015 Avalon offers a choice www.IneedOEMparts.com
The Toyota Calty Design Research also gets much of the credit for an interior that anyone could mistake for that of a much more expensive luxury model. between an energetic yet silky-smooth V6 powertrain and Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive. The Avalon remains the only car in its class to offer a hybrid. It makes up one of seven hybrid models in the brand’s lineup, making Toyota the clear hybrid leader. All versions of the 2015 Avalon Hybrid are rated by the EPA at an estimated 40-mpg combined fuel economy (40 MPG city / 39 MPG highway). That’s Corolla-like fuel economy in a big, roomy sedan filled to the brim with luxury amenities. Looks Great Cheating the Wind Credit for all the admiring glances the Avalon draws primarily goes to the company’s Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., which designed the exterior. A low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd) lets the Avalon slice through wind resistance, a boon to aid both fuel economy and strength. Some credit for the efficient aerodynamics goes to details like the sleek side mirrors, which house a turn signal lamp, heater, memory positioning, a puddle lamp, available Blind Spot Monitor indicator and available auto-dimming electro-chromatic glass.
Feels and Sounds Like Comfort Calty Design Research also gets much of the credit for an interior that anyone could mistake for that of a much more expensive luxury model. The engaging yet supremely refined driving experience, highlighted by a hushed cabin, sculpted soft-touch interior surfaces and easy-to-use multimedia, also encroaches on luxury territory. Exquisite quietness comes from a combination of strategically placed sound-absorbing and sound-insulating materials, acoustic-type glass used for the windshield and side glass and foam injected into the A-, B- and C-pillars and rocker panels. The Avalon’s quietude sets the stage for any of the three available audio systems: standard 8-speaker Entune Audio Plus; available 9-speaker Entune Premium Audio with Navigation and App Suite; or the available Entune Premium JBL® Audio with Navigation and App Suite with 11 JBL GreenEdge™ speakers. Avalon Please Turn to Page 25
August 2015
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Repair Information for Toyota Vehicles Is Now Available to Collision Repairers Mitchell, a leading provider of to ensure consumer confidence,” ing estimates on passenger vehicles, as technology, connectivity and inforsaid Rick Leos, Collision Program well as light, medium and heavy trucks, mation solutions to the Property & Developer, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., motorcycles, recreational vehicles and Casualty (P&C) claims and Collision Inc. “Mitchell’s expertise in estimating, boats. Repair industries, today released coupled with Toyota’s quality repair Toyota Recommended Repair Toyota’s Recommended Repair procedures, makes data easily accesProcedures is now included in Mitchell Procedures within their desktop solusible, which benefits customers, repair Estimating, also known as UltraMate, tion, Mitchell Estimating, also known as experts and insurance companies alike.” to all customers with an active subUltraMate. The Toyota Recommended Mitchell Estimating combines scription. To learn more about Toyota Repair Procedures offer two key benindustry-leading databases with softRecommended Repair Procedures, visit efits. First, estimators can reduce the ware technology for appraisers writwww.mitchell.com/toyota. n time required to write a collision estimate by offering the ability to access a preconfigured list of all the parts and labor associated with a repair, allowing them to keep the information that applies and omit what does not. Second, users can access all Service and Collision Repair Information Bulletins associated with the repair directly from Toyota’s Marietta Technical Information System (TIS) during the estimating process, eliminating the need to reference multiple sources thereby speeding the process of restoring a Toyota vehicle to pre-accident condition. • Free Delivery • Knowledgeable Staff “We are committed • Competitive Discounts • Professional Service to bringing innovations to Direct the market that create efficiency in the overall repair process for both repairCall the VW Parts Professionals ers and insurers,” said Sunil Toll Free Nayak, Senior Director of Product Management. “With Toyota Recommended Repair FAX Procedures, users of Mitchell Estimating can instantly access all the Toyota repair procedures, parts and labor, Pam Sandra and technical information, Elder Hernandez enabling them to quickly shernandez@jimellis.com pame@jimellis.com write an estimate and repair Free Shipping the vehicle using up-to-date Toll Free Direct information directly from the Competitive Discounts manufacturer. This eliminates 888-798-4131 770-370-4865 Large Inventory the need to search out inforFAX mation and helps ensure that the shop has everything they 678-581-9859 need to repair a Toyota vehi1715 Cobb Parkway S cle.” 950 Barrett Parkway “The partnership with Marietta, GA 30060 Mitchell reinforces our goal Kennesaw, GA 30144
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All-New 2016 Honda Pilot SUV Begins Mass Production in Alabama More than 1,500 associates at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama (HMA) recently celebrated the start of mass production of the all-new, thoroughly redesigned and reimagined 2016 Honda Pilot, which went on sale in June at Honda dealerships nationwide. HMA is the exclusive manufacturer of the family friendly, up to 8-passenger Honda Pilot SUV and its advanced direct-injected i-VTEC V-6 engine. "Today we celebrate the incredible dedication of our Alabama team to delivering an outstanding new Pilot that will set the course for others to follow," said Jeff Tomko, president of HMA. "I want to congratulate our associates for their unqualified commitment to building a new Pilot of the highest quality that exceeds the expectations of our customers."
Designed, developed and manufactured in America, the all-new 2016 Honda Pilot SUV is improved in every imaginable way - with dynamic new styling, an even more spacious and family-friendly cabin, a more powerful and efficient new powertrain, and more advanced technology and premium features than ever before. All three generations of the Honda Pilot have been designed and developed in America by Honda R&D Americas, Inc. at its Los Angeles design studio and Raymond, Ohio R&D center. "Our U.S.-based development team lives with the midsize family SUV everyday and we have applied our deep understanding into the development of this best ever, third-generation Pilot," said Marc Ernst, chief engineer at Honda R&D Americas in Raymond, Ohio and
development leader for the new Pilot. "We advanced Pilot's dual-purpose character by increasing both family utility and personal sophistication to meet the needs of the driver and passengers in every dimension of their life." The Pilot is designed to achieve the highest safety ratings of any vehicle in its class, and offers Honda Sensing((TM)), a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies that can help drivers avoid a collision or mitigate its severity. The Pilot is produced alongside the Honda Odyssey, which is leading all other minivans in sales to individual American retail car buyers in 2015. Honda's Alabama-built light-truck lineup will be further strengthened when HMA begins production of an all-new Honda Ridgeline pickup early next year.n
Repairing A Maserati? We Can Help. Help
Maserati of Atlanta Southern Automotive Journal,Inc. P.O. Box 675097 Marietta, Ga 30006-0009 (770) 321-9920 E-Mail jtucker@sajonline.net Volume 19 Issue No. 8
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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 2013. All rights reserved.
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Insurance Claims From Page 6 With growth of both the oldest and newest vehicles, the industry is experiencing pressure in repair costs for the newer vehicles and higher total loss frequency for the older vehicles at a time when used vehicle values remain elevated. Growth in the average number of parts replaced per claim as well as more labor hours per claim are largely account for the rise in repair costs.13 Increasing vehicle complexity – both in terms of the materials used in the construction of the vehicles as well as an increased number of standard options, are also helping to lift costs. A comparison of the change in the standard options included in several high volume vehicles illustrates how changes in vehicle safety standards and the need to meet consumer demands for comfort and convenience. For example, the Hyundai Sonata GLS MY 1989 had 23 standard options, but by the MY 2014, this number grew to 44.14 The 1995 Honda Odyssey had 29 standard options, while the MY 2015 has 52.15 And while the 2015 Ford F150 has been in the spotlight for the introduction of its aluminum body panels, the base model for the F150, has seen significant growth in the number of standard options over time.16 Total loss costs remain elevated, as demand for used vehicles remains
strong, and supply on the wholesale side has not surged beyond demand.17 With the majority of total loss vehicles aged 7-years plus, where additional supply is smaller than for newer models, prices remain steady.18 Subsequently as repair costs rise across all vehicle ages, older model year vehicles (which now make up a larger share of overall claims volume) will quickly reach the point where the repair cost exceeds the total loss threshold, and those vehicles will be totaled.19 For example, in Q1 2015, the average repair cost for repairable vehicles with a collision or liability loss aged 16-years plus was $2,395, while the average total loss vehicle value for that same subset of vehicles was $3,095.20 Combined these factors are driving up overall claim costs. But what about frequency? Consumers on the Road Again Miles driven have finally returned to their pre-recession levels as well; the rolling 12 months ending March 2015 are 0.8 percent higher than the pre-recession peak in November 2007.21 For the first quarter of 2015 miles driven are up 3.9 percent overall from the same period in 2014.22 With more people back at work, and gas prices low, consumers are driving more, taking more trips. Data from AAA and the U.S. Energy Information Administration showed that
gasoline demand for the week leading up to Memorial Day was the highest weekly since August 2007.23 Gasoline prices have begun to rise but are still well below their peak. The decline in price per barrel of oil from $104 in July 2014 to $47 per barrel in January 2015 was the largest six-monthly drop since 1986, and as of June 1, 2015, gas prices averaged $2.66 per gallon.24 Comparing miles driven by type of road in Q1 2015 versus Q1 2014 reveals that the largest increases have been on Rural Interstate and Urban interstate roads.25 Recent data from the National Safety Council (NSC)also shows a rise in vehicle fatalities of 11 percent in Q1 2015 versus Q1 2014; following on monthly year-over-year increases of 2 percent, 4 percent, and 11 percent in Oct 2014, Nov 2014, and Dec 2014.26 Certainly the increases in both miles driven and vehicle fatalities are also a by-product of simply more vehicles on the road. Despite the rise in deaths, the NSC’s estimated annual mileage death rate of 1.2 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled is unchanged from the preliminary 2014 rate.27 Additionally, dividing each odometer average by the age of the vehicle, this suggests that miles driven per year per loss vehicle continue to be on the slight decline.n
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I-CAR Honors Bergstrom Automotive Body Shop Manager Joel Preissner for Contributions to Collision Repair Industry Training
I-CAR, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, recently presented its Robert Author Smith Tech Center Award to Joel Preissner, body shop manager for Bergstrom Automotive in Neenah, Wisconsin. Bergstrom is one of Wisconsin’s largest automotive groups and has several Gold Class® shops. Preissner joins Mike Hoke, president of Abaris Training Resources, Inc., of Reno, Nevada, as a 2014 award winner. Hoke received the award at the national SEMA Show in Las Vegas late last year. The honor is presented to individuals and/or businesses that have provided exceptional support to I-CAR course development, recognizing them for lending their knowledge and expertise as well as their commitment to bringing timely and relevant I-CAR training to the industry. This is the only I-CAR award not limited to those within the I-CAR network. “Joel has made invaluable contributions to I-CAR’s efforts over the past year,” said I-CAR Director of Curriculum and Product Development Josh McFarlin. “He recognizes the importance of I-CAR programs and has made his shop and his time available to support the advancement of our training programs – helping benefit the entire I-CAR community for years to come.” Preissner was named for helping to develop a new training role for the industry: the shop production manager, who manages the repair and customer-service process. He participated throughout the DACUM (Developing a Curriculum) process for the production management role and opened up his state-of-the-art shop a number of times during the year for I-CAR to conduct photo and video shoots for product development. He was selected for the award by a vote of I-CAR Tech Center staff, comprising the organization’s Repairability Technical Support personnel, the product 18
Southern Automotive Journal
development team and the fulfillment group. Preissner received the award at the body shop that he manages in Neenah, where he was surprised by I-CAR executives and Bergstrom Automotive Chairman John Bergstrom, who congratulated Preissner on the recognition. Bergstrom is committed to Gold Class, an I-CAR recognition that lets consumers
August 2015
know a collision repair shop has technicians who have received the standard of training required to perform complete, safe and quality repairs. Hoke was instrumental in helping I-CAR instructors develop their expertise on carbon fiber repair and in developing the carbon-fiber training course. He worked extensively with I-CAR staff on the program’s development and trained
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standard electric power-assisted steering. This allows for more consistent and precise control of the vehicle through a range of speeds while simultaneously making it easier to maneuver at low speeds, and in particular making it easier to park. The Lincoln Drive Control option adds Lincoln’s Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD), a suspension system that monitors multiple vehicle sensors and road conditions every two milliseconds and adjusts the suspension
beneath both front doors greet Navigator owners when they press the “unlock” button on the key fob. urious natural-grain wood new to the A passive entry system allows automotive industry, most commonly owners to enter without using a key. used as an accent in yachts The system senses when the key fob is The Wollsdorf leather-wrapped, in range of the door and allows for keywood-trimmed steering wheel features less access via a door-mounted button. a thicker grip and softer touch for a Inside, a push-button start allows for more dynamic driving experience. keyless engine ignition. Designed to seat up to eight peoThe latest SYNC® with MyLincoln ple, Navigator offers buyers second-row Touch™ driver connectivity system is options that include two captain’s chairs, standard. The system allows drivers to with or without a center console, or a use voice-activatfold-flat bench. ed or touch screen Due in part to controls to make Navigator’s patphone calls, play ented indepenmusic, use the dent rear suspennavigation syssion, which allows tem or set cabin for true foldtemperature conflat, PowerFold® trols. The system third-row seats, includes 4.2-inch extended-length LCD displays in and standard the instrument wheelbase modcluster, an 8-inch els are projected touch screen in to deliver segthe center stack ment- leading and traditional Featuring seating for up cargo volume. knob controls for to eight passengers, luxury easy operation. A smoother, more cues typically reserved for sedans and cargo space and towing capacity The availpowerful ride able Blind Spot R e p l a c i n g to haul virtually anything, Navigator sets the full-size luxury SUV standard. Information the 5.4-liter V8 System (BLIS®) sigthat has powered Navigator for years is needs accordingly. CCD also provides a nals when another vehicle is detected a more powerful and fuel-efficient 3.5smoother and improved ride – best-ever in an adjacent lane behind either rear liter EcoBoost engine. for Navigator – and allows the driver wheel. Standard for 2015, Navigator The twin turbocharged, direct to customize the ride of the vehicle by also introduces a new rearview camera, injection engine is projected to deliver selecting one of three different control which displays a color image on the at least 370 horsepower and 430 lb.modes: Normal, Sport and Comfort. 8-inch touch screen for help when drivft. of torque, according to preliminary Navigator also offers driver-friending in reverse. test data. Final numbers will be availly Hill Start/Descent Assist. When parked Navigator was wildly popular the able closer to production. The 3.5-liter on a hill with a grade of five degrees moment it hit the streets in the late EcoBoost is also projected to deliver or more, the vehicle remains stationary 1990s, and spent more than a decade best-in-class towing. for up to two seconds after the driver as one of the top-selling vehicles in the Navigator features a six-speed releases the brake pedal. segment. Featuring seating for up to automatic transmission with Lincoln’s Standard-equipped Navigators will eight passengers, luxury cues typically SelectShift, which allows the driver to continue to offer Nivomat®, a load-levelreserved for sedans and cargo space manually control gears if desired. The ing system that automatically raises a and towing capacity to haul virtually vehicle is available in both four-wheelloaded rear end to optimum ride height anything, Navigator set the full-size luxdrive and rear-wheel-drive configurafor improved handling. The mechanical ury SUV standard. tions. The available Control Trac Fourleveling system helps reduce uneven It was an immediate success, Wheel-Drive system enhances traction wear on front and rear tires and helps accounting for 41 percent of in-segment on slippery surfaces, helps improve hanmaintain better vehicle aerodynamics. sales by the 2000 model year. Aiming to dling on dry roads and enables off-road recapture that glory, the 2015 Navigator capability. Technology-based luxury offers nearly two dozen upgrades from Helping make this the best-hanIlluminated “welcome mats” the previous generation.n dling Navigator ever is the addition of Navigator From Page 8
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August 2015
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Study Shows Volkswagen Chattanooga Expansion Could Add 9,800 Jobs and $370 Million to the Tennessee Economy University of Tennessee Study Underscores the Role of Incentives as a Driver of Economic Growth A University of Tennessee Center of Business and Economic Research (CBER) study released in May indicates that the expansion of Volkswagen’s Chattanooga manufacturing facility to produce a new midsize-SUV and the opening of a North American Engineering and Planning Center could create approximately 9,800 jobs and add $370 million in additional annual income, once the plant is fully operational. “The findings in the CBER study demonstrate that the incentive package recently passed by the Tennessee legislature will result in an economic growth multiplier of several times the state’s investment,” said David Geanacopoulos, Executive Vice President for Public Affairs and General Counsel, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “We would like to thank Gov. Bill Haslam and Economic and Community Development Commissioner Randy Boyd for their leadership in fostering a business environment within Tennessee that is mutually-beneficial for the state and local economy as well as for compa-
nies like Volkswagen that have operations in the state.” In addition to the 2,400 Tennessee workers directly employed by Volkswagen, the study projects that Volkswagen’s $704 million investment in the Chattanooga plant expansion, including the opening of a new North American Engineering and Planning Center, has the potential to: Generate $217 million of new income and more than 5,300 indirect and direct jobs in Tennessee during the construction and tooling phase Create roughly 9,800 jobs, once the plant is fully operational, including 1,800 potential jobs at the production plant, 200 engineering jobs at the VW North American Engineering and Planning Center, as well as positions at auto parts suppliers, and other jobs throughout Tennessee Be responsible for $370 million in additional annual income, once the plant is fully operational “Extensive supplier linkages and good incomes earned by Volkswagen employees account for the significant employment gains and economic multiplier effects in Tennessee,” said William Fox, the study’s author and Director of the Center for Business &
Economic Research at the University of Tennessee. “This includes jobs in many industries across the state, such as grocery stores, restaurants, shopping malls and construction.” Construction for the Volkswagen Chattanooga expansion project is currently underway, and is expected to be completed during the summer of 2016. Production of the Volkswagen midsize-SUV is scheduled to commence at the end of 2016, marking the second Volkswagen model to be produced in Chattanooga, in addition to the Passat. “The study underscores Volkswagen’s commitment to Tennessee, and we are excited to grow our team and the Chattanooga plant as we gear up for the production of our first-ever seven-passenger SUV for the U.S. market,” said Christian Koch, President and CEO, Volkswagen Chattanooga. “We appreciate our partnerships with Hamilton County Mayor Coppinger and Chattanooga Mayor Berke, as well as Governor Haslam, for their ongoing support of Volkswagen’s expansion in Chattanooga.” The CBER study is commissioned by Volkswagen Group of America. Findings within the study are independent calculations by CBER researchers.n
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Avalon From Page 13 An interior available in three themes -- almond, light grey and black – is replete with premium touches, such as smoke chrome trim surrounding the center panel and glossy trim around the shifter. The leather-wrapped steering wheel puts a multitude of controls at the driver’s fingertips, including audio cruise control, information display and hands-free phone function. The steering wheel also includes buttons for voice recognition and a vehicleto-vehicle distance switch for Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, when so equipped. Luxury Details Everywhere You Look and Touch Eyes and hands find luxury details throughout the Avalon’s cabin. Actually, those details start outside with the standard Smart Key System on the driver door and trunk with push-button starting. The rich-looking instrument panel
uses Optitron-type gauges and a 3.5inch thin-film transistor (TFT) color multi-information display. In the Avalon Hybrid, the display features a Hybrid System Indicator, which shows power output and regeneration – informative for the driver, and perhaps a bit enter-
taining for the passenger. Even backing up in an Avalon feels luxurious. All Avalon models come with a backup camera as standard. In the Limited, dynamic guidelines superimposed on the display are a real boon to parking maneuvers by showing approximate distances from objects in the camera’s field of view. The rear window power shade in the Avalon Limited blocks the sun’s rays for the rear pas-
sengers. Shift into reverse, and the shade rises until shifting into Drive. Two Kinds of Power Toyota Avalon accelerates powerfully and quietly with a standard 3.5liter, DOHC V6, an interesting contrast to the 4-cylinder engines now used in some midsize luxury models. Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) ensures ample torque across the engine speed range. The engine produces 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 rpm. Teamed with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the V6 can move the Avalon from zero to 60 mph in less than seven seconds. Fuel efficiency is equally impressive, with EPA-rated 24 mpg combined (21 city/31 highway). Feeling sporty? Push the shift lever from D into S mode and shift manually. Sport mode provides highly responsive upshift control and throttle blipping Avalon Please Turn to Page 34
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In early June, leaders "As we continue from Georgia Power joined into the future with executives from Porsche electrified vehicles, Cars North America (PCNA) and more than 100 local charging stations are PCNA employees to recbecoming vital not ognize the automotive only for our corpocompany for its commitment to electric vehicle rate offices at One (EV) workplace charging. Porsche Drive, but During a special event at PCNA headquarters, also for our customGeorgia Power presented ers and dealerships PCNA with a rebate followas part of our sales ing the installation of 24 and service offerLevel 2 workplace chargers at the location earlier this ings," said Tim Quinn, year. The $12,000 rebate vice president of was presented as part of Georgia Power's EV char- AfterSales for Porsche ger rebate program for Cars North America. business customers, which offers qualifying customers a $500 rebate for each new 240volt Level 2 workplace charger installed. "Businesses across the state are recognizing the benefits of electric transportation by adding EVs to their corporate fleets and by making workplace charging convenient for employees who drive electric," said Latanza Adjei, vice president of sales for Georgia Power, at the event. "We would like to thank Porsche Cars North America for their commitment to workplace charging and for participating in our rebate program." Since launching the EV charger rebate program for business customers in late 2014, Georgia Power has awarded more than 250 individual rebates to companies of all sizes. "As we continue into the future with electrified vehicles, charging stations are becoming vital not only for our corporate offices at One Porsche Drive, but also for our customers and dealerships as part of our sales and service offerings," said Tim Quinn, vice president of AfterSales for Porsche Cars North America. Georgia companies are providing workplace charging to meet corporate sustainability goals, empower employees to save money on fuel and maintenance costs and reduce their overall travel time and commute costs. Georgia Power is focused on assisting customers with their EV energy needs and advancing Georgia as an EV-friendly state through an ongoing public education campaign and services including public charging infrastructure, EV charger rebates and a special rate for EV customers. The company also recently rolled out dozens of plug-in electric hybrid vehicles as part of its statewide fleet.n Southern Automotive Journal
27
S Landmark Athens Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Landmark Athens U Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram 4145 Atlanta Hwy. P Athens, GA 30606 Direct P 866-224-9812 Local L 706.549.7570 Fax I 706.208.3619 E R S P O T L I G H T 28
Commercial Billing Services
by Russ Heaps A 180-degree change in attitude is all it took to boost wholesale parts sales at Landmark Athens Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram from next to zero in 2010 to the $125,000-plus average it is today – well, a change in attitude and some serious elbow grease. In 2009, Fred Brillanti brought his Landmark brand to Athens, Georgia when he acquired the Dodge Chrysler Jeep at 4145 Atlanta Highway. A casualty of the the 2008 recession, Barret had announced it would probably be closing its doors when Brillanti stepped in. Brillanti also owns Landmark Atlanta and Landmark Morrow – both Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep and Ram dealerships – as well as Landmark Fiat of Atlanta. For all intents and purposes, the wholesale parts department didn't exist beyond the needs of the dealership's own service department. It just wasn't something in which the former ownership seemed particularly interested. That and the logistical headaches of delivering parts to customers from a less-than-central location like Athens, left wholesale parts an untapped resource. Coming on board as the parts department manager shortly after the ownership change, Brad Shelnutt
Southern Automotive Journal
August 2015
found himself back where he started. It's sort of a partsdepartment circle of life. Then 14 years into his partssales career, Landmark Athens was his initial opportunity at management, but not his first time at the store location; his first automotive job was as a parts-counter person at Barrett Dodge Chrysler Jeep. “I was pretty wet behind the ears,” Shelnutt admitted about his early days at Barret in his shootfrom-the-hip style. “On day one, I didn't know anything. A friend of mine worked there and got me the job. I didn't have a clue.” Learning the ropes there, Shelnutt moved on to a 10-year stint at another Chrysler store where he was selling parts when Landmark Athens tapped him to head its parts department. Receiving a healthy dose of culture shock, he returned to find that little had changed in his 10-year absence. “I looked around and couldn't believe things had changed so little,” he said. “The department had two employees and about $300,000 in inventory. And, a lot of that was outdated. Most of our warehouse was being used to store service-department tools. We couldn't www.IneedOEMparts.com
Landmark Athens Parts Team
Brad Shelnutt bshelnutt@athensdcj.com
Phillip Woods pwoods@athensdcj.com
Kyle Evilsizor kevilsizor@athensdcj.com
print orders or invoices. The only printer in the parts department was an old line printer. We had to run up front into the dealership to print almost everything. Getting wholesale up and running was like starting from scratch!” But, according to Shelnutt, it was starting from scratch with an owner committed to having a successful wholesale parts operation. “Mr. Brillanti has let us grow without putting any real restraints on me,” he stated. “When I need something, I call or e-mail him and I have it. I asked for one new delivery truck and got three brand-new Ram ProMasters. I asked for more parts space and got a second warehouse. That just doesn't happen. He has big plans for us as we continue to grow. As long as I get from point A to point B, he let's me go. He doesn't micromanage us.” Today, not only does Shelnutt have the original 7,500 sq.-ft. warehouse entirely for parts storage, but a second 2,000 sq.-ft. warehouse down the street. The $300,000 inventory has grown to an average of around $1.1 million. Wholesale parts sales have gone from zero to more than $125,000 a month, contributing to the $325,000 in total monthly average parts sales. www.IneedOEMparts.com
Cale Gunter cgunter@athensdcj.com Cesar Garcia cgarcia@athensdcj.com
His team has grown as well from two to eleven, including four sales people, four delivery drivers, one warehouseman and two outside sales people. “The team now is all people I've recruited,” Shelnutt said. Memories of Barret linger, however. Shelnutt says his biggest challenge remains convincing potential customers, still remembering Barret's lackluster wholesale-parts effort, to give Landmark Athens a try. he explained. “Wholesale wasn't a priority and people remember that. We're taking it one customer at a time. We win one, prove ourselves and then move on to the next.” Among the examples of going the extra mile to win a new customer or strengthen the relationship with a current one, Shelnutt described sending one of his trucks on a 200-mile round trip to deliver a $3.25 bolt. “No, it didn't make sense,” he said, “but it's what you do to win a customer. The idea is they will remember the next time they have a big order and give it to you. Getting them to give us that first shot is the toughest thing; when they do, we make the most of it.” Although they ship parts to some far-flung places, most orders are filled August 2015
with one of Landmark Athens' own delivery trucks, ranging out through Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and the Florida panhandle. Occasionally this means the expense of making a second run to a customer to complete an order. “We do what we have to to fill an order,” Shelnutt emphasized. “If that means delivering what we have on the shelf on the first run, then delivering the rest when our order arrives from Chrysler, that's what we do.” Going forward, Shelnutt just wants to continue growing the business, and he knows the only way to do that is maintaining a high level of customer service – a conviction he reinforces with his young team every day. “Our job is to do more and do it better than the next guy,” he stated. “We can really make something happen here. Right now I wouldn't want to be anywhere else!” Oh, and about that old line printer Shelnutt discovered in the department when he returned, it's still there. “Of course we have printers to do what we need,” he said, “but I've held on to that line printer and still use it for some things. It was here in 1996 when I first started. I like having it around.”n Southern Automotive Journal
29
Hyundai Donates 2015 Sonata To High School Automotive Program Company Committed to Supporting the Technicians of Tomorrow Essex Technical High School in Massachusetts received a new addition to its Technology and Services Academy from Hyundai Motor America. The company donated a 2015 Sonata that will be used to train new technicians, which is extremely critical for the automotive industry. The students and faculty received the keys earlier this summer. "We are proud to support training programs that prepare the next generation of automotive technicians," said Frank Ferrara, executive vice president, customer satisfaction, Hyundai Motor America. "The 2015 Sonata will help educate, inspire and motivate the technicians of tomorrow." Students in the Automotive Technology Academy learn how to per-
email airvin@jimburke.com
email jtatum@jimburke.com
form vehicle repairs for actual customers by using the latest technology. "Donations from Hyundai support successful automotive technicians, allowing us to give instruction on the latest technologies in the industry," said Tom Forsyth, automotive instructor, Essex Technical High School. "We need a good mix of new and late model cars to train students. We thank Hyundai for its commitment of educating young technicians." According to Superintendent, Dan O'Connell, this is Hyundai's second business partnership with Essex Technical High School. Essex Technical High School's Machine Tool Technology career area has Hyundai machines in a business partnership with Compumachine of Danvers. Essex Technical High School is Massachusetts' newest public regional
email email dswyer@jimburke.com ghilton@jimburke.com
"We are proud to support training programs that prepare the next generation of automotive technicians," said Frank Ferrara, executive vice president, customer satisfaction, Hyundai Motor America. "The 2015 Sonata will help educate, inspire and motivate the technicians of tomorrow." technical and agricultural high school with 24 career areas serving 17 north shore communities.n
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Parts Managers - We Buy Obsolete NISSAN Parts - Call Jon 30
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Volvo Cars’ standard safety technology cuts accident claims by 28 percent One of the most comprehensive scientific studies performed on collision avoidance systems in cars reveals that Volvo Cars’ standard City Safety technology reduces insurance claims for rear-end frontal collisions by 28 per cent. Based on real-life accumulated insurance claims data from the Swedish insurers If and Volvia, the study of City Safety performance conclusively reveals the real-life value of auto braking collision avoidance systems. The main benefit of City Safety is its ability to reduce the incidence of whiplash and other neck-related injuries caused by low-speed traffic accidents. The secondary benefit to Volvo car drivRenewal Clauses From Page 11 was their position that "this provision provides an appropriate mechanism for both parties to manage the contract renewal process." Click here to see the full response from CCC. Mitchell responded via email concluding that while "there is no contracting process that will delight every customer, we believe our current approach to auto-renew at like term serves the needs of our broad and diverse customer base well with the smallest amount of service disruption possible." Further email communications to elaborate on their current process resulted in a response stating "all of [Mitchell's] contracts have an auto-renew clause.
Strong statistical sample The study is based on robust insurance company data which covers over 160,000 vehicle years in traffic making it unique in the study of collision avoidance systems. Unlike police or emergency response sourced data, insurance company data covers all accidents – regardless of whether people are injured, giving a more holistic overview of the real-life performance of Volvo Cars’ standard City Safety technology. “Volvo Cars launched its first collision avoidance technology in 2006. City Safety was introduced as standard
in all new Volvo car models from 2008. Since then we’ve been monitoring the performance of our collision avoidance systems in Volvo Cars throughout Sweden, where we have a 20 per cent market share. This is a very strong statistical sample to base findings on, as every fifth car on the road in Sweden is a Volvo,” said Magdalena Lindman, Technical Expert, Traffic Safety Data Analysis at Volvo Cars. The figures from the study show that cars equipped with the first two generations of City Safety (active automatic braking up to 30/50 km/h in certain traffic situations) were involved in 28 per cent fewer accidents and subsequent insurance claims. n
That clause does allow the shop to cancel with notification at their renewal date. [Mitchell's] current process does not include a renewal notification." Click here to see the full response from Mitchell. "Part of SCRS' purpose is to advocate for better business conditions on behalf of our membership," shared SCRS Chairman Andy Dingman. "When there are broad sweeping policies in place that could be adjusted to better serve our industry, we see value in identifying and seeking improvement. We are pleased that with at least two of the three IPs the communication resulted in either an improvement in the renewal approach or clarification that options exist for the consumer to avoid auto-
renewal altogether, should they desire." The SCRS Board of Directors continues to desire a solution from all three entities that would provide more automated notifications to prompt endusers prior to contract periods renewing, when the automatic renewal is in place. "As software and technology companies, programming a notification solution for this industry need seems like it should present an opportunity for these companies to shine," concluded Dingman. SCRS continues to urge collision repair businesses to pay close attention to terms and commitments of all contracts prior to entering into any agreement.n
ers is a reduction in accident damage to their cars and the costs that this incurs.
Volvo of Marietta We Welcome Troy to Our Wholsale Team!
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Avalon From Page 25 downshift control. All V6 models feature steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. And, there’s a drive mode to suit the mood, with Eco, Normal and Sport modes enabling the driver to tailor the Avalon’s responsiveness. Hybrid Synergy Drive Once you know that the EPA estimated the Avalon Hybrid at 40-MPG combined fuel economy rating, the 8.0-second zero-to-60 acceleration performance might come as a bit of a shock. More significant, though, is the car’s substantial torque, which makes this roomy sedan feel quick and responsive in everyday driving. And, the Avalon Hybrid comes equipped with a 17-gallon fuel tank capacity, offering an extended driving range. The powertrain is a modified version of the Hybrid Synergy Drive sys-
tem that also propels the Camry Hybrid, and, remember, the Avalon Hybrid is no heavyweight on the scales. In fact, it’s just 133 lbs. heavier than the V6 gasoline
model. The compactly sized nickel-metal-hydride battery, located in the trunk area, still allows a generous 14 cu.-ft. of trunk space. The Hybrid Synergy Drive system combines output from the 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine and
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Daily Parts Delivery Throughout The Southeast! 34
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a high-torque electric motor. The system produces a combined 200 horsepower and varies power between the gas engine and electric motor, or combines both, as needed, channeling torque through a unique planetary gear-type continuously variable transmission. Air conditioning and power steering systems are driven electrically and continue to operate when the car is operating under electric power alone or when the auto start/stop system shuts off the gas engine. In EV Drive mode, the Avalon Hybrid can drive solely on the electric motor for a short distance at speeds under about 20 mph. A driver-selectable ECO mode optimizes throttle response and air conditioning output to help prioritize fuel economy. Augmenting the conventional brake system, regenerative braking produced by the electric motor/generator in the transaxle captures the kinetic energy
August 2015
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