Southern Automotive Journa Dec 2011 Issue

GMC Acadia Has it ALL !

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COLLISION NEWS

Direct OEM 770-963-6263 COLLISION Toll Free 800-241-812 MECHANICAL FAX 770-237-8174

December 2011

SCRS Joins with Leading Collision Repair Organizations to Release Joint Position Statement on Collision Repair Standards OEConnection Is Finalist for Automotive Industry PACE Award

MECHANICAL NEWS House Passes EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011 NASE Urges Lawmakers To Launch National SelfEmployment Initiative

DEALER NEWS JM Family Enterprises Named One of the Top Green-IT Organizations NADA Foundation: Ambassador Supports American Red Cross

BMW Group Presents Mobility Of The Future BMW i Concepts

The BMW Group showcases its visions of future mobility in the shape of the BMW i3 Concept and BMW i8 Concept studies.

Unveiled for the first time, these concept vehicles provide a glimpse of the first electrically powered production cars from the new BMW i sub-brand, due to be launched as the BMW i3 in 2013 and the BMW i8 in 2014.

“We are marking another milestone

in the history of the BMW Group. As Chairman of the Board and an engineer myself, I am very proud of this project,” declared Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG at the premier of the two vehicles in Frankfurt earlier this year. “As the world’s BMW i Please Turn to Page 4

PERMIT NO. 00335

Lexus GS

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BMW i Convertible From Front Cover leading premium car manufacturer, our aim is to offer customers purpose-built electric-drive cars as well,” he added.

BMW i8 Concept: new-generation sports car The BMW i8 Concept goes from 0 to 100 km/h in less than five seconds and boasts fuel consumption of under three litres per 100 km.

Its plug-in hybrid drive with a system output of 260 kW allows a range of up to 21 miles in electric mode – sufficient for most everyday journeys. For more dynamic driving or out-of-town routes, a highperformance three - cyli n d e r gasoline engine a l s o co m e s i n t o play.

T h e sports car has an electronically governed top speed of 155 mph

Southern Automotive Journal

and space for up to four occupants. “The BMW i8 Concept is the sports car for a new generation – pure, emotional and sustainable,” Draeger underlined.

With BMW i, the BMW Group is corroborating its position as the most innovative and sustainable auto manufacturer in the world, as reflected in the fact that it has been the supersector leader

BMW i8 Concept

in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the sixth year running. With BMW i, the BMW Group is providing answers to the mobility challenges of the future while pursuing a holistic approach. In addition to purposebuilt premium vehicles with electric drive, the company is also offering intelligent mobility services.

BMW i3 Concept With its zero-emission electric drive and a range of approximately 150 kilometres, the BMW i3 Concept has been specifically developed for use in an urban environment, its dynamic 125 kW electric motor and rear-wheel drive ensuring BMWstyle dynamic handling. Thanks to its innovative LifeDrive architecture featuring a carbon passenger cell, the BMW i3 Concept combines an extremely low weight of 1,250 kilograms with optimal interior space and the highest crash safety levels. With four seats

and a 200-litre luggage compartment, this vehicle is fully suited for everyday Continued on Next Page

December 2011

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use.

“This vehicle will mark the launch of the first volumeproduced car featuring bodywork largely made of carbon.

It’s a revolution in automotive design,” stressed Klaus Draeger, Member of the Board responsible for Development. The application of this new CFRP technology allows a weight reduction, compared to a conventional electric car, of between 250 and 350 kilos, and that means more dynamic handling coupled with a greater range. The BMW i3 does the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in less than eight seconds, while a highspeed charger achieves an 80% battery charge in just an hour.

Thanks to the emission-free drivetrain and a value added chain designed to be sustainable all along the line, life cycle emission figures for the BMW i3 are at least a third lower than for a highly efficient combustion-engine car. If the BMW i3 is run on electricity from renewable sources, the figures improve by well over 50%.

“BMW i represents a new movement in premium mobility. With the introduction of this new subbrand, the BMW Group reaffirms its leadership as the most innovative and sustainable premium car company. The products and services have been conceived around a revolutionary approach: purpose designed and purpose built for sustainable, premium mobility. It’s a new day in our industry; a new era for individual mobility. This is BMW i – Born Electric.” said Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Sales and www.IneedOEMparts.com

BMW i3 Concept

December 2011

Marketing, in Munich.

In a first move, two models will be launched under the new sub-brand from 2013. The BMW Group will also significantly expand its range of mobility services over the years ahead. To achieve this, a Venture Capital company was founded in New York City, BMW i Ventures, with an investment totalling up to 100 million US dollars.

“BMW i offers visionary cars and services, inspiring design, and an entirely new concept of premium mobility – all with a focus on sustainability”, explained Robertson. The BMW i brand comprises vehicles and services developed since 2007 as part of project i, a BMW Group think tank exploring sustainable mobility solutions. It is the BMW Group’s response to changing customer needs, including increasing demand for alternative drive trains, such as electric drive systems and hybrids.

There is a widespread desire in megacities for solutions which intelligently combine the benefits of various mobility concepts in a single package.

Both the BMW i3 and the BMW i8 will be built at BMW’s Leipzig plant in Germany. Some 400 million euros are earmarked for investment in new buildings and facilities by 2013, while 800 new jobs are to be created. Vehicle production will be CO2 neutral and will draw on renewable resources. The company is currently investigating the possibility of erecting its own wind turbines on the plant site.n

Southern Automotive Journal

NADA Foundation: Ambassador Supports American Red Cross Auto dealer John P. McEleney knows that the American Red Cross can make a difference to individuals and families, especially to those who have faced recent disasters in his community.

That’s why McEleney, who became an Ambassador of the National Automobile Dealers Charitable Foundation in 2008, selected the Gateway Area chapter of the American Red Cross in Clinton, Iowa, as the recipient of his $2,000 gift.

“The American Red Cross has been really taxed in this area. We have had both a rash of house fires that have

displaced numerous people as well as flooding in some areas in our region that have affected many over the past year,” said McEleney, president of McEleney Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Toyota in Clinton, and former chairman of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA).

“This local chapter has stepped up and provided critical, passionate care for many at a time when the economy is making fundraising a challenge,” he added.

This is third ambassadorship for the McEleney family, making them

Ambassadors of Distinction. McEleney’s father, Warren, who served as NADA president in 1971, became an Ambassador in 1997. His mother, Ellen, became an Ambassador in 2000.

“We are truly honored to have been chosen by John McEleney for this $2,000 gift from the NADA Foundation,” said Amber Wood, executive director of Gateway Area chapter of the American Red Cross. “It’s the generous support from members of our community that ensures the Red Cross is there when disaster strikes, a neighbor’s house burns down or a child needs a hug and a blanket.”n

‘Truck Dealer of the Year’ Dick Ryan Shares His Success Story with Business Students Commercial truck dealer Dick Ryan of South Carolina recently visited Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business as a guest lecturer, an annual honor bestowed on the winner of the Truck Dealer of the Year presented by ATD and Heavy Duty Trucking magazine. For 19 years, professors at IU have helped select the top dealer. The award’s recipient is invited to Bloomington to speak to students about entrepreneurship and how to run a successful business.

This year Ryan, president and CEO of Carolina International Trucks in Columbia, S.C., spoke to two classes of undergraduates studying growth man-

agement and corporate entrepreneurship. Ryan led his dealership to profitability just one year after becoming its CEO as the business was exiting bankruptcy.

Since then, the company has been profitable each year, substantially improving its net worth.

Ryan shared some of the keys to the dealership’s success, including developing a strong, loyal team of employees that share his vision, concentrating on areas of the business that improve business operations (such as parts, service and leasing) and giving back to their community. Ryan also urged the undergraduates to become “students of

the industry” they choose to pursue and always “understand the audience you’re selling to.”

“I tried to explain to them that no matter what you’re doing, you’re always selling something,” Ryan says. “And you need to understand what’s important to them.”

Under Ryan’s leadership, Carolina International Trucks has earned several industry awards, including International’s Dealer of the Year in 2003, Blue Book Used Truck Group’s Franchised Dealer of the Year in 2004/2005, Idealease’s Idealgold award 12 times, and Navistar Financial Corp.’s President’s Award 17 times.n

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December 2011

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Lexus GS Sedans Offer Sporty Elegance Quick and smooth acceleration combined with the luxurious amenities bestowed upon the Lexus GS 350 and GS 460 make the mid-size luxury sport sedans synonymous with refinement. After receiving several technology enhancements in 2010, the GS 350 and GS 460 receive standard Smart Stop Technology for 2011 as an additional measure of consumer co nf i dence.

The braking system enhancem e n t will automatically reduce engine power when the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are applied simultaneously under certain driving conditions.

Optimized for low internal friction, the GS 350's 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 303 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 274 lb.ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. A direct fuel-injection system provides much finer fuel-mixture control to improve both power and fuel efficiency. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) acts on both intake and exhaust valves to further enhance performance through a wide rpm range. A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission allows sequential shifting when desired.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes The Lexus GS combines proven chassis systems with advanced dynamic handling technology to provide both agile handling and the Lexus trademark smooth ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension virtually eliminate unwanted wheel-angle changes during suspension movement.

The result is a natural, confident feel that's also spirited. A 34.1-ft. turning circle (35.4 ft. for GS 350 AWD) is comparable to that of smaller cars and helps make the GS

Southern Automotive Journal

highly maneuverable.

In all GS models, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic

Brake -force D is tr i b u ti o n (EBD) and the Antilock Braking System (ABS) help form a powerful safety front.

EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel to help reduce body dive or sway during hard braking and cornering. BA is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking, and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to activate the ABS, it will apply increased braking force until pedal pressure is released.

The GS 350's available all-wheeldrive system helps to enhance handling in diverse driving conditions. A planetarygear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the traditional performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio December 2011

from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.

The GS 350 models are equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control. The system can be disengaged with the “TRAC Off� switch when the situation warrants doing so.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience T h e standard Regency leathertrimmed, heated, 10way power front seats are comfortably contoured for support on long trips.

A power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dualzone climate-control system filters the air. An optional rear power sunshade may add to passenger comfort on warm days.

All four windows offer one-touch up-and-down operation designed to stop closing during auto-close operation if they sense an object blocking their path.

Both electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors are power-retractable and feature automatic tilt-down to aid in parking when reverse gear is selected. A power trunk closer provides an added convenience on this extremely well-equipped Lexus GS Please Turn to Page 33 www.IneedOEMparts.com

JM Family Enterprises Named One of the Top Green-IT Organizations

by IDG’s Computerworld

JM Family Enterprises, Inc. is No. 12 on the 2011 Top Green-IT Users list

by IDG’s Computerworld, the leading IT media brand dedicated to providing peer perspective, IT leadership and business results. The distinction is part of the IT media outlet’s annual Top Green-IT Organizations feature, which was published in the Oct. 24 issue of Computerworld and online at Computerworld.com.

“We are honored to be recognized as one of the leading organizations in green IT,” said Ken Yerves, JM Family’s Chief Information Officer. “As we continue to invest in new technology, our goal is to minimize our environmental impact, support sustainability through best practices and establish business and community partnerships that promote a greener way to conduct business.”

For the fourth year in a row, Computerworld set out to identify

organizations that are implementing smart, efficient strategies to achieve green IT. Organizations were invited to complete a comprehensive questionnaire online from June to August 2011.

Computerworld contacted representatives at the 70 participating organizations to verify the information provided on the surveys was truthful and accurate. Only those organizations that filed verification letters were considered. With the help of green IT industry experts, Computerworld applied a set of criteria to identify the organizations that are working to reduce energy consumption in IT equipment and are using technology to conserve energy and lower carbon emissions. Based on the weighting scheme developed, the top 12 Green-IT Users and top 12 GreenIT Vendors lists were chosen.

JM Family is committed to reducing its environmental impact through decreased consumption and conserva-

tion of non-renewable resources, and encouraging innovative solutions to create a better environment for its associates, customers, business partners and the community. Among the company’s many recent technology-related green investments are: installing a 202-kilowatt rooftop solar array in Alpharetta Ga., which is capable of offsetting its data center energy use; installing a 33-kilowatt rooftop array in Deerfield Beach, Fla., also designed to offset data center energy requirements; and replacing 1,400 physical servers with virtualization technology, helping reduce energy consumption by 5,575,000 kWh per year. Additionally, JM Family utilizes Dell’s Asset Recovery and Recycling services to resell, recycle, or dispose of obsolete servers, monitors, desktops, phones, mobile devices, and network equipment in a secure and environmentally safe way, according to EPA guidelines.n

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December 2011

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CARE Requests FTC to Strengthen “Magnuson-Moss Act” to Protect Motoring Consumers & to Disregard Car Companies’ Misinformation Campaign Against Aftermarket Parts Following decades of successful protection for motoring consumers who wish to purchase aftermarket parts rather than the identical, but more expensive, car company-labeled parts, the pro-consumer Magnuson-Moss Act, passed in the mid-1970s, is currently being reviewed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

The Magnuson-Moss Act prohibits auto repairs from being tied to auto warranties. “Although there have been several instances when car companies have tried to pass state legislation that would stipulate that a car owners’ vehicle warranty would become void if aftermarket parts were used as replacements, that legislation usually dies when it becomes known that that legislative language would be in violation of the federal law, stated Sandy Bass-Cors, Executive Director, The Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE).

“The car companies have tried to

w o N

n

e p O

circumvent Magnuson-Moss by disseminating a well-orchestrated misinformation campaign against aftermarket parts stating that the ‘aftermarket parts are imitation, not Like-Kind-Quality, and are inferior in quality’. Nothing could be further from the truth,” continued Bass-Cors.

CARE’s comments were forwarded to the FTC on October 21, 2011.

“The year 2010 witnessed 20.3 Million voluntary recalls by the car companies, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These were NOT aftermarket recalls,” stated Bass-Cors.

“Aftermarket parts are as good, if not better, than the car company application simply because these vehicles come to the aftermarket’s industry and service about five years into their lifecycle, when they are out-of-warranty.

During those five years, aftermarket vendors have the opportunity to make

significant improvements to the car company-labeled parts. Aftermarket parts come with a life-time or longterm guarantee, which the car company parts do not.

“A recent American Automobile Association (AAA) Financial Auto Repair Survey of 1,900 adults, illustrates that ‘one-in-four car owners can’t afford to pay for their car repairs and therefore often forgo having them done.’ During a time of belt-tightening for America’s consumers, the Magnuson-Moss Act must be maintained and strengthened to protect motoring consumers and the $290 billion-a-year aftermarket industry that employs nearly five million people nationwide.

“By making false accusations against aftermarket parts, millions of hardworking folks in the aftermarket could eventually see their jobs diminished in numbers due to a loss of sales,” concluded Bass-Cors.n

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December 2011

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OEConnection Is Finalist for Automotive Industry PACE Award OEConnection LLC, the leading online parts and service exchange for the automotive industry, has been selected as a finalist for the 2012 Automotive News PACE Award, the worldwide industry benchmark for innovation among automotive suppliers, for the second consecutive year.

The innovation from OEConnection, its OEM Parts Marketing Administration (PMA) technology, has earned the company a place among finalists for the Information Technology and Services category. In 2011, OEConnection was a PACE Awards finalist for the development of FordParts.com, the first-of-its-kind OEM parts ecommerce portal.

PMA technology has provided a cost-effective and efficient method for automakers and their dealerships to price-compete with aftermarket and recycled parts. Built on OEConnection’s CollisionLink® e-commerce platform, PMA is a rules-based engine that seamlessly automates an automaker’s parts program, from identifying eligible program parts and repricing parts according to OEM guidelines, to tracking funds by dealer and managing dealer reimbursement.

“We take great pride in having achieved this level of recognition for PMA, a technology that is rewriting the rules for automakers and their franchised dealer networks to compete and win collision parts sales,” said OEConnection President & CEO Chuck Rotuno. “Not only is our PMA technology changing market behavior overall, but it is impacting every stakeholder in the value chain - dealership, collision repairer, automaker, insurer, and vehicle owner.”

Offering efficiency, flexibility, and ease of use for both dealers and shops, PMA has succeeded in seamlessly integrating automaker parts programs and real-time conversion opporwww.IneedOEMparts.com

tunities into body shops’ online parts ordering workflow. Since the launch of PMA in June, 2009, seven automakers have signed on to use the technology to administer their individual parts programs, resulting in close to one million competitive sale conversions valued at $250 million.

PACE is the acronym for the Premier Automotive Suppliers’ Contribution to Excellence Award, and

is often referred to as the “Academy Award for Innovation” in the automotive industry. Established in 1994, the program is jointly presented by Ernst & Young, Transportation Research Center Inc., and Automotive News. Winners of the 2012 award will be announced at the Automotive News PACE Awards ceremony on Monday, April 23, 2012 at the Max M. Fisher Music Center in Detroit. n

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11

ASA Honors Member Achievements at 2011 ‘ASRW Award Ceremonies’ The Automotive Service Association (ASA) honored several of its members Thursday during the ASRW Award Ceremonies. Held in Orlando, Fla, during ASA’s annual trade shows - the International Autobody Congress and Exposition (NACE) and the Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) - the annual awards event provides a platform in which the association and other industry groups may acknowledge the achievements of some of its

outstanding individuals.

Ron Pyle, ASA’s president and chief staff executive, hosted the program, which opened with the Automotive Management Institute (AMI) graduation ceremony recognizing those who have earned the Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation.

During the awards ceremony, Tschanen Brandyberry, Motor Age managing editor, presented ASA’s presiding chairman, Ron Nagy, AAM, with a red

die-cast replica car in honor of his contributions to the industry. Honoring the ASA chairmen in this way is a longtime tradition of the publisher.

ASA awards presented during the Oct. 6 event included: The Alpha Award recognizes an ASA Mechanical Division member for his or her generous and far-reaching contributions to the automotive service industry. Howard Pitkow, AAM, Wagenwerx Inc., Wyndmoor, Pa., was the recipient of this year’s honor.

The Phoenix Award recognizes an ASA Collision Division member for his or her contribution to the automotive service industry. Mike Schoonover, Schoonover Body Works and Glass Inc., Shoreview, Minn., was the recipient of this year’s award.

The ASA Benefit Provider of the Year is presented to a sponsored benefit provider in appreciation of its relationship with ASA, and for the value, quality and professional service it offers to ASA members. This year’s recipient was Meadowbrook Insurance Group, Overland Park, Kan., which has a 30-year relationship with the association.

The ASA Chairman’s Award of Excellence recognizes individuals for their outstanding contributions to ASA and the automotive repair industry.

Two honorees were announced this year - Mike West, AAM, Southtowne Auto Rebuild Inc., Tukwila, Wash.; and Virginia Duncan, Duncan’s Collision, Boardman, Ohio.

The ASA Legislative Award recognizes those who have made an impact on legislative and regulatory activities. This year’s award posthumously honored the late Paul Duncan, AAM, Duncan’s ASRW Awards Turn to Page 21

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Southern Automotive Journal

December 2011

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Automakers to Work with Governments Globally on Standards to Help Bring Connected Cars to Market Quicker and More Affordably The Vehicle Infrastructure Integration Consortium (VIIC), a consortium of most major global automakers, will join key government officials and other automakers from around the world to help accelerate the development of connected vehicles by harmonizing standards. In the U.S., there is a strong commitment to deployment of crash avoidance safety applications using connected vehicle technologies.

Globally harmonized standards will enable the automakers and other stakeholders to bring connected vehicle technologies to market more quickly and at a reduced cost for the consumer. The announcement came as transportation innovators, leaders and officials participated in the premier event showcasing intelligent transportation, the 18th World Congress on Intelligent Transportation Systems in Orlando, Florida, Oct. 16-20.

Connected vehicle technologies are a key part of the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) initiative in the U.S. and in other countries. They are expected to be the next frontier for enhancing motor vehicle safety. The technologies also could help reduce traffic congestion by amassing data from many connected vehicles to provide real-time traffic updates.

Connected vehicles using 5.9 GHz Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC) technology can “talk” cooperatively with each other and with the

roadside infrastructure. These “conversations” can provide connected vehicles with information on other vehicles, intersections, road signs, etc. Vehicles can use this information to help warn drivers of imminent dangers and help them avoid potential crashes.

International industry technical standards harmonization is a key to accelerating the global deployment of this technology. An efficient, harmonized set of standards among various markets would enable manufacturers to offer these cooperative communication systems to consumers through a less complex global rollout and at a lower cost to the customer. The VIIC envisions a coordinated rollout of vehicle and infrastructure DSRC technology in the U.S., along with similar rollouts internationally.

Along with VIIC members, partners in the global standards harmonization effort include the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA), the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), and the European Union (EU) and Japan governments, along with regional and global standards organizations. An automaker pre-competitive partnership, the Crash Avoidance Metrics Partnership Vehicle Safety Communications (CAMP VSC3), is providing a major part of the precompetitive technical standards research and development leadership

Jim Tucker Publisher Michele Tucker Editor

Southern Automotive Journal,Inc. P.O. Box 675097 Marietta, Ga 30006-0009 (770) 321-9920 E-Mail jtucker@sajonline.net Volume 15 Issue No. 12

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in the U.S. The commitment to global harmonization is a significant part of an EU-U.S. Joint Declaration of Intent on Research Cooperation in Cooperative Systems signed by government representatives in 2009. Working groups organized under the Joint Declaration have held regular meetings on harmonization of technical standards and related matters.

In July, an important first joint vehicle manufacturer/government workshop took place in Germany. Representatives from U.S., European and Japanese vehicle manufacturers met, along with government officials, to discuss cooperation on connected vehicle technology standards. Common goals and differences were identified, along with an agreed path forward for collaboration. The representatives agreed to an action plan, including looking at what messages and protocols potentially could be harmonized. Initial progress from that action plan will be reported at a meeting during this week’s ITS World Congress. Future events also are anticipated.

“The potential for vehicles to ‘talk’ to each other and the roadside to help prevent crashes and improve mobility represents an exciting opportunity,” said VIIC President Tom Schaffnit. “Work to harmonize related technical standards internationally can help support deployment of this technology here and in other countries.”n

Contributors Dennis Martin Ami Vonesh Joyce Ethridge Russ Heaps

Southern Automotive Journal (ISSN: 1092-6321) is published monthly by Southern Automotive Journal Inc. P.O. Box 675097, Marietta, Ga 30006-0009.SAJ accepts no responsibility for the opinions, views statements of the authors or for claims made by advertisers. Views expressed by writers are not necessarily those of the publication.

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 2011. All rights reserved.

December 2011

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2012 GMC Acadia As it enters its fifth year, GMC Acadia’s efficiency and spaciousness continue to draw more crossover customers, with sales up more than 12 percent for the first four months of 2011.

The 2012 Acadia lineup includes SL, SLE, SLT and Denali models (SLT models are offered in SLT1 and SLT2 trim levels).

All models are available in front-wheeldrive and all-wheel-drive with seven- or eightpassenger seating configurations. A comprehensive safety s y s t e m includes six standard air bags and standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control and rollover mitigation technology.

All models are powered by a 3.6L V-6 VVT engine that uses gasoline direct injection technology to optimize performance and fuel economy. The engine is paired with Acadia’s fuel-saving sixspeed automatic transmission to help give FWD models an EPA-estimated 24 mpg on the highway. The Acadia also is capable of towing up to 5,200 pounds (2,364 kg), when properly equipped.

Also standard on all Denali models for 2012 is hill-hold assist braking technology, which applies the brakes for 1.5 seconds when the driver’s foot leaves the brake pedal on inclines of 5 percent or steeper. To avoid unintended acceleration, an enhanced electronic pedal override reduces power to the engine when the brake and accelerator pedals are depressed at the same time.

A body-frame integral structure enables lower entry/exit height for Acadia passengers. Despite the vehicle’s SUV-like front-end height, the front door step-in height is only 18.9 inches (480 mm), and the rear door www.IneedOEMparts.com

step-in height is 19.8 inches (503 mm).

Entry to the second- and third-row seats is easy with very wide rear doors and GM’s exclusive Smart Slide second-row seat feature.

The Acadia’s design is

sleek and highlighted by chrome accents and large wheels, including 20inch wheels on Denali models. Halogen projector-beam headlamps are standard on SL, SLE and SLT models, while Acadia Denali comes with standard high-intensity discharge headlamps which are also available on SLT.

Acadia offers many additional standard and available exterior features including power lift-gate and outside heated power-adjustable folding mirrors among others.

Acadia’s interior has a car-like “low and away” instrument panel that enhances the feeling of openness in the front-row seats and provides a commanding outward view.

The instrument panel and other interior elements feature high-quality, low-gloss materials and tight gap tolerances.

All Acadia models offer three rows of seating that can be configured for seven or eight passengers, regardless of the trim level. The seating configurations include two front bucket seats, a 60/40-split second-row bench (three passengers) or two second-row captain’s chairs (two passengers) and a 60/40split third-row bench seat. GM’s exclusive Smart Slide feature is standard on all sec-

Acadia’s interior's car-like “low and away” instrument panel enhances the feeling of openness. ond-row configurations, allowing quick and easy access to the third-row seating area. The second-row seat cushion flips up while the seatback slides forward, effectively compressing the space occupied by the seat with the pull of a lever. The Smart Slide system also allows the second row to be positioned fore/aft. When adjusted rearward, the secondrow seat provides more legroom for taller passengers. When adjusted forward, it provides more storage space or additional legroom for third-row passengers.

Storage space of 24.1 cu. ft. (682 Acadia Please Turn to Page 24 December 2011

Southern Automotive Journal

15

Consumer Reports 2011 Annual Auto Survey: New Models Tarnish Ford’s Solid Reliability Record In recent years Ford has been a model of American reliability, competing well against Japanese makes that have dominated for decades. But three of its new models are blemishing that record, according to Consumer Reports.

The new Explorer, Fiesta, and Focus all had below-average reliability in their first year. As a result, Ford’s overall reliability rank among 28 major car makes slipped from the 10th to the 20th spot this year--the biggest drop for any major nameplate in Consumer Reports 2011 Annual Auto Survey. Survey results were scheduled to be announced today before the Automotive Press Association in downtown Detroit.

“We have often found that new or revamped models have more problems in their first year than in subsequent model years. Ford’s problems illustrate why we recommend to our subscribers to hold off buying a first-year model,” said David Champion, Sr. Director of Consumer Reports’ Automotive Test Center.

Ford’s drop can also be attributed to problems with new technologies: the new MyFord Touch infotainment system and the new automated-manual transmission used in the Fiesta and Focus.

Lincoln finished above Ford, although the freshened MKX, a cousin of the Edge, suffered from the MyLincoln Touch system. On the bright side, the Ford Fusion

Hybrid sedan remained outstanding, and other Fusion versions were above average.

While Ford’s star has fallen, Chrysler’s has risen. Jeep has moved up seven spots to 13, becoming the most reliable domestic brand, and all its models for which Consumer Reports has sufficient data scored average in predicted reliability.

Chrysler and Dodge moved up 12 and three spots in ranking, respectively.

Chrysler had better results with its new models, including the freshened Chrysler 200 (formerly Sebring) sedan and the redesigned Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs. The Chrysler brand moved up in Consumer Reports survey, but its rank is based on just two models: the 200, which was well above average, and the freshened Town & Country minivan, which tanked. The remaining model, the 300, is too new for Consumer Reports to have sufficient data.

Findings are based on responses on 1.3 million vehicles owned or leased by subscribers to Consumer Reports or its Website, www.ConsumerReports.org.

The survey was conducted in the spring of 2011 by Consumer Reports’ National Survey Research Center and covered model years 2002 to 2011.

Consumer Reports’ expert team of statisticians and automotive engineers used the survey data to predict reliability of new 2012 models. Predicted reliabil-

ity is Consumer Reports’ forecast of how well models currently on sale are likely to hold up. To calculate predicted-reliability ratings, CR averages the overall reliability scores (used car verdicts) for the most recent three model years, provided that the model remained unchanged in that period and also didn’t substantially change for 2012. If a model was new or redesigned in the past couple of years, one or two years’ data may be used, or if that’s all that’s available. On rare occasions, Consumer Reports makes predictions for a newly redesigned model, but only if previous versions had outstanding reliability.

Even with Chrysler’s improvement, Detroit models still have reliability problems. Of the 97 domestic models and versions for which Consumer Reports has sufficient data, 62 (64 percent) rated average or better in CR’s new-car reliability ratings.

General Motors has stumbled after edging up last year. The Buick and Cadillac brands, in particular, appear to have taken a step backward; Chevrolet held steady and GMC dropped one spot.

The new Buick Regal and Chevrolet Cruze were below par in reliability.

The Buick LaCrosse, an all-wheeldrive version of the Buick Enclave, and the Auto Survey Please Turn to Page 33

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UTI Foundation’s 2011 Drive to Succeed Video Competition Gives High School Seniors a Chance to Earn Scholarships and Auto Shop Upgrades The 2011 Universal Technical Institute (UTI) Foundation Drive to Succeed Video Competition features two contests - Why I Want to Be a Technician and Why My High School Auto Shop Needs a Make-Over. Both contests will run through November 30, 2011.

Students will upload videos to the UTI Foundation’s Facebook® page at http:// www.facebook.com/UTIFoundation, and a combination of Drive To Succeed Committee judging and online votes will be used to determine the winners of each contest.

The Why I Want to Be a Technician Contest is open to high school seniors across the country interested in careers as professional automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians. The student who submits the winning video entry will earn a $25,000

scholarship to any Universal Technical Institute campus. All it takes to win is a video camera, creativity and a compelling story. A $10,000 scholarship will be awarded to the second place winner, and the third place winner will receive a $5,000 scholarship.

Students and instructors can enter the Why My High School Auto Shop Needs a Make-Over Contest to win new shop tools and technology thanks to sponsors like Snap-On®. Schools will be awarded $25,000, $10,000, and $5,000 in shop upgrades for the first place, second place, and third place winners, respectively.

“The Drive To Succeed video competition is all about turning dreams into reality for several deserving students around the country,” said Veronica Meury, vice president and executive

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director, UTI Foundation. “The competition celebrates the passion and creativity that students invest in the videos and encourages a spirit of collaboration. The imagination we see in the videos is only a small representation of the ambition and excellence for which UTI students are known.”

The video competition serves as a kick-off to the second annual Drive To Succeed event taking place at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving on March 31, 2012 in Chandler, Arizona.

Official rules and more information are available online through the UTI Foundation website at http://www. utifoundation.net/uti-foundation/driveto-succeed/national-video-contest.

Winners will be announced on or around January 19, 2012.n

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Mercedes-Benz Recruiting Elite Technicians: Hot Rod Pro Racer Steve Johnson Reaches Out to Students Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) announced recently that National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) racing pro Steve Johnson is scheduled to speak with students about MBUSA's ELITESTART technician education and training program at recruiting events, nationwide. With the goal of introducing students to ELITESTART, Johnson will be attending career fairs and NHRA Youth & Education Services (Y.E.S.) program races where he will speak about what it takes to be an automotive technician for MercedesBenz - the company that invented the

automobile. The aim is to attract and source the most talented entry-level technicians in the industry for the MBUSA dealer network, while giving students a jump start on their careers through the skills and knowledge gained in the ELITESTART program.

"As Mercedes-Benz ambassadors, each and every person in the dealership has a role in delivering exceptional customer service to each Mercedes-Benz customer and technicians are no exception. We put the ELITESTART program into place to help ensure that dealerships

are hiring the most talented and passionate personnel to serve their customers to Mercedes-Benz standards - The Best or Nothing," said Harry Hynekamp, general manager of MBUSA's Learning & Performance department. "Through ELITESTART, Mercedes-Benz aims to develop its greatest competitive advantage - its people - and to further raise the bar of customer service."

"Being a part of the Mercedes-Benz team is an honor for our whole race MB Elite Techs Please Turn to Page 34

SCRS Joins with Leading Collision Repair Organizations to Release Joint Position Statement on Collision Repair Standards Helping define a foundation and a road forward, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) has joined with the most prominent collision repair organiza-tions representing the voice of the collision repairer nationally, to issue and sign a joint statement officially recognizing OEM vehicle manufacturer published repair procedures as the industry’s repair standards.

The organizations making the declaration with SCRS include the Alliance of Automotive Service Pro-viders (AASP), Automotive Service Association (ASA), and Assured Performance Network. The

18

Southern Automotive Journal

statement was presented on Wednesday, November 3, 2011 to those attending the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Their statement reads as follows: “The undersigned organizations continue to be the leading voice of collision repair busi-nesses and technicians across the United States, just as they have for decades. Representing their interests, we hereby recognize published repair procedures, as provided by automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEM), as the official industry recognized “Repair Stan-dards” for colli-

December 2011

sion repair. These standards, where they exist, shall be the basis for the establishment of training, testing, repair practices, and documentations.

“Whereas, we acknowledge that OEM repair procedures are incomplete in comparison to the full scope of vehicles and repair operations which exist in the marketplace; the OEM published repair procedures shall serve as the baseline for industry repair standards, with the recognition that further development SCRS Please Turn to Page 34

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Southern Automotive Journal

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Duluth GA 30096

December 2011 December 2011

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19

House Passes EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011 The U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation that delays for 15 months toxic air standards for industrial boilers. H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, aims to protect hundreds of thousands of jobs by providing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with additional time to reconsider and improve proposed boiler rules. In addition, this will extend the time period for the industry to comply with these rules.

The proposal, which directs the EPA to develop achievable standards affecting non-utility boilers and incinerators, and grants additional time for compliance with the rules, was offered in response to an influx of urgent calls from small and large employers.

Economic analyses have projected that compliance with the rules, as currently proposed, could cost in excess of $14 billion, which places more than 200,000 jobs at risk. The impact of the postponement essentially ensures that businesses do not have to comply with the rule until the EPA pursues further public comment and issues a new and final regulation.

According to the EPA, the delay of the implementation of the regulation is another setback for a rule that will

prevent thousands of health conditions such asthma, as well as heart attacks.

However, the agency said “these additional opportunities for public input will ensure that any final standard will be informed by input and feedback from key stakeholders including the public, the industry and public-health communities.”

The EPA has estimated there are more than 200,000 boilers operating in industrial facilities, commercial buildings, hotels and universities located in highly populated areas and communities across the country. The EPA has estimated that for every $5 spent on reducing these pollutants, the public will see $12 in health and other benefits.

Under current law, both onand off-specification used oil can be recycled through use as fuel in boilers, industrial furnaces and space heaters. Approximately 113 million gallons is used for heating purposes by approximately 100,000 small businesses across the U.S. in used-oil fired space heaters per year.

If the proposed rule is finalized, and off-specification used oil cannot be recycled as fuel, automotive maintenance facilities will have to test any used oil they collect from the public to

determine if it meets specifications. If that happens, automotive maintenance facilities across the country could simply stop accepting “DIY” used oil, and as a result, much of the used oil that has been safely burned for heat in boilers and space heaters for many years could end up entering our water supply after being poured down a drain or on the soil.

As part of a filing with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, the EPA has set an April 2012 deadline for issuing updated and modified air toxics standards for boilers and certain solid waste incinerators.

The Senate is unlikely to take up the boiler issue, despite the fact that bipartisan groups of senators have introduced companion bills. U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, who is leading the way on the boiler bill, will likely try to include her bill in any omnibus measure Congress must pass by Nov. 18.

To view further information, including full text of the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, as well as detailed information regarding the EPA’s currently proposed rules and timeline for reconsideration and issuance of new boiler rules, visit ASA’s legislative website at www.

TakingTheHill.com.n

jjanney@atlantaclassiccars.com

20

Southern Automotive Journal

December 2011

jbalizet@atlantaclassiccars.com

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ASRW Awards From Page 12 Collision, Boardman, Ohio.

Following the Automotive Management Institute graduation ceremony, which opened the event, AMI awarded the following scholarships: • Tom B. Babcox Memorial Scholarship: Don Schnitzler, Don’s Auto Repair Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio • Zurich “High Octane” Scholarship: John Firm, Firm Automotive, Fort Worth, Texas • AVI Education Scholarship: Tawaina Frost, Price’s Automotive Service, Wrightsville, Ga. • BodyShop Business Magazine Scholarship: Kristine Linscombe, Hernandez Collision Center, Hinesville, Ga. • Emil Stanley Merit Scholarship: Chris Renfro, Car-O-Van Collision Center, Orlando, Fla. • Richard Cossette /Gale Westerlund Memorial Scholarship: James

Noe, Nagy’s Body & Frame, Doylestown, Ohio.

The following industry awards were also presented during the event: • Motor Age Top Shop of the Year: Rad Air Complete Car Care, Strongsville, Ohio, Andy Fiffick, owner.

• ABRN Top Shop of the Year: O’Rielly Collision Center, Tucson, Ariz.

Brian Guerrero, manager.

• FenderBender Executive Award: Henry Yach II, Yach’s Body & Custom, Wausau, Wis. • FenderBender Management Award: Devin Fischer, Fischer Body Shop, Jacksonville, Mo. • FenderBender Administrative Support Award: Humberto Ibarra, Gateway Collision Center Inc., Bakersfield, Calif.

• FenderBender Shop Worker Award: Zachery Utecht, Offutt Collision Repair, Bellevue, Neb. • FenderBender Vendor Award: Blake Harris, Blue Ridge Color Co.,

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Roanoke, Va. • FenderBender Wildcard Award: Rick Starbard, Rick’s Auto Collision & Service Center, Revere, Mass.

• Women’s Industry Network NACE Scholarships: Elizabeth Moore, Houston, Texas; and Alexandra Domar, Maple Grove, Ill. • Russ Verona Memorial/IBIS Scholarship: Ron Nagy, AAM, Nagy’s Collision Centers, Wooster, Ohio.

Award winners were also acknowledged during the Opening General Session in the Orange County Convention Center Thursday, which featured keynote speaker and marketing guru Chris Brogan.

NACE and CARS will be held during Automotive Service and Repair Week (ASRW) next year when the events move to New Orleans, Oct. 10-13, 2012. Plan now to attend the events designed exclusively for automotive service and repair professionals. Visit www.ASRWevents. com for the latest announcements.n

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email email rmartin@jimburke.com wshores@jimburke.com

December 2011

Southern Automotive Journal

21

SCRS’ New Merchant Services Provider Extends Incentive Offer to Association Members The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) an-nounced today that the organization has secured a new contract for merchant services for association members. The new merchant services agreement has been signed with Total Merchant Services (TMS), and to celebrate this new relationship, TMS has extended an introductory incentive to all SCRS members. Any new or returning SCRS member who signs on with TMS to handle their mer-chant service needs through the SCRS program before Jan 1, 2012 will receive $150—equivalent to half of a general member’s annual dues payment.

Total Merchant Services is proud to be rated A+ on the BBB and offers the

following benefits to SCRS members: - Low interchange rates simplified and easy to understand.

- No cancellation fees.

- No set up fees.

- Free equipment.

- Dedicated account rep to SCRS members To take advantage of the special promotion, simply contact SCRS Account Representative Joe Forkner at 480.580.9430 or email JForkner@ TMSPARTNER.COM to schedule a free, comprehensive review to find out how much you can save on your merchant account and what alternative payment options or cash advances may help you

reach your business goals. All new clients will receive $150 and all new corporate accounts will receive $150 per location.

Interested collision repair facilities must be a current member of the Society of Collision Repair Spe-cialists to be eligible for the incentive offer, and to take advantage of the specially negotiated merchant services offering from TMS. To find out more about Total Merchant Services, you can visit their web-site at www.totalmerchantservices. com. To find out more about SCRS, or to find information on join-ing the association, you can visit our website at www. scrs.com, or contact our administrations office at (877) 841-0660. n

ASA Unveils Redesigned Website Reflecting the increased demand for timely and relevant industry information, member services and consumer exposure, the Automotive Service Association (ASA) recently unveiled a major redesign of its website, www.

ASAshop.org. The website, originally launched in 1995, now includes a reorganized format, innovative functionality and interactive content that provides a gateway for ASA members, industry professionals and consumers alike.

One of the major additions to ASA’s website is the Communities section.

Within the ASAshop.org Communities,

current ASA members will have access to online forums, document libraries, wikis and blogs, allowing collaboration and communication between members, staff and volunteer leadership in a professional environment.

“We’re especially excited about the new Communities feature of the website,” said Ron Pyle, ASA’s president and chief staff executive. “It provides members, volunteers and staff the opportunity to work more closely together and share their wealth of knowledge in an easy-to-use and friendly environment.”

The ASAshop.org Communities will

provide many platforms for communication, including the ability for ASA members to create their own personal blogs, ask questions of their peers and the ASA staff in the forum area, and collaborate on documents and other materials via a member-only wiki area. In addition, the Communities section hosts a document library section, which will feature documents, video and audio files, and images, providing exclusive resources for ASA members and their businesses. ASA’s division newsletters, Collision Repair Report ASA Website Please Turn to Page 34

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advanced transmission with clutch-to-clutch shift operation for front- and all-wheeldrive vehicles. It also offers automatic grade braking, shift stabilization and precise shift control.

The available intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system provides increased traction on slippery roads by actively managing the torque distribution between the front and rear axles, based on factors such as wheel speed, throttle and surface conditions. There is no driver intervention: The system automatically decides how much torque to apply and delivers it to the wheels that

Acadia From Page 15

Acadia offers a maximum storage capability of 115.9 cu. ft. (1,382 L) when the second- and thirdrow seats are folded flat and the cargo management removed.

liters) is available behind the third-row seat (with the cargo management removed). Maximum storage capability is 115.9 cu. ft.

(1,382 L) when the secondand third-row seats are folded flat and the cargo management removed.

The Acadia’s 3.6L engine’s direct injection technology helps produce power similar to many V-8 engines and uses regular unleaded gasoline. It is rated

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Southern Automotive Journal

at 288 horsepower (215 kW) and 270 lb.-ft. of torque (366 Nm).

Ninety percent of the engine’s peak torque is available from approximately 2,500 rpm to more than 6,000 rpm.

The 3.6L engine is mated to the HydraMatic 6T75 sixspeed automatic transmission, an

December 2011

have the best traction.

Acadia rides on a long 118.9-inch (3,019 mm) wheelbase, with wide 67.8-inch (1,721 mm) front and 67.4-inch (1,712 mm) rear tracks – a combination that lowers the center of gravity and enables smooth, stable ride and handling characteristics.

The Acadia Denali is available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models, as well as seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations. It stands out with its signature Denali design cues, highlighted by a monochromatic exterior and chrome honeycomb grille.

It also wears a number of specific exterior design cues, including unique lower front and rear fascias, dual chrome exhaust tips, twenty-inch chrome clad six-spoke wheels, Denali badges.

Acadia Denali also features exclusive design, comfort and convenience features with leather-wrapped steering wheel with mahogany wood inserts, heated and cooled, leather-trimmed driver and passenger seats and dual SkyScape sunroof system, with sliding front sunroof and fixed rear section.n www.IneedOEMparts.com

7KH PRVW PROFITABLE DGYHQWXUH \RX ZLOO HYHU XQGHUWDNH What our customers are saying: “Our partnership with Wynn’s has been nothing but positive and profitable. They make the competition look like amateurs.� a -RG\ &UXFH 3DOPHU 'RGJH “Unmatched customer service with first class products and equipment.� a 'RXJ 'XEXF &KHURNHH )RUG “The reason that I do business with Wynn’s is because of the reps. Their dedication, follow-through, and consistency are the absolute best.� a 7HG %ROGW 5LQJROG &'“We’ve tried all the other major players in the chemical business, and we’ve decided on Wynn’s.� a 0LNH &URXFK /DQGPDUN $XWRPRWLYH *URXS “Why settle for second best? Wynn’s was the pioneer of this industry and continues to dominate the market.� a 'HDQ 0DQVWRQ 0LNH %HOO &KHYUROHW “Wynn’s is not just another chemical company, they partner with you to help you reach your service department’s full potential.� a 5RFFR &RWHOOHVH $GYHQWXUH &KHYUROHW “Price, customer service, ongoing training and first-class equipment - what more can you ask for?� a %ULDQ &RQVDXO &KHURNHH +\XQGDL

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6/7/11 9:50 AM

Mazda North American Operation Open New Parts Distribution Center in McDonough Mazda's new 19 0, 0 0 0 square foot Parts Distribution Center located in McDonough, Geogia services dealers throughout the southeast United States. “The McDonough facility allows next day delivery to our dealers in the southeast that were previously serviced by our Memphis location. In some cases it was a two day delivery time from Memphis.

Now we can provide next day delivery from the McDonough center.” said John R. Cunningham Group Manager, PDC Operations & Transportation Mazda North American Operations.

“We located this parts distribution center within an eighthour drive of 80% of the dealers it services. It’s about providing better service to the Mazda customer.”

The opening of the Greater Atlanta PDC is one of the first milestones in a $20 million parts distribution center network expansion that MNAO announced in July 2010. The expansion will create a network of seven parts distribution centers in North America – five in the U.S. and two in Canada – and reinforces the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.n

Senior Vice President of Mazda US Operations Group Robert Davis (pictured right) and CAT Logistics General Manager Eric Cagle (pictured left) at Mazda’s Parts Distribution Center opening in McDonough, GA on October 27.

Mazda’s 190,000 square foot Parts Distribution Center will supply more than 100 dealers in the Southeast with $8 million worth of Genuine Mazda parts. www.IneedOEMparts.com

December 2011

Southern Automotive Journal

27

NASE Urges Lawmakers To Launch National Self-Employment Initiative With lawmakers shelving President Obama’s jobs bill in favor of breaking it into smaller pieces, Congress has little to offer right now from a policy standpoint to help kick start our economy.

Glaringly absent from the jobs debate has been specific proposals that speak to how to encourage and support startups and the self-employed, our nation’s biggest job creators.

The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) has introduced a National Self- Employment Initiative to get the conversation started.

“There is no doubt we need more Americans earning a paycheck and contributing to get the economy back on track,” said NASE President and CEO Kristie L. Arslan. “The NASE’s National Self-Employment Initiative provides a framework to lawmakers on how we can foster entrepreneurialism and allow new and existing businesses to flourish.”

The Initiative has four key parts, detailed below:

Simplify the Tax Code – Prioritize simplifying the tax code and creating tax parity for self-employed businesses. Small-business owners must be their own Human Resources, Sales and Accounting Departments, among other tasks. They do not have the resources of big businesses who can hire teams of people to manage their affairs and keep them compliant with current law. A few small changes to the tax code would make a big impact for the nation’s smallest businesses.

Financing for Start-ups and the Self-Employed - Access to capital is crucial to the growth of new firms and micro-lending is especially important to help bolster the self-employed.

While last year’s Small Business Jobs Act promised increased funding opportunities through small community banks and credit unions, that program has yet to materialize, leaving business owners to rely on credit cards and their own savings to get by or expand.

Teach the Rewards of Self

Employment - Foster entrepreneurship education in secondary schools as well as colleges and universities. Make starting a business a viable career option for our young Americans and teach them the skills they need to take turn their ideas into profitable businesses.

Creation of State-Led Entrepreneurial Programs - Assist all states in launching self-employment training programs for residents. These training programs should be available free to all unemployed citizens providing them with an avenue to create their own job, should they be unable to find one.

“The first step to creating jobs is encouraging out of work Americans to create a job for themselves through self employment. In this difficult economic climate, offering tax incentives to corporations to hire will not do the trick.

The only viable path to economic recovery is by promoting the innovation and job creation that comes from new business startups,” commented Arslan. n

Used Prices to Drive New Car Sales in Fourth Quarter Above average trade-in values for used cars are expected to increase new vehicle sales in the fourth quarter, says Jonathan Banks, senior analyst with the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Used Car Guide.

“We expect consumer demand for small and midsize, fuel-efficient cars to shift from the used market to the new market in the fourth quarter,” Banks said. “Automakers based in Japan will likely increase incentives to boost lost market share after the production disruptions from the earthquake and tsunami in March.”

Trade-in values on many 3- to 5-year-old small cars, such as the Chevrolet Cobalt, Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are about 10 percent higher in September than a year ago, according to the NADA Used Car Guide.

“Higher trade-in values will help facilitate new vehicle purchases because car owners have an equity built into the deal, which they can use as a down payment,” Banks added. “Higher used prices will also drive more car shoppers to choose new vehicles instead of used ones because monthly payments between a new and used purchase will be closer.”

Used car prices at the end of the year will still be higher than last year, but not at the levels during the peak in May and June when prices jumped 25-30 percent higher, Banks said on “AutoFocus with David Hyatt,” an NADA public affairs TV program.n 28

Southern Automotive Journal

December 2011

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Third Quarter NADAguides Brand Share Report Shows Domestics Regaining What Was Lost in the Second Quarter NADAguides announces its Brand Share Report for the third quarter of 2011 – revealing that domestic brands saw the only increase in consumer interest on NADAguides.com during the third quarter of 2011, increasing its overall share of consumer interest by more than ten percent.

Helping domestics achieve this increase was Chevrolet, which topped brand consumer interest on NADAguides during quarter three. The analysts at NADAguides attribute this increase of Chevrolet brand interest to the Cruze, which has been gaining momentum month over month throughout the year, as well as the Chevrolet Silverado which has consistently remained near the top in terms of brand share and interest on NADAguides.com throughout the year.

Based on sales numbers reported by Automotive News, the Chevrolet Cruze was the fifth most purchased car through the first nine months of 2011 and the Chevrolet Silverado was the second most purchased light vehicle and light truck.

During the second quarter, MINI and Fiat both saw the largest growth in brand share (increasing by 206 and 168 percent, respectively). During the third quarter, Fiat continued its surge and saw the largest increase in overall brand share, increasing by more than 68 percent, while consumer interest for MINI fell dramatically with one of the largest decreases in brand share during the third quarter as compared to the second quarter, dropping nearly 54 percent. As a result European brands saw the biggest decrease in consumer interest on NADAguides.com during the third quarter, dropping by 14.9 percent as compared to the second quarter 2011.

Chevrolet edged out Ford as the most researched brand on NADAguides, moving Ford to the second position, while Toyota, Nissan and Honda maintained the third, fourth and fifth positions, respectively. Consumer interest for Nissan actually decreased by more than 25 percent but was able to maintain its overall position as the fourth most researched brand on NADAguides.com.

Chevrolet owned 14.5 percent of overall consumer interest on NADAguides.com www.IneedOEMparts.com www.IneedOEMparts.com

during the third quarter of 2011, Ford 13.3 percent, Toyota 9.9 percent, Nissan 6.29 percent and Honda 6.1 percent.

During the third quarter of 2011 domestics further cemented their position as the leader both in sales and in consumer interest on NADAguides.com.

Interest for domestics actually increased by 10.2 percent while sales increased from 46.8 percent to 47.3 percent year-to-date during quarter three – with the large jump in consumer brand interest during the third quarter, it may be an indication that sales for domestics will continue in an upward trend for the remainder of the year.

Both consumer interest and sales for Japanese brands actually decreased in the third quarter with sales showing a decrease of 1.7 percent and consumer brand interest dropping 2.5 percent.

Analysts continue to attribute some of these decreases for the Japanese brands

December December 2011 2011

to the production circumstances that followed the earthquake and tsunami in Japan earlier this year.

Consumer brand interest on NADAguides.com for European and Korean brands fell dramatically, 14.9 and 7.7 percent, respectively. However, sales for both continued to remain relatively similar – both at nine percent. Despite promising increases in consumer interest during the second quarter, those inquiries did not result in sales during the third quarter.

Troy Snyder, Director of Product Development, NADAguides said, “We continue to see the ‘Big Three’ putting out great vehicles that meet consumer demands at all price points and with many more options at high MPG ratings.

Trends are expected to shift again as the year comes to a close and Japanese manufacturers are all nearly back to capacity production.”n

Southern Southern Automotive Automotive Journal Journal

31 31

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Lexus GS From Page 8 car. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allow the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse.

The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, iPod/USB connectivity, Bluetooth® hands free phone and music streaming, and integrated XM Radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription). The system plays through 10 premium speakers while an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds. When connected to the USB port, the iPod can be controlled through the audio system or steering wheel controls, while information such as names for the artist, track and album is displayed.

Within the ultra-quiet Lexus GS interior, all styles of music come to Auto Survey From Page 16 Cadillac SRX were all deemed reliable last year but dropped to below average and are no longer recommended.

General Motors’ bright spots include the above-average Chevrolet Avalanche and the Cadillac CTS, which has improved to average. The gas/electric Chevrolet Volt, with much better than average predicted reliability, ranks as GM’s most reliable car but with a caveat: The sample size was just a little more than Consumer Reports’ minimum threshold of 100 cars, and most respondents had owned theirs for only a few months.

Japanese brands continue to dominate Consumer Reports survey’s upper echelons and took the top nine spots.

They were led by Scion, Lexus, Acura, Mazda, Honda, and Toyota. Of the 91 Japanese models for which Consumer Reports has sufficient data, 87 (96 percent) were rated average or better in predicted reliability; 24 Japanese models earned the highest rating. www.IneedOEMparts.com

life with the optional Mark Levinson® Premium Sound system. Featuring 11 channels of amplification with a total of 330 watts playing through 14 speakers, the system allows users to play both CDs

and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.

The available Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Lexus Navigation System eliminates the need for DVD map discs and offers enhanced Bluetooth® with phonebook download and Voice command, a casual-

language—based voice recognition feature. This technology allows the driver to give more flexible, conversational commands for easier access to audio, climate, and navigation system functions. Voice command helps users avoid having to speak commands in a specific order?making tasks easier to accomplish, in fewer steps, and helping to allow drivers to focus more on the road ahead.

The Lexus GS also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®, available by subscription.

Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features.

Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles, while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week— every day of the year.n

The biggest improvement was from Mazda, which moved up eight spots from last year. All its models were rated above average. Scion remains the top brand in Consumer Reports survey, but only two models of its three, the xB and xD, had sufficient data to be included. Lexus, with 11 models included, rebounded seven places from last year.

Toyota finished sixth overall, the same as last year, and every Toyota model except the all-wheel-drive version of the Sienna minivan was average or better.

Honda also had just one below-average vehicle, the redesigned Odyssey minivan. The South Korean brands rank 11th and 12th in Consumer Reports’ survey.

Hyundai had just one below-par entry, the V6 Santa Fe. The V6 version of its corporate cousin, the Kia Sorento, also finished below average.

European models continue to be a blend of reliable and not so reliable vehicles. Overall, European vehicles’ reliability is slightly below that of domestic models. Of the 58 European models for which Consumer Reports has sufficient

data, 37 (64 percent) scored average or better in predicted reliability.

Among European brands, Volvo ranked the highest at 10th overall. It was helped by the redesigned S60, which was above average in its first year. Volkswagen was able to hold on to 16th place in the ranking; seven of its 11 models scored average or better.

Mercedes-Benz and BMW improved, but results were inconsistent for their various models. BMW’s redesigned X3 SUV did well, for example, but the redesigned 5 Series sedan was well below average. Mercedes’ compact GLK SUV improved, but its flagship S-Class luxury sedan fell to below average.

Porsche dropped from being the second-best brand last year to the second-worst. That big shift occurred because CR has data for only two models, one of which, the redesigned Cayenne SUV, had a terrible debut year. Jaguar trails the pack. Its XF and the new XJ were the two least reliable new cars in the survey, but that’s not surprising, given Jaguar’s history.n

December 2011

Southern Automotive Journal

33

ASA Website From Page 22 and Mechanical Division Dispatch, have a new home in the Communities, providing relevant and up-to-date information on association news, industry happenings and other important information exclusively for ASA members.

In addition to its new look, the ASAshop.org website was reorganized from the ground up to improve the site’s MB Elite Techs From Page 18 team," Johnson said from his race shop in Alabama. "I'm so proud of my relationship with technical education and relating the benefits to high school students," he added. "I love talking to the gearheads and knowing that I might be able to engage them to the next step and turn their automotive passion into a very cool career."

In addition to his racing on the NHRA circuit, Johnson was a full-time automotive technician before becoming a touring professional owner and racer SCRS From Page 18 of procedures will be necessary in areas not covered by published procedures.

“Therefore, we officially ask the board of directors for the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), to establish within their overall organizational structure, an indus-

ease of use. The “ASA Membership” section is now divided into categorized listings, and the “Consumers” section includes vehicle care tips, free resources and the ASA Shop Locator, which has been used by hundreds of thousands of consumers looking for a reliable repair shop in their area.

Additional features will continue to roll out over the next few months, providing visitors and members with even

more capabilities to research, communicate and collaborate.

“Since its inception, the ASA website has always been a vehicle to disseminate important information to the industry,” added Pyle. “The unveiling of this redesign effort is a reflection of the direction we are taking to continually offer our membership, and the industry as a whole, the relevant information they need.”n

20 years ago. As a two-time winner of the U.S. Nationals - drag racing's most prestigious event, Johnson is also a regular participant in the NHRA Y.E.S. program.

Through the ELITESTART program, Mercedes-Benz reaffirms its commitment to developing its workforce and providing the highest level of customer service in the industry. The program began in 1998 with the introduction of the ELITE Technician Program, a Mercedes-specific 16-week intensive technical training series designed to produce qualified entry-level technicians. ELITESTART now provides the fundamental Mercedes-

Benz specific skills and knowledge, and plans are underway to develop an ELITEADVANCED Program for delivery in early 2013.

ELITE START is offered through Universal Technical Institute (UTI), the industry's leading automotive school. It is offered as an elective in their core automotive program, where it is marketed simply as STARt and is offered at their Norwood, Mass. and Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. campuses. UTI then works with MBUSA to assist with the placement of interested START graduates into the MBUSA dealer network.n

try council to identify gaps in existing OEM procedures and develop processes to close gaps, vet industry proposed alternatives, modifications, and additions to OEM procedures. The Council will include volunteer representatives serving at least ASA, SCRS, AASP, and I-CAR.” While most assume OEM repair

procedures are standards by default, it has never been officially estab-lished until now. As these groups collectively represent collision repair businesses and technicians across the United States, their official adoption and declaration provides a much needed foundation and focus to the industry’s effort to establish collision repair standards.n

MITSUBISHI Call Us For All Your Mitsubishi Parts Needs

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December 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now that’s a powerful combination, indeed.

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

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

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