Southern Automotive Journal

Shop Licensing Bill Introduced In North

Carolina

CCC Assembles External Industry Panel to Provide

Estimating Insight

Ford Refreshes Competitive Part Programs; Offers Deeper Discounts To

Repairers

Five More Members of Congress Support 'Right to

Repair' Legislation

Majority Says the Struggles of the American Car

Manufacturer Won't Impact Next

Purchase

Dodge Challenger

June 2009

Fusion Hybrid Averages 81.5 MPG

Furai Please Turn to Page 4

Sets World Record with 1,445 Miles

MECHANICAL NEWS

DEALER NEWS

COLLISION NEWS

Ford FlexSouthern Automotive JournalP.O. Box 675097Marietta, Ga 30006-0009(770) 321-9920

PRSRT STD

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

LAKELAND, FL

PERMIT NO. 00335

As the latest in Mazda’s award-winning and highly acclaimed series of Nagare con-cept cars, the Furai P2 concept vehicle cele-brates 40 years of rotary engine and interna-tional motorsports heritage with the raciest interpretation of NAGARE (pronounced “na-ga-reh”, Japanese for flow and the embodi-ment of motion) design language to-date.

Furai (pronounced “foo-rye”, Japanese for sound of the wind) is the sort of car that could only come from a company that incor-

Mazda Furai Concept: The Embodiment Of Zoom-Zoomporates the “Soul of a Sports Car” into everything it builds, but with an eye toward the future and the environment through the use of renewable fuels. Driving toward sustainability, Furai was initially tuned to operate on 100 per-cent ethanol fuel, the first time a rac-ing three-rotor rotary engine has been fueled by ethanol. Research continues

AcuraJackson Acura

678.259.9500 877.622.2871 678.259.9555Nalley Acura

770.422.3138 800.899.7278 770.590.4154SONS Acura

866.961.SONS 770.968.5507Audi

Jim Ellis Audi 770.955.2580 800.253.8242 770.952.6199

Nalley Audi 678.795.3500 877.625.5393 678.352.3450

BMWGlobal Imports BMW

770.951.9389 800.235.2987 770.952.3390BMW of South Atlanta

678.479.4622 800.959.2241 678.479.4695Nalley BMW

404.296.8644 800.622.2021 404.297.9134 United BMW

770.476.8413 800.334.5645 770.623.4320

ChryslerJim Burke Chrysler

205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452Don Drennen Autos

205.823.5237 800.633.4304 888.815.5238Hayes Chrysler

770.963.6263 800.241.8124 770.237.8174Nalley Chrysler

770.643.3103 800.752.5337 770.518.4185General Motors

Jim Burke 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452

Don Drennen 205.823.5237 800.633.4304 888.815.5238

HondaNalley Honda

770.306.4646 800.367.9834 770.306.4640SONS Honda

770.228.2888 800.243.4130 770.228.8483Tameron Honda

800-467-0699 205-443-7656Hyundai

Jim Burke Hyundai 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452

Tameron Hyundai 800-467-0699 205-443-7656Infiniti

Nalley Infiniti- Marietta 770.281.8645 877.625.5392 770.281.8646

Nalley Infiniti- Decatur 404.292.0831 800.522.3324 404.296.8701Izuzu

Jim Burke 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452

JaguarJim Burke

205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452Nalley

770.664.4408 800.328.4833 770.664.4338Kia

Kia of Union City 770.964.8252 800.43.PARTS 678.815.1010

Kia of Town Center 770.423.4404 770.423.3518

MazdaJim Ellis Mazda of Marietta

770.590.4468 800.543.4647 770.795.0645

Merecdes-BenzAtlanta Classic Cars

678-924-4249 800-241-6086 678-924-4257Mini

Global Imports770.951.9389 800.235.2987 770.952.3390

Mini of South Atlanta 678.479.4622 800.959.2241 678.479.4695

NissanJim Burke Nissan

205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452Nalley Nissan

404.292.4774 800.647.7278 404.297.6962Nissan of Union City

770.306.9817 800-43-parts 770.964.5754Nissan of South Atlanta

770.968.3582 800.422.6783 770.968.6938

LexusNalley Lexus Marietta

770.514.7408 800.966.5398 770.590.4132Nalley Lexus Roswell

678.795.2050 877.495.3987 678.795.9606

PorscheJim Ellis Porsche

770.216.7580 888.685.3280 770.216.7560SAAB

Jim Burke 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452

ScionLimbaugh Scion

205.788.9390 800.239.5050 205.780.5215

SubaruJim Burke Subaru

205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452Troncalli Subaru

770.889.8951 800.646.9438 770.889.2545

SuzukiSuzuki of Memphis

800.338.5481 800.338.5481 301.347.4207Toyota

Bill Reilly Toyota770.692.2900 888.698.3853 770.969.0887Limbaugh Toyota

205.788.9390 800.239.5050 205.780.5215Nalley Toyota of Roswell

678.832.4300 877.594.8696 770.552.2365Volvo

Nalley Volvo 770.951.1043 800.782.9313 770.933.0118

Volvo of Memphis 800.338.5481 800.338.5481 301.347.4207

VolkswagenJim Ellis

770.955.2580 800.253.8242 770.952.6199

fax fax Buyer’s G

uide • Tear Out

Bumper Plus 770.422.Plus 888.492.Plus 770.422.7501

Southern Automotive Journal June 2009�

Furai From Front Cover

Furai Please Turn to Page 14

in earnest with partner BP into other renewable and future fuels, including ethanol gasoline blends like E10.

On any given weekend, there are

more Mazdas and Mazda-powered cars road-raced in North America than any other brand of car. This is because every Mazda sedan, coupe and sports car really is developed with the highest possible dose of the company’s trademark Zoom-Zoom – truly the Emotion of Motion.

However, Zoom-Zoom is more than simply vehicle performance. The look and style that is Zoom-Zoom can best be seen in previous NAGARE-based efforts, including the Mazda Nagare con-cept that debuted at Los Angeles in 2006; Mazda Ryuga, which was first shown a year ago in Detroit; Mazda Hakaze, which appeared in Geneva last year; and Mazda Taiki, the star of the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show.

“Nagare” is how Mazda’s future models will sustain the Zoom-Zoom spir-it by exhibiting their strong affinity for motion.

Manufacturers commonly show-case design studies with little or no inten-

tion of actually using the theme pre-s e n t e d . Mazda’s

approach is the opposite: All of the Nagare con-cepts, including Furai, help evolve this evoca-tive surface language for future use. Every vehicle Mazda sells embodies the soul of a sports car to achieve a true Zoom-Zoom dynamic character. Nagare is how this cel-ebration of motion will be portrayed on interior and exterior surfaces in

future models. Instead of form following function, the two merge as one.

Franz von Holzhausen, Mazda North American Operations’ (MNAO) Director of Design and the person who lead the

team that created the Furai, explains the concept behind the concept, “We were look-ing for a way to bridge the gap between Mazda Motorsports and the production vehicles in our lineup. The mind-sets of road-car and rac-ing car fans are quite dif-ferent, so the purpose of Furai is to find a meeting point for these disparate interests.”

He continued, “Furai achieves this by purposely blurring boundaries that have traditionally distinguished the street from the track. Historically, there has been a gap between single-purpose racecars and street-legal models — com-monly called supercars — that emulate the real racers on the road.”

Track cars are, by their competi-tive nature, ill-suited for practical high-way use, as well as generally far from road-legal. Some supercars visit the track on occasion, but they are primarily road

5Southern Automotive JournalJune 2009

New CCC Subrogate(TM)

Solution Automates Key Final Steps of Claims

Recovery ProcessCCC Information Services Inc.

recently announced the release of CCC Subrogate(TM) Solution, an automated single-point approach to help carriers improve cycle time and reduce losses by closing out a key component of the claims recovery process.

"In today's economic climate car-riers are rigorously vetting technol-ogy investments to ensure there is a substantial return on investment," said CCC Senior Vice President of Marketing and Product Management, Debbie Day. "Subrogation claims represent large transaction volumes and have a signifi-cant impact on both loss costs and loss adjustment expense. This is an area for carriers to reduce costs, improve recover-ies and provide a high return on invest-ment."

According to the National Association of Subrogation Professionals, carriers using an automated subrogation process recover an average of $60 more per file than those without. In addition, carriers with an automated solution aver-age a 25 percent improvement on the time it takes to resolve a claim.

The CCC Subrogate Solution provides carriers with a single-point approach to drive insight, efficiency and automation into the process by:

•creating electronic claims files that help reduce the potential for error and reliance of a paper exchange;

•making decisions based on a set of objective processes, not subjective analysis;

•providing oversight into a carrier's subrogation operation, opening up the opportunity to improve their best prac-tices and performance; and,

•seamlessly leveraging claims fold-ers.

"Our subrogation offering utilizes our proven Web platform. For example, of the millions of claim folders residing on the CCC network, those having an associated subrogation demand can have other claim information automatically transferred over to the CCC Subrogate Solution," added Day. "We now provide, in one place, a clear view of the entire claims cycle from first notice of loss to the close of the claim and provide a recovery process that is focused on a carrier's abil-ity to deliver real results."■

Now it’s safe to add dar-ing and intrigu-ing to your list of adjectives describing Ford vehicles – the new Flex is here.

Flex is a vehicle that dares to be different. Its contemporary design provokes strong opinions. Its new technolo-gies are intelligent a n d engaging. All in all, Ford Flex is like no other vehicle on the road today, and that may mean it’s not for everyone.

“Flex is provocative, no doubt about it,” said Jim Farley, Ford group vice presi-dent, Marketing and Communications. “The Flex is like nothing else on the road, and it defies being categorized. I have a feeling that Flex is going to appeal to a group of customers who feel absolutely the same way about themselves.”

Ford is not predicting sales or trying to define a profile for the Flex target buyer but is confident that this “white space” vehicle’s distinctiveness will have strong allure. Marketing efforts will focus on the fascination of a stylish vehicle that com-

muni-cates more

intrigue than definition.

Flexing its Character From its planted stance and broad

shoulders – flanked by signature side grooves – to its all-black greenhouse and distinctive multi-panel Vista Roof, Ford designers have created a provocative vehicle.

In a world of automobiles that are easy to categorize, Flex is difficult to define and polarizing. Embracing that enigmat-ic nature was the key breakthrough in the design process, according to Peter Horbury, executive director, Design, The Americas.

“Flex is a radical departure,” Horbury says. “At first we were uncomfortable with the way Flex could polarize, but its abil-ity to compel an opinion, good or bad,

was fascinating. It inspired us forward with courage to create a breakthrough design.”

Flex’s prominent stance is a key design element setting it apart from all other vehicles. Park Ford Flex next to an SUV or a typical crossover. The propor-tions are immediately surprising.

Capping the horizontal design cues in bold contrast is the unique roof of the new Ford Flex. Available in two colors, White Suede or Brilliant Silver, the roof contrasts stylishly with the Flex exterior paint palette.

“The all-black greenhouse allowed us to do the complementing color roof,” said Flex Designer Rich Gressens. “If we had body colored pillars and clear glass, it would have been difficult to do, but it all ties in together.”

Style, Luxury and Space for Individuality

The exterior design of the Flex creates interest, but it’s the surprising space and comfort for seven, the elegant, upscale style and clever flexibility of the interior that will magnetically keep peo-ple in the new Flex.

“We wanted the interior to be a place of contemporary, relaxed style –

Provocative Ford Flex Dares To Be Different

Flex Please Turn to Page 7


Southern Automotive JournalJune 2009

Flex From Page 6

7

Jim Ellis PorscheWholesale Parts Division770-216-7590888-685-3280770-216-7560 fax

Genuine Porsche Parts Delivered The Next Day

somewhere you could feel very comfort-able, yet involved and connected,” said Anthony Prozzi, chief interior designer.

“The interior presents an environ-ment that is radically different,” he added. “You’ll notice the improvement in materials, the appoint-ments and the general appearance of the car. Even the way you interact with the car will be differ-ent because of all the new technology we’re introducing.”

Smart Features for the Demanding Lifestyle

Flex is packed with innovative, class-leading technology solutions that seek to empower, not overpower the driver.

Ford SYNC™, a Ford-exclusive, voice-activated, hands-free, in-vehicle communications and entertainment sys-tem offers even more functionality for the 2009 model year, with 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Reports.

SIRIUS Travel Link that when com-bined with voice activated navigation will provide users with a suite of data services including real-time traffic, coast-to-coast weather conditions and fuel price infor-

mation for over 12 0 , 0 0 0

g a s s t a -

tions.

Voice-a c t i v a t e d

navigation that integrates sev-eral functions, including des-tination entry, climate control and SIRIUS sat-

ellite radio into one easy-to-use system with information displayed on a 8-inch touch-screen display.

Sony audio system that fea-tures 700 watts of power, 5.1 sur-round sound and 10 speakers is certified by Sony to deliver a unique, rich listening experience.

EasyFuel™ capless fuel filler. This exclusive feature saves time by replacing a fuel-filler cap and provides a better seal, reducing the release of smog-forming vapors.

Ambient Lighting. Flex owners can program any of seven different interior lighting colors to fit their mood. With this feature, customers can change the lighting on two light-emitting diodes

(LEDs) mounted on the front console, footwells and around the two front cup-holders.

Class-exclusive refrigerated con-sole. Mounted between the second-row captain’s chairs, the available compressor-driven refrigerator can cool up to seven 12-ounce cans, four half-liter bottles or two 20-ounce bottles from room temper-ature to 41 degrees in a little more than two-and-a-half hours – 40 percent faster than a standard home refrigerator.

Flex is powered by

Ford’s award-w i n n i n g

3.5-liter V-6 engine

delivering 262 horsepower at

6,250 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm, mated

to a fuel-efficient, advanced 6-speed automatic transmission that uses a wide 6.04:1 gear ratio to deliver good fuel economy and performance.■

Southern Automotive Journal June 20098

Following the recent introduc-tion of the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (HR 2057) into the 111th Congress, the bill gained five more co-sponsors last week, according to Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

"Within a week of the bill's introduc-tion, the inclusion of these five members of Congress from both sides of the aisle signals growing support in Congress for the Right to Repair Act," said Schmatz.

Five More Members of Congress Support 'Right to Repair' Legislation"We applaud their commitment to ensur-ing that motorists in their districts retain the choice of where to have their vehicles serviced and repaired."

Because vehicles are becoming increasingly sophisticated with virtually every system either monitored or con-trolled by computers, servicing these vehicle systems to keep them in safe working condition requires ready access to complete and accurate information from the car companies. The Right to Repair Act (HR 2057) was introduced in

Congress to ensure that car owners and their trusted repair shops have the same access to safety alerts and repair infor-mation as the franchised new car dealer network.

"Right to Repair has become more important than ever as motorists seek new neighborhood repair shops because a dealership has closed in their area," continued Schmatz. "This impor-tant piece of legislation ensures that local auto repair remains available to car owners throughout the country."■

Online housing for NACE and CARS 2009 opens with hotel rates 30-70% lower than 2008 rates, resulting in outstanding

savings for both attendees and exhibitors. Housing reservations can now be made online for the upcoming International

2009 Hotel Rates 30-70% Lower for NACE and CARSAutobody Congress & Exposition (NACE) and the Congress of Automotive Repair & Service (CARS). These industry events,

sponsored by Automotive Service Association (ASA), are co-located at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, November 4-7 and take place during the second annual Automotive Service & Repair Week (ASRW).

“We worked diligent-ly with the hotels to ensure they offered the lowest possible rates,” said Lindsay Roberts, director, Hanley Wood Exhibitions. “The rates we were able to secure for our room blocks are the lowest in recent years. We urge attendees and exhibi-tors to make their reserva-tions now to secure their preferred hotel.”

Reduced rates are available at all official NACE and CARS hotel blocks -- rates as low as $149 for Mandalay Bay and THEhotel; $109 for MGM (new in 2009 block); $109 for Luxor; $41-$83 for Excalibur; and $119 for New York-New York.

A m e r i c a n , Continental, JetBlue, Northwest and WestJet will serve as official airlines, offering service from desti-

NACE Please Turn to Page 19

Southern Automotive JournalJune 2009 9

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has launched its new PR Kit to help members promote their business as well as their affiliation with ASA. The kit contains an array of pre-written press releases, photography tips, print- and Web-based advertising samples and suggestions, and an audio clip ready for use on members' Web sites.

"ASA's PR Kit is designed to be a dynamic collection of tools and tips for ASA members. Enhancements to the kit may occur on an ongoing basis as a result of member feedback and the creation of additional business aids," said Angie Wilson, ASA's vice president of market-ing and communications. "We're extremely pleased to bring these tools to our members to help them in their business communi-cation efforts."

The core of the kit is com-prised of pre-written, customiz-able press releases for all occa-sions. These releases may be downloaded and edited to meet each member's needs, then for-warded electronically to their local media representatives. The kit currently includes the follow-ing press release templates:Anniversary Date Aw ard / H o n o r / Ce r t i f i c at i o n RecipientCelebrate Customer Count (mil-lionth, etc.) Customer Appreciation DayContest/Prize Environmental ProgramGreen Shop Status New Membership in ASANew Staff New Hours of OperationNew Ownership New Location (move or expan-sion)New Ownership (generational) New Service OfferedNew Specialty Equipment Special Promotional OfferS p o n s o r s h i p / C o m m u n i t y Involvement

Web/Online Scheduling

ASA Launches PR Kit for MembersAdditional items include an image

checklist for repair businesses, tips on working with local media and sugges-tions for ASA logo placement. The PR Kit is the latest addition to ASA's growing collection of business tools designed to assist members in their day-to-day operations. These documents are free and serve as a great supplement to the various consumer brochures available for purchase at www.ASAstore.com.

All items in ASA's PR Kit are avail-

able to members as downloadable PDF and/or Microsoft Word documents in the Members Only section of the ASA Web site (www.ASAshop.org). ASA members may access this section by using their six-digit member number and follow-ing the prompts in the top right section of the home page and then click on "ASA's PR Kit." ASA members may call (800) ASA-SHOP (272-7467), ext. 295, to acquire their membership number.n

STEVE

FRANKLINLocal

770.274.1128Toll Free:

1.800.727.5912

Local770.274.1123

Toll Free:1.800.727.5641

CHRIS ANDYLocal

770.274.1121Toll Free:

1.800.727.4702

MATTLocal

770.274.1122Toll Free:

1.800.727.5593

Local770.274.1127

Toll Free:1.800.727.5611

ARNOLDLocal

770.274.1126Toll Free:

1.800.727.5015

KEVIN LEELocal

770.274.1130Toll Free:

1.800.344.9017

Customer Service Team

DANJIM CLIFFJERRY

Direct Conncect Sales for GM - Chrysler -Aftermarket

Customer Support

BRENDACHUCKAFTERMARKET MANAGER MARKETING MANAGER

Local770.274.1131

Toll Free:1.800.727.5920

with 30 Years of GM Parts Experience

We Welcome Steve

Now Available !

JIMMYEXT.126

ROGERKENEXT.123

AJ EXT.135

Direct GM 706-776-1144Toll Free

866-262-7407Fax706-776-7398

GM Exclusise Parts Team

DONALD

Ext.125

MANAGER

KELILocal

478.971.1379Toll Free:

1.866.399.4245FAX

478.971.8248


Tameron, your trusted automotive wholesale parts supplier, is now delivering Genuine Hyundai

replacement parts to your area. Please call your salesman for details!

David Bonnett205) 443-7655

David Cartee(205) 443-7653

Frank Jackson(205) 443-7651

Rick Jarrett(205) 443-7652

Jim Henson(205) 443-7654

(800) 467-0699 • Fax (205) 443-7656 Tameron...One Way, �e Right Way

1595 Montgomery Highway / Hoover, Alabama 35216

J.D. Power and Associates Reports: Despite Continued Low Sales Levels, New-Vehicle Retail Sales Show Signs of Stabilizing

New-vehicle retail sales during the first 16 selling days in April were down by approximately 33 percent compared with the same period one year ago; however, the market does show signs of stabilizing, according to J.D. Power and Associates, which gathers real-time transaction data from more than 10,000 dealerships across the United States.

New-vehicle retail sales for the month of April are expected to come in at 668,000 units, which represent a sea-sonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) of 7.8 million units. This is down by 33 percent from one year ago, but stable with the February and March SAARs of 7.7 and 7.9 million units, respectively.

Total industry sales for April

(including fleet sales) were projected to be 853,000 units, which translates to a SAAR of 9.7 million units.

"Industry sales are starting to show signs of stability--albeit at levels near 30-year lows--as the retail sales SAAR has been at or near the 7.8 million-unit level for the past three months," said Gary Dilts, senior vice president of glob-al automotive operations at J.D. Power and Associates. "In spite of continued supply corrections, we remain optimis-tic that coming months will exhibit sta-bility with a modest increase in the second half of the year, which is in line with our 8.5 million-unit retail and 10.4 million-unit total light-vehicle forecast for 2009."

J.D. Power and Associates estimates potential growth in vehicle demand of 20 million units during the next five years. This will be driven primarily by an increase in the number of households, consumers returning to the market with more vehicle equity in an improved credit environment, and an improved economy that will yield enhanced con-sumer options in the automotive market driven by new-vehicle launches.

"We expect market conditions to slowly improve during the remainder of 2009, which will lead us back to a solid industry with improved long-term fundamental growth," said Jeff Schuster, executive director of global forecasting at J.D. Power and Associates.■

According to a recent Cars.com sur-vey, 59 percent of consumers said that the current economy and struggles of the American car manufacturers will have no impact on whether or not their next car purchase will be an American car.

The survey, which was intended to gauge how the economy and vari-ous government and manufacturer incentives have impacted car shoppers, also showed that only 1 in 5 consum-ers said the threat of bankruptcy would likely preclude them from considering an American car with their next purchase.

"I think it's clear that most

Majority Says the Struggles of the American Car Manufacturer Won't Impact Next Purchase

Americans believe that the American car manufacturers are going to survive in some capacity and many are just taking a wait and see approach like many other facets of this economy," said Cars.com Editor in Chief Patrick Olsen. "The survey also showed that the older you are the more likely you believe in the survival of these companies."

More than 40 percent of consumers between the ages of 45-64 said they were confident that the American manufactur-ers would succeed vs. 12 percent of con-sumers between the ages of 18-24.

When it comes to the various gov-

ernment and manufacturer incentives designed to bolster consumer confidence in the auto industry, 38 percent said that the government's announcement that it will allow consumers to deduct the state sales tax on new car purchases would provide the biggest incentive to pur-chase a new car; 28 percent said the vari-ous manufacturer assurance programs that provide support if the purchaser of a new vehicle losses their job would have the greatest impact; and 13 percent said that government backed manufacturer warranties was the most valuable incen-tive.■


With the announcement of its new Technical Advisory Panel, CCC Information Services Inc. today intro-duces an increased level of transpar-ency into updates to CCC’s estimating solution. The Technical Advisory Panel - comprised of external industry mem-bers representing collision repair facili-ties, auto manufacturers, automotive refinish manufacturers, industry edu-

CCC Assembles External Industry Panel to Provide Estimating Insightcators, insurance carriers and database providers - will review modifications and provide recommendations affecting esti-mate value. In addition, CCC will have three panel representatives with more than 65 years of practical collision repair and estimating experience.

“Providing transparency into CCC’s decisions will strengthen our solutions, and will benefit the industry,” said CCC’s

Automotive Services Group General Manager, Jim Dickens. “This panel will represent an industry voice prior to mov-ing forward with any changes that go into production. Collision repair technology is emerging at such a fast pace that it’s criti-cal to quickly tap a collaborative process that helps our customers write estimates that reflect a quality repair in accordance with MOTOR Guide to Estimating.”n

he Missouri House of Representatives has eliminated the language in Senate Bill 58 that would have caused serious harm to Missouri's state vehicle safety inspection program. Missouri S.B. 58, an act that modifies several provisions of law relating to trans-portation, would have exempted vehicles from safety inspection testing for their first 10 years, which would have allowed a car to have been driven 150,000 miles or more (based on the average annual mileage of 15,000) before its first vehicle safety inspection.

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) opposed S.B. 58 because it would have allowed unsafe vehicles to traverse

Missouri House Protects State Safety Inspection Programthe roads and highways of Missouri and placed unknowing drivers and passen-gers at risk. In a letter to Missouri repair shop owners, Robert L. Redding Jr., ASA's Washington, D.C., representative, asked repairers to contact their legislators to oppose provisions diluting the safety inspection program. The letter noted that "Missouri's safety inspection program has been a model for other states. Missouri law enforcement officials are to be com-mended for the program's contributions."

Redding said, "We want to thank Missouri repair shop owners for con-tacting their legislators asking that they oppose efforts to weaken the state safety inspection program. This should be an

example to repairers in other states that speaking up does have value in the politi-cal process."

Approximately 20 states have some form of periodic motor vehicle safety inspection program. Programs in Missouri and North Carolina often face the threat of elimination. ASA is work-ing in an industry coalition to protect current programs and expand inspection programs to other states. Legislation has also been introduced in the U.S. Congress that will encourage states to initiate new programs.

To view the updated version of this bill, please visit ASA's legislative Web site at www.TakingTheHill.com.n

In 1908 Hubert A. Drennen opened Drennen Motor Car Company - Today We're One Of The Top Dealers In The Nation By Faithfully Serving Our Customers

For Over 100 Years!!

Drawing June 30, 2009Plus our Weekly Cash Drawings of $100.00

Nashville

Millennium Maxwell

House Hotel

New Orleans

Maison Dupuy

Bourbon Street

Panama City Beach

Seychelles Condo by

ResortQuest

1st place prize - 4 nights 2nd place prize - 2 nights

3rd place prize $300 4th place prize $200

Win a Vacation of Your Choice!

For 100 Years Don Drennen Motor Cars

Has Provided Parts to America's Automotive

Professionals

Toll Free Fax888.815.5238

Toll Free800.633.4304

Fax205.823.5238

205.823.5237Direct

866.404.5217

866.941.0932 866.941.0929

NADA CENTURY AWARD WINNER

ONLY 22 OUT OF 22,000


Challenger Please Turn to Page 24

The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger delivers the best of modern American muscle-car characteristics—unmistakable design, world-class han-dling, powerful engines and technolo-gy. The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic goes further with even more memorable blast-from-the-past design cues.

“Our all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic is more than a modern-day muscle machine, it pays homage to one of the most sto-ried nameplates in automotive history,” said Dan Knott, Vice President—Car / Minivan / SRT Product Team, Chrysler LLC. “With heritage-inspired dual-wide body-side R/T stripes, original ‘Challenger’ heritage badging and the newest generation of our legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, the new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic delivers the greatness of our pony car past with advanced fuel-efficient muscle.”

Based on the powerful 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T, the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic not only delivers a menacing look and premium equipment—its pow-ertrain delivers an unforgettable punch. With dual throwback A-line body-side R/T stripes, ‘Challenger’ fender badging in classic script, large 20-inch polished-chrome heritage wheels with all-sea-son performance tires, classic egg-crate grille with heritage ‘R/T’ badge, body-color rear spoiler and chromed fuel-filler door—the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic is unmistakable.

“Dodge Challenger has a rich per-formance heritage and the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic encompasses

numerous technologies that allow great on-road performance while delivering proven-quality and refinement to ensure its place in the Dodge pony car history,” said Knott.

The 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic tucks its legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine under a long, raised per-formance hood with functional hood scoops to increase engine cooling. The newest generation 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine features dual variable-cam tim-

ing (VCT) and dual ignition (two spark plugs per cylinder) to increase power and torque, while improving refinement and efficiency.

When paired with the Tremec six-speed manual transmission, the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic features the performance-minded Track Pak’s precision-shift “pistol-grip” shifter, bright pedals, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with defeatable traction control, Hill Start Assist (HSA), four-wheel disc per-formance braking system and an anti-spin 3.92 differential. A performance-tuned dual exhaust optimizes engine back pressure and exhaust throatiness by replacing the standard under-floor

muffler with two low-restriction bottle resonators. The result, a powerful 376 horsepower (280 kW)

and 410 lb.-ft. of torque (556 N•m) that can accelerate the Dodge Challenger

All-New 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic Adds More Nostalgic Flavor to Modern American Muscle Car

Southern Automotive Journal June 2009Southern Automotive Journal June 20091�

cars not properly equipped for racing. The aim of Furai is to bridge this gap.

That said, Mazda neither intends to race Furai, nor is it a supercar the com-pany plans to build and sell in the near future. Rather, Furai is a design study that lives between those e x t r e m e s . Without the r e s t r i c t i o n s imposed by serial produc-tion models, and with the freedom of an autoshow envi-ronment, Mazda is using the opportunity to evolve the com-pany’s Nagare design theme one more step closer to reality.

I n s t e a d of mimicking racecar components and design elements in a road car – the strat-egy preferred by supercar manufactur-ers – the “Mazda way” was to begin this project with the real McCoy: a Courage

C65 chassis that earned its stripes dur-ing two seasons of LMP-2 endurance racing in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS). This sports car was successfully campaigned under the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development banner by B-K Motorsports during

the 2005 and 2006 seasons. Drivers

Jamie Bach, Guy Cosmo, Elliott Forbes-Robinson, and Raphael Matos piloted the car to one victory and a total of nine podium finishes in 15 ALMS events. B-K finished third in championship standings both years; Bach and Cosmo were co-Rookies of the Year in 2005.

“Anticipating future rules changes in the ALMS, we created a new closed cockpit which would be more appropri-ate for a future production model,” said von Holzhausen. “The major element

we did not change is the 450-horsepower RENESIS-based R20B three-rotor rotary engine that provides Furai ample Zoom-Zoom. The ultimate Mazda in our minds is rotary powered; as a company, we have no intention of abandoning that valuable asset. When people think of the very best sports cars in the world, the

rotary powered Mazda RX-7 is always on that list.”

The Furai concept serves as a turn-ing point in the Nagare developmental process. While the four previous concept cars explored different ways to express Mazda’s emerging design philosophy and to explore an aesthetic, this one is all

about function – every last texture and detail serves some functional purpose. In essence, the Furai creative process boiled down to guiding air over and through the body in fruitful ways. To prove that this concept goes far beyond static aero-dynamic analysis, Mazda’s design, motor-

sports and R&D teams worked together to con-struct Furai as a 180-mph roll-ing laboratory to demonstrate its functional capabilities on demand.

“The basic proportions of contemp orar y race cars are every design-er’s dream,” enthused von H o l z h a u s e n . “Furai is less than 40-inches high but nearly 80-inches wide.”

While Furai strikes an incredibly strong presence, the real beauty of the project – and it’s most valuable asset as a real-world test-bed – is in the details that von Holzhausen and his team incor-porated:

•The body surface provides ample opportunity to feature core design elements such as aggressive headlamps and Mazda’s trademark five-point grille. •The headlamp trim pieces func-tion as guide frames to help cancel aero-dynamic lift.

•High-pressure zones just above the front wheels are relieved to serve the same end. The air flow package takes air moving under the front of the car and guides it inside the body to the engine-cooling radiators.

•Nagare textures incorporated in the side surfaces feed air to the rear brakes, the oil cooler and the transmis-sion cooler.

•An under-car diffuser that begins rising aft of the cockpit helps draw the volume of air flowing through the heat exchangers and engine bay out the rear.n

Furai From Page 4

Mickey Brown

Nate Gowder

Wayne Brookshire

Jeff Gilreath

Gerald Cullins

Jerry Brown

Call The #1 Mazda Wholesale Parts Team

Local Toll Free800.543.4647

Fax770.795.0645

Nolan Nix

Larry Bingham

Moose Simmons

Billy Shiver

Eddie Kelley

Outside Sales Team

Delivering to over 1500

cities in 14 states

Alabama FloridaGeorgia TennesseeS Carolina VirginiaN Carolina Mississippi

Jim EllisMAZDA

Cole Scott

Danny Smith

Drawing June 30, 2009

w w w.opapar ts.com

Plus our Weekly Cash Drawings of $100.00

Nashville - Millennium Maxwell House HotelNew Orleans - Maison Dupuy - Bourbon StreetPanama City Beach- Seychelles Condo by ResortQuest

1st place prize - 4 nights 2nd place prize - 2 nights

(hotel package only - transportation responsibility of winners)3rd place prize $300 4th place prize $200

Vacation of Your Choice!

DIRECT

TOLL FREE

FAX

TOLL FREE FAX

Don Drennen Buick

Madison & Wetumpka Offices

866.404.5217 866.404.5217866.941.0932866.941.0929

DIRECT

TOLL FREE

Madison

Wetumpka

Genuine GM Wholesale Parts Suppliersat Your Service

CrownPontiac

Birmingham, AL 35216

205.823.5266800.467.2660205.823-4637 800-844-4644

Don Drennen Buick

Hoover, AL 35216

205.823.5237800.633.4304205.823.5238 888.815.5238

DIRECT

TOLL FREE

FAX

TOLL FREE FAX

Jim BurkeAutomotive Group

Birmingham, AL 35203

205.320.7320866.320.7320205.458.4452

DIRECT

TOLL FREE

FAX

Don Drennen Buick

Madison & Wetumpka Offices

866.404.5217 866.404.5217866.941.0932866.941.0929

DIRECT

TOLL FREE

Madison

Wetumpka

Genuine GM Wholesale Parts Suppliersat Your Service

JayAutomotive Group

Columbus, GA 35203

706.324.3789800.443.0642706.660.8233

DIRECT

TOLL FREE

FAX

Ivan Leonard Chevrolet

Hoover, AL 32516

205.823.5428 800.239.5100205.979.3048800.239.8888

DIRECT

TOLL FREE

FAX

TOLL FREE FAX

Original Thought #40:

Trust is the most important replacement part.

Original BMW Parts are identical to those used in Series

production and just as reliable when it comes to quality and

functionality. Choose precision. Choose Original BMW Parts.

The UltimateDriving Machine®

discoverbmw.com

Original BMW Parts

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 picturedwith non-US or optional equipment. We make reasonable efforts to provide accurate information but we do not provide a warranty of accuracy. Consult your authorizedBMW 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.

At United BMW Gwinnett, the most important order we’ll

handle today is yours.

United BMW Gwinnett3264 Commerce Ave

Duluth GA 30096

770-476-8407

www.discoverbmw.com







discoverbmw.com

Original BMW Parts





Duluth GA 30096

770-476-8407

www.discoverbmw.com







discoverbmw.com

Original BMW Parts





Duluth GA 30096

770-476-8407

www.discoverbmw.com







discoverbmw.com

Original BMW Parts





Duluth GA 30096

770-476-8407

www.discoverbmw.com







discoverbmw.com

Original BMW Parts





Duluth GA 30096

770-476-8407

www.discoverbmw.com







discoverbmw.com

Original BMW Parts





Duluth GA 30096

770-476-8407

www.discoverbmw.com

Automotive Service Association (ASA) members who carry work-ers' compensation coverage through Meadowbrook Insurance Group and who meet eligibility requirements will receive a dividend as a result of participating in the ASA Group Program. The dividend represents a 3 percent return of annual premium and shows that workplace safe-ty is a solid investment.

"Every time you prevent an injury, you are keeping your profits where they belong and strengthening your bottom line," said Nancy Clay, Meadowbrook Insurance Group association manager. "Fewer accidents mean lower claim costs, which help keep your insurance pre-miums low. Earned dividends are a great example of how safety pays. We're pleased to be able to provide the mem-bers of ASA with this earned dividend."

It is the participation in the ASA Group Program with Meadowbrook that gives ASA members the potential to reduce workers' compensation premiums and qualify for this type of dividend. Meadowbrook is a longtime ASA sponsored

ASA Members Receive Dividend from Meadowbrook Insurance Groupbenefit provider.

"Everyone wins when workplace safety is improved. I want to thank all of the ASA member shops that improved their safety practices. Now there is a reward for your effort," said John Scully, ASA executive vice president. "It is very exciting for ASA to be able to offer the dividend program with Meadowbrook Insurance."

Founded in 1955, Meadowbrook Insurance Group consists of five domestic insurance carriers. Meadowbrook is con-sistently ranked as one of the largest insur-

ance agencies in the nation, underwriting and managing more than $750 million in annual premiums.

Meadowbrook offers ASA mem-bers workers' compensation and other business insurance needs, as well as inter-est-free pay plans and professional safety services specifically for the automotive and repair industry. For more info about the workers' compensation programs available to ASA members, visit www.wcpolicy.com/asa or call Meadowbrook directly at (800) 825-9489 and mention you are a member of ASA.■

$300.00 Third $200.00 Fourth

678-259-9500

877-622-2871

678-259-9555

Direct

Toll

FAXCall Ken McMillan, Your Trusted Name in Acura Parts

Win a Vacation of Your

Nashville - Millennium Maxwell House HotelNew Orleans - Maison Dupuy - Bourbon StreetPanama City Beach- Seychelles Condo by ResortQuest

1st place prize - 4 nights • 2nd place prize - 2 nights

More Prizes

(hotel package only - transportation responsibility of winners)

nations nationwide to Las Vegas’ McCarran Airport. Discounts are available off published airfares based on availability, offering the most cost effective travel.

Avis and Budget offer dis-counted car rental rates to help show participants get around Las Vegas easily.

To assure the best rates for travel and accommoda-tions, attendees and exhibi-tors should book through the online reservation system at www.HanleyWoodHousing.com.

For more details visit www.NACEexpo.com or www.CARSevent.com.■

NACE From Page 8



Fusion Please Turn to Page 22

(800) 467-0699 • Fax (205) 443-7656

1595 Montgomery Highway / Hoover, Alabama 35216

David Bonnett205) 443-7655

David Cartee(205) 443-7653

Frank Jackson(205) 443-7651

Rick Jarrett(205) 443-7652

Jim Henson(205) 443-7654

Plus Weekly

Cash Drawings

of $100.00

NashvilleNew OrleansPanama City

Enter to Win Vacation of Your Choice!

Drawing June 30, 2009

Drivers trained in mileage-maxi-mizing techniques such as smooth accel-eration and coasting to red lights were able to get an extraordinary 1,445.7 miles out of a single tank of gas during a fund-raising effort in Washington, D.C. that concluded today. They did it by averaging 81.5 miles per gallon in an off-the-showroom floor, non-modified 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient midsize car in North America - nearly doubling its U.S. certified mile-age.

The Fusion Hybrid 1,000-Mile Challenge started at 8:15 a.m. EDT on Saturday, April 25, from Mount Vernon, Va., and ended this morning at 5:37 a.m. on George Washington Parkway in Washington, D.C. After more than 69 continuous hours of driving, the Fusion Hybrid finally depleted its tank and came to a stop with an odometer reading of 1,445.7 miles - setting a world record for gasoline-powered, midsize sedan.

The challenge team, which includ-ed NASCAR star Carl Edwards, high mile-age trailblazer Wayne Gerdes and sever-al Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) engi-neers, raised more than $8,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) by exceeding the goal of

1,000 miles on a sin-gle tank of gas. The

Fusion Hybrid Averages 81.5 MPG, Sets World Record with 1,445 Miles on Single Tank of Gas

Fusion Hybrid's official estimated range is approximately 700 miles per tank.

"Not only does this demonstrate the Fusion Hybrid's fuel efficiency, it also shows that driving technique is one of the keys to maximizing its poten-tial," said Nancy Gioia, director, Ford Sustainable Mobility Technologies and Hybrid Vehicle Programs. "The fact that we were able raise much needed funds for JDRF while raising the bar on fuel efficient driving performance made the effort doubly worthwhile."

A team of seven drivers prepared for the challenge by learning a few mile-age-maximizing techniques, most of which can be used in any vehicle to improve fuel economy, but are especial-ly useful in the Fusion Hybrid where the driver can take advantage of pure elec-tric energy at speeds below 47 mph.

CleanMPG.com founder Wayne Gerdes, an engineer from Illinois who coined the term "hypermiling" to describe the mileage-maximizing tech-niques, provided the pointers. They include:

Slowing down and maintaining even throttle pressure;

Gradually accelerating and smoothly braking;

Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles and anticipating traf-fic conditions;

Coasting up to red lights and stop signs to avoid fuel waste and brake wear;

Minimize use of heater and air conditioning to reduce the load on the engine;

Close windows at high speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag;

Applying the "Pulse and Glide" technique while maintaining the flow of traffic;

Minimize excessive engine work-load by using the vehicle's kinetic forward motion to climb hills, and use downhill momentum to build speed; and

Avoiding bumps and potholes that can reduce momentum

"You become very aware of your driving because you're constantly look-ing for opportunities to maximize mile-age, and a more aware driver is a safer driver, too," said Gil Portalatin, Ford hybrid applications manager.

In addition, it is important for Fusion Hybrid drivers to manage the bat-tery system's state of charge through the use of regenerative braking and coast-ing, and balancing the use of the electric motor and gas engine in city driving to avoid wasting fuel.

Fusion Hybrid drivers also can stay

Tameron...One Way, �e Right Way

(800)(800)(800)(800)(800)(800) 467-0699 •467-0699 •

1,000 miles on a single tank of gas. The


The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act, legislation that allows con-sumers to continue to choose where they have their vehicles repaired was reintroduced into the 111th Congress on April 22, 2009.

"HR 2057, known as the Right to Repair Act, goes to the heart of American property rights and owner-ship. When motorists purchase their vehicles, they should have the right to own their vehicles' electronic, diagnostic and repair information so that they can make affordable and convenient repair choices, whether that choice is an inde-pendent repair shop or a car dealership," said Ray Pohlman, President, Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE). "As vehicles become more and more computerized, soon consumers will be very limited on repair options. In some cases, they will be forced to take the vehicles back to the new car dealerships even when their

HR 2057, The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act, Reintroduced in Congressvehicles are out-of-warranty."

Vehicles that are 1994 and newer (and some earlier models) are equipped with computers that control the repair and service information on most of the vehicles' systems, including, but not limited to: air bags, brakes, emissions (check engine light), tire pressure, oil changes, electronics, ignition systems and keys and transmissions. In many cases, the only way for motorists to have these systems repaired is to return to the new car dealership.

U.S. Representative Edolphus Towns (D-NY), the lead Right to Repair sponsor, stated, "By guaranteeing access to vehicle repair information, we can empower consumers and give them the opportunity to choose where, how and by whom to have their vehicles repaired. We reintroduced The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act so Brooklynites can have the option of self-

servicing their vehicle, or the freedom to use an automotive independent repair shop or a car dealership to meet their auto needs."

Joining Rep. Towns as original sponsors are Reps. Anna Eshoo (D-CA) and George Miller (D-CA). Rep. Towns is the Chairman of the Government Management, Organization and Procurement Committee and serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee. Representative Eshoo is a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee and Rep. Miller is Chairman of the Education and Labor Committee.

The Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) conducted a 'first-of-its-kind' study which illustrated the enormous cost-benefit to consumers when their vehicles are repaired in the independent repair industry. The study

VOLVOof Memphis

Genuine Parts

Suzukiof Memphis

800.338.5481901.347.4207

800.338.5481901.347.4207

Daily Parts Delivery Throughout The Southeast!

Daily Parts Delivery Throughout The Southeast!

FAX [email protected]@volvoofmemphis.com

HR 2057 Please Turn to Page 30


(800) 633-4304(866) 404-5217

ACROSS AMERICA - BIRMINGHAM, LLC is now OVERNIGHT PARTS ALLIANCE, LLC

Same people, same company, same great prices, but a new name to show a renewed commitment and to better define our company.

TOLL FREE TOLL FREE FAX

WWW.OPAPARTS.COM

(866) 941-0932(888) 815-5238

Nashville • New Orleans • Panama City Beach

1st place prize - 4 nights2nd place prize - 2 nights

Win a Vacation of Your Choice!

more connected to the hybrid driving experience with Ford's SmartGauge(TM) with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster that helps coach drivers on how to optimize performance of their hybrid.

The Fusion Hybrid 1,000-Mile Challenge team took turns driving sev-eral routes in and around the national capital over the course of approximately three days and nights. The route involved elevation changes, and ranged from the relatively open George Washington

Parkway to a 3-mile stretch in the heart of the city that is clogged with roughly 30 traffic signals.

"The Fusion Hybrid works bril-liantly," Gerdes said. "When you don't need acceleration power while driving around town, the gas engine shuts down seamlessly. There's not another hybrid drivetrain in the world that does that as effectively. The Fusion engineering team really knocked it out of the park."

Ford NASCAR star Carl Edwards took time away from the high speed world of professional car racing to con-

tribute to the Fusion Hybrid team's suc-cess in D.C.

"It was exciting to be an active part in this challenge. The fact that it will help spread the word about the Fusion Hybrid's great mileage, and help out a great charity, makes it even more special," said Edwards, whose '99' team has used fuel-saving techniques to win races. "There's no question that the Fusion Hybrid will help consumers save fuel when they drive it. Having driven the car, I feel strongly about how great it is - so strong that I've purchased one

Fusion From Page 20

Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD) has updated the offerings on each of its two competitive parts ini-tiatives – the Collision Parts Truckload Program and the “Steel the Sale” pro-gram.

Thirty-seven new parts – all with significant list-price reductions – are now available on Ford’s popular Truckload program, including wheels, radiators, exterior lighting, mirrors, steel bumpers, isolators, fascias, one valance, a bracket and a grill opening reinforcement.

“Steel the Sale,” which targets Ford’s most competitive sheet metal parts – hoods, fenders and tailgates – has seen the list price of its 54 pro-gram parts trimmed by an average of 3.6 percent, allowing dealers to more effectively compete with the imitation

Ford Refreshes Competitive Part Programs; Offers Deeper Discounts To Repairerscrash parts in the market. It’s the sec-ond price reduction on those parts in the last 10 months. Ford launched the program in July 2008, by cutting the list prices to within 10 percent of average aftermarket list.

“Both programs offer repairers and insurers the ability to provide our customers – Ford vehicle owners – with the genuine parts needed for a com-plete and safe repair at a competitive price,” said George Gilbert, manager of both FCSD part programs.

To achieve its competitiveness in the market, the Ford Truckload program utilizes reduced packaging costs, in com-bination with discounted list prices, and passes the savings on to collision repair shops that purchase the parts from participating Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers. It now includes more than 390

high-volume collision parts covering more than a dozen party types.

The 37 new parts added to the Truckload program, and the respective average list-price reductions include: one valance (- 50.2 percent); two tail lamps (-39.7 percent); three wheels

(-38.4 percent); six radiators (-30.6 percent); three steel bumpers (- 29.1 percent); a grille opening reinforce-ment (-28.4 percent); two isolators and a bracket (25.9 percent); eight fascias (- 23.8 percent); six mirrors (-16.8 percent) and four headlamps (-13.1 percent).

For more information on FCSD’s Truckload and “Steel the Sale” pro-grams, or for a list of the parts currently available on either, contact your local Ford or Lincoln Mercury collision parts wholesaling dealer or the Ford Collision Parts Hotline at [email protected].■


MINI678-479-4695 FAX

Honda770-228-8483 FAX

678-479-4695 FAX

Acura770-968-5507 FAX

1-866-961-SONS (7667)WHOLESALE PARTS

“Taking Care of Our Customer is The Number 1 Priority”

Visit our Web Site www.sonsautogroup.com

Your Success is The “Part” that Counts!

GENERATIONS OF EXPERIENCE

Jeff Braswell Wholesale Parts Director678-479-4601 - Office678-479-4695 - FAX

One Name – One Number


Challenger From Page 13

The Right Part The Right PeopleGeorgia’s Fastest Growing Wholesale Parts Dealer!

770-692-2900 888-698-3853 770-969-0887

4115 Jonesboro RoadUnion City, GA 30291

FaxToll FreeDirect

w w w. b i l l r e i l l y s u n i o n c i t y t o y o t a . c o m

R/T Classic from zero to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

When paired with the automatic transmission, the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 includes the fuel-sav-ing multi-displacement system (MDS) allowing Dodge Challenger R/T Classic to operate economically on four cylin-ders, or produce 372 horsepower (277 kW) and 401 lb.-ft. of torque (544 N•m) when all eight cylinders are needed.

On the inte-rior, the trapezoi-dal theme of the door-panel cove and gauge clus-ter, dark headliner

and slanted shifter console are inspired by the original Dodge Challenger. I n s p i r a t i o n from the past c o n t i n u e s with a “four bomb” gauge cluster with deep easy-to-read white

f a c e s . Premium l e a t h e r-trimmed b u c k e t s e a t s with heat are well-bolstered and fin-

ished with French-seamed stitching. The advanced uconnect gps with voice

recognition, n a v i g a t i o n with real-time traffic and Universal C u s t o m e r Interface (UCI) is available on the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic.

The 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic offers exceptional rear seat-ing for a two-door coupe, achieving best-in-class rear head (37.4 inches) and leg (32.6 inches) room compared with the competition. Coupled with best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu. ft.)—equal to the Dodge Charger—the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic offers comfort and functionality. ■

2�Southern Automotive JournalJune 2009

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers (The Alliance), the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers (AIAM) and the Automotive Service Association (ASA) cited the progress that has been made in the almost seven years since Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., facilitated a service infor-mation sharing agreement. The agree-ment is seen as the reason for diminished Congressional support for so-called "right to repair" legislation.

Dave McCurdy, CEO of The Alliance, said: "Manufacturers recognize the importance of the independent repair industry and remain commit-ted to ensuring that consumers have the option of using the repairer of their choice to service their vehicles."

Congressional support for the "Right to Repair Act" has diminished as the voluntary agreement has been implement-ed. Just this week, the legislation was reintroduced, although this time with only two co-sponsors.

Today's automotive engi-neers are using computers in innovative ways to produce even safer and cleaner vehicles. And while automotive comput-ers monitor and control every-thing from airbag safety systems and anti-lock brakes to Global Positioning Systems (GPS), fuel economy and emissions con-trols, they also require indepen-dent repairers to invest in the tools, training and equipment necessary to properly service these automobiles.

Mike Stanton, AIAM presi-dent and CEO, said: "All informa-tion necessary to service and repair motor vehicles is currently available to independent repair-ers. All they need are a credit card and an Internet connection to access this information on Web sites maintained by every manufacturer selling vehicles in America today. This legisla-tion does not remedy problems associated with independent technicians who may simply be untrained or unsure where to go to assess the repair information for vehicles that pass through their shop doors."

Congressional Support for Right to Repair WaningTo help resolve service- and repair-

related issues, independent repairers are encouraged to work through the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF). NASTF serves as a forum to identify and resolve gaps involving motor vehicle repair information and tools. This nation-al, voluntary solution has proven to be an effective resource for repairers and manu-facturers alike, and over the course of the past eight years, has managed to develop an effective forum to point independent repairers to the information and tools they need and to provide a mechanism to report and resolve the few gaps that

remain.Ron Pyle, president of ASA, said:

"ASA is proud of the progress made for independent repairers relative to service, training and tool information. The 2002 ASA-Automaker agreement has provided our industry with a model for information that will ensure repairers have access to the necessary repair information for the foreseeable future. This model is indica-tive of the industry's ability to resolve many important issues in the market-place without government intervention when the automotive industry works together."n


Jackson Acura Joins Overnight Parts Alliance

Would a 20-percent increase in sales help your bottom line? That’s the growth that Jackson Acura parts man-ager David Russell says his operation has enjoyed since becoming one of the more recent additions to the Overnight Parts Alliance (OPA) just three months ago. A Birmingham-based group, the OPA is an association of parts depart-ments from dealerships in Alabama and Georgia – representing 25 automotive brands, as well as providing a source for aftermarket parts.

An economy-of-scale logistics operation, OPA services customers in Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida and the Carolinas. Parts scheduled for next-day delivery are trucked to a central distribution center in Birmingham by participating dealers. The trucks are stocked according to delivery areas.

Fewer trucks and less time are required because it takes only one truck to deliv-er a customer’s entire order regardless of brand. “The customer places an order, we ship it to Birmingham, and it’s deliv-ered,” Russell said. “As long as we have the order by 3 PM Eastern time – more or less – we can ship it for next-day delivery.”

A team of OPA sales people call on customers throughout the Southeast promoting the alliance dealership mem-bers. Business has been steadily build-ing for Roswell, Georgia’s Jackson Acura since joining the OPA three months ago. “We deliver to new customers every day,” Russell said. “It has more than met our initial expectations, and we expect it to increase even more.”

Membership in the OPA and the subsequent up-tick in business have added some opportunities for Russell.

David RussellParts Department Manager

Jackson Acura

Demand has dictated some expansion to the variety and depth of the inven-tory stocked. “We’ve had to make an inventory customization,” he explained. “This has been in terms of the type of parts we carry. We now carry more body parts and are adding additional parts numbers every day.”■

Cutting-edge NACE and CARS web-sites have been launched achieving a new level of innovation within the trade show industry, thereby setting the stan-dard in which to follow. The redesigned websites were successfully launched for the upcoming International Autobody Congress & Exposition (NACE – www.NACEexpo.com) and the Congress of Automotive Repair & Service (CARS – www.CARSevent.com). The websites significantly streamline the broadcast of event information, registration and housing, promote industry networking and much more. These industry events,

NACE and CARS Launch New Cutting-Edge Event Websitessponsored by Automotive Service Association (ASA), are co-located at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, November 4-7 and take place during the second annu-al Automotive Service & Repair Week (ASRW).

“The integration of all event sys-tems come together in our new website redesign,” said Lindsay Roberts, direc-tor, Hanley Wood Exhibitions. “The sites create an intelligent, one-stop shop for attendees and exhibitors, allowing them to find all the information they seek and easily make all event arrangements

online.” The website redesign is truly cut-

ting-edge within the trade show com-munity and is designed for no-nonsense navigation. “It is our hope that both sites become a 24/7/365 online reality and trusted resource within the automotive service and repair community by pro-viding timely event updates, RSS feeds from online industry publications and tools for driving positive networking among industry professionals,” contin-ued Roberts.

For more details visit www.NACEexpo.com,■

Southern Automotive JournalJune 2009 2�

The Certif ied Automotive Parts Association announces that Joe Lacy of GEICO and Keith Manich of KEIMAN Business Consultants have been elected to CAPA’s Technical Committee.

CAPA’s Technical Committee monitors and updates the standards govern-ing CAPA’s Quality standards. “We are thrilled to have profes-sionals like Lacy and Manich join the amazingly talented group of industry experts that make up CAPA’s TC,” said Jack Gillis, Executive Director of the Certified Automotive Parts Association.

Joe Lacy is currently the Director of Claims at GEICO’s home office in Washington, DC. He is responsible for the Auto Damage Performance Review audit staff of 20 and monitors the performance of all auto damage associates at GEICO. Joe is also responsible for helping develop auto damage claims handling policy. He has been with GEICO for 37 years and has held positions from Auto Damage Adjustor to Director of Claims Efficiency. Joe attended Mercer University in Macon, Georgia where he received a degree in Business Administration. His affiliations include the “Write it Right Committee”

Insurer and Industry Professionals Elected toCAPA’s Technical Committee

and the I-CAR Education Foundation. He has been attending CAPA Technical Committee meetings as an industry observer for over 4 years.

Keith Manich has been in the col-lision repair industry since 1978. He spent 10 years as a line technician, shop manager and director of operations before being hired by Allstate Insurance Company in 1988 to work field claims

in Virginia. Keith has been an ICAR trainer completing over 6,000 student units and super-vised the redevelopment of the auto training group at Allstate’s Tech-Cor research facility. While at Tech-Cor, Keith represent-ed Allstate on the Technical Committee for two years. Keith left Allstate in 2001 to work for Entela, (now Intertek) as a Business Development manag-er prior to establishing KEIMAN Business Consultants. He has been a guest speaker at NACE on several occasions.

“CAPA is fortunate to have such a broad range of industry expertise represented on our Technical Committee,” stated Jack Gillis, Executive Director of the non-profit association. “Their insight into issues facing the repair parts industry and guidance with the program are extremely important to CAPA’s

continuing success.”The CAPA Technical Committee is

comprised of a cross-section of indus-tries involved in collision repair and includes manufacturers, distributors, insurers, collision repairers, and general interest groups. The TC develops and maintains the CAPA Quality Standards, reviewing and refining them as neces-sary. n

More than 100 new-car dealers will meet face-to-face today with select members of the House and Senate to ask them to urge President Obama’s auto task force to slow down plans to rapidly reduce General Motors and Chrysler’s dealer networks.

“A rapid cut of dealers is a bad idea,” says John McEleney, chairman of the National Automobile Dealers Association, the trade group that orga-nized the dealer fly-in. “This would have

adverse effects on the auto industry and hurt an already struggling U.S. economy.

“It will result in another 200,000 Americans losing their jobs,” McEleney added. “State and local governments will lose millions of dollars in auto sales tax revenue that is essential for eco-nomic recovery.

“We’re not arguing against dealer consolidation,” McEleney says. “Our concern is with the accelerated time-

frame. Keep in mind that dealers are not a cost center for their manufactur-ers. Dealers are an automaker’s main source of revenue.

“Cutting dealers at this time would do absolutely nothing to make either GM or Chrysler more viable,” McEleney says.

National Automobile Dealers Association leaders also met with the President’s auto task force on Thursday, May 14, in Washington, D.C.n

Auto Dealers Are Urging Congress to Intervene with the Obama Administration to Oppose Drastic Dealer Cuts

TBill Brower, Liberty Mutual InsuranceAlan Bush, USAAToby Chess, Holmes Body ShopMike Chiu, Pro FortuneEd Eaton, Keystone-LKQRod Enlow, RENLOW Auto Technical Consulting, Inc. (Chairman)Scot Hansen, Collision Parts NetworkCharlie Hogarty, Superior Collision PartsSteve Huang, TYG ProductsJackson Kwok, Genera/TYC BrotherJoe Lacy, GEICOKeith Manich, KEIMAN ConsultingDave McCreight, Collision Resources Inc.Ron Nagy, Nagy’s Collision CenterEdward Salamy, KSI Trading CorporationNick Scheid, API/CornerstoneMike Schoonover, Schoonover Bodyworks, Inc. (Vice-Chair)Jeanne Silver, CARSTARBob Smith, Storm Appraisal & Management Service, Inc.


84 percent of owners very satisfied with independent maintenance versus 77 per-cent at dealership; Six domestic automak-ers ranked among top ten in dealership customer service

Some 84 percent of car owners reported being very satisfied with main-tenance performed at independent shops compared with 77 percent at dealerships, according to a Consumer Reports National Research Center survey involving 349,000 vehicles owned by Consumer Reports subscribers. But they were more satisfied with the dealer ser-vice of some car brands than of others.

Consumer Reports Survey Reveals Higher SatisfactionWith Independent Auto Mechanics

Among the top scoring in deal-ership maintenance satisfaction were Lexus, Buick, and Acura, with 85, 83 and 82 percent satisfaction rates, respective-ly. At the other end of the spectrum, Volkswagen, Suzuki, Jeep, and Nissan owners were far less satisfied with dealer service at 67, 69, 70, and 70 percent respectively.

Among owners whose cars needed repairs as well as maintenance, the dif-ference in satisfaction with dealers and independent shops was even more pro-nounced: 75 percent were very satisfied with independents versus just 57 percent

with dealerships.Despite the turmoil surrounding

the American auto industry, six American automakers (Buick, Saturn, Mercury, Cadillac, Lincoln and Oldsmobile) ranked among the top ten in terms of cus-tomer satisfaction with dealership main-tenance.

"In many cases, we heard that independent shops were more thorough and consumers were more satisfied with repairs they made, there was less of a difference in routine service," said David Champion, senior director, Consumer Reports Auto Test Center.n


The following was written by Ratika Garg, Research Analyst, Frost & Sullivan Automotive Practice:

Typically vehicles that are model year 1994 or newer are more complex than older vehicles due to increased use of electronics and computerized systems. In order to service and repair these vehicles, independent repair shops require highly skilled technicians and an increased amount of technical information and software tools. While the same is made available by auto manufacturers to their dealerships, independent repair shops are left in the lurch, struggling with repair work.

The Right to Repair Act, introduced in 2005, calls for regulations requiring auto manufacturers to share all service information and tools with the inde-pendent service industry, so that there is a level playing field between dealers and independent repair shops. After the warranty has expired, the dealership option results in more costs and incon-venience to the vehicle owner. The Act, if passed, will give vehicle owners the flexibility of choosing a repair shop over dealers for their vehicle's service needs.

In a challenging economic envi-ronment, the Right to Repair Act will be instrumental in addressing many issues that the repair industry faces today.

1. Viable Alternative To Rapidly Closing Dealerships

The Right to Repair Act gains much more significance with an increasing number of dealerships closing because of the economic crisis. According to Automotive News, nearly 1,008 dealer-

Economic Recession Lends Momentum to Right to Repair Actships closed in the U.S. in 2008. With more closures expected in 2009, a grow-ing number of consumers will service their vehicles at an independent repair facility. In such a situation, it becomes imperative for repair shops to get access to the required technical information and tools.

2. Savings for the Growing Base of Price-Conscious Consumers

As consumers keep their vehicles longer, there is an increasing number of older vehicles in total vehicle parc. Between 2008 and 2015, the percent-age of vehicles that are 8 years of age or older is expected to increase from 51.9% in 2008 to 57.2% in 2015. This has a direct effect on repair and maintenance required to keep the vehicle running. In many cases, independent repair shops are unable to service the vehicle due to a lack of information and tools. This leaves consumers with the costly and inconvenient option of approaching a dealership. According to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association, on an average, vehicle repairs at new car deal-erships cost 34% more than at inde-pendent repair shops, resulting in $11.7 billion in excess costs annually to con-sumers. In a tough economic environ-ment, the Right to Repair Act will be instrumental in equipping independent repair shops with the right information and tools to service the consumer.

3. Fills Void Created by Lack of Skilled Technicians

Frost & Sullivan estimates that the number of active technicians between 2005 and 2009 declined by over 50,000

in North America. While dealerships employ 14.1 technicians on average, over 90% of independent repair shops have an average of 4.4 technicians. With every dealership closing, the pressure on avail-ability of skilled technicians increases. The Right to Repair Act addresses the issue by ensuring that repair shops have access to all pertinent information and equipment through which they can pro-vide the same kind of quality service to a consumer that a dealership can offer.

ConclusionThe debate on passage of the Right

to Repair Act continues. Auto manu-facturers argue that the Right to Repair act will result in sharing of proprietary information that will impact vehicle security systems. Also, with the Obama administration showing support for the "cash for clunkers" program, demand for maintenance and service for old cars will reduce. While the "cash for clunk-ers" program aims to boost new vehicle sales as well as promote a greener envi-ronment, in reality it is simply a tool to stimulate the economy by incentiviz-ing customers to buy new vehicles. The Right to Repair Act, on the other hand, is a much more sustainable solution that addresses the concerns of multiple groups -- cash-struck consumers who want a more affordable service option, consumers who cannot buy a new and more efficient vehicle even when they get government vouchers as part of the "cash for clunkers" program, and inde-pendent repair shops that are currently struggling with repairs of technology-savvy cars.n

Representatives in the North Carolina House of Representatives have introduced House Bill 1285, the Motor Vehicle Repair Shops and Collision Repairs Licensure Act. H.B. 1285 has been assigned to the House Committee on Commerce, Small Business and Entrepreneurship. If the bill is favored, it will be referred to the Finance Committee.

This act would establish licensing requirements for certain motor vehicle repair shops, collision repair estima-tors and collision repair technicians. Specifically, repair shops, estimators

Shop Licensing Bill Introduced In North Carolinaand technicians would be required to obtain a license to work on a vehicle.

The General Assembly has declared the purpose of H.B. 1285 is:

"To protect the safety and welfare of the people of North Carolina against unqualified motor vehicle repair shops, collision repair estimators and collision repair technicians or improper motor vehicle or collision repair, it is necessary to provide for the licensing and regu-lation of certain motor vehicle repair shops, collision repair estimators and collision repair technicians."

The Automotive Service

Association (ASA) supports shop licens-ing and technical certification regula-tions that include but are not limited to proper training; compliance with federal, state and local regulations; cer-tification of technicians; minimum level of insurance; and minimum level of equipment standards for automotive shops. ASA will work with the legisla-ture to ensure the legislation addresses equipment and training concerns.

To view North Carolina H.B. 1285, visit Automotive Servce Association's legislative Web site at www.TakingTheHill.com.n


The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) is pleased to announce that Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), long recognized for its line of high-end, lux-ury vehicles, has stepped forward to become the Society's newest corporate member.

MBUSA's interest in becoming a SCRS corporate member was height-ened at NACE 2009 during informal conversations with a number of SCRS members, notably SCRS Chairman Gary Wano and Joe Skurka, Manager, OEM & Industry Relations at BASF Corporation, itself a SCRS corporate member.

"SCRS attracted our attention because they hold the same expansive view of the industry that we do," says Stephen Langelotti, department man-ager of after sales business development for MBUSA. "We consider our customer

Mercedes-Benz USA Announced as Newest SCRS Corporate Memberbase to be not only the vehicle owner, but the different sectors that make up the collision industry-repairers, insurers, sup-pliers, and any other related trade. SCRS has a track record of working together with all industry segments to form a con-sensus and create positive outcomes. By participating as a corporate member, we hope to gain a keener understanding of the market and the issues facing it. This will help us better address the needs of our mutual customers."

Wano has witnessed first-hand, as a member of the collision repair advi-sory board of MBUSA, the advantages of working closely with a vehicle manufac-turer. "MBUSA's support of SCRS will reap any number of benefits for our members, especially in regard to the repair and ser-vicing of Mercedes-Benz vehicles," he says. "The valuable insight they bring

to the table regarding safe and efficient repair procedures will contribute to the expertise of SCRS professionals with the ultimate beneficiary being the vehicle owner. We appreciate this opportunity, as we move forward to prove again that 'Working Together Is the Most Important Work We Do'."

The SCRS Corporate Membership Program, founded in 1993, partners SCRS and key corporations serving the col-lision industry that have an interest in expanding the services of the Society in order to improve the industry. Only corporate members can advertise on the SCRS Web site, on which they are listed, including a link to their own company's Web site. The company name of corpo-rate members appears on the SCRS let-terhead and they participate in quarterly member mailings.■

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 infor-mation provided by this publication. Entire contents copyright 2009. All rights reserved.

ContributorsDennis Martin

Ami VoneshJoyce Ethridge

Russ Heaps

Southern Automotive JournalP.O. Box 675097

Marietta, Ga 30006-0009(770) 321-9920

[email protected]

Volume 13 Issue No. 6

Jim TuckerPublisher

Michele TuckerEditor

clearly showed that repairs conducted at new car dealerships cost consumers on average 34 percent more than at the independent repair shops, resulting in $11.7 Billion in excess costs annually. Los Angeles consumers pay as much as 46.8 percent more at new car dealerships for repairs. The Right to Repair Act will help all of America's motoring consumers.

Aaron Lowe, Vice President, Government Affairs for AAIA, stated, "With dealerships closing at unprec-edented rates, the ability for consumers to obtain convenient and affordable repairs from their local independent vehicle repair shops is more important than ever. Right to Repair ensures that independent shops have access to the most up-to-date information, tools and software so that they can continue to maintain and repair their customers' late model vehicles."

Pohlman concluded, "Five million people in the United States work in the automotive aftermarket (independent repair industry) in over 495,000 loca-tions nationwide, including 'mom and pop' shops. The aftermarket is a large segment of the nation's economy and for more than 100 years has helped consumers find affordable and efficient ways to repair their vehicles."

A broad coalition of consumer ori-

HR 2057 From Page 21 ented and small business groups sup-port passage of The Right to Repair Act, among them: American Automobile Association (AAA), National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), RetireSafe (represents 400,000 seniors nationwide), Tire Industry Association (TIA), National Grange and 60s Plus

Seniors.The Right to Repair Act, HR

2057, is in the House Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection. Information on the legisla-tion can be found on: www.righttore-pair.org.■

© 2009, Chrysler LLC. All rights reserved. Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Mopar® are registered trademarks of Chrysler LLC.

Call us today for Mopar Parts

Order Hot Line: (800) 241-8124 or(770) 963-6263M–F 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sat. 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.www.hayeschrysler.com

AUTHENTIC MOPAR® PARTS ARE AVAILABLE AT

HAYES CHRYSLER-DODGE-JEEP 719 W Pike StreetLawrenceville, GA 30045

WE’RE YOUR ONE-STOP SOURCE FOR AUTHENTIC MOPAR® PARTS

Authentic100%

Doesn’t it make sense to have one trusted source for all the parts you need for your Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge customers? There’s no need to shop around because Mopar® has the right parts at the right price.

65074_RAD10_F.indd 1 3/24/09 1:56:22 PM

Southern Automotive Journal

Documents

Transcript of Southern Automotive Journal