February 2020 Issue

The New Ford Explorer

Increased Standard Equipment and Enhanced Exterior Design

COLLISION NEWS CIECA Analysis of Trends from Susanna Gotsch

Jeep® Wrangler New Eco Diesel

February 2020

442 lb.-ft. of Torque

Kia’s Futuron Concept Proposes an Illuminating New Design for an Electric SUV Coupe

Carolinas Collision Association NCACAR & SCACAR Merge BASF Donates 42 Spray Guns to 21 Schools CCC Awards Two Classroom Enhancement Grants Through the Collision Repair Education Foundation

DEALER NEWS NADA Forecasts 2020 U.S. Auto Sales Volume at 16.8 Million New Vehicles Change to America’s Retirement System Offers Flexibility and Options for Small Businesses

Kia Motors has revealed its Futuron Concept, an illuminating all-wheel drive SUV coupe which proposes new designs for future electric vehicles.

The Futuron Concept represents the modern and confident image of a progressive electric SUV coupe envisioned by Kia. The Futuron name itself is a portmanteau of ‘future’ and ‘on’, hinting at the switched-on, electric nature of future SUV designs from the brand.

With a design based around the notion of dynamic purity, the Futuron Concept merges elegant proportions with pure shapes and surfaces. Its lightweight SUV coupe body incorporates a fully-electric all-wheel drive powertrain, wrapped in bold yet modern exterior surfaces, and with a flexible, high-tech interior.

Futuron Please Turn to Page 4

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Its low-profile SUV coupe body makes

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statement of intent for Kia’s future cars, which will be confident, sporty and modern, yet also elegant.

An electric SUV coupe with a ‘360-degree core’ The Kia Futuron Concept is built around a single, strong ‘360-degree’ design notable for its pure, smooth form devoid of ornament. The delicate diffusion of the body’s surfaces creates a series of taut, flowing shapes which twist, expand and contract around the body. The result is a sleek and streamlined shape, creating an aero-efficient profile.

The novel proportions of the car are immediately striking. Its low-profile SUV coupe body makes a strong statement of intent for Kia’s future cars, which will be confident, sporty and modern, yet also elegant.

The Futuron’s fully-electric powertrain makes this shape possible. A highcapacity battery is mounted low in the

vehicle’s body, beneath the cabin floor, providing electrical energy to four powerful in-wheel electric motors. The elevated stance of the car is therefore matched with a low centre of gravity and a cutting-edge e-AWD system which delivers lightningfast responses to driver inputs.

A sports car on an SUV platform, combined with comfortable, lean-back seats, Futuron offers users a new type of interactive driving experience suitable for urban city environments. Various elements of the vehicle’s structure and design foster the important connection and interaction between car and driver.

The front fender flows backwards from the front of the hood before plunging into the cabin itself, establishing a connection between the driving seat and the road ahead. The concept’s roof is a diamond-shaped panoramic glasshouse which sits atop the 360-degree core, in

Southern Automotive Journal

February 2020

Futuron From Cover

4

the best traditions of UFO and flying saucer design. While flooding the cabin with natural light, it also extends down the bonnet to give drivers an unparalleled view ahead. The glasshouse also incorporates a network of LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensors capable of providing Level 4 autonomous driving features, enabling hands-off and eyes-off driving in most conditions.

Furthermore, the 360-degree theme is evident in the lighting that illuminates a sharp character line encircling the Futuron’s body. A playful and interactive new feature, this lighting responds to physical gestures and movements made outside the car, eliciting a close connection between vehicle and driver before they even set foot in the cabin.

The new ‘tiger face’ of Kia The front of the Futuron features a new reinterpretation of Kia’s ‘tiger nose’ www.IneedOEMparts.com

grille, a signature for Kia design now for over a decade. While maintaining the basic principle of the design – a clear outline with tabs in the middle – Kia’s designers have expanded the boundaries, widening the shape across the front of the car to create a restrained, yet elegant ‘tiger face’.

The newly-designed front of the car, like that of the Imagine by Kia Concept first revealed earlier in 2019, expresses a new design interpretation for Kia’s future electric vehicles.

With a wider ‘tiger face’ shape, the grille incorporates the Futuron’s headlamps, an innovative ‘Star Cloud’ design which gives the car a dazzling new night-time

identity. The concept’s Star Cloud lighting not only highlights a new design form for the front of the car, but also embodies a new lighting concept for Kia, taking inspiration from nebulae in the night sky to create a geometric patchwork of matrix LED lighting. The Star Cloud is also incorporated into the rear of the car, displaying a distinct light signature to anyone following the Futuron.

Revealed for the first time in Shanghai, the Futuron also incorporates Chinese legend in the design and form of its new Star Cloud lighting. The Dragon Skin surface which covers the lighting area emulates the scaled armor that adorns Chinese dragons, both in mythology and

modern-day cultural celebrations. The Star Cloud lighting incorporates a kinetic surface, enabling the car to alternate between daytime running lights and fullbeam headlamps as the scales open and close.

Flexible and autonomous cabin space The layout of the electric powertrain and incorporation of Level 4 autonomous driving systems has enabled the creation of a spacious and flexible cabin unlike any other vehicle on roads. The two front seats are created out of flexible materials and can offer an upright ‘driving’ position, or a reclined ‘rest’ position, similar Futuron Please Turn to Page 10

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February 2020

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1st Certified Collision Centers Honor Co-Founder’s Memory by Donating Two Thomas Coleman Memorial Grants Through the Collision Repair Education Foundation At the Collision Repair Education Foundation’s Awards Ceremony during SEMA, 1stCertified Collision Centers bestowed two Thomas Coleman Memorial Grants, totaling $45,000, upon two Southern Californian schools to benefit their collision repair training programs. El Camino College (Torrance, CA) is the recipient of a $25,000 grant, while Norwalk High School (Norwalk, CA) will receive $20,000. Eligibility for these awards was achieved by applying for the 2019 Collision Repair Education Benchmark Grant.

Norwalk High School Instructor of Automotive Collision Repair Ken Cook plans to use the funds to build ten fully equipped work stations and to buy a variety of needed tools and equipment, including a set of MIG welding pliers and a new MIG welding machine, that will prepare students to become successful entry-level employees once they graduate. In 2018, Norwalk’s collision program budget was just $1000, but despite the fiscal restraints, Cook’s students have won gold at SkillsUSA four times since 2011, and they have earned the SkillsUSA Models of Excellence Award each year since 2015.

Cook shared, “I’m still in disbelief that we secured that much money – the

impact of this $20,000 is going to be amazing! New equipment creates new experiences, and it’s going to be exciting to watch everything take place! Our program has an actual wish list of tools, and now it’s a reality! We are so grateful to everybody from 1stCertified Collision Centers, for this generous grant. Your $20,000 will become a great investment in the future of my students’ lives and the collision repair industry.”

Thanks to previous grants from the Foundation, El Camino College has the tools and equipment they currently need, but Collision Instructor Pati Fairchild noticed, “There is a big disconnect in our area. High school students don’t realize what a good-paying career collision repair is, parents don’t understand the industry or want their kids to pursue it, and most local shops don’t know we exist and don’t value collision repair grads as the custom-moldable, trainable, potential star techs they want to be.”

Fairchild hopes to work with the Foundation and 1stCertified Collision Centers to acquire the help the program needs in regard to marketing, industry outreach and event organization in hopes of increasing enrollment, student motivation levels, local shop awareness for placement and partnership and commu-

nity awareness of what a modern collision repair actually entails these days.

Fairchild added, “With key organizations like the Foundation and I-CAR helping maximize the message, and by involving all the local high schools and colleges with collision repair programs, I think this grant will go far toward making a good step forward in the South Bay/Los Angeles area.”

1stCertified Collision Centers fund the Thomas Coleman Memorial Grants in memory of the organization’s co-founder, partner and friend who passed in 2014 from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). In honor of Coleman’s passion for ensuring the next generation of collision repair professionals received a proper education, 1stCertified Collision Centers is committed, through the Collision Repair Education Foundation, to funding an annual grant supporting Southern California secondary and postsecondary schools teaching collision repair related courses.

1stCertified Collision Centers have collaborated with the Collision Repair Education Foundation to award the Thomas Coleman Memorial Grant since 2015. For additional information about 1stCertified Collision Centers, visit www.1stcertifiedcollision.com.n

The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) released its annual new-vehicle sales forecast for 2020.

“We expect new light-vehicles sales will come in at 16.8 million units for 2020, roughly a 1.2 percent drop from 2019 sales volume,” said NADA senior economist Patrick Manzi. “As for 2019, it appears new vehicle sales will best the expectations of most in the industry by topping 17 million units for the fifth straight year.”

As in 2018, consumers continued to abandon car segments in 2019.

Light trucks are on track to account for more than 70 percent of overall new-car sales for 2019, while cars will account for less than 30 percent of new-car sales. By then end of 2020, NADA projects that three of every four new vehicles sold

will be light-trucks, a significant increase from a decade ago when the new-vehicle sales mix was 48 percent light trucks and 52 percent cars.

“Consumers like the added practicality and ride-height afforded by light-trucks. And crossovers, which account for more than 40 percent of the total new vehicle market, continue to increase in fuel efficiency each year – offering fuel economy close to their sedan counterparts. In the absence of a significant spike in gasoline prices for a sustained period of time, we expect this shift in preference as permanent,” Manzi added.

With consumer preference continuing to favor light-trucks over cars, new-vehicle transaction prices have steadily increased throughout the year.

According to the NADA Dealership

Financial Profile Series from October 2019, the average new vehicle transaction price was $36,744 – up 3.9 percent% compared to October of 2018.

In light of increased vehicle transaction prices and affordability concerns, franchised dealers have experienced growth in manufacturer-backed certified preowned (CPO) sales. Through October 2019, CPO sales are up 2.9 percent, according to Cox Automotive.

“The price gap between average monthly loan payments for new and used vehicles is widening and hit $159 in November 2019, according to J.D. Power.”

Manzi said. “Consumers, even those with stellar credit, are choosing to buy preowned vehicles from new-car dealerships, which are uniquely positioned and

Southern Automotive Journal

February 2020

NADA Forecasts 2020 U.S. Auto Sales Volume at 16.8 Million New Vehicles

6

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CALL THE HAYES PARTS PROFESSIONALS 770.963.6263 800.241.8124 OEM • QUALITY AFTERMARKET • COLLISION • MECHANICAL

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BASF Donates 42 Spray Guns to 21 Schools Through the Collision Repair Education Foundation The Collision Repair Education Foundation is proudly to announce that BASF has donated two spray guns each to 21 different schools around the country to support their collision repair education programs. Each spray gun is valued at $1,000, totaling an in-kind donation of more than $40,000, and will help to ensure that students receive the

training necessary for a career in the collision repair industry. Eligibility for these awards was achieved by applying for the Collision Repair Education Foundation’s 2019 Collision School Career Readiness Benchmark Grant.

“It’s important to partner with industry organizations like CREF,” said Jeff Wildman, OEM Manager for BASF

Refinish. “We need to ensure that the next generation of collision repair technicians have the latest tools and materials to help prepare them for their careers.”

The Collision School Career Readiness Benchmark Grants recognize schools that excel at educating students.n

I-CAR® and ASE Present Fourth Annual Master Collision Repair & Refinish Technician Award to Walt Rundell I-CAR® awarded the I-CAR Platinum™/ASE Master Collision Repair & Refinish Technician of the Year award to Walt Rundell of Ranken Technical College, St. Louis, Missouri.

Half of Rundell’s diverse experience, spanning nearly 40 years, has been in training and education. Rundell was selected from hundreds of individuals who hold both I-CAR Platinum recognition and ASE Master Collision Repair & Refinish certification. In this elite group, he distinguished himself by Walt Rundell (second from left) accepts the I-CAR demonstrating a superior commitPlatinum™/ASE Master Collision Repair & Refinish Technician of the ment to the industry and the imporYear award at the ASE awards banquet. Also pictured (from left) are tance of training.

Tim Zilke, ASE President; Nick Notte; and Tom Trisdale, ASE Board Rundell received the award Chairman and Toyota Motor North America Vice President of Product on November 13 at the annual ASE Quality & Service Support.

Technician Awards banquet, held Rundell’s history with Ranken in conjunction with the fall ASE dates back to the early 1980s when Board of Governors meeting in Phoenix, he was a student there. He earned an Arizona. This was the fourth year that A.T. degree in Automotive Collision the joint I-CAR and ASE award has been Repair and a B.S. degree in Applied presented.

Management from Ranken. He would eventually return to Ranken in 2006 as an instructor, after gaining diverse industry experience, working first as a technician and then as an insurance estimator and trainer. For the past 20 years, Rundell also has been an I-CAR volunteer and part-time instructor. He explains his decision to join Ranken’s faculty and make teaching a full-time pursuit was because, “I enjoy helping others to realize their dreams and goals.”

Rundell’s peers look up to him as a mentor, according to Nick Notte, I-CAR Senior Vice President, Sales. “Walt is known for his broad, in-depth knowledge and a handson approach that benefits the next generation of collision repairers he is educating, as well as the industry collision repairers he teaches as an I-CAR instructor. He sets an excellent example for his students with his own ongoing commitment to training and keeping his skills current.”n

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10th Annual Collision Industry Foundation Gala Fundraising

The Collision Industry Foundation (CIF) would like to extend an invitation to the industry to attend the 10th Annual CIF Gala fundraising event, which will be held in Palm Springs, Calif. on Thursday, January 16, 2020 from 6:00 pm local time, immediately following the Collision Industry Conference (CIC).

The CIF Board is excited to announce that attending the Gala in January will be two former recipients of industry support through CIF, who are looking forward to expressing their gratitude to donors in person. Jeff Wilson, an instructor at Houston's Kingwood Park High School

which was impacted by Hurricane Harvey, will be present, as well as Sterling Keith, a military veteran who received support from CIF and Snap-On to replace his tools that were stolen while he was deployed.

To accommodate more guests, the event is moving just one block East - to "The Bank," Palm Springs' hottest mid-century modern venue! The new location can accommodate twice the number of attendees as before, so spread the word and bring a friend --- or two! There will be many premium Silent Auction items as well as a major raffle prize. The Gala will continue to have the same great food, catered by

Lulu's Bistro. You'll have the same experience you've come to enjoy, just with more elbow room!

CIF will also honor their generous donors at the Gala, without whose ongoing support their work would not be possible. Thanks to these donors, hundreds of individuals have received assistance through CIF over the years, including survivors of hurricanes, natural fires, flooding or other losses.

So, mark your calendar and please join us at "The Bank" - you won't want to miss this CIF special 10th anniversary celebration! n

The doors feature the same Star Cloud lighting and scaled Dragon Skin motif found on the outside of the car, creating a glittering interactive ambient lighting system. The ventilation system is also housed behind Dragon Skin scales, which open and close to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the cabin.

One of the most prominent features of the cabin is the ‘cockpit’ area surrounding the driver. The graphical user interface (GUI) of the cockpit flows out of the driver-side door and wraps around the steering wheel

in a seamless arc. This merges the instrument cluster directly with the audio-visual display at the centre of the dashboard and is linked to the display integrated within the surface of the steering wheel itself. The GUI is operated by artificial intelligence technologies, displaying useful information about the car various autonomous driving, powertrain and navigation features to create a unique user experience. The apex of the cockpit arc sees the GUI lunge forward towards the road, creating an interactive Star Cloud light display at the very front of the cabin.n

ALFA ROMEO

FIAT

MASERATI

of Birmingham

of Birmingham

of Birmingham

Futuron From Page 5 to the flexibility afforded to first-class airline passengers. With the activation of the Futuron’s autonomous driving features, the two front seats recline as the steering wheel retracts. The ‘zero-gravity’ seating position this creates helps to reduce fatigue on long journeys.

The Futuron’s seamless interior also reflects its autonomous driving nature, with surfaces flowing uninterrupted from the dashboard and through the door panels.

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CIECA Analysis of Trends from Susanna Gotsch Recently CIECA (Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association) asked industry expert Susanna Gotsch to give her analysis of trends that you can expect to see affect the collision industry in the coming year.

Recapping 2019 Susanna pointed out strong new car sales combined with increased vehicle complexity caused a rise in average fleet cost. This shifts claim costs higher due to specialized repair materials, parts, and techniques required. As the automakers trend towards vehicle crash avoidance (versus simply vehicle crashworthiness) 2019 saw Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) continue to make their way into more vehicles. While there is no shortage of drivers or vehicles on the road, there has been a slight slowdown in auto claim numbers in 2019.

Looking at 2020 it is predicted that new car sales will slow versus previous years, but used car sales will remain strong due to average new car costs topping the $35,000 mark. Advanced technology features, standard convenience features, advanced engineering designs, safety systems and more have helped push average new car costs ever higher. These advances also mean increased repair costs.

Rising repair costs are being driven by an increase in part replacement (rather than repair) as well as extra steps (such as scanning or calibration) to complete a repair. Pre and post vehicle repair scanning has already added an average of $100 per claim over the past few years and is becoming commonplace. High tech sensors and cameras also add to increasing repair costs not just due to their part cost, but also the steps required to calibrate them back into vehicle systems. Calibration as a repair step is becoming more complex and thus more costly, which is why some shops are opting to outsource this step back to dealerships or third parties.

Repair times are on the increase as well. Susanna states “for every $1,000 dollar increment in the average repair cost we see roughly a two-day increase in the average keys to key cycle time.” Repairs that pass the $10,000 mark now take an average of 30 days to complete. Unfortunately these higher cost repairs can be less productive for shops while also leading to decreased consumer satisfaction.

In 2020 look to see a decline in the actual number of collision repairs, but an increase in repair costs and repair complexity.

Repair costs are predicted to grow by up to 5.5%, but could be higher. Crash frequency itself will have a small decline from wider ADAS adoption, but this alone will not affect repair costs. It is predicted that certain ADAS features (such as automatic emergency braking) will eventually lead to decreased repair costs due to lower impact speeds. Drivers will spend more time in traffic where more common front/rear collisions occur, but expect to see a decline in these types of accidents due to ADAS. While ADAS benefits will continue to grow, some drivers may rely too much on the technology and engage in risky driving behavior.

On the shop side it will be more important than ever to document all repair steps due to ever increasing vehicle complexity.

The complete hour-long “What to Expect in 2020” CIECAst webinar is currently available at www.cieca.com in the “On-Demand” section, along with a complete library of previous informative webinars.n www.IneedOEMparts.com

February 2020

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Classic Collision Expands into South Florida with Carolina Auto Body Acquisition neighbor.

The addition of Carolina Auto Body to the Classic Collision family will increase the Classic Collision footprint to 34 shops in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, and now Florida. In addition, this will bring the Classic Collision employee count to over 720. With similar family-owned values, the two companies look forward to merging the Classic and Carolina families together to continue to provide industry-leading service to their customers. Both companies have invested into their shops and employees by maintaining I-CAR Gold Certifications and acquiring national auto manufacturer’s Certifications, to guarantee safe and accurate repairs for their customers.

Classic Collision‘s plan to expand nationally remains ahead of schedule.

They expect to leapfrog into the Big 4 MSO category within 12-24 months.

Classic Collision Inc., an Atlanta based collision repair company, announced that it has acquired Carolina Auto Body across the South Florida region.

Carolina Auto Body has served the Southeast Florida area since 2014, operating seven locations in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Pompano Beach, and Tamarac. Carolina Auto Body has deep roots in the Carolina regions with 4 generations of body shop history bringing decades of knowledge and experience.

As a family owned and operated business, they have continued the legacy of doing things the “Carolina Way” from the Carolinas to Florida, which is to provide outstanding, fast and friendly service with a smile. Their goal has always been to merge top-tier professionalism and quality with the kind of service one might expect from a close friend or

About Classic Collision Classic Collision was founded in 1983 in Atlanta, GA, with one goal, to serve customers with honesty and integrity, while using the best talent and highest quality materials. Today, Classic Collision continues to remain the largest privately held local provided of auto body repair services in northern and central Georgia, along with presence in Birmingham, Augusta, and South Florida. Classic Collision operates locations in 4 states across the U.S. with 34 state of the art repair facilities. For over 35 years, Classic Collision has put customer satisfaction first in all we do.

We are proud to provide high-quality auto body repairs with properly trained technicians and the appropriate equipment. We hold several manufacturer certifications and factory-direct training which makes us a leader in comprehensive collision repair.n

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OEC Earns Center of Excellence Recognition for Twelfth Consecutive Year OEConnection LLC (OEC) has been certified by BenchmarkPortal as a Center of Excellence, a prestigious award in the customer service and support industry.

The Center of Excellence certification is awarded to contact centers that meet or surpass rigorous standards for customer service when compared with peer organizations across North America.

OEConnection LLC (OEC), a leading technology employer in Northeast Ohio, has been certified by BenchmarkPortal as a Center of Excellence, a prestigious award in the customer service and support industry. The Center of Excellence certification is awarded to contact centers that meet or surpass rigorous standards for customer service when compared with peer organizations across North America.

OEC earned its certification based on a Balanced Scorecard that demon-

strates superior performance in customer experience and quality-related metrics.

Certification is typically awarded to customer contact centers that have an optimized balance between efficiency and effectiveness.

"Hard work and professionalism are hallmarks of our Customer Support Department, and this award is both welldeserved and, once again, an honor," said James Kynkor, Manager, Customer Support. "This recognition validates that OEC provides its clients with access to an incredibly high-performing and effective support team that helps ensure customer success."

The Center for Excellence Award differs from other industry certifications in that it measures results strictly by the numbers and produces objective, resultsoriented data. BenchmarkPortal designates this certification for customer ser-

vice contact centers that score in the top 10 percent of those surveyed.

"Earning this honor for a twelfth consecutive year speaks to the team's consistency and sustained, high-level customer service," said John Haluch, Vice President, Customer Success. "It also represents the overall commitment OEC has for cultivating a world-class customer experience that leads to increased customer loyalty."

"Certification is an important distinction because it is based on best-practice metrics drawn from BenchmarkPortal's database of contact center metrics, which was founded at Purdue University and is the largest in the world," noted Bruce Belfiore, CEO of BenchmarkPortal. "This achievement confirms the contact center's ability to deliver service that is both efficient and effective." n

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No representation is made as to the accuracy or the completeness of the information provided by this publication. Entire contents copyright 2020. All rights reserved.

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INFINITI QX50: Adds Standard Safety Technologies, New Sensory and Autograph Grade Levels

The INFINITI QX50 was completely redesigned for the 2019 model year, becoming arguably the most compelling INFINITI to date with world-first technologies, standout design, enhanced interior space and an entirely new platform. For 2020, the QX50 continues to provide the highest level of versatility, efficiency and performance in luxury mid-size crossovers.

Several significant enhancements have been made for 2020, including the addition of new QX50 SENSORY and QX50 AUTOGRAPH grade levels, standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ and a new-generation infotainment system with dual HD displays. In addition, a new Mocha Almond exterior color is now available, while content and naming of several optional equipment packages has also been revised.

Safety, security and driver-assistance updates include a wide range of advanced technologies that are now standard on all grade levels: Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, High Beam Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and rear parking sensors. Traffic Sign Recognition has been added to the ProACTIVE Package.

The bold exterior styling brings a fresh interpretation of INFINITI's distinctive "Powerful Elegance" design language to the crossover segment. The unrivalled interior space, artistic application of high quality materials and advanced craftsmanship make the cabin as welcoming and comfortable as it is flexible.

The VC-Turbo engine, the world's first production variable compression ratio engine, delivers driving pleasure and efficiency in equal measure, while INFINITI Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and ProPILOT Assist technologies react discreetly to

Southern Automotive Journal

February 2020

14

Advanced technologies that are now standard on all INFINITI QX50: Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, High Beam Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and rear parking sensors. certain driving situations, supporting the driver with a range of empowering driverassist features.

Powerful Elegance design, signature INFINITI details The INFINITI QX50 is defined by its distinctive proportions, which set the car apart from its competitors. Influenced by INFINITI's "Powerful Elegance" design language – characterized by flowing sculptural lines and strong, muscular proportions – the 2020 QX50 has an elevated, QX50 Please Turn to Page 28 www.IneedOEMparts.com

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Jeep® Wrangler new Eco Diesel: Ultimate Fuel Efficiency and Driving Range, With 442 lb.-ft. of Torque for Improved Performance Wrangler four-door models will offer the new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine, rated at 260 horsepower and 442 lb.-ft. of torque, with engine stop-start (ESS) technology standard. To handle greater torque loads, the EcoDiesel V-6 connects to a newly added TorqueFlite 8HP75 eight-speed automatic transmission, calibrated for low RPM shifts and the on- and off-road rigors of Jeep Wrangler duty. There are more than 40 individual shift maps to optimize shift points for fuel economy, performance and 4x4 capability.

“One of the most common questions consumers have asked us over the last few years has been, 'will you please offer a Jeep Wrangler diesel?’, and I’m pleased to answer that with a resounding, ‘Yes!'," said Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep Brand – North America. “I recently drove the new Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel on the Rubicon Trail and can unquestionably attest to its incredible off-road capability. Combining that unmatched off-road capability with the vehicle’s funto-drive on-road performance, best-ever Wrangler fuel economy and incredible driving range underwrite the fact that our customers knew exactly what they were asking for.”

All Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel models – Sport, Sahara and Rubicon – feature third-generation Dana 44 front and rear heavy-duty axles. Additionally, all Wrangler EcoDiesel models feature a 3.73 axle ratio. Two transfer cases are offered: the Rock-Trac two-speed transfer case with a 4.0:1 low-range gear ratio on Rubicon models and the CommandTrac part-time two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio on Sport and Sahara models.

All-new EcoDiesel engine The third generation of the turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine delivers increased torque and horsepower, along with superb fuel economy and minimal levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) to meet the needs of Wrangler customers.

Several significant changes contribute to the new EcoDiesel’s improved

All-new EcoDiesel Engine The third generation of the turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine delivers increased torque and horsepower, along with superb fuel economy and minimal levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) to meet the needs of Wrangler customers.

• Several significant changes contribute to the new EcoDiesel’s improved dynamic and fuel economy performance: • A new-generation water-cooled turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) and low-friction bearing increases efficiency and responsiveness during transient conditions • Redesigned cylinder head intake ports with higher flow capability improve swirl and flow, increasing performance and fuel economy • The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system design has been updated to a dual loop (low and high pressure) system. The added low-pressure circulation system draws gases after the diesel particulate filter, thus minimizing turbocharger energy losses, which increases fuel economy • The compression ratio has been optimized to 16.0:1 from 16.5:1 to improve fuel economy and reduce engine noise • High-pressure (29,000 psi/2,000 bar) direct-injection fuel injector nozzles were redesigned to match the newly designed and optimized combustion chamber, reducing fuel consumption • Lightweight aluminum alloy pistons were completely redesigned to include thinner rings and low-friction diamond-like carbon coating on the pin and compression piston ring to reduce parasitic losses • NVH has been improved by offsetting the piston pin 0.3 millimeters from the centerline • The lower portion of the two-piece oil sump uses a lightweight sandwiched polymer/metal material, which further reduces NVH • The dual vacuum pump system uses electric and a new mechanical low-friction pump with new blades that improve overall system efficiency

EcoDiesel Please Turn to Page 20 16

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Mitchell Diagnostics™ System Enhanced for FCA Secure Gateway and Turbo-Speed Mitchell International,Inc., announced that all devices in the Mitchell Diagnostics system now support access to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ (FCA) Secure Gateway, which FCA refers to as SGW. The newest software release for the Bosch MD-200 and MD-350 devices enables users to register to access FCA vehicles via the SGW. The release also now offers turbo-speed pre-scan and post-scans, enabling full diagnostic scan completion in less than two minutes in some cases - a fraction of the time to complete scanning with other solutions.

The Mitchell Diagnostics system was designed specifically for the collision repair industry and auto claims process. The patented system links best-inclass scan tools utilizing OEM licensed data and software with cloud-based applications, to enable collision repairers to quickly and cost effectively scan vehicles, and perform a variety of diagnostic repairs and ADAS system recali-

brations. The product suite is delivered through partnerships between Mitchell and industry leaders Bosch and Drew Technologies.

“Most all-makes or aftermarket scanning solutions cannot access FCA vehicles that are model-year 2018 and newer. Until recently, a repairer would have to utilize an OEM scan tool when repairing a new Jeep Wrangler or Dodge Ram,” explained Jack Rozint, SVP of APD Repair Sales for Mitchell. “With this new capability, Mitchell’s MD-200 and MD-350 tools can now access the entire FCA vehicle network and perform accurate and complete scans on FCA vehicles via the SGW.” FCA is currently the only major OEM with a secure vehicle network, which restricts access to the network to only those tools and systems that are registered with FCA, and requires cloud-connected scan devices that are approved for SGW access by FCA. Mitchell expects

other OEMs to follow suit. Mitchell and its partners plan to continue to work directly with OEMs to provide access for the Mitchell Diagnostics tools to OEM secure networks whenever possible.

The turbo-speed scanning enabled by Bosch dramatically reduces the time needed to complete diagnostic scans without loss of fidelity, as all modules on the network are scanned and reported.

“Time is money in this business, and we’re constantly looking for tools and systems that help us deliver a proper and safe repair more efficiently,” said Charlie Drake, COO of Classic Collision, a 34 location multi-store operation. “With the new software update, we’re able to scan vehicles accurately in a fraction of the time that it’s taken previously – and we can scan FCA SGW vehicles without the added time and transaction fees required with the OEM scanning solutions.”n

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LKQ Corporation Announces its Promise of Calibration LKQ Corporation has taken another step providing customer peace of mind by introducing its Promise of Calibration.

The Promise of Calibration states: “LKQ Corporation warrants that all recycled OEM, reconditioned OEM and KeysIQ parts purchased directly from LKQ and installed on a private passenger vehicle, are suitable for the calibration of appropriate ADAS components with properly operating systems”. Alternative replacement parts along with glass sold

by LKQ companies are now additionally warranted to permit vehicle calibration on any ADAS equipped car, truck or SUV. As an added benefit, LKQ provided

further assurance by supplementing the Promise of Calibration to include the actual diagnostic and calibration labor operation. When performed by an LKQ Company (Elite Electronics, VeTech Automotive Electronics, etc.) LKQ stands behind those calibration operations with full indemnification, providing industry stakeholders even greater confidence.

“Providing this level of comfort and commitment for our parts and services benefits all stakeholders within the collision repair and glass industries including repair shops, insurers, and most importantly, vehicle owners. No other alternative parts provider sup-

ports and services customers like LKQ”, stated Terry Fortner, LKQ North American Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

The Promise of Calibration is a complement to LKQ’s Promise of Protection, which was an industry first, introduced in 2012. The Promise of Protection indemnifies licensed auto repair shops that purchase and install any LKQ recycled OEM, aftermarket or remanufactured product on private passenger vehicles and light trucks. The combination of both the Promise of Protection and the new Promise of Calibration provide an unsurpassed level of quality assurance to LKQ’s customers. n

Mitchell 1 SocialCRM Marketing Service Offers Online Appointment Request Feature The Mitchell 1 SocialCRM auto shop marketing service is offering a new online appointment feature that will make it more convenient for consumers and auto repair shops to schedule appointments for auto repair and maintenance services.

The feature is integrated with the Manager™ SE shop management system and allows consumers to request an appointment directly on the shop’s website or from an email sent from the shop. The request is automatically delivered to the shop’s Manager SE system with an alert that a request has arrived.

The shop can then review the request and accept or decline based upon avail-

ability. When accepted, the confirmed request is added to the shop’s schedule and the system automatically sends a text or email to the consumer to verify the appointment. The new feature is now included with all SocialCRM subscriptions.

“We are delighted to offer this service that not only makes it very convenient for consumers to book appointments, but also helps shops manage their schedules more efficiently, while helping ensure their bays stay full,” said Marcus Mackell, marketing manager for Mitchell 1, SocialCRM. “The online appointments feature is the next step in tightening the integration between the

SocialCRM and Manager SE systems to increase efficiency and opportunities to engage customers.”

Mitchell 1’s SocialCRM auto repair marketing service with LocalSearch provides a comprehensive program to attract and retain customers.

With automated marketing messages, verified customer reviews, social media content, professional websites and more, shops can engage with customers and enhance their online presence to build loyalty. SocialCRM is integrated with Manager SE, Mitchell 1’s industry-leading shop management software, for immediate access to vital customer details and insights. n

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EcoDiesel From Page 16 dynamic and fuel economy performance: The third generation of the turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine delivers increased torque and horsepower, along with superb fuel economy and minimal levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) to meet the needs of Wrangler customers.

The new upgrades build on the EcoDiesel V-6 engine’s previous success, the attributes and performance of which made it a winner of "Wards 10 Best Engines" for three consecutive years (2014, 2015, 2016).

The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 uses

dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder and a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks. The block is cast with compacted graphite iron, which provides strength to dampen vibrations, but weighs less than gray cast iron. A compacted graphite iron bedplate adds rigidity to the block.

The EcoDiesel V-6 engine uses a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods for strength and durability. The aluminum alloy pistons are cooled on the underside via oil jets. Heat-treated aluminum cylinder heads use individual bearing caps to reduce friction and minimize NVH. The chain-driven overhead camshafts employ roller-finger followers.

Southern Automotive Journal

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20

The diesel engine’s turbo Charge Air Cooler (CAC) is located at the base of the grille, in front of the radiator, to maximize cooler temperatures. The CAC uses the same mounting position as in the four-cylinder gasoline turbo engine, helping to reduce complexity.

A new 5.1-gallon diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank is located immediately behind the fuel tank with refill location next to the diesel fuel filler. DEF refills align with oil changes lasting up to 10,000 miles. Levels are monitored via a new DEF gauge in the front cluster.

The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine is produced at the FCA Cento facility in Ferrara, Italy.n www.IneedOEMparts.com

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Collision Repair Education Foundation Announces 2020 Career Fair Schedule To continue its efforts of being the industry’s leader in connecting students with employers, the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) announced their 2020 high school and college transportation student career fair schedule, which will include events being held in at least the top 25 markets nationwide that employ technicians. CREF will be collaborating with industry associations, public facing Auto Shows, and other events that already bring together hundreds to

thousands of local collision, mechanical, and other transportation program students.

Collision Repair Education Foundation Director of Development Brandon Eckenrode noted, “These events are unique opportunities for dealers, service managers, collision centers, and others to meet hundreds of future transportation industry professionals. Tool and equipment companies have also taken advantage of these events for brand awareness

through product demonstrations and sponsoring the event’s student technician shirts. We invite the transportation industry to join in helping to showcase the many different career paths available to attending students.”

Industry members interested in participating at one of the Collision Repair Education Foundation career fair events should contact Tiffany Bulak, Development and Marketing Coordinator, at 847-586-5332 or Tiffany.Bulak@ed-foundation.org.n

The current 2020 high school & college Transportation Student Career Fair Event Schedule Includes: Spring 2020

Fall 2020

· Pittsburgh, PA (1/24)* – 700+ students anticipated

· St. Louis, MO (10/2) – 600+ students anticipated

· Indianapolis, IN (2/7)* – 250+ students anticipated

· Detroit, MI (10/14-10/15) – 700+ students anticipated

· Kansas City, KS (2/21)* – 600+ students anticipated

· Southern California – TBD – 200+ students anticipated

· Chicago, IL (3/6)* – 1,000+ students anticipated

· Northern California – TBD – 200+ students anticipated

· Oklahoma City, OK (3/6) – 300+ students anticipated (Held in conjunction with the Oklahoma City Auto Show)

· Dallas, TX – TBD – 250+ students anticipated · Houston, TX – TBD – 300+ students anticipated

· Salt Lake City, UT (3/13)* – 500+ students anticipated

· Seattle, WA – TBD – 250+ students anticipated

· Boston, MA (3/20)* – 600+ students anticipated

· Miami, FL – TBD – 300+ students anticipated

· New York, NY (4/2) – 250+ students anticipated

· Washington D.C. / Baltimore – TBD – 200+ students anticipated

· Denver, CO (4/3) – 300+ students anticipated (Held in conjunction with the Denver Auto Show) · Orlando/ Tampa Bay, FL (4/9) – 500+ students anticipated

Industry members interested in participating at

· Atlanta, GA (4/21) – 250+ students anticipated

one of the Collision Repair Education Foundation

· North & South Carolina (4/30) – 400+ students anticipat ed (Held in conjunction with the Carolina’s Auto Body Conference Trade Show)

career fair events should contact Tiffany Bulak,

· Philadelphia, PA (5/7) – 250+ students anticipated

586-5332 or Tiffany.Bulak@ed-foundation.org.

Development and Marketing Coordinator, at 847-

· San Antonio, TX – TBD – 300+ students anticipated · All Connecticut – TBD – 300+ students anticipated * Held in conjunction with the AutoRama/ World of Wheels Student Day event.

22

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Reductions in Roadway Fatalities in First 9 Months of 2019 The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration today released highway crash fatality data for the first 9 months of 2019, showing a reduction of 2.2% compared to the first 9 months of 2018. Under this Administration and U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao’s leadership, the USDOT has made safety its top priority.

“This is positive news, but more work remains to be done to make our roads safer for everyone,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.

An estimated 26,730 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes through September 30, making the third quarter of 2019 the eighth consecutive year-to-year quarterly decline in fatalities since the fourth quarter of 2017.

Preliminary data from the Federal Highway Administration shows vehicle miles traveled in the first 9 months of 2019 increased by approximately 24 billion miles, about a 1% increase. The fatality rate for the first 9 months of 2019 decreased to 1.10 fatalities per 100 million VMT, down from the 1.13 fatalities in

the first 9 months of 2018.

“Dangerous actions continue to plague drivers, such as speeding, distraction, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” said NHTSA Acting Administrator James Owens. “The path forward calls for a combination of policies, research, and action that requires committed and sustained effort from State, local, and Federal governments; and from highway safety partners, schools, and communities – all committed to reducing fatalities on our Nation’s roads.”n

Major Change to America’s Retirement System Offers Flexibility and Options for Small Businesses The U.S. Senate passed a spending bill, expected to be signed into law

by President Trump, which includes the SECURE Act, also known as the “Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019.” Keith Hall, President and CEO the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE), the nation’s leading advocate

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and resource for the self-employed and micro-businesses, applauded both the House and Senate for acting on the bipartisan measure representing the biggest change to America’s retirement system in over a decade.

The Trump Administration’s 2018 executive order opened multiple employer plans (MEPs) to small business-

es and “expand(ed) access to workplace retirement savings plans for American workers.” The executive order would no longer require small businesses to have formal business ties and instead would allow small, independent employers to join together through MEPs to offer workers access to 401k retirement savings plans.n

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BASF donates $10,000 to Chattanooga Organizations Employees of BASF’s Chattanooga, Tennessee site donated more than $10,000 to local organizations as part of Giving Tuesday, a global generosity movement that takes place the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.

“BASF strives to be a good community partner focused on the greater good of our neighbors,” said Rob Gagliano, Director of the BASF site in Chattanooga.

“As part of our strong commitment to the communities where we operate, we support organizations and missions we are passionate about through donations and volunteering.”

This is the first year BASF has focused its giving around a specific day, but Giving Tuesday is not a new concept. It was created in 2012 to encourage people and organizations to invest in the com-

munity through charitable giving and acts of service. Over the last seven years, the idea has grown into a global movement inspiring hundreds of millions of people to transform communities around the world.

“We are very appreciative of BASF’s continued support of our school and students,” said LaFrederick Thirkill, principal of Orchard Knob Elementary School. “This holiday contribution marks the end of a wonderful year of partnership with BASF, from the butterfly garden created this summer to performing Kids’ Lab experiments for World Chemistry Day in October. BASF’s generosity is integral to the success of our school and students.”

The recipients of BASF’s charitable contributions are American Cancer Society, Chattanooga Area Food

Bank, Chattanooga Fire Department, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Rescue Service, Dallas Bay Fire Department, Hamilton County Schools, NAACP’s Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics, Northside Neighborhood House, Orchard Knob Elementary School, T.C. Thompson Children’s Hospital Foundation, United Way, the Chattanooga affiliate of The Salvation Army and YMCA Chattanooga.

“We are so grateful for BASF's continued investment in our work to provide a hand up to our neighbors in need,” said Rachel Gammon, Executive Director of Northside Neighborhood House.

“Without BASF’s faithfulness in supporting our work, we would be unable to offer education and assistance that allow residents to live independently.”n

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Ford 2020 Explorer – A Complete Redesign Of America’s All-Time Best-Selling Suv Explorer is now more capable, comfortable, sportier and roomier in all three rows thanks to Ford’s flexible new rear-wheel-drive architecture. The strengths of the all-new Ford Explorer were showcased at a special reveal event for employees, fans, dealers, suppliers, government officials and media today at Ford Field in Detroit, where Ford brought to life how it can help American families get the most out of their road trips. The all-new SUV arrives this summer.

“Explorer drivers told us what they want – more capability, more power, more space,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s head of product development and purchasing. “They want more technology, not just for the driver, but for the whole family. And they want all of it with a beautifully sporty exterior. This new Explorer gives them all of that, and more, helping make every journey more enjoyable.”

Improved off-road capability comes courtesy of intelligent fourwheel drive and an available new Terrain Management SystemTM that features seven easy-to-engage drive modes.

Powertrain offerings include a 3.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 projected to produce 365 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque using 93-octane gas, making this the most powerful Explorer ever.

The Explorer lineup now features standard, XLT, Limited, Limited Hybrid, ST and Platinum models.

The all-new Explorer comes packed with more than a dozen new standard features for only $400 more over the previous model. Standard features include a power liftgate, 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with all-new 10-speed transmission, 8-inch digital touch screen with SYNC® 3, FordPass ConnectTM Wi-Fi service for up to 10 devices and more.

Owners will find design and engineering updates throughout that deliver comfort and SUV functionality. Explorer’s stylish, sloped-roof silhouette protects rear-seat headroom, while its comfortenhanced second-row seats slide to improve access to the third row.

“We obsessed about what Explorer customers need and want,” said Bill Gubing, Explorer chief engineer. “We met with customer groups, pored through

internet forums, and dissected social media posts to determine what they love about today’s Explorer and understand their pain points. Then we found ways to improve it across the board.

Every enhancement on this all-new Explorer was inspired by our customers.”

Technology designed to heighten the experience of traveling Building upon Ford’s push to bring more driver-assist technology to market, the all-new Explorer introduces available Active Park Assist 2.0. The class-exclusive feature – standard on Explorer Platinum – allows the driver to park in a parallel or perpendicular spot with a touch of

Southern Automotive Journal

February 2020

26

The touch screen shares information with the available 12.3-inch alldigital instrument cluster, which displays important vehicle information such as speedometer and gas gauge. It uses 3D animated graphics to change information depending on which of the seven drive modes are selected using the available Terrain Management System.

Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, which includes Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning and Dynamic Brake Support Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert a button without having to work the steering wheel, gear shifter, gas pedal or brake pedal. Available reverse brake assist, also standard on Platinum, uses radar and ultrasonic sensors to detect an object in Explorer’s path, and can apply the brakes automatically to avoid an imminent collision when the vehicle is backing up at a low speed – such as when exiting a driveway.

Explorer also is available with Ford’s all-new Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Speed Sign Recognition. In addition to automatically slowing when Explorer Please Turn to Page 30 www.IneedOEMparts.com

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QX50 From Page 14 commanding crossover stance and strong character lines.

Within this design theme, the company's signature design cues make the QX50 instantly recognizable as a modern INFINITI. For example, the INFINITI's exclusive double-arch grille gives the face of the QX50 a unique and distinguished appearance. For use with the QX50, the doublearch grille is wider with no gaps between the grille and the hood.

The QX50 features INFINITI's signature LED headlight design, which emulates the human eye in its appearance, alluring and intense when seen at a glance. The horizontal light signature cuts across the projector to make a visual statement, similar in execution to the headlamps from the INFINITI Q60 sports coupe.

The QX50's striking visual character is enhanced by a clamshell hood, presenting a strong degree of muscularity while retaining balanced body proportions.

The unique hood shape facilitates the enhanced cabin proportions. A four-link hinge system has been created especially for the QX50, allowing deep, sharp-edged character lines to flow from the hood along the body. Integrating the A-pillar into this shape also makes the hood appear longer.

The QX50's sophisticated rear aspect is characterized by clean, simple lines and curves that release the visual energy built up from character lines flowing along the vehicle's sides. INFINITI's signature crescentcut D-pillar extends the visual length of the roofline, and the rear pillar arcs forward, emphasizing motion even when the car is stationary. The design of the LED taillights matches the shape of the front headlamps.

The rear light design connects visually to the chrome tailgate strip and runs into the sides of the QX50, creating an uninterrupted visual line flowing from the front to the rear of the car. Chrome dual exhaust tips, within the rear lower bumper, complete the rear appearance.

The 2020 QX50's commanding stance is aided by a choice of 19-inch or 20-inch wheels – which also adds to its sense of agility and crossover-like ruggedness. The wheels are pushed as far as possible into the corners, helping minimize the intrusion of the wheel arches into the passenger cabin on interior space. The rear overhang is just 37.48 inches.

Aerodynamic efficiency is another key to the QX50's design, with the drag coefficient improved by six percent compared to the previous-generation QX50. The hood, A-pillar, tailgate and enclosed underbody are all specially designed to encourage airflow over, around and under the vehicle, with minimal turbulence. The bumpers and wheel arches feature air slits, inlets and outlets to assist the efficient flow of air.

As with the exterior, the design of the QX50 interior deliberately articulates a sense of advanced human artistry. There is also a strong focus on space and functionality, with innovative packaging that creates ideal roominess and flexibility.

The world's first production VC-Turbo The QX50 is powered by INFINITI's 2.0-liter VC-Turbo, the world's first production variable compression ratio engine – one of the most advanced internal combustion engines ever created.

This unique variable compression technology represents a breakthrough in combustion engine design. The engine continually transforms, adjusting its compression ratio to optimize power and fuel efficiency. As a result, it combines the power of a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with the torque and efficiency of an advanced four-cylinder diesel engine.

The VC-Turbo changes its compression ratio seamlessly with an advanced multi-link system, continuously raising or lowering the pistons' reach to transform compression ratio – offering both power and efficiency on demand. A high compression ratio gives greater efficiency, but in cer-

Southern Automotive Journal

February 2020

28

The QX50's striking visual character is enhanced by a clamshell hood, presenting a strong degree of muscularity while retaining balanced body proportions. tain applications poses the risk of premature combustion (knocking). A low compression ratio allows for greater power and torque, and it avoids knocking.

In operation, the VC-Turbo engine offers any compression ratio between 8:1 (for high performance) and 14:1 (for high efficiency). The engine delivers 268 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. The VC-Turbo's specific power output is higher than many competing turbocharged gasoline engines, and comes close to the performance of some V6 gasoline engines. The unit's single-scroll turbo ensures immediate accelerator responses on demand.

The 2020 QX50 offers available ProPILOT Assist, as well as the first crossover and first front-wheel drive application of Direct Adaptive Steering, which is now in its fourth-generation. Both technologies are key elements in INFINITI's vision for driver assistance technologies that allow drivers to retain ultimate control over their vehicles.

The 2020 QX50 PURE comes equipped with standard features and equipment including the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine, paddle shifters, 19-inch aluminumalloy wheels, LED headlamps and LED signature Daytime Running Lights, leatherette seats, Intelligent Key, power liftgate, INFINITI InTouch dual display system, Forward Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, High Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Automatic Braking, rear parking sensors, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ n www.IneedOEMparts.com

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Explorer From Page 26 traffic ahead slows and helping keep the vehicle centered in its lane, the system uses cameras to read speed signs and, combined with the available navigation system, adjusts cruise control settings accordingly.

Other available Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies include Evasive Steering Assist, which provides steering support to help avoid a collision; and Post-Impact Braking provides braking after a collision to lessen injury and damage caused by a secondary crash event.

“It’s not about filling the vehicle with technology for technology’s sake,” said Chris Billman, Ford Co-Pilot360 engineering manager. “It’s about improving the experience, making driving less stressful, and helping the driver to feel more confident behind the wheel.”

Passengers in all three rows will enjoy FordPass Connect, a standard feature that serves up 4G LTE Wi-Fi for up to 10 mobile devices with a compatible wireless subscription service. FordPass Connect gives drivers remote access to their Explorer, allowing them to use their smartphone to lock, unlock, locate and start the vehicle, as well as monitor key vehicle diagnostics.

Explorer features an available 10.1-inch touch screen mounted in portrait configuration on the center stack.

Navigation maps can fill the entire screen

“It’s not about filling the vehicle with technology for technology’s sake,” said Chris Billman, Ford Co-Pilot360 engineering manager. “It’s about improving the experience, making driving less stressful, and helping the driver to feel more confident behind the wheel.” for easy viewing, or split the space with audio information. The screen uses capacitive glass comparable to what consumers are accustomed to on smartphones and tablets, providing a quicker, more responsive interaction with the updated SYNC 3 system. Standard SYNC 3’s more intuitive layout gives drivers ®® compatibility with available features such as Apple CarPlay , Android Auto and Waze navigation.

A wireless charging pad is avail-

able that allows customers to recharge compatible mobile devices, and up to four USB ports, including new type-C outlets, charge next-generation mobile devices. Up to three 12-volt outlets and a 110-volt outlet are also available.

For music lovers, Explorer offers an available 980-watt, 14-speaker The touch screen shares information with the available 12.3-inch allExplorer Please Turn to Page 34

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CCC Awards Two Classroom Enhancement Grants Through the Collision Repair Education Foundation The Collision Repair Education Foundation is proud to announce that CCC Information Services Inc. (CCC) has presented two Classroom Enhancement Grants to deserving schools. Lebanon County Career and Technology Center (Lebanon, Pa) will receive $12,000 and Highland Community College (Freeport, Ill) is the recipient of a $5,000 grant. Eligibility for these awards was achieved by applying for the 2019 Collision Repair Education Benchmark Grant.

CCC’s Classroom Enhancement Grants are designed to assist schools’ collision repair programs with classroom materials, such as electronics, tools, furniture and other items, to ensure that students pursuing a career in collision repair have access to a pro-

fessional learning environment.

“These students are part of the next generation of collision repairers,” said Mary Jo Prigge, president of service operations for CCC. “It’s never been more important to ensure students have access to technology and a learning environment that will prepare them for the fastmoving and complex collision repair industry. We’re proud to invest in these programs and support the great work of the Collision Repair Education Foundation.”

CCC has been an avid supporter of the Collision Repair Education Foundation since 1993. For additional information about CCC, visit www. cccis.com.

Industry members interested

in supporting the Collision Repair Education Foundation’s efforts to assist secondary and post-secondary collision repair training programs should contact Brandon Eckenrode, Director of Development, at 847463-5244 or Brandon.Eckenrode@edfoundation.org.

The Collision Repair Education Foundation, founded in 1991, is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting collision repair educational programs, schools, and students to create qualified, entry-level employees and connect them with an array of career opportunities. For information on how to donate to programs supported by the Education Foundation, visit us online at: www.

CollisionEducationFoundation.org.n

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3M Pledges $50,000 to “Growing the Collision Education Program of Tomorrow” and Awards Two Grants Through the Collision Repair Education Foundation In a show of generosity and dedi3M also took the opportunity to is excited to continue its work with 3M, cation to the future of the collision repair award two $10,000 grants which were and we are grateful for their ongoing industry, 3M pledged $50,000 to the gratefully accepted by the Franklin support and their unparalleled dedicanewly established Growing the Collision Technology Center (Joplin, MO) and tion to the collision repair industry.”

Education Programs of Tomorrow grant Hennepin Technical College (Eden The goal of the grant is a joint that it has partnered on with the Collision Prairie, MN). The schools will use these industry effort, and 3M and the Repair Education Foundation Foundation encourage and invited the industry to join industry members to contheir efforts to support schools tribute to the Growing 3M wants to give back to the automotive aftermarket the Collision Education striving to advance their collision training programs. The of Tomorrow industry, and our partnership with the Collision Repair Programs pledge was made during the which will provide much Foundation’s annual reception needed financial support Education Foundation helps ensure tomorrow’s at the Renaissance Las Vegas for additional schools’ colHotel during the 2019 SEMA collision industry workforce has the skills they need to lision programs.

Show in Las Vegas, Nev. 3M has supportsucceed.”

Mark S. Algie, Business ed the efforts of the Mark S. Algie, Development Manager for Collision Repair Education Business Development Manager 3M’s Automotive Aftermarket Foundation since 2008 3M’s Automotive Aftermarket Division with over $10 million Division, stated, “There is a real crisis in the industry related to worth of in-kind prodthe shortage of qualified technicians, grant funds to purchase tools and equipuct donations provided as well as by and supporting career and technical ment necessary to enhance the training funding grants and supporting the education can help combat this dilemopportunities provided to their students Foundation’s Hire Our Heroes campaign. ma. The pace of change in automotive and ensure students are prepared to For additional information about 3M, technology has accelerated, and it’s critisuccessfully enter the workforce upon visit www.3mcollision.com. cally important that collision students graduation.

Industry members interested in learn the latest repair techniques using Clark Plucinski, Executive Director supporting the Collision Repair Education modern tools, equipment and supplies. of the Foundation, expressed, “The Foundation’s efforts to assist secondary 3M wants to give back to the automotive grants provided to these two schools and post-secondary collision repair trainaftermarket industry, and our partnerwill be instrumental in helping their colliing programs should contact Brandon ship with the Collision Repair Education sion programs advance to the next level Eckenrode, Director of Development, at Foundation helps ensure tomorrow’s and ensure that their students graduate 312-231-0258 or Brandon.Eckenrode@edcollision industry workforce has the skills with the skills and confidence needed foundation.org.n they need to succeed.” to enter the workforce. The Foundation

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Carolinas Collision Association NCACAR & SCACAR Merge ON January 1, 2020, North Carolina Association of Collision And Repair and South Carolina Association of Collision And Repair will be merging to form the Carolinas Collision Association, opening up members and sponsors to opportunities that were previously unattainable.

Benefits for Members Both associations have already

independently created relationships with sponsors/speakers/products that have attracted national attention, but with the merger publicly known, more educational opportunities have been made available and attendance has been stronger.

Benefits for Sponsors With the merger materializing the sponsorship opportunities are reaching a

wider audience and allowing for greater opportunities to create relationships. As NCACAR and SCACAR have both made traction and gained momentum in their respective states, the time is perfect to reach an eager audience that is thirsting for knowledge and support.

For more information: www.carolinascollisionassociation.com

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Six Generations of Ford Explorer

Explorer From Page 30 digital instrument cluster, which displays important vehicle information such as speedometer and gas gauge. It uses 3D animated graphics to change information depending on which of the seven drive modes are selected using the available Terrain Management System.

Ford’s recipe for Explorer has always relied on three main ingredients – capability, comfort and design.

The new rear-wheel-drive architecture enables bumper-to-bumper improvements that include an even more athletic appearance, increased capability NADA Forcast From Page 6 qualified to sell CPO vehicles.”

In 2019, off-lease returns to dealerships are expected to top 4 million units and should remain near that level in 2020 – increasing CPO inventory and sales by franchised dealers.

Incentive spending, on average, hit a new record in November 2019 at $4,520 per unit. This value bests the alltime high set in December 2017 and represents an increase of 11.6 percent compared to November 2018, according to J.D. Power. Through the first four months of the year, incentives were down yearover year, but have steadily increased since.

“With year-to-date new vehicle retail sales down by one to two percent, manufacturers have responded by offering more cash on the hood to entice buyers,” Manzi said. “We expect incentives to remain elevated in December as dealers clear out their lots to make room for new 34

Southern Automotive Journal

and the best passenger accommodations in an Explorer ever.

The powerful new engine lineup features a pair of EcoBoost entries – a 2.3-liter turbocharged I- 4 that comes standard on base, XLT and Limited models, and a 3.0-liter twinturbocharged V6 that powers Explorer Platinum. The reinvigorated 2.3-liter engine is projected to produce 300 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, with improved performance over the outgoing Explorer equipped with the same engine.

Up to seven selectable drive modes are available for customers to

tailor their drive experience to road, weather and terrain conditions on demand. Rear-wheel-only Explorer drive modes Rear-wheel drive also enables more towing capability when properly equipped, regardless of engine.

Vehicles equipped with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost can tow up to 5,600 pounds, a 12 percent increase over outgoing models with 3.5-liter EcoBoost.

New models outfitted with a 2.3liter EcoBoost and Class III Trailer Tow Package can tow up to 5,300 pounds, versus the 3,000 pounds today’s similarly equipped Explorer is capable of. n

models.”

an average of 2.5 percent each month through October of 2019, down slightly from 3.1 percent during the same period in 2018.

“Consumer spending has certainly helped propel the current U.S. economic expansion into the longest expansion on record,” Manzi said.“Looking at 2020, aside from potential fallout from trade disputes, there isn’t anything on the horizon that would suggest an end to this expansion.”

NADA anticipates GDP growth at approximately 2.3 percent in 2019 with a return to a long-term trend growth rate, about 2 percent or slightly lower, as we enter the next decade.

From a payroll perspective, a tight labor market, with more job openings than available workers, has provided steady wage increases for American workers.

“We expect the rate of job growth to slow to between 150,000 to 160,000 jobs per month,” Manzi said. “And as businesses compete for workers there’s still more room for wages to rise.”n

Manzi also provided an outlook of the macroeconomic factors that will impact auto retailing in 2020.

While the Federal Reserve delivered three interest rate cuts in 2019, rates remained at current cycle highs for the first half of the year.

“At this time last year, the Fed was on a path of increasing interest rates and we expected that rates would continue to climb throughout the year,” Manzi said.“The Fed changing course on interest rates helped some consumers with vehicle affordability issues, as well as provided relief for dealers struggling with steadily increasing floorplan costs.”

No additional interest rate cuts are expected following the Fed’s latest meeting in December in which they signaled no plans to changes rates in the near future.

Consumer spending, a significant contributor to U.S. GDP growth, is more notable over past years. U.S real personal consumption expenditures have grown February 2020

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