Southern Automotive Journal October 2012

ASA Focuses on State Farm Data Timeline, Seeks Benefit for

Repairers

SCRS to Present Parts Procurement Session at SEMA

Auto Data Direct, Inc., Selected as Authorized Provider for Georgia

Salvage Dealers

Ally Financial Teams Up With Jay Automotive Group To Provide

School Supplies To Georgia Military Families

EPA Emission-Compliant Engines Increase in Problems, Decline in

Satisfaction

Toyota Expansion of Its'Making Life Easier'

Scholarship Program to $1 Million

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

October 2012

NSX Please Turn to Page 4

COLLISION NEWS

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Buick Enclave

DEALER NEWS

Toyota Prius c

Supplier Spotlight

Nalley Infiniti

The dynamically-styled NSX Concept gives an indication of the next great per-formance vehicle from the Acura brand. Making use of lightweight materials and a mid-mounted V-6 engine, the NSX Concept employs several new technologies for Acura, including application of Acura's innovative new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super Handling All Wheel Drive™) hybrid system.

Utilizing an unique 2 Electric Motor Drive Unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system, the all-new hybrid all-wheel-drive system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. Acura anticipates the new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® will deliver handling per-

formance unmatched by previous AWD systems. In addition to the handling ben-efits of the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® sys-tem, a powerful next-generation VTEC® V-6 engine with direct-injection works in concert with a dual clutch transmis-sion with built-in electric motor to create supercar acceleration while offering out-standing efficiency.

"This Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system will make NSX the ultimate expression of Acura's idea to create synergy between man and machine," said Takanobu Ito, president and CEO of Honda Motor Co.,

Acura's Sport Hybrid - The New NSX Concept

Acura Nalley Acura 770.422.3138 800.899.7278 770.590.4154

Audi Jim Ellis Audi 770.955.2580 800.253.8242 770.952.6199 Nalley Audi 678.795.3500 877.625.5393 678.352.3450

BMW Nalley BMW 404.296.8644 800.622.2021 404.297.9134

Chrysler Jim Burke 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Benchmark 205.823.5237 800.633.4304 888.815.5238 Hayes 770.963.6263 800.241.8124 770.237.8174Ferrari Ferrari Maserati of Atlanta 678.802.5000 800.522.2345 678.802.5018FIAT FIAT of Birmingham 205.823.5237 800.633.4304 888.815.5238Ford Allan Vigil Ford 770.960.1208 800.324.3814 770.960.6268 Gwinnett Place Ford 770.813.6825 866.665.9318 770.622.6156General Motors/Saturn Ivan leonard Chevrolet 205.823.5428 800.239.5100 205.979.3048 Rick Hendrick Chevrolet 678.957.5300 888.339.7278 678.957.5310

Honda Gwinnett Place Honda 678.957.5151 800.277.8836 678.957.5156 Nalley Honda 770.306.4646 800.367.9834 770.306.4640 Tameron Honda 800-467-0699 205-443-7656Hyundai Jim Burke Hyundai 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Tameron Hyundai 800-467-0699 205-443-7656 Serra Hyundai 205-856-6600 800-426-4351 205-853-7530

Infi nti Crown Infinti 205.985.4200 800.476.4669 205.402.2243 Nalley Infinti - Marietta 770.281.8645 877.625.5392 770.281.8646 Nalley Infinti - Decatur 404.292.0831 800.522.3324 404.296.8701

Izuzu Jim Burke 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Jaguar Jim Burke 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Nalley 864.281.1115 877.724.3030 864.478.1438 KIASerra Hyundai 205-856-6600 800-426-4351 205-853-7530

Maserati Ferrari Maserati of Atlanta 678.802.5000 800.522.2345 678.802.5018

Mazda Jim Ellis Mazda of Marietta 770.590.4468 800.543.4647 770.795.0645 Merecdes-Benz Atlanta Classic Cars 678-924-4249 800-241-6086 678-924-4257 Crown Merecdes-Benz 205.985.4200 800.476.4669 205.402.2243Mini Mitsubishi Jim Ellis 770.590.4468 800.543.4647 770.795.0645 Serra 205-856-6600 800-426-4351 205-853-7530

Nissan Jim Burke Nissan 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Nalley Nissan 404.292.4774 800.647.7278 404.297.6962 Lexus Nalley Lexus Marietta 770.514.7408 800.966.5398 770.590.4132 Nalley Lexus Roswell 678.795.2050 877.495.3987 678.795.9606 Porsche Nalley Porsche 864.281.1115 877.724.3030 864.478.1438

SAAB Jim Ellis SAAB of Marietta 770.590.4468 800.543.4647 770.795.0645

Subaru Jim Burke Subaru 205.320.7320 866.320.7320 205.458.4452 Troncalli Subaru 770.889.8951 800.646.9438 770.889.2545 Subaru of Gwinnett 678.584.7245 800.584.8727 678.584.7246

Suzuki Suzuki of Memphis 901.347.4208 800.338.5481 901.347.4207

Toyota/ Scion Limbaugh Toyota 205.788.9390 800.239.5050 205.780.5215 Nalley Toyota of Roswell 678.832.4300 877.594.8696 770.552.2365

Volvo Nalley Volvo 770.951.1043 800.782.9313 770.933.0118 Volvo of Memphis 901.347.4208 800.338.5481 901.347.4207 Volkswagen Jim Ellis 770.955.2580 800.253.8242 770.952.6199

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Southern Automotive Journal October 20124 www.IneedOEMparts.com

NSX From Front CoverLtd. "The NSX will make the driver one with the car to enhance dynamic driving abilities without getting in the way."

While most supercars opt for brute force delivered from a large engine, the NSX Concept champions the true racing philosophy of an extremely favorable power-to-weight ratio.

"Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engi-neering efficiency," added Ito, who led the development of Acura's first NSX supercar. "In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities."

Winner of the 2012 Production Preview Vehicle of the Year category of the elev-enth annual N o r t h American C o n c e p t Vehicle of the Year A w a r d s , N S X t r o u n c e d competitors including the Cadillac ELR, the Jaguar C-X16, and the Subaru BRZ STI. The Production Preview Vehicle category is

for those concept vehicles based on a model that

has already been announced or

planned for production.

“Like the or ig inal NSX, it empha-s i z e s l i g h t -n e s s o v e r

b r u t e p o w e r ,

but with b o l d e r ,

edgier styl-ing that’s quite

attractive in today’s context,” said NACVOTY juror Chris Poole.

Honda plans to produce the new supercar near its current auto produc-tion operations in central Ohio at a unique, advanced manufacturing opera-tion. The original Acura NSX was built at Honda plants in Japan from 1990 to 2005.

“Honda associates are up to the challenge of producing the new NSX

"In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities."

Takanobu Ito, President and CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

NSX Continue on Next Page

Southern Automotive JournalOctober 20125www.IneedOEMparts.com

for global customers with a high degree of craftsmanship,” said Hidenobu Iwata, head of Honda’s North American manu-facturing operations and president of Honda of America Mfg., Inc. “Honda associates in Ohio have been building high-quality Honda and Acura vehicles for nearly 30 years, so this news in many

ways is a culmination of their deter-mined efforts.”

A team from HRA Ohio Center will lead the continued design and develop-ment of the new vehicle. Headquartered in Torrance, Calif., Honda R&D Americas has major research and vehicle develop-ment operations in the Raymond, Ohio center, where much of the work on the NSX will take place.

“We have a rich history of creating innovative new products for our cus-tomers in the U.S. and in markets around the world,” said Hiroshi Takemura, presi-dent of Honda R&D Americas, Inc. “The responsibility to develop the all-new Acura NSX demonstrates the maturity of our organization, the know-how of our associates and their ability to create an advanced and innovative supercar.”n

NSX From Previous Page

"This Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system will make NSX the ultimate expression of Acura's idea to create synergy between man and machine," said Takanobu Ito.

The Service Station Dealers of America and Allied Trades (SSDA-AT) urges Congress to pass the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (HR1449) to ensure a competitive auto repair marketplace. The SSDA-AT mem-bership is comprised of service station dealers and repair shops throughout the country.

"Our members overwhelmingly support the Right to Repair Act because they want to be able to compete fairly now and in the future. They are not seek-ing an unfair advantage, nor are they looking for access to the proprietary information protected by the bill. They

SSDA-AT: Pass "Right to Repair Act" to Ensure Competitive Automotive Repair Industrysimply want equal access to relevant service and repair information from the carmakers," said Kirk McCauley, director of member relations for SSDA-AT.

The Right to Repair Act protects consumer choice and saves drivers money by requiring that automobile manufacturers share non-proprietary repair and safety information with local neighborhood automotive technicians and repair shops at a reasonable cost. The bill also provides strong protec-tions for automobile manufacturers' proprietary information.

"We don't need to know how they build their vehicles, we just want the

pertinent information needed to repair them," said McCauley. "We ask all vehi-cle owners to visit www.righttorepair.org and tell their U.S. Representative and each of their Senators to support the Right to Repair Act."

The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (HR1449) was introduced into the 112th Congress by Reps. Edolphus Towns (D-NY) and Todd Russell Platts (R-PA), and has reached 51 co-sponsors. On the state level, a compromise bill unanimously passed the Massachusetts Senate after new car dealers joined independent repairers and consumers in support of Right to Repair.n

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For the past hundred years, innovation within the automotive sector has brought major technologi-cal advances, leading to safer, cleaner, and more affordable vehicles. But for the most part, since Henry Ford introduced the mov-ing assembly line, the changes have been incremental, evolutionary. Now the indus-try appears to be on the cusp of revolu-tionary change, which will be engendered by the advent of autonomous or "self-driving" vehicles - and the timing may be sooner than you think, according to a new report unveiled today by KPMG LLP, the U.S. audit, tax and advisory firm, and the Center for Automotive Research (CAR).

The report, titled Self-Driving Car: The Next Revolution, is based on inter-views with leading technologists, automo-tive industry leaders, academicians, and regulators - as well as research and analy-sis of industry trends. The study examines the forces of change, the current and emerging technologies, the path to bring these innovations to market, the likeli-hood that they will achieve wide adop-tion from consumers, and their potential impact on the automotive ecosystem.

The findings are outlined in four sections:

-- Market dynamics: examines the market dynamics and the social, eco-nomic, and environmental forces that are making change inevitable.

-- Convergence: discusses the ongoing convergence of the key enabling technologies.

-- Adoption: focuses on the path to widespread adoption of advancedauto-mated driving solutions, which we believe will take place in stages, leading over time, to reliance on increasingly autonomous or "self-driving" vehicles.

-- Implications for investment: addresses the social, political, and eco-nomic implications of self-driven auto-mobiles and their impact on the entire automotive ecosystem.

"For the past 100 years, the automo-tive industry has been a force for innova-tion and economic growth," said Gary

Self-Driving Cars Put Auto Industry on Cusp of Revolutionary Change: KPMG & Center for Automotive Research Report Shows

Silberg, national automotive industry leader for KPMG LLP and co-author of the report. "Now the pace of innovation is speeding up and the industry is on the brink of a new technological revolu-tion with 's elf-driving' vehicles. If they become a mainstream reality, it would be profoundly disruptive to the automotive ecosystem and may have far-reaching implications for the traditional automo-tive value chain and beyond."

In the report,Self-Driving Car: The Next Revolution, KPMG and CAR pres-ent the hypotheses on how self-driving vehicle technology could unfold and its potential impacts - with an emphasis on the convergence of sensor-based and communication-based vehicle technolo-gies. The report points out that the new technology could provide solutions to some of our most intractable social prob-lems -- the high cost of traffic crashes and transportation infrastructure, the millions of hours wasted in traffic jams, and the wasted urban space given over to park-ing lots, just to name a few.

"For those who embrace innovation and opt to lead rather than follow, a new frontier is opening in the realm of mobility services," said Richard Wallace, director, Transportation Systems Analysis at CAR and co-author of the report. "Some may ask if it is still just science fiction or if the market will accept them and pay for them. We think the answer is a resound-ing yes - the marketplace will not merely accept self-driving vehicles, it will be the engine pulling the auto industry forward."

KPMG's Silberg added, "Like many of the industry leaders, academ-ics, and policy makers interviewed, we believe the age of the self-driving vehicle is coming. But get-ting there will require that many pieces of a large puz-

zle fit together. When and how that will happen remain open questions."

According to the KPMG/CAR report, the convergence of sensor-based and connected vehicle technologies will hap-pen and will have a positive effect on the adoption of both systems. They think drivers will take the leap. Convergence will bring enhanced mobility and safety and reduced environmental impacts. It may also have far-reaching implications for the traditional automotive value chain and beyond.

Automotive and technology com-panies are already investing in connected and autonomous technologies and appli-cations. While there is no clear leader, companies are trying to figure out how to compete and collaborate at the same time. Over the longer term, the evolution of these advancements will cause a rebal-ancing of the automotive value chain, with nontraditional firms playing a more significant role.n

Autonomous cars may dramatically reshape the

competitive landscape, human interaction with

vehicles, and the future design of roads and cities

-- and they may be sooner than you think.

Southern Automotive

Journal,Inc.

P.O. Box 675097

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Volume 16 Issue No. 10

Jim TuckerPublisher

Michele TuckerEditor

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.

Contributors

Dennis MartinAmi Vonesh

Joyce EthridgeRuss Heaps

Michael Winters

Enclave Please Turn to Page 30


Buick has introduced the new 2013 Enclave, an evolution of the industry’s best-selling three-row luxury crossover. It offers new styling, new safety technolo-gies, in-vehicle connectivity and a more refined driving experience.

LED daytime running lamps and LED taillamps complement a more sculpted exterior design. The interior is more contempo-rary, with ambient lighting and IntelliLink in-vehicle communica-tions with touch-screen control and navigation. The industry’s first front center air bag system and new dual-flow front struts highlight the safety and performance enhancements.

The 2013 Enclave made its public debut at the New York Auto Show earlier this year. It goes on sale this fall.

“The 2013 Enclave advances the award-winning design, craftsmanship and technology that reintroduced Buick to a new generation of customers,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing. “We evolved the interior and exterior design, increased luxury ame-nities and materials, and engineered purposeful technologies that will make the Enclave continue to resonate with luxury crossover owners.”

Enclave saw record sales in 2011, making it more popular than the three-row crossovers from Acura, Audi and Lincoln. More than 58,000 were sold last year – with nearly 50 percent sold to customers switching from non-General Motors vehicles.

The Enclave is offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive mod-

Buick Introduces the New 2013 Enclave

els, and powered by a direct-injected 3.6L V-6 and an updated six-speed auto-matic transmission that contribute to the more refined driving experience. Buick’s QuietTuning engineering process reduces, blocks and absorbs unwanted noise from the Enclave’s cabin, making it quieter than a Lexus RX350.

Sculpted exterior advances Buick’s design language

Enclave’s sculpted styling rede-fined Buick’s design language upon its introduction more than five years ago. The 2013 model adds new signa-ture cues, i n c l u d i n g new head-lamp design, with standard Xenon high-intensity discharge lamps (HID) and LED accent lighting (articulating headlamps are available), new hood and black-chrome

waterfall grille, new rear fascia design with integrated exhaust outlets, monochromatic exterior appearance with chrome accents and much more.

The Enclave’s new appear-ance is instantly recognizable as a modern Buick and the LED light-ing elements enhance its techno-logically advanced presence. The blue translucent rings around the Xenon HID headlamps are Buick design cues found on other mod-els, adding distinction across the brand’s lineup.

At the rear, the exhaust outlets are framed with a chrome finish within the rear fascia, for an integrated appear-ance that exemplifies Buick’s attention to detail. New LED taillamps provide a safety benefit by illuminating more quickly than conventional bulbs when the brakes are applied.

Harmonious interior environmentThe 2013 Enclave’s interior is

defined by luxurious amenities and high-quality materials, with changes that create a more contempo-rary ambience and support the integration of Buick IntelliLink. Highlights include new ice blue LED ambient lighting around the dash highlights Enclave’s flowing lines, emphasizing the cabin’s spaciousness, eight-way power front driver and pas-

senger seats with four-way adjustable

Southern Automotive JournalOctober 2012 9www.IneedOEMparts.com

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Technology changes related to revised emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks are causing an increase in heavy-duty truck engine problems and a decrease in overall satisfaction with the powertrain, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 U.S. Heavy-Duty Truck Engine and Transmission Study released today.

Now in its 16th year, the study measures satisfaction with engines and transmissions among primary maintain-ers of heavy-duty (Class 8) trucks that are one model-year old. Satisfaction is mea-sured based on eight key factors: engine reliability and dependability; engine war-ranty; acceleration when fully loaded; electronic control module; accessibility to components for service or maintenance; vibration at idle; maintaining speeds on grades; and average fuel economy.

Technology designed to reduce emissions and make heavy-duty truck engines compliant with the 2010 EPA regulations is resulting in more heavy-duty truck owners experiencing prob-lems with the engine. The study finds that 46 percent of owners of heavy-duty trucks that are one model-year old report experiencing some type of engine-relat-ed problem, up from 42 percent in 2011. The most commonly reported engine problems are issues with the electronic

J.D. Power and Associates Reports: EPA Emission-Compliant Engines Increase in Problems, Decline in Satisfaction

control module calibration (cited by 23 percent of owners who experienced an engine problem), exhaust gas recircula-tion (EGR) valve (20 percent), and elec-tronic engine sensors (16 percent).

In addition, the average number of engine- and fuel-related problems has increased to 81 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) from 71 PP100 in 2011. The rise in problems has impacted over-all engine satisfaction, which declines to 719 index points on a 1,000-point scale in 2012, compared with 739 in 2011.

"At the industry level, the new, more complex engines designed to meet EPA regulations are resulting in additional problems and downtime, which also has a financial impact on owners because they're not making money when their truck is down for service," said Brent Gruber, director of the commercial vehicle practice at J.D. Power and Associates.

However, Gruber adds that once manufacturers resolve quality issues related to the new technology, custom-ers may expect to see some added ben-efits from the new engines. In the on-highway segment, the average reported engine service interval has increased to 22,703 miles in 2012, up from 20,303 in 2011. Additionally, maintainers of heavy-duty on-highway trucks report a 4 per-

cent increase in fuel efficiency this year, averaging 6.3 miles per gallon (mpg) in 2012, compared with 6.0 mpg in 2011.

"The new engines are proving to be more fuel efficient and allow-ing greater up-time between service, so despite initial quality issues, the new technology may offer a greater return on investment in the long run," said Gruber.

Detroit(1) engines rank highest in customer satisfaction with a score of 753--a 20-point improvement from 2011--and performs particularly well in the engine reliability and dependability fac-tor. Cummins ranks second at 729 and Caterpillar third at 721.

Overall satisfaction with heavy-duty truck transmissions averages 812 in 2012, down eight points from 2011. The decline is largely attributed to lower sat-isfaction with the reliability and depend-ability of the transmission and drive-train. This decline in satisfaction comes despite transmission-related quality actually improving to 7 PP100 in 2012, down from 10 PP100 in 2011.

The 2012 U.S. Heavy-Duty Truck Engine and Transmission Study is based on the responses of 1,725 primary main-tainers of Class 8 heavy-duty trucks that are one model-year-old. The study was fielded between February and May 2012.n

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DMEautomotive (DMEa), the industry leader in science-based, results-driven automotive marketing, recently released key findings from its new national c o n s u m e r survey that p r o v i d e s insight into the state of prepaid (PPM) and complimen-tary dealer and OEM maintenance plans - from current pen-etration rates and customer satisfaction levels, to the precise role these plans play in dealer-ship service retention.

"Our survey provides fresh evi-dence that both prepaid and OEM-provided maintenance plans have a powerful impact on dealer service retention," said Doug Van Sach, Vice President of Strategy & Analytics at DMEautomotive. "With nearly 3 in 5 consumers reporting they are likely to continue servicing at the dealership after their plan expires - compared to average dealer post-warranty retention rates of 22% to 40% (depending on vehicle make and age) - these programs can more than double service business that typically bleeds to the aftermarket, while also having a profound impact on retaining the young, traditionally deal-er-averse, service shopper's business."

KEY FINDINGS: Maintenance Plan Penetration22% of American car owners currently have a maintenance plan (beyond a standard OEM warranty): 15% have a complimentary plan (e.g. ToyotaCare, Experience Buick, or BMW Ultimate Service), while 7% of respondents have purchased a PPM dealer plan.

Maintenance Plan OwnershipCurrently do not have 77%Complimentary maintenance plan: 15%Purchased a prepaid maintenance plan: 7%I don't know: 1%

Maintenance Plans Keep Consumers Servicing at Dealership After ExpirationFree or Prepaid: 35% Still Not Using for ALL Maintenance (or NOT Using at All)

While the majority (65%) report using their plan for "all" scheduled

maintenance, a surprising 25% have only used it for "some" of their covered services. So, even though a free or paid-for plan is in place, plan-holders are still choosing to spend service dol-

lars outside the dealership - a possible reflection of the lack of convenience traditionally associated with dealership service centers. Also, a significant per-

centage of plan-holders either are not being consistently engaged by their dealer-ship, or are not finding value in their plans, with 9% report-ing they have not used it at all.

Plan Usage and Satisfaction Levels Align

DMEautomotive Survey Highlights:

--56% of consumers with a prepaid or "complimentary" service plan are likely to continue servicing at dealership after expiration

--Roughly 1 in 4 U.S. vehicle owners have a dealer/OEM prepaid or free service plan.

--62% of those that use plans for "all" maintenance are likely to stick with their dealer.

--Next-generation servicers (under age 35) are more likely to have a plan (31%) than those over 35 (18%) - and more likely to have all maintenance done under the plan/at dealer (72%) than

those over 35 (61%).

DMEa Survey PleaseTurn to Page 24

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Since early May 2012, the Automotive Service Association (ASA) and its volun-teer leaders have taken a transparent and methodical approach to State Farm's elec-tronic parts ordering application currently being piloted. Seeking context regard-ing the specifics of the pilot, ASA previ-ously presented the industry with verified details of the State Farm pilot and the application developed by PartsTrader at State Farm's request.

For ASA to continue in good faith to provide accurate information to its members - and act on their behalf as advocate and industry liaison - ASA has now entered into a phase in which data delivery will be associated with a timeline. If State Farm cannot provide data show-ing how this application benefits collision repairers (operationally/financially) within a feasible, specified time frame, ASA will respond appropriately. ASA acknowledg-es the pilot is still in process and State Farm is currently reviewing data.

This follows a public request by ASA June 12 to State Farm on behalf of ASA's collision repair members for fac-tual evidence of how the electronic parts ordering application would benefit col-lision repair facilities. Within this request ASA clearly stated that if this application does not provide benefits to the colli-sion repairer, then ASA would not support the application moving forward. On July

ASA Focuses on State Farm Data Timeline, Seeks Benefit for Repairers17, ASA made another public request to State Farm for data demonstrating that the pilot application benefits repair facili-ties, receipt of which was confirmed by the insurer.

George Avery, State Farm industry liaison and claims representative, said dur-ing a recent phone interview with ASA that State Farm is still sifting through the feedback received from the 158 shops using the system in four U.S. markets, and is implementing changes in the pilot that, in turn, put them in a position of needing to go back to repairers to gather further data. Avery stressed it was a fluid process. Although lacking current data to provide specific answers, he assured ASA that State Farm would respond to the association when answers were available.

Previously published, ASA's areas of concern regarding the pilot - as expressed by collision repairers - includes efficiency issues, additional administration costs, reductions in shop profits, potential com-promises to local repairer-to-supplier rela-tionships and increasing insurer involve-ment in the repair process.

More than 100 formal and infor-mal interviews have been conducted by ASA, primarily with collision repair busi-nesses and others industry groups such as RealParts.com, PartsCheck Live, the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), Team PRP Recyclers, independent

aftermarket parts distributors, wholesale original parts dealers and original equip-ment manufacturers. From the vast pool of conversations conducted thus far, overwhelmingly, the majority of all seg-ments interviewed continue to express strong concern about the current State Farm pilot, particularly its electronic parts ordering component.

"For ASA members, the factual results of the pilot are essential to the dis-cussion. ASA will continue to engage with all parties necessary, as we seek the sup-porting data that this application benefits the collision repairer. ASA stands by its statement that if this application does not provide benefits to the collision repairer, ASA would not support the application moving forward," said Denise Caspersen, manager of ASA's Collision Division. "ASA has a responsibility to our membership to be the unyielding, professional voice speaking clearly about their concerns and advocating for favorable resolutions." Collision repairers may share their com-ments or concerns regarding the pilot by contacting Denise Caspersen at [email protected], or by phone at (800) ASA-SHOP, ext. 106, or (817) 514-2906 (direct). All ASA announcements and documents regarding the State Farm pilot are conve-niently located at www.ASAshop.org. Click on "Tools & Resources" (in the blue menu bar), then "State Farm Pilot Program."n


Prius c Please Turn to Page 20

F o l l o w i n g the U.S. debut of the all-new 2012 Prius c at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., brought this dynamically styled, five-door hatch-back to market in March of 2012, and introduced Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive to the subcom-pact segment.

The letter “c” represents “city” in the Prius c name. Designed to func-tion as an urban-friendly vehicle with an engaging driving experience, hatchback utility, and a city fuel economy rating of 53 mpg, Prius c offers the highest city mpg rating of any vehicle without a plug. The all-new Prius c joins the Prius Family, which includes the third generation Prius Liftback, the versatile new Prius v and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid.

Beginning with the first genera-tion fourteen years ago, over two mil-lion Prius units have been sold world-wide. Prius remains the world’s premier eco-vehicle brand, and has made great strides establishing consumer trust in hybrid technology. With Prius c, Toyota has made the market’s most proven hybrid technology available to subcom-pact car shoppers with a starting MSRP below $19,000.

Unique Place in the Prius FamilyA gateway product into the Prius

Family, the new Prius c will find favor with younger shoppers seeking a smart-ly designed, fuel-efficient subcompact car packing advanced drivetrain and in-car technology. The Prius c will offer engaging driving dynamics with supe-rior urban maneuverability. The 2012 Prius c offers the highest rated city fuel economy estimate of any vehicle with-out a plug; 53 mpg in the city, and 46 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 50 mpg.

Toyota Prius c Completes the Prius Family of Vehicles

The most accessible Prius, the c features a start-ing MSRP below $19,000 with proven hybrid powertrain and premium tech-nology.

P r i u s c provides a

premium subcompact car experience thanks to a wide array of available con-venience and advanced in-car electron-ics features, including a standard 3.5-in. full color TFT multi-information display, hands-free phone capability, USB port with iPod connectivity, and available Display Audio system with Navigation and Entune.

The scale of the all-new Prius c becomes apparent when compared to the familiar proportions of the midsize Prius Liftback. The Prius c is smaller and lighter than its midsize Prius stable mate with 19.1 inches less length (157.3 vs. 176.4 inches OAL) and 542 lbs. less weight than the Prius Liftback (2,500 vs. 3,042 lbs.). In adapting the Hybrid Synergy Drive to the smaller Prius c plat-form, each of the system’s major com-

ponents were re-designed to reduce weight, scale, and improve efficiency.

Efficient Packaging

The Prius c’s effective packaging design strategically locates key drive-train components within the chassis to help optimize inte-rior space and han-dling. The compact gasoline engine, transaxle and pow-er-control unit are optimally placed within the vehicle to help enhance weight

distribution and lower

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together beneath the rear seat, ideally distributing their mass within the wheelbase to improve weight distribution to help enhance handling. By locating the battery and fuel tank below the rear seat, the Prius c is able to offer 104 cu. ft. of interior volume (87.4 cu. ft. passenger volume, 17.1 cu. ft. cargo volume).

Prius c Hybrid Synergy Drive PropulsionThe Prius c’s Hybrid Synergy Drive

system integrates the operation of com-ponents that include a gasoline engine, an electric motor within a Continuously Variable Transaxle, a nickel-metal hydride battery, a power control unit (inverter), a DC-DC converter, a step-up convert-er and a hybrid control computer. The

Prius c offers 53 mpg in the city, and 46 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 50 mpg.

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Toyota Scholarship Turn to

Page 33


Torrance, Calif. – Toyota Financial Services (TFS) recently announced the expansion of its Making Life Easier scholar-ship program to $1 million for 2013, which will provide scholarships to underserved students through Boys & Girls Clubs of America as well as other TFS non-profit partners including North High School, All Peoples Community Center, Community’s Child, 1736 Family Crisis Center, and Los Angeles Team Mentoring.

The announcement took place at a

Toyota Financial Services Announces Expansion of Its 'Making Life Easier'Scholarship Program to $1 Million

Community Day event held on the Toyota Financial Services main campus where more than 350 students and their families, Toyota associates and special guests gath-ered to celebrate the students’ academic achievement.

Since 2007 Toyota Financial Services has provided scholarships to deserving students from local non-profit partners including students from the East Los Angeles Boys & Girls Clubs who have demonstrated academic achievement

and served as role models by volunteer-ing in their community. As part of TFS’ national giving strategy, the Making Life Easier scholarships program allows eco-nomically disadvantaged youth to pursue their higher education goals by provid-ing up to $20,000 for university, college, trade or vocational school tuition and fees. To date, TFS has provided $1.4 million in scholarships to nearly 400 local Boys & Girls Club students and more than $2.3 million in direct funding to the Boys &

Girls Clubs of East Los Angeles and $6.4 million to Boys & Girls Clubs of America and other Clubs across the country to support after-school programs and family economic develop-ment programs.

Earlier this year, Toyota partnered with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to announce the establishment of Diplomas to Degrees - or D2D, an inten-sive college readiness program funded by an initial $1.5 mil-lion grant from Toyota over three years to help provide tools, resources and support to Boys & Girls Club teens to better prepare them to move from high school to college graduates. This year, nine Boys & Girls Clubs piloting the D2D program participated in the Making Life Easier scholarship program and as a result TFS is awarding $85,000 in schol-arships to D2D students from across the country.

“Toyota Financial Services is building on six years of success and expanding our Making Life Easier scholarship program will enable us to reach thousands of kids on a nation-al level,” said George Borst, President and CEO of Toyota Financial Services. “We are committed to helping improve the quality of life in the com-munities where we live and work, and through our partner-ships with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and other non-profits we are able to engage with


"During the 2012 Olympic week, Massachusetts legislators made its Commonwealth the Gold Standard for other states and Congress to follow by becoming the first state to pass the his-toric Right to Repair Act," stated Sandy Bass-Cors, executive director for The Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE).

The House vote was an overwhelm-ing 153-0. The senate unanimously passed Right to Repair earlier. Governor Deval Patrick has 10 days to sign this popular, pro-consumer bill into law.

CARE first introduced Right to Repair into Congress in 2001, as vehicles became increasingly more computer-ized and access to the non-proprietary repair codes became nearly impossible. Independent repair shops were often forced to turn consumers away to the new car dealerships, even when their vehicles were more recently out-of-

Massachusetts Motoring Consumers & Automotive Aftermarket Make History As First State To Pass 'Right to Repair', During 2012 Olympic Week, Setting Gold Standard For

Other States & Congress To Follow, States CAREwarranty, causing consumers to pay the higher new dealership repair costs.

In a joint show of support, the Right to Repair Coalition, the Massachusetts State Dealers Association, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers and the Global Automakers, sent legislators a letter stating, "We believe that this bill ensures an acceptable agreement that will safeguard all of the stakeholders. It will preserve choice for Massachusetts vehicle owners, protect manufacturers' intellectual property and preserve the integrity of the role of the dealer in the repair process, and continue innovation in motor vehicle diagnostics."

"The Bi-Partisan-Sponsored Right to Repair Act in Congress, HR 1449, continues to garner cosponsors. Every Member of Congress should be cospon-sored on this pro-consumer/pro-small business legislation which helps to main-

tain and grow jobs in the nearly five-mil-lion-employee-strong aftermarket, with-out using government/taxpayers' fund-ing, without creating new regulations and without requesting or requiring pro-prietary information," stated Bass-Cors.

The Right to Repair Act in Congress has support from diverse organizations, including The American Automobile Association (AAA), The National Grange, The American Military Society and RetireSafe. More information on the fed-eral Right to Repair can be found on: www.righttorepair.org.

"Consumers choices in their person-al property, this time their vehicle repairs, is an American Tradition. It shouldn't take Olympian efforts to give consumers what they need during this economic down-turn--affordable, quality repairs at the shops of their choice," concluded Bass-Cors.n

The Tire Industry Association applauds the passage of the Right to Repair law in Massachusetts and strongly urges Congress to pass a comparable federal law to ensure that all American car owners and their trusted repair shops have the same access to safety alerts and repair information as the franchised new car dealer network.

"Most new vehicles are equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) to protect motorists from the dan-gers of operating a vehicle with under-inflated tires. Because these systems are controlled by computers, we believe there is a critical need to swiftly pass the Right to Repair Act on a national level," said Roy Littlefield, executive vice presi-dent of the Tire Industry Association.

The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (HR 1449) levels the competi-tive playing field for motoring consumers and between new car dealerships and independent repair shops by requiring that car companies provide full, fair access at a reasonable cost to all non-proprietary service information, tools, fault codes and

Tire Industry Association Applauds Passage of "Right to Repair" in Massachusetts; Urges Congress to Pass Federal Law

safety-related bulletins needed to repair motor vehicles. The Right to Repair Act was introduced into the 112(th) Congress by Reps. Edolphus Towns (D-NY) and Todd Russell Platts (R-PA), and has reached 51 co-sponsors.

"Passage in Massachusetts is a good start, but without every repair facility hav-ing ready access to complete, accurate informa-tion from the car companies, it will be very difficult to keep all TPMS systems acti-vated and in safe working condi-tion," continued Littlefield. "We support each car owner's right to patronize the auto service facil-

ity of their choice. We ask all motorists to visit www.righttorepair.org to send a letter to each of their congressional repre-sentatives, urging them to co-sponsor the Right to Repair Act."n

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To honor the brave men and women of the U.S. armed forces, Ally Financial has teamed up with Jay Automotive Group to provide $10,000 worth of backpacks and school supplies to children of Georgia military person-nel.

In cooperation with Operation Homefront Georgia, backpacks and school supplies have been delivered to children of Active Duty and National Guard military personnel throughout the state of Georgia.

Military families from Fort Benning were on-hand at Jay Auto Mall in Columbus on Sat., July 28 with fully-stocked backpacks for children to pick up and refreshments to be enjoyed.

"Our men and women in the

Ally Financial Teams Up With Jay Automotive Group To Provide School Supplies To Georgia Military Families

armed forces sacrifice so much for us every day," said Ally Financial regional vice president, Doug Timmerman. "It is a privilege and honor to stand with Jay Automotive Group and contribute to such an outstanding community cause, both financially and through our employee volunteer efforts."

This year's event marks the third time Ally has partnered with Operation Homefront to provide essential items to families of military personnel. Ally also partnered with Operation Homefront Oklahoma last December to provide holiday gifts and meals to Oklahoma military families.

"It's so important to show our appreciation for the commitment and sacrifice made by our Active Duty and

National Guard personnel," said Jay Stelzenmuller, president and dealer prin-cipal at Jay Automotive Group. "We're so pleased to work with Ally and Operation Homefront to host this wonderful event and get involved in this valuable com-munity effort."

"Military families can see a real money crunch at back-to-school time," said Kim Scofi, president, Operation Homefront Georgia. "We are delight-ed to partner with Ally Financial and Jay Automotive Group to provide new backpacks filled with school supplies to military children in Georgia. Through their generosity, hundreds of military children from National Guard and Active Duty families will start school this fall with the supplies they need."n


hybrid control computer governs the seamless application of gasoline engine and electric power depending on driv-ing demands and selected drive mode.

The Prius c relies on a SULEV (Tier 2 Bin 3) rated 1.5-liter in-line, four-cylinder gasoline engine that utilizes an Atkinson cycle to increase efficiency. This engine-produces 73 horsepower and 82 lb.-ft. of torque, contributing to a total hybrid system output of 99 hp.

The Prius c’s hybrid system utilizes a 144-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack that has been located under the rear passenger seat, near the center of the vehicle, and low in the chassis to help improve the center of gravity.

Prius c offers three distinct drive modes: Normal, Eco, and EV mode. Eco mode reduces overall energy consump-tion by governing climate control and throttle to improve vehicle efficiency. Under certain conditions, the EV mode allows the Prius c to be driven solely by electric power for a short distance (under 1 mile) while remaining below 25 mph.

Vehicle Structure – Improved Handling and Safety

The Prius c’s body structure makes extensive use of lightweight, high-strength steel to help reduce vehicle mass and improve fuel economy. The strategic use of high-tensile-strength steel contributes to the vehicle’s ability to absorb and disperse impact energies helping enhance occupant safety. The high level of torsional rigidity afforded by the Prius c body structure allows the suspension to be more optimally tuned for ride and handling.

Suspension and Steering for Enhanced Handling

The front suspension uses a Macpherson strut design, and the rear rides on a tuned torsion beam. The coil-spring and shock-absorber character-istics of the Prius c have been tuned to enhance handling, flat turning, and smooth ride comfort. Prius c is avail-able with 15- or 16-inch wheel-and-tire combinations. The 15-inch wheels are available in steel with wheel cover for

base model or in aluminum alloy for elevated trim levels. Prius c models equipped with the available 16-inch alumi-num alloy wheels enjoy enhanced handling thanks to a faster steer-ing ratio (2.28 turns lock to lock), which helps quicken the vehi-cle’s dynamic response.

Youthful Exterior and Interior Design

The Prius c exterior design helps project a fun, youthful attitude for this all-new addition to the Prius fam-ily, while offer-ing excellent a e r o d y n a m i c p e r f o r m a n c e . Extensive aero-dynamic features were engineered into the Prius c to help achieve a 0.28 coefficient of drag. Adding character to this subcompact, the Prius c’s lower-body styling is wider below the beltline, featur-ing sculpted rear flares to help express a sturdy, athletic stance that communicates a more agile driving experience.

The Prius c’s available exterior col-ors include vibrant hues that are unique and expressive. The available colors for Prius c include three new colors – Habanero, Moonglow, and Summer Rain Metallic – along with Blue Streak Metallic, Absolutely Red, Black Sand

Prius c From Page 14

Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, and Super White.

The Prius c interior design seeks to create a space that is futuristic yet passenger friendly. Using black as a basic interior color, the door trim, seat surfaces, and instrument panel feature treatments in lighter colors to help create contrast.n

The Prius c design helps project a fun, youthful attitude.

The Prius c interior design creates a space that is futur-istic and passenger friendly.

[email protected] [email protected]

Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America, Inc. (MBRDNA) is supporting the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) Model Deployment. This activity, to be official-ly launched on August 21, 2012 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is the largest connected vehicle field operational trial in the world, with over 2800 passenger, commercial, and transit vehicles. The purpose of this trial is to evaluate, in real world scenari-os, automotive safety technology based on wireless communications between vehicles. Academia, industry, and gov-ernment have all come together to assure

Mercedes-Benz Supports Research Fleet For Vehicle-To-Vehicle Model Deploymentthe success of this effort.

The wireless communications technology used in the V2V Model Deployment is 5.9 GHz Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC). Mercedes-Benz, a pioneer in automo-tive safety, considers innovations based on 5.9 GHz DSRC, in combination with invehicle Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, as an important step on the road towards accident free driving. For this reason, Mercedes-Benz continues to collaborate with government agencies and other major car manufacturers in the United States and Europe to develop effective safety solutions based on 5.9

GHz DSRC.MBRDNA equipped eight

Mercedes-Benz C-300 passenger vehicles and three Freightliner heavy-duty com-mercial trucks with fully integrated 5.9 GHz DSRC systems to support the V2V Model Deployment. The passenger vehi-cles feature LED strip lighting on the dash-board that illuminate to warn the driver of an impending collision risk. The commer-cial vehicles display warnings through tablet devices installed in the cockpit. Local Ann Arbor residents will drive these vehicles over the course of one year, while researchers collect and analyze data to assess the systems' effectiveness.n

U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu has announced projects for the devel-opment of stronger and lighter mate-rials for American-made vehicles. The projects include the development of modeling tools, as well as research into lightweight, high-strength alloys for energy-efficient engines.

According to Chu: "With strong, lightweight materials we have an oppor-

U.S. Energy Secretary Chu Announces Initiatives for Stronger, Lighter Car Materialstunity to dramatically increase vehicle fuel economy, while helping America maintain its competitive edge in auto-motive design and manufacturing."

The Obama Administration believes replacing cast iron and tra-ditional steel components with light-weight materials - including advanced high-strength steel, magnesium, alumi-num and carbon fiber composites will

allow vehicle manufacturers to include additional safety devices, integrated electronic systems and emissions con-trol equipment on vehicles without increasing the weight of the vehicle.

The U.S. Department of Energy noted that by reducing a vehicle's weight by just 10 percent can improve the fuel economy by 6 percent to 8 percent.n


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www.IneedOEMparts.com Southern Automotive JournalOctober 2012 23www.IneedOEMparts.com

New-vehicle incentives and rebates as well as declining prices on used vehicles are a couple of factors pointing to steady auto sales as the summer months come to a close.

"The end of summer is typically a good time of the year to shop for new and used vehicles," said Jonathan Banks, senior analyst with the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Used Car Guide.

"Dealers and manufacturers are offering incentives and rebates to sell remaining inventory at dealerships and to make room for new model year vehicles arriving this fall," Banks added.

For consumers shopping in the used-vehicle market, average retail-prices for used cars and light trucks up

NADA: Incentives and Declining Used-Car Prices to Boost Auto Salesto five-years-old experienced the great-est monthly decline this year, dropping 3.8% in August, says the NADA Used Car Guide.

"Over the next few months, we expect to see an acceleration in the decline of used-vehicle prices that usu-ally begins as the summer season winds down," said Banks, in the August edition of Guidelines, a monthly report that analyzes trends and pricing informa-tion on both the new- and used-vehicle markets.

"New-vehicle incentives and dis-counts are another seasonal factor that typically results in used-vehicle price declines in late August and September," he added.

The National Automobile Dealers

Association Used Car Guide is predict-ing used-vehicle prices on average will drop between 3% and 3.5% in September. In monetary terms, a used car worth $12,000 today will drop by more than $400 by the end of the third quarter.

Despite the declines of used-vehi-cle prices throughout the remainder of the year, prices are still at historically high levels, Banks added.

"While steady price declines are making many late-model used vehicles more affordable to purchase, it's impor-tant to note that higher-than-average trade-in values are still providing con-sumers with built-in equity to get bet-ter deals on either a new or used car or truck," he said.n

Bill Exempts Certain Vehicles from Emissions Inspections

North Carolina House Bill

North Carolina House Vehicle Emissions Inspection Bill Signed into Law585 - known as the Vehicle Emissions Inspection bill, which was sponsored by state Rep. Gaston Pridgen (R-46) - was recently signed into law. The bill exempts

vehicles of the three latest model years, and 1996 or later models with 70,000 miles or less, from state emissions inspections.n


69% of those with free or PPM plans are either "extremely satisfied" (22%) or "satisfied" (47%) with the plan. Those using their plans for "all" sched-uled service at the dealership report the highest satisfaction: 75% are either "extremely satisfied" (30%) or "satis-fied" (45%). While 66% of those using their plans for just "some" main-tenance report being satisfied, only 7% fall into that that passion-ate "extremely" satisfied category.

Plans Drive Long-Term Retention Overall, 56% of those with a main-

tenance plan report they're likely to keep servicing at the dealership when the plan expires (with only 1 in 5 claim-ing they're unlikely to). Dealerships clearly need to work hard to keep those in-plan loyalist intenders, and move the 25% that report they're on the fence

about sticking with the dealership to the loyalty column.

Loyalty During Plans Impacts Future Loyalty

How much consumers use their plans, and whether they exclusively ser-vice with that dealer, correlates with a significantly higher likelihood to con-tinue service with that dealership post-

plan. For instance, 62% of those that use plans for "all" service are likely to stick with the dealer. And nearly two times more consumers in that group report they're "very likely" (30%) to return to the dealership, compared with those that only have "some" maintenance per-formed under the plan (17%).

A Powerful Tool for Young, Dealer-D i s l o y a l Servicers

W h i l e young, under-35 servicers pres-ent the most profound loy-alty challenges for dealerships (data confirmed by previous DMEa white papers(2)), this new survey reveals that m a i n t e n a n c e plans represent a major oppor-tunity to con-nect with - and retain - them. Not only were those under 35 more likely to have a main-tenance plan (31%) than those 35+ (18%), they were sig-

nificantly more likely to use their plans for "all" maintenance (72%) than older customers (61%).

I Have Used the Maintenance Plan for All My Scheduled Maintenance Age 18-24 71% Age 25-34 72% Age 35-49 60%

Age 50-64 64% Age 65+ 56%

N o t a b l y , those aged 25-34 (who used plan for "all" mainte-

nance) reported the very highest plan satisfaction (84%) compared with any age group - and 62% of that segment reported they're likely to service at the dealership post-plan. With prior DMEa data revealing that the largest group of dealer-disloyalists are aged 25-34 (repre-senting over one-third of total disloyal-ists), it's clear that maintenance plans are a uniquely powerful way to drive more loyalty among that critical 'next wave' of traditionally dealer-resistant servicers.

"It's imperative that dealers and OEMs offer free and prepaid programs, because more than half of all consum-ers currently under one indicate they will stay with the dealership post-plan," noted Van Sach. "Our data did contain some surprises: one in four customers still stray from the dealership while under a plan; and consumers who do not have "all" service performed under the plan are significantly less likely to continue servicing at that dealership. So, if dealers or OEMs imagine that under-plan service taken elsewhere just means more profits - or that they don't need to worry about keeping these customers very 'close' and satisfied until plan expiration - this data clearly shows that those beliefs need some revising."

This maintenance plan "market snapshot" represents first findings from DMEa's newest survey on current service consumer behavior and trends. Reports on diverse topics, from QR Code, mobile app and social media usage, to how servicers research specific service pur-chases, will be released over the next three months.n

DMEa Survey From Page 11

DMEautomotive survey reveals that prepaid or complimentary mainte-nance plans, combined with excellent service delivery, are among the best ways to win and retain consumer loyalty - especially 'next-gen' customers.

www.IneedOEMparts.com Southern Automotive JournalOctober 2012 25www.IneedOEMparts.comSouthern Automotive Journal October 201225 www.IneedOEMparts.com

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Parts Managers - We Buy Obsolete NISSAN Parts - Call Jon

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ (SCRS) announced that it has organized an interactive presentation on insurer mandated parts procurement programs as part of its Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series during the SEMA Show in November.

Featuring Rex Crowther, Editor of Panel Talk Magazine in New Zealand (NZ), and David Newton-Ross, Editor of The National Collision Repairer in Australia and The NZ Collision Repairer, the two hour session entitled “Bidding Wars: A Global View on the Possible Economic Impact of Insurer Involvement in Parts Procurement” will begin at 12:30pm on Thursday November 1, and is being held in the Upper North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SCRS notes that while online bid-ding requirements for parts procure-ment have only recently entered the U.S.

SCRS to Present Parts Procurement Session at SEMAmarket, other countries such as New Zealand have dealt with parts tendering mandates by carriers for many years. The RDE session has been designed to pro-vide attendees with a global perspective on the economic impact of NZ based bidding programs, procedural impacts the program has had on cycle times and estimating practices, and changes the program has had on repairer/supplier relationships. It will also include a his-torical overview of the national rollout, changes made to the program along the way, and market impact from incep-tion to present day; including an oration of market response at various points throughout the past eight-plus years.

“Having seen firsthand the impact PartsTrader has had on the industry here in NZ, and hearing how different both PartsTrader and State Farm are saying it is going to be in the U.S., I struggle

to see any advantage for repairers, or much real advantage for State Farm,” said Crowther, who has been involved in the NZ collision repair industry since 1967. “This makes me suspicious of the end game, as all repairers’ margins are vulnerable through this program and surely any insurer is out to maximize their profits for their stakeholders.”

Crowther is the former owner of two Auckland, NZ based repair facili-ties for 28 years. Additionally, Crowther served as the Executive Chairman of the New Zealand Collision Repair Association from 1999 to 2004. He has also served on the board of I-CAR NZ for the last ten years and was Chairman for two years. Rex has also served on the board of the Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO), which is respon-sible for all motor industry apprentice and advanced training.n


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"Compare and contrast" is a common exercise assigned to school students to test their ability to iden-tify and evaluate the traits of one entity versus another. It motivates students to think about how things like the ideologies of political parties, the economies of coun-tries, or the climates of continents are the same and how they differ.

If such an exercise involved the parts depart-ments of Nalley Infiniti-Marietta and Nalley Infiniti-Decatur, the conclusion would be that their similarities overwhelmingly outweigh their differences.

Location is perhaps the most significant distinc-tion. Situated northwest of downtown Atlanta, Nalley Infiniti-Marietta is at 1431 Cobb Parkway SE in Marietta. At 1609 Church Street in Decatur, Nalley Infiniti-Decatur is located nearer Atlanta's city core. "There are five Infiniti stores in the Atlanta area," Nalley Infiniti-Decatur parts manager Randy Bishoff said, "and we are the most centrally located."

When compared to the parts departments of some high volume, non-luxury brands, both Nalley Infiniti parts departments are relatively small shops. The Decatur store has a total staff of six, while the Marietta store has a total of seven. Each staff boasts total parts experience of well over 70 years. Bishoff has logged

more than 31 years working in parts; while Brian Stoddard, the parts department manager at the Marietta store, has been working in auto parts since 1985.

Both managers hold similar philosophies in regard to working with their staffs. This isn't surprising since they basi-cally advanced through the same corporate environment, and have known one another for more than 20 years. Based on a bridge of loyalty that runs both ways, manager and staff work in tandem to put the right part into the customer's hands as quickly as possible. "I have a good crew," Stoddard stated. "Because we are small, everyone pulls together to get the job done."

"Whatever the day throws at us," Bishoff said, "we accept it, take care of it, and move on. We are really a tight-knit family. I expect a lot from them; but they know that if they come to me and need something, they know they are going to get it. Everyone gives 110%; we bust our tails everyday."

Although technically competitors, Bishoff and Stoddard avoid stepping on one another's toes. In fact, it goes beyond simply respecting each other's turf. "We help each other out from time to time," Stoddard explained. "We sell each other parts and in addition to my delivery drivers, I share one with the Decatur store."

Stocking an inventory averaging roughly $450,000 per month, the Marietta store carries a higher dollar inventory than the average $350,000 of the Decatur store. However,

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because Nalley Nissan-Decatur is next door to the Infiniti dealership, and the related brands share a large segment of parts numbers, Bishoff pointed out that he doesn't need to maintain as large an inventory. "If I don't have a part," Bishoff noted, "I can usually go next door and get it. That doesn't work for body parts, but many of the pieces you don't see are the same"

Both parts departments maintain healthy fill rates. Stoddard put the average fill rate of the Marietta store at about 90%. The average at the Decatur store, according to Bishoff, is better than 94%.

A key goal of both managers is to grow their wholesale business in 2013. Their operations already cast a wide net that includes much of the Southeast, like Georgia, Alabama, the Carolinas, Florida, and sometimes even Mississippi and Arkansas.

Nearly 10 years ago, the Marietta parts department was expanded, setting the stage for growth. "In 2003, we moved and overnight I had twice the space for inventory," Stoddard said. "Growth is tough in this market, but growing the depart-ment is my No. 1 goal."

This, of course, in an environment of relentless aftermar-ket competition, is easier said than done.

"Although body shops know they are going to get bet-ter fit and finish with a factory part that also has a warranty,"

Bishoff explained, "they are under constant pressure from insurance companies to use cheaper aftermarket parts."

Stoddard and Bishoff agree, overcoming the challenge aftermarket competition poses requires a two-prong offen-sive of top-notch service and aggressive pricing.

"What sets us apart," Stoddard said, "is our service, our willingness to go above and beyond. We'll do just about any-thing for you. We simply have to provide the best service."

"We've had very little turnover in this department," Bishoff said. "These guys have established long-running rela-tionships with our customers. They are relationships built of trust and loyalty. Our customers know that when they hang up the phone, they know their order is handled. They don't have to worry about it or call back to confirm it. It's done. Period."

Although aftermarket parts would seem to have a price advantage, Stoddard and Bishoff say that's not necessarily so. Nissan/Infiniti has established programs making its dealers' parts departments much more competitive. They point to Nissan/Infiniti's use of OEConnection for ordering wholesale parts online as a giant leap forward in the fight to make deal-ers' parts departments more pricing competitive.

"It's become a dog-eat-dog world out there." Bishoff stated. "Because of the aftermarket, we've had to become very aggressive in our pricing. As more and more body shops

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head restraints emphasize seat comfort and a new “center stack” with standard IntelliLink LCD display, tri-zone climate system, capacitive touch controls and available navigation system.

Enclave offers three rows of seat-ing, available in seven- or eight-pas-senger configurations. The second-row seats feature the SmartSlide system, which allows easier entry to the third row, with the pull of a single handle. There is 23.3 cubic feet (660 liters) of cargo space behind the third row and a maximum of 115.2 cubic feet (3,263 liters) of cargo space available when the second and third rows are folded.

IntelliLink brings wealth of choices

Buick’s IntelliLink system is standard on all models and enhances the driving experience with a higher level of wireless connectivity and customized options – all while building on the safety and security of OnStar.

IntelliLink is intuitive and easy to use and includes the capability of setting up a “home page” for favorites. It inte-grates online services such as Pandora® internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio™ using hands-free voice and touch-screen controls via Bluetooth-enabled smart-phones, building on the voice-activated Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in other Buick models.

IntelliLink is standard with all

Enclaves, including those with the optional navigation system. The IntelliLink screen also serves as the dis-play for the standard rearview camera system.

Industry-first front center air bag high-lights comprehensive safety package

In 2012, every Buick model was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, underscor-ing the brand’s commitment to safety leadership. The 2013 Enclave builds on that commitment with the industry’s first front center airbag – a standard

feature.The front center air bag, stan-

dard on all 2013 Enclave models, was created to help protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes. It deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat and posi-tions itself between the driver and front passenger, delivering a more comprehensive occupant restraint system. No other air bag in passenger

vehicles today offers this type of protection in the front seat.

A smoother, more controlled driving experience

The Enclave’s engineers improved its carlike driving experience with revised front and rear dampers, for greater smoothness and an enhanced feeling of control. In the front suspension, new dual-flow dampers and rebound springs

are used to reduce the jarring feel of bumps, as well as provide a quieter and smoother ride. In the rear, new low-velocity control shocks help reduce road inputs that could be felt inside the pas-senger compartment.

Revised controls in the next-gen-eration Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmission also contribute to Enclave’s smoother feel behind the wheel. They improve the shift feel and overall drive-ability – and the fuel-saving six-speed design helps the three-row Enclave deliver an EPA-estimated 24 mpg on the highway (FWD models).n

Enclave From Page 8

The 2013 Enclave’s interior is defined by luxurious amenities and high-quality materials.


The stop-start system, a technol-ogy that shuts off a vehicle's engine when stopped in traffic, is now making its way to the U.S. from overseas where such systems are already in common use. Other names for this technology include idle elimination, idle-stop-go, and micro-hybrid. Lux Research predicts that more than eight million vehicles in North America will be equipped with engine stop-start systems by 2017. What does this mean for American motorists? AAA experts examine the technology.

Early versions of stop-start technol-ogy date back to the 1980's, and today over 40 percent of the new cars sold in Europe and Japan use this gas saving technology. "Engine stop-start isn't a brand new technology, but the latest systems benefit from significant advanc-es made in the last few years," said John Nielsen, AAA's Director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. "This technol-ogy is only going to gain momentum as vehicle manufactures work to meet the more stringent Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards set for 2016."

The information below on engine stop-start systems comes from the recently formed AAA Automotive Engineering team, which is based at the association's national office in Heathrow, Fla. The goal of the team is to provide members and other consumers with unbiased assessments and advice on new automotive technologies.

Here, from AAA's automotive experts, are answers to a number of common questions about engine stop-start systems:

What is stop-start? Stop-start technology automatically shuts off the engine when a driver is stuck in traffic or waiting for a red light to change. By doing so, the system can improve fuel economy up to 12 percent and contrib-ute to a reduction in vehicle exhaust emissions.

How does it work? With an auto-matic transmission, engine shutdown occurs when the vehicle is stopped for several seconds with the brake pedal applied. With a manual transmission, shutdown takes place with the transmis-

More Than Eight Million Cars Expected to Have Stop-Start Systems by 2017, AAA Experts Offer Advice on this Fuel Saving Technology

sion in neutral and the clutch released. As soon as the brake pedal is released, or the clutch pedal is depressed, the engine restarts automatically.

How much does it cost? On some models, the stop-start system is stan-dard equipment and its cost is included in the vehicle price. Where stop-start is offered as option it generally costs around $300.

How much can it save? If gasoline costs $3.75 per gallon, the owner of a car that normally gets 20 mpg and is driven 12,000 miles per year would save an estimated $167 per year in fuel costs if the vehicle were equipped with an engine stop-start system. In this case, the system would pay for itself in less than two years and offer ongoing sav-ings thereafter.

Are there any downsides to stop-start? A major challenge in d e v e l o p i n g stop-start sys-tems has been e n g i n e e r i n g the systems to meet consumer expectations. The engine stop-start tran-sitions must be smooth and seamless, and drivers new to the technol-ogy will need to learn that engine shut-down at idle is a normal thing and not a sign of a problem. In some vehicles, heating and air co n d i t i o n i n g p e r f o r m a n c e could suffer if the engine remains shut down for an extended time. Finally, the larg-

er and more powerful batteries that are required for stop-start systems will be more expensive to replace when the time comes.

What American market vehicles offer stop-start today? All hybrid cars have stop-start capability, although they use a different technology than the sys-tems on conventional powertrains. The first non-hybrid stop-start systems in the U.S. market are on 2012 highline vehicles from BMW, Mercedes and Porsche. For the 2013 model year, Jaguar will join that select group, but stop-start systems will also become available on popularly priced models from Ford, Kia, and pos-sibly others. Even trucks will start to see some systems with Dodge adding stop-start to its V6-powered Ram 1500 pickup for a one mile per gallon fuel economy improvement.n


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Summer temperatures weren't the only things heating up during this year's SEMA pre-registration in July; according to the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), pre-registra-tion to the Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series at the SEMA Show was hot!

Through July, SCRS tracked a near-ly 300% increase in year to date (YTD) registrations for the acclaimed collision repair education series, in comparison to the same time period last year. With well over two months still remaining until the Show opens on October 30th, the pace at which these sessions were filling was a key indicator that the con-tent and location of the SCRS RDE pro-gram is not only on target with what the industry is looking for, but that it has become a highly anticipated industry event.

"The first two years of the RDE program brought a lot of very positive response from the attendees, and we believe that the numbers clearly indi-cate that our program at the SEMA Show

Collision Repair Industry Demonstrates Continued Growth at 2012 SEMA Showis delivering exactly what the indus-try is looking for right now," shared SCRS Chairman Aaron Clark. "We have worked hard to put together a program that specifically addresses solutions to existing business conditions, and are glad to see the industry responding with early approval!"

While the participation levels continue to increase, SCRS has also reported interesting expansion in the participant demographics. In addi-tion to a large independent colli-sion repair attendee base from the U.S., 2012 numbers have indicated notable additional growth in participation from Multi-Shop Operators (MSO), as well as from international automotive busi-nesses currently representing more than a dozen different countries. SCRS explains that the growth in both of those areas illustrates the universal relevance of the issues addressed in the sessions provided by RDE, and the tan-gible benefit the information holds for collision businesses, regardless of loca-

tion, business model or business size.The RDE series wasn't the only area

of the show where the collision industry demonstrated early spikes in activity. Show management numbers through the end of July indicated an increase in both collision industry exhibitor counts, as well as double digit growth in square footage occupied by exhibiting colli-sion industry companies. In addition to the Collision Repair & Refinish section of the show, there are many collision industry companies who have taken advantage of space that was available in other areas of the show such as in Tools & Equipment (North Hall), Restyling & Car Care Accessories (North Hall), Racing & Performance (Central Hall), Hot Rod Alley (Central Hall), and at the First Time & Featured Exhibitors (Upper South Hall) section. The presence that these companies have throughout the show truly demonstrates what an inte-gral partner the collision industry, and the businesses within it, has grown to be in the overall Show makeup.n


Effective July 1, 2012, with the passage of House Bill 872 during the 2012 session of the Georgia General Assembly, any business operating as a scrap metal processor, secondary metals recycler, or used motor vehicle parts dealer, must report certain motor vehicle title cancellation and National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) information to the Georgia Department of Revenue. The law also requires the Department to provide an electronic reporting method for salvage dealers to meet those state and federal

Auto Data Direct, Inc., Selected as Authorized Provider for Georgia Salvage Dealersreporting requirements. In a July 2, 2012 Information Bulletin regarding the new law, the Georgia DOR announced they were authorizing Auto Data Direct, Inc.(ADD), to provide the reporting service on their behalf.

"We have provided NMVTIS report-ing services to the junk, salvage, and insurance industries since the federal requirement went into effect in 2009," said Jim Taylor, President of Auto Data Direct. "Our technical staff was able to respond to Georgia's additional require-ments. We are very pleased that our company can assist this jurisdiction and

provide the industry with an easy to use solution to comply with the new law."

In their July 2nd Information Bulletin, the Georgia DOR directed sal-vage dealers to Auto Data Direct's web-site to set up an account and begin the new reporting requirements. ADD has set up a page specifically for the Georgia dealers which provides detailed infor-mation on the new law and walks them through the set-up and reporting process. Department of Revenue's Information Bulletin can be found at http://etax.dor.ga.gov/Tax_Law_and_Policy_03.aspx.n

Just one year after celebrat-ing its grand opening, Volkswagen Chattanooga has hired and trained a third shift team and implemented a new production schedule.

The three production teams will rotate through two shifts and work 40 hours over four shifts. The plant will operate six days a week, 20 hours a day. This will allow for an increase in plant production time as well as normaliza-tion in weekly work hours for all team members. The addition of the third shift team has boosted the employees at the factory to over 3,300, well over the 2,000 employees that were announced when Volkswagen chose Chattanooga, Tenn., as the site for its only American assembly

Volkswagen Chattanooga Launches Third Team Scheduleplant in 2008. In 2013 the plant will have increased capacity to produce 180,000 vehicles per year, over 30,000 over its original capacity.

“The hard work of our produc-tion team over the past year has not only produced a car that won the JD Powers APEAL award, but has also pro-vided opportunity for these new employ-ees,” said Frank Fischer, CEO and Chair of Volkswagen Chattanooga. “We will all work to maintain the passion for detail that we build into the Passat.”

This change will provide a more predictable work schedule that allows for a better work-life balance for the teams that have been quite busy building the multi-award winning Passat.

“We have worked quickly over the last four months to recruit, hire and train our third shift team so that we can ease the work schedule of our production team, while maintaining the high stan-dards for quality in our Passat,” said Hans-Herbert Jagla EVP Human Resources at Volkswagen Chattanooga. “However, we continue to recruit for professional posi-tions here at the plant.”

Volkswagen Chattanooga produc-tion team members had several rounds of input to determine how to implement the three-team, two-shift operation, including details such as lunch and break times and when to start and end daily shifts. The process is intended to maxi-mize plant operations while recognizing

really inspirational and courageous stu-dents and become a part of their lives.”

Among the students honored at the Community Day event, local Boys & Girls Clubs of East LA student Ivonne Gonzalez who received a $20,000 scholar-ship shared her story how at a young age she overcame life challenges and finan-cial difficulties, while managing to keep good grades and serve as positive role model within her community. Also recog-nized was Brian Miller from San Antonio, Texas who was one of the Making Life Easier Scholars through the Diplomas to

Degrees Program for 2012.“We are so proud and thrilled to

congratulate the students honored here today,” said Judith J. Pickens, Senior VP of Program & Youth Development Services, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “The hard work of these Club members and the sup-port they receive through our programs and our ongoing partnership with Toyota helps to build stronger communities by creating hope and opportunity for under-served young people here and across the country.”

The Community Day event featured special guests from Boys & Girls Clubs of America including former L.A. Laker and

retired NBA star, philanthropist, and Boys & Girls Club alum AC Green, who con-gratulated the students on their achieve-ments.

In addition, TFS associates held their annual “Back to School Drive” where they support deserving local youth by donat-ing backpacks, school supplies, and other necessities to start the school year off right. Associates “adopt” a student and help set them up for success this school year by purchasing school supplies and then assist stuffing the backpacks. This year’s annual Back to School Drive yielded more than 700 backpacks for underserved students.n

Toyota Scholarship From Page 16

get on board and use OEConnection, we are in a much better position to meet or beat aftermarket pricing for most parts. The factory has become very supportive in helping us beat aftermarket prices."

In a nutshell, Stoddard and Bishoff are determined to keep doing what they have been doing that has made their respective parts departments so suc-cessful in the past, but maybe just more of it.

Nalley Infiniti-Marietta is open from 7:00 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday

through Friday , and 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday the parts department at Nalley Infiniti-Marietta can be reached at 1-877-625-5392. At Nalley Infiniti-Decatur the phone number is 800-522-3324. The parts department is open from 7:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday.n

Nalley Infinti from page 29


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Ford Motor Company's commit-ment to development and deployment of vehicle-to-vehicle communications extends to a real-world test site in Ann Arbor, Mich. The test is part of an experiment with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the University of Michigan that will enable future devel-opments in traffic safety and technol-ogy.

The yearlong program launching this fall will enable wireless communi-cations among vehicles and roadside equipment for use in developing future safety measures and technologies. Nearly 3,000 vehicles will participate in the test on more than 70 lane-miles of instrumented roadway.

"Ford has been committed to the research and development of vehicle-to-vehicle communications for more than a decade," said Robert Brown, Ford vice president for Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. "We have been a lead partner within the consortium of auto manufacturers and the U.S. DOT working together to develop global standards for safety applications."

Ford is providing cars equipped with experimental vehicle-to-vehicle communications technology to collect

Ford Supports U.S. DOT and University of Michigan Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communications Model Deployment Program

data for the U.S. test. Data collected will be used to evaluate the performance of various safety applications in use and help enhance future development of V2V communications. Consumer feedback for this new technology also will be analyzed.

"Today is a big moment for auto-motive safety," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "This cutting-edge technology offers real promise for improving both the safety and efficiency of our roads. That is a winning combina-tion for drivers across America."

Ford supports the research effort because the company recognizes the need for all automakers to transmit fully tested standardized messages to each other to help realize potential benefits of this technology.

At the conclusion of this test, it is anticipated the U.S. DOT may consider rulemaking related to these technologies.

Talking cars?Ford's vehicle communications

technology allows cars to talk wirelessly with one another using advanced Wi-Fi signals, or dedicated short-range com-munications, on a secured channel allo-cated by the Federal Communications Commission. The Wi-Fi-based radio sys-

tem allows detection and then notifica-tion of potentially dangerous situations that the driver may not be able to see yet.

The system works by having every equipped vehicle broadcast a short mes-sage to nearby vehicles, with information about vehicle position, speed and pre-dicted path of travel. Vehicles with the capability to receive this message may be able to determine if another vehicle is on a path that potentially could lead to a crash.

Ford is rapidly expanding its com-mitment to intelligent vehicles that can wirelessly talk to each other, when appropriate, to warn of potential dangers to enhance safety and identify impend-ing traffic congestion for more efficient driving.

"People talk about intelligent vehi-cles, or cars talking to each other, like it's something out of The Jetsons," said Mike Shulman, technical leader for Ford Active Safety Research and Innovation. "But it shouldn't sound like science fiction. Mostly, the cars will be sending mes-sages to each other and people won't even know about it except on the rare occasions when they need a warning or help understanding what's going on around their vehicle."n

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We have the parts to get your customers back on the road. Right away. No one


• Full line of O.E. and remanufactured Mopar

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stocks more replacement parts for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles than we do. Should you need a collision, maintenance or repair part right now, we’re your source. We can fi ll your order fast. Call us today.

We have the parts to get your customers back on the road. Right away. No one stocks more replacement parts for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles than we

WE’RE YOUR SOURCE, OF COURSEstocks more replacement parts for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles than we do. Should you need a collision, maintenance or repair part right now, we’re your source. We can fi ll your order fast. Call us today.



Full line of O.E. and remanufactured parts in stock.

Competitive prices.





65074_GD01A_F.indd 1 6/12/12 8:48 AM


• Fast delivery!














• Fast delivery!








Competitive prices.





65074_GD01A_F.indd 1 6/12/12 8:48 AM


• Fast delivery!














• Fast delivery!








Competitive prices.





65074_GD01A_F.indd 1 6/12/12 8:48 AM

Southern Automotive Journal October 2012

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Transcript of Southern Automotive Journal October 2012