Automotive Newsbytes

June 2006

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June 30, 2006

Insurance Auto Auctions Acquires One of the Nation's Largest Independent Auto Salvage Pool Companies; Auto Disposal Systems Acquisition Adds Seven New Locations to IAA's Rapidly Expanding Business - Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc., a leader in automotive total loss and specialty salvage services in the United States, today announced the acquisition of Auto Disposal Systems Inc, or ADS, one of the largest independent salvage pool companies in the United States. The deal includes seven locations in Ashland, Ky., Buckhannon, W.VA, and in Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton and Lima, Ohio. The acquisition was funded through the amendment and expansion of the company's credit facility.
PPG to buy Ameron coatings unit - PPG Industries Inc. said it will pay roughly $115 million, plus working capital adjustment, for the coatings business of Ameron International Corp.
Federal Lawsuit Filed Against Automobile Club of Michigan (AAA of Michigan) - News Conference set for Thursday, June 29, 2006 at 1:00 p.m.
Keystone CEO discusses the automotive aftermarket - Keystone Automotive Industries CEO, Richard Keister, presented his vision for the collision industry at the Arizona Collision Craftsmen's Association meeting.
New Information Centre To Help Small Business Meet Regulatory Requirements - Canada: The Auto Body Repair Compliance Information Centre (CIC) is a new, free website designed to make it easier for auto body shop owners to find information about legislation governing their industry.
DuPont R.I. Campaign Gift Questioned - R.I. Campaign Took Donations From DuPont Lawyer As State Weighed Dropping Company From Suit
Ex-GM executive to take the wheel at Toyota plant in Georgetown - KY: Steve St. Angelo, 50, will take over plant operations from Gary Convis, who has been promoted to chairman of the plant but whose responsibilities will focus on all Toyota North American manufacturing.
Honda recalls 124,000 vehicles in Japan over brake light - Honda Motor Co. is recalling more than 124,300 vehicles in Japan with defective brake lights, the company said.
Ford sued over lost benefits - Employees fight back against automaker and parts supplier Visteon over reduced pensions.
Ford bails out on hybrid promise - Ford Motor Co. Chairman and CEO Bill Ford Jr. is backing away from his much-publicized commitment to produce 250,000 hybrid vehicles a year by the end of the decade, saying the company intends to pursue a broader environmental strategy that focuses more on other alternative-fuel vehicles.
Tiny Smart rolls into U.S. - Roger Penske will handle distribution of DCX's boxy two-seater
Local manufacturers may benefit - One of the region's core industries, auto parts manufacturing, could benefit from Honda's decision to build an assembly plant in southeast Indiana.
Ford, Volvo Announce Hybrid Investment - Ford Motor Co. said Friday it would build a center for developing new fuel-efficient hybrid systems in the Swedish city of Goteborg, where its subsidiary Volvo Cars is located.
Dutch Plant to Stop Producing Smart Model - Mitsubishi Motors to Halt Production of Smart Forfour Model for DaimlerChrysler
China's Changan Auto eyes exports to expand - Ford Motor Co.'s Chinese partner, Changan Auto Co. Ltd., is looking to expand overseas with its own-brand vehicles, said the China Daily on Friday.
Muscle car is reborn - Dodge Challenger is back
Judge approves expanded buyout program for Delphi workers - Second plan affects about 17,000 workers from IUE-CWA and UAW unions at supplier.
Tillery to share $1.6 million Allstate class settlement - Stephen Tillery of St. Louis and two other attorneys will divide more than a million and a half dollars in fees from a Madison County class action suit they settled with Allstate Insurance.
Progressive Breaks Ground for New Service Center in Atlanta - The Progressive Group of Insurance Cos., broke ground for its new Service Center in Decatur, Ga. Georgia Insurance Commissioner, John W. Oxendine, was on hand for the ceremony.
25 indicted in South Bay insurance fraud case - More than two dozen people were indicted in connection with a $400,000 insurance fraud investigation in the South Bay, State Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi said Thursday.

June 29, 2006

Farmers Sues Body Shops in Coordinated Statewide Anti-Fraud Crackdown - Farmers Insurance Exchange and Mid Century Insurance Company have sued two separate body shops and their owners, accusing them of taking part in a scheme designed to defraud Farmers and its policyholders. The civil complaints, which are similar to prior successful lawsuits against body shops who submitted false insurance claims, seek not only damages for the fraud committed, but seek injunctive relief, where the courts are asked to order a halt to these deceptive practices. The lawsuits are pending in Santa Clara and Los Angeles.
Independent garages try to jump start auto repair bill - A dispute between automakers and unaffiliated repair shops is driving legislation to require wider dissemination of computer codes and other tools to repair a car or truck.
Be Careful What You Read: Glass America Says Fake Flyer Going Around Industry - Recently, a big name in the auto glass industry described the U.S. as "the world-champion rumor market in the world." Aiding the rumor mill have been the Internet and the copy machine, as both aspects of technology allow rumors--those with basis in fact and those that are more suspect--to be disseminated that much faster.
LDI, Ltd. Moves 401(k) Plans to New York Life Investment Management - The Retirement Plan Services division of New York Life Investment Management LLC (NYLIM), announced today it has been appointed to administer The Retirement and Savings Plan for the employees of LDI, Ltd. LLC, FinishMaster Inc. and Tucker Rocky Distributing. LDI, Ltd., based in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a holding company that owns Tucker Rocky and is the majority shareholder of FinishMaster.
Body shop owner escapes from burning building, despite being shot - TN: Sevier County Sheriff's investigators say deputies arrived at Auto Body Concepts to find the building engulfed in flames and the business owner lying in the driveway with a gunshot wound to his chest.
Close vote predicted for PPG - Workers will vote on joining UAW for a second time
Apogee First Quarter Earnings Per Share Increase 21 Percent - Automotive Replacement Glass and Services: Revenues of $8.1 million decreased 6 percent compared to the prior-year period. Sales of aftermarket automobile windshields were slightly lower than expected. -- There was an operating loss of $0.2 million, compared to operating income of $0.1 million in the prior-year period.
Henkel Automotive Web Site Receives Three IABC Renaissance Awards - New site Recognized with Best in Show Award, Award of Excellence and Award of Honor
DuPont Named to 'The WIRED 40' - WIRED Magazine's List of Top Innovators and Trailblazers
Carmakers' SRM efforts start to pay off - Attempts by Ford and General Motors to improve supplier relationships "may be starting to work", research has found.
Ford, GM, Chrysler to boost non-gasoline vehicles - Ford Motor Co., General Motors Corp. and Chrysler Group plan to more than double annual production of vehicles capable of running on renewable fuels to two million cars and trucks by 2010, the automakers said on Wednesday.
More Lawsuits In The Dan Nelson Automotive Scandal - More banks are lining up to try and recoup millions of dollars they loaned to Dan Nelson and his automotive company.
SEMA council addresses wheel and tire industries - The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) board of directors has approved a new name for its SEMA Wheel Industry Council (WIC) -- Wheel & Tire Council (WTC).
Airbags Explode In Woman's Parked Car - It turns out that the car was under a recall. But the manufacturer refused to fix it because they say they sent the owner six letters warning her about the problem, telling her to bring the car in to be fixed.
Creditors Seek Right to Sue GM - Delphi Corp. creditors are seeking the right to sue General Motors Corp. to retrieve billions of dollars in costs they said were transferred to Delphi when it was spun off in 1999.
Ford CEO rules out bankruptcy filing - Ford Motor Co faces stronger headwinds than it anticipated when launching a turnaround plan but has ruled out seeking court protection from creditors, its chief executive was quoted as saying in the Wall Street Journal on Thursday.

June 28, 2006

LORD Corporation Announces Vendor Partnership with CARSTAR Automotive Canada - LORD Corporation, maker of Fusor Automotive Repair Adhesives � the leading metal and composite bonding solution for automotive body repair � has announced the signing of a new vendor partnership with CARSTAR Automotive Canada, effective June 1.
DuPont and Ford partner through Paint And Body Tech Center - DuPont continues to sponsor Ford Motor Company's Paint and Body Technical Center in Ypsilanti, Mich., which assists in developing collision repair methods for Ford vehicles.
Fire destroys body shop - AR: A fire Tuesday afternoon destroyed the Misenheimer Auto Body Shop about two miles west of Gravette on Arkansas Highway 72.
Copart Patent Infringement Case Resolved - Copart, Inc., announced today the dismissal of all Manheim Services Corporation's claims against Copart alleging patent infringement, and dismissal of all of Copart's counterclaims against Manheim Services Corporation alleging antitrust violations. The matter was resolved amicably with express denials of liabil ity from both parties.
Texas Students Win Ford/AAA National Auto Repair Crown - Racing against the clock and 49 other two-person, student teams from around the country, aspiring auto technicians Bradley J. Bolton and Aaron Clay, seniors at Paris High School, Paris, TX needed 29 minutes and 34 seconds to accurately diagnose and fix their Ford Mustang Convertible to win the 2006 FORD/AAA STUDENT AUTO SKILLS national finals this morning here in Henry Ford's hometown.
Agrios Announces Automated Vehicle Imaging & Data Capture Unit for the Automotive and Insurance Industries - Agrios' Automated Vehicle Imaging and Data Collection Unit creates high quality digital images of a vehicle from multiple angles simultaneously in less than twenty (20) seconds, while capturing the VIN for additional tracking and storage purposes
A.K. of West Virginia opens Jackson County facility - Metal stamped products manufactured by ASKA Corp.'s automobile parts division include body parts, chassis parts and engine device parts.
Norton residents approve tax break for auto parts company - MA: The vacant Polaroid building on Rte. 140 is likely to become the world headquarters of an expanding auto parts distributor after town meeting voters approved a tax break for the company Monday.
Ford Glass also offers buyouts to workers - Friday deadline set for 650 in Nashville
Honda picks Indiana for new plant, source says - Announcement to come Wednesday
DaimlerChrysler says incentives, inventory too high - DaimlerChrysler AG Chairman Dieter Zetsche on Tuesday said the company's U.S. unit was struggling with unacceptable levels of vehicle inventory and was spending too much on incentives to clear the glut.
DaimlerChrysler's Smart Move - Smart is coming to the U.S. and Roger Penske�s United Auto Group will be exclusive distributor
Shattered Confidence - Even loyal customers say Big Three must catch up
Cars for Concern - LA: Auto insurance rates stay steady despite $3.2 billion in storm claims
GEICO's Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) Offers Peace of Mind for Auto Owners - GEICO, nearing the sale of its one millionth mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) policy, reminds auto owners of the benefits of this unique coverage.
Bills to Reduce Auto Insurance Costs - Michigan drivers over the age of 50 may have some insurance discounts coming their way.
Consumers settle score with Allstate - In the coming months, Allstate Insurance Co. will revamp the way it uses credit history to set premiums, reveal more details about the secret process in Texas and elsewhere and launch credit education programs.

June 27, 2006

Keystone Re-opens New Orleans Branch After Katrina - On May 8, less than nine months after hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, Keystone Automotive re-opened the doors to their newly renovated New Orleans branch. This location had suffered extensive damage to buildings, inventory and equipment. A small team of Keystone Team Members pulled together and spent an entire month just cleaning the remains and removing debris.
AutoOne Insurance Introduces CAR Network - Complete Auto Repair (CAR) customer service provides stress-free repairs
Universal Technical Institute, Inc. Announces Appointment of New Director - Universal Technical Institute, Inc., a provider of technical education training, today announced the appointment of Allan D. Gilmour, to the Board of Directors of Universal Technical Institute, Inc. Mr. Gilmour will fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Michael R. Eisenson. With the addition of Mr. Gilmour, the Board will have nine members.
Calif. ring allegedly staged auto crashes - Twenty-three people have been arrested in what authorities claim is a ring that staged more than 125 auto collisions and scammed about $4 million from insurers and drivers.
Mitchell 1 augments IT back-up - Mitchell 1 has boosted the IT back-up for OnDemand5.com and its other Web-based programs.
Airbag Sensor Detects Accidents by Sound - Siemens has developed an airbag sensor that can detect an accident by sound and deploy airbags up to twice as fast as ever before.
Make-A-Wish fulfills young artist's desire - Sick teen sees ideas come to life
New DuPont Auto Lighting Technology Enhances Designs and Reduces Cost - Automotive headlamps, a key component of vehicle styling, can now be manufactured more cost effectively thanks to DuPont materials science know-how and application development capabilities.
Nation�s longest-operating auto plant faces final days - Retirees saddened as sun sets on Toledo�s Jeep Parkway
Wow! 47,600 buyouts - Deal speeds up GM turnaround by 2 years; Delphi exodus paves way for restructuring.
Japanese Automakers Post Production Rise - Four major Japanese automakers said Monday that their global production rose in May, but the country's second-biggest automaker, Nissan Motor, posted a decline.
General Motors Brand Websites will Feature the Intelliprice(TM) Vehicle Appraisal Service - After extensive testing and evaluation, General Motors has selected the Intelliprice(TM) trade appraisal service for the Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Cadillac, Saab and Saturn websites.
Automotive Manufacturing Challenges Focus of Industry Seminars - The continuing challenges and opportunities presented by automotive manufacturing will be the focus of the Monday, Aug. 7, and Tuesday, Aug. 8, sessions at the 2006 Management Briefing Seminars.
High court to hear auto CO2 case - If Supreme Court rules EPA must regulate emissions, Big 3 would have to invest heavily in alternative fuels.
Gov. Bush Signs Florida Auto Insurance Fraud Legislation - Anti-fraud legislation that cracks down on and reins in auto insurance fraud was signed June 26 by Gov. Jeb Bush. The action applauded by Tom Gallagher, Florida CFO, who oversees law enforcement agencies involved in investigating the crime.
Ex-NJ cop gets 1- year for insurance fraud - A former Hillside police officer has been sentenced to one year in jail and barred from public employment for taking part in a chop shop insurance scheme.
Faithful Embrace FaithGuard - Unique Insurance Policy for Churchgoers Delivers Built-in Blessings

June 26, 2006

Legal Issues of �Black Boxes� - AutobodyOnline - In the three years since �event data recorders� (often referred to as �black boxes�) in vehicles really began to arise as an issue of interest for collision repairers, there has been significant activity related to EDRs on a number of fronts
Senate Judiciary Committee Holds McCarran-Ferguson Act Hearing - ASA: The Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing yesterday to discuss "The McCarran-Ferguson Act: Implications of Repealing the Insurers' Antitrust Exemption." According to Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., committee chairman, this is the first hearing on McCarran-Ferguson by the full committee since 1989.
Women Enter Auto Industry - Auto repair isn't just a man's world anymore. The times under the hood are changing as more and more women break in to the auto industry.
17-year-old crashes car through auto body shop office window - Working in the auto body business, the employees at Silva's Auto Body know car crashes happen everyday. But Thursday afternoon they saw it firsthand when a brown Cadillac exploded through their front window.
Auto industry groups in state join efforts - California's three big trade associations for the independent sector of the automotive industry say they'll work more closely together to address issues of mutual concern. -- Automotive Service Councils of California (ASCCA), California/Nevada Automotive Wholesalers' Association (CAWA) and California Autobody Association (CAA) said this week that their executives and government affairs teams will meet regularly to review and coordinate legislative and regulatory priorities. Each of the organizations is based locally.
Junkyards to auto recycling - Dan and Janet Rush grew up on the south side of Chicago where junkyards were as much a part of the scenery as saguaros in the Arizona desert. They�re not called junkyards anymore. Well, maybe in Chicago they are, but not in the East Valley where they�re known as �auto recycling centers.�
IGA Unveils Jobs 4 You: New Internet-Based Marketing Program for Independent Glass Shop Owners - The Independent Glass Association (IGA), a national trade association, has announced the creation of a new program it says will help auto glass shops compete on the Internet using a national directory format website with search engine enhancement.
Toyota chairman steps down - Hiroshi Okuda stepped down as Toyota's chairman on Friday after an 11-year reign in which he helped shape the Japanese company into one of the world's biggest automakers.
Retiree suits head to trial - Lawsuits against automakers, suppliers allege improper accounting led to retirement fund losses.
Government expands investigation into Dodge Durango SUVs - The federal government said it has expanded its investigation into reports of fires starting underneath the driver's seat of some models of the Dodge Durango sport utility vehicle.
Court upholds guidelines on regional recalls for automobiles - A federal appeals court on Friday unanimously upheld guidelines from the government's highway safety agency allowing automakers to limit some vehicle recalls by region.
A crash course in crash-test ratings - How to decipher data from government, industry and find safest cars
GM shuts down plant in Ohio due to lack of parts - General Motors Corp. has temporarily halted production at its Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant because of a parts shortage, a spokesman for the automaker said on Friday.
GM Said to Be Developing 'Plug-In' Hybrid Car - General Motors Corp., losing sales to fuel-efficient cars from Toyota Motor Corp., is developing a hybrid-electric vehicle with a battery that recharges at any outlet, said GM officials familiar with the plan.
Firestone Tires Still Claiming Lives, Safety Group Says - According to a safety group, recalled Firestone tires are still claiming lives years after Ford and Firestone began their unprecedented tire replacement program.Firestone Tires Still Claiming Lives, Safety Group Says - According to a safety group, recalled Firestone tires are still claiming lives years after Ford and Firestone began their unprecedented tire replacement program.
PPG workers to vote on union - Job security and outsourcing are the staff's top concerns
Auto insurers want to compete. Will it cost you more? - MA: Don't make the same mistake New Jersey did.
Need a tow? Watch your insurance bill - Insurance policies that offer cheap roadside assistant services sound ideal. But be careful, using those services could raise your insurance rates.
Auto insurance industry took a turn for the worse last year - LA: It was a step into another world -- one that had been turned upside down.

June 23, 2006

Consumer 'advocate' Byron reluctantly decertifies GEICO class action - Plaintiffs Myron Billups and Patricia Singleton alleged five years ago that GEICO cheated them on total loss payouts for wrecked vehicles.
Claims center rejected for Forest Hills location - After months of vocal opposition from residents, Forest Hills officials have denied a request by an auto insurance company to build a claims center off Ardmore Boulevard. -- Progressive wants to move its current leased claims center on Rodi Road in Penn Hills and build a larger, $5 million facility which would evaluate about 45 damaged vehicles a day, send them to local body shops for repairs, then return them to customers for pick-up.
Keystone President to Speak at ACCA Meeting - Join Rick Keister, President and CEO of Keystone Automotive, for an intimate reception and talk during next week's Arizona Collision Craftsmen's Association,
Sterling Autobody Center Opens in Ontario, CA - It's no accident that there is a great demand for skilled auto body repair technicians in Southern California. To help ensure enough qualified technicians are trained to meet the demand, Sterling Autobody Centers, a leader in auto body repair, will present a $5,000 donation to Cerritos College for their Auto Collision
Repair Program. The donation will be presented at Sterling's upcoming Ontario shop grand opening on Friday, June 23.
Identifix Publishes 100,000th Test and Fix - Identifix, one of the nation's premier sources of online and hotline diagnostic and repair information, today announced that it has added the 100,000th Hotline Archive to Direct-Hit; its award-winning online diagnostic product.
Online Registration for AAPEX Show Open - Online registration and housing for the 2006 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) � Oct. 31 to Nov. 2 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas � has opened.
Turnaround expert says auto-parts suppliers face tough road - A leading turnaround adviser painted a bleak picture for the automotive parts supplier industry Thursday, saying that high debt levels and falling volumes at U.S. automakers could lead to more defaults and filings for bankruptcy protection.
RECALL: 97,000 Nissan Altima and Sentra sedans for fire risks - Nissan Motor Co., Japan's second- largest automaker, recalled 97,000 Altima and Sentra sedans because their engines may use too much oil or catch on fire.
Toyota to Maintain `Aggressive' Hybrid Car Strategy, Press Says - Toyota Motor Corp., the world's largest seller of hybrid autos, will maintain an ``aggressive'' strategy of putting the gasoline-electric technology in more U.S. vehicles, its new North American president said.
Quiet zone Testers aim to isolate, eliminate automotive noise - Three companies have joined together to build one of the most advanced sound and vibration testing facilities in the world in Canton Township.
Chrysler and Magna Join Forces in Toledo - Chrysler Group (Auburn Hills, MI) and Magna International Inc. (Aurora, Ontario) have agreed to collaborate on production of Chrysler�s 2007 Jeep Wrangler, with Magna taking over operation of the paint shop at Chrysler�s Toledo South assembly plant.
37,000 take GM, Delphi buyouts - With just one day left, companies prepare for massive loss of workers taking incentives.
23 nabbed in vehicle theft probe - CA: Law enforcement officials said Wednesday they have broken up an international auto theft ring believed responsible for stealing more than 200 luxury SUVs and high-end
Police close Santa Rosa auto body shop - Officers find evidence of improperly disposed hazardous materials
Recalled Firestone Tires Still Claiming Lives; Victims' Families and Safety Advocates Press NHTSA to Round-up Defective Spares - Despite one of the largest tire recalls in decades, defective Firestone ATX and Wilderness AT spare tires remain in circulation and continue to cause devastating rollover crashes, prompting calls for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to investigate the effectiveness of the consumer replacement programs in 2000 and 2001.
Insurance Regulation: State vs. Federal Oversight - Not much has happened since the 1990s when it comes to federal regulation of insurance. It's unlikely the 109th Congress will move insurance reform legislation this year but the 110th Congress could be a different story.

June 22, 2006

Louisiana Auto Glass Repair and Replacement Licensing Bill Dead; Bill Creator Has No Plans to Resurrect It - glassBYTES.com� has confirmed that the legislative efforts that would have required windshield installation technicians in Louisiana to be licensed has been dashed in the State Senate there.
Mitchell Labor Times Apply to Glass Industry - A Mitchell International press release reported yesterday on glassBYTES.com stated that the company was "tackling to collision industry concerns by providing transparency on how labor times are developed, verified and maintained."
President & CEO of Worldwide Training Program to Speak at VC Tech Graduation - VC Tech Automotive School graduation guest speaker is Tom McGee of the Inter-Industry Conference of Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR).
ASA Offers Convenient 'Continuous Membership' Dues Option - The Automotive Service Association (ASA) announces a new Continuous Membership payment plan that will offer members a more convenient way to pay annual dues.
AASP-MN Programs Honored by Association Community - Two AASP-MN initiatives were chosen to receive 2006 Awards of Excellence by the Midwest Society of Association Executives (MSAE).
NACE Online Housing Breaking Records - The International Autobody Congress & Exposition (NACE) announced that online housing is exceeding expectations and breaking recent records. The
Be Careful When Taking Your Car for Service or Repairs -This Book is Specially Written to Educate Car Owners About Maintaining Their Vehicles -- The author began teaching the automotive body and refinishing craft after completing his training at Sheridan. He has keep his knowledge and skills updated by enrolling in various training classes offered by General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and different refinishing companies such as Dupont Automotive Refinishing, R-M Automotive Refinishing, and PPG Automotive Refinishing.
House passes bill to aid automotive research center - State tax credits worth an estimated $3 million could aid a hybrid-vehicle focused auto research center under development by General Motors Corp., DaimlerChrysler AG and BMW AG.
Pardus Boosts Ownership of Visteon - Investment firm Pardus Capital Management LP said Wednesday it purchased 500,000 additional common shares of Visteon Corp., boosting its stake in the Michigan-based automotive systems and component maker to 10.5 percent.
Regular maintenance given high marks for fuel savings - Area experts offer tips amid high prices
QCSA Expands Salvage Auction Footprint to Indianapolis - QCSA Auto Auctions today announced the opening of its ninth total loss remarketing facility in the Midwestern U.S. Located on the north side of Indianapolis, the 27-acre greenfield auction site will serve central and southern Indiana.
World Omni/CenterOne Presents National Auction Awards - World Omni Financial Corp. (World Omni) and its division, CenterOne Financial Services LLC (CenterOne), recently presented the Region One World Class Auction of the Year, Region Two World Class Auction of the Year, and World Class Internet Auction of the Year awards to Manheim Auto Auction, ADESA Charlotte, and ABC South Tampa, respectively.
For Ford, 2008 is Suddenly a Lot Closer - Ford Motor is countering rumors that it will fail to return to profitability in 2008�but what if the rumors are right?
Fresh Sebring takes on foes - Chrysler is hopeful model will boost sales, but analysts warn midsize segment is competitive.
Why Chinese exports are rising - Companies are exporting cars from China today, not so much because they want to, but because they must.
Progressive Leads the Pack in Online Auto Insurance Industry, Reports Keynote - Keynote Systems, The Internet Performance Authority(R), announced today the top line results of two unique competitive intelligence studies that provide a comparative examination of online customer experience and best practices implementation by leading automobile insurance Web sites. Progressive Insurance ranked as the number one site in each study.
State Farm(R) to Help Prevent Unforeseen Risks at Crash Sites - National Forum Aims to Alert Rescue Personnel Professionals and Victims on Hidden Dangers

June 21, 2006

Economic study of New York auto body repair market points to 'profit squeeze' by insurers - "The study conclusions support our longstanding contention that the auto body repair industry in New York State is suppressed by the insurance industry and has been for many years," says Ed Kizenberger, NYSACTA's executive director.
Putting a Price Tag on Complaints - When it comes to customer complaints, most shop owners seem to know that there's some economic price they'll pay, but when asked how much each complaint may cost, they typically have no idea.
PPG's Rich Fischer Wins Pennsylvania Skills USA Business and Industry Leader Of the Year Award - Rick Fischer, a Territory Manager for PPG Automotive Refinish, has received the 2006 Pennsylvania SkillsUSA Business and Industry Leader Award for his efforts on behalf of the Auto Collision Repair Technology shop at Crawford County Area Vocational Technical School in Meadville, Pennsylvania.
PPG Announces Summer/Fall Custom Painting Training Schedule - All technicians who wish to take Custom Painting courses must either be PPG Certified or must complete PPG�s Vibrance Collection� product course before advancing to the custom painting courses.
PPG Announces Summer/Fall Training Schedule For Body Shop Management Seminar Series - This series provides solutions for managers and key personnel who deal with the daily challenges of running a collision repair operation. With a "hands-on" practical approach, these courses outline proven strategies and procedures that can systematically improve a shop�s organization, productivity, and bottom line performance.
Color At The Touch Of A Button From PPG - PPG Industries has introduced the EasyMix Lite color retrieval system in Europe.
PPG And General Motors Collaboration Earns First Customer- Supplier Pace Award - PPG has earned its fifth PACE Award in six years for its collaboration with General Motors on the development of an environmentally friendly, color-specific powder primer.
Daimler Chrysler And PPG Sign Agreement To Recommend PPG Refinish Systems Worldwide - AG and PPG Industries have signed an agreement for the use of PPG refinish coatings for the repair of DaimlerChrysler vehicles worldwide. Under terms of the agreement, DaimlerChrysler will recommend the use of specified PPG products to its customers. The agreement is for an unlimited period of time.
PPG's Deltron Finish Used On Real Life Model Of Lightening McQueen From Animated Film "CARS" - The life-size models of hotshot rookie racecar Lightning McQueen, Sally Carrera, a snazzy Prosche 911, and Tow Mater, the big-hearted tow truck are the first-ever cars built from digital animation files.
Car-O-Liner Academy Introduces Technician Skills Training to Asia - In an effort to improve repair quality in emerging vehicle markets Car-O-Liner Academy along with its parent Alignment Systems AB has designed and introduced �Technician Skills Training� to insure the motoring public receives proper repairs.
6-0 Vote Brings PPG into Shelby City Limits - The city will gain about $80,000 per year in taxable revenue, while PPG is projected to save $500,000 to $600,000 a year by receiving in-city water rates. -- PPG can now also go directly to gas companies instead of going through the city. -- The annexation comes about four months after Time Magazine published an article citing PPG's Chief Executive Officer saying the company may have to close North Carolina's two fiberglass plants.
What's in a Name? Nothing Official for DT - Diamond-Triumph says no birth announcement yet.
Police probe death of man in shop fire - NJ: A man found dead in a burning Hamilton Avenue auto body shop Sunday died from smoke inhalation, county prosecutors said yesterday. -- The man was found in the Kaars Quality Auto Inc. garage by firefighters responding to a fire there.
Man converts ordinary Blazer into dream car - 1996 Blazer has 2 video screens, soft-top, rear camera and elaborate sound system.
Auto-parts maker Tenneco will cut jobs, take charges - Car-parts maker Tenneco Inc. said Monday it will record $15 million in charges related to restructuring plans, including job cuts, expected to save the company $10 million annually. -- The company also said it won new business from 13 aftermarket customers in North America, which is expected to generate $8 million in revenue per year.
Auto suppliers must wake up to new pricing strategies - We know the drill all too well: A manufacturing company starts losing money and the next thing you know, it shuts down a factory here and sends the jobs to Mexico or China.
New Technology Provides a Unique Used Auto Parts Exchange - Finding good-quality, used auto parts on a budget can be aggravating. Automotix offers a comprehensive, peer-to-peer software solution that eliminates middle-men and makes buying and selling used auto parts a breeze.
Court Suggests DaimlerChrysler Settle - A German court proposed that DaimlerChrysler AG make a payment to former shareholders of Daimler-Benz AG to settle a case related to its 1998 merger with Chrysler Corp., an official said Tuesday.
Family van busts out of the mold - One of the first vehicles under new development process offers a bold minivan alternative.
Dead man's family sues GM - The family of an electrical engineer, found dead inside a charred car in an Orlando parking garage a little more than 11/2 years ago, is suing General Motors Corp., claiming negligence.
Toyota to revive sports car offerings - In the latest move by the Japanese car maker to transfer its sales momentum into the lucrative sports car segment, Toyota is seeking to fill a gap in its product line-up as part of its effort to overtake General Motors Corp. (GM) of the U.S. as the world's largest automaker.
China Carmakers' Global Talent Hunt - Former GM exec Philip Murtaugh has been hired by Shanghai-based SAIC Motor�just part of a countrywide trend to hire international.
Don't set the car on fire yet - High car payments and the rising cost of keeping gas tanks filled have driven some SUV owners to desperation. According to a CNN.com report, there is a rising trend of debt-wracked owners torching their own cars to collect the insurance money
Maryland adjuster, 2 sisters sentenced in insider claims scam - Maryland Attorney General J. Joseph Curran Jr. announced the sentencing of all three sisters convicted earlier this year in a massive scheme to defraud the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund ("MAIF")of nearly $65,000.
Allstate Files $1.8 Million Medical Fraud Suit; Suspected Fraudsters Accused of False Billing and Unlicensed Treatments - Allstate Insurance Company filed a lawsuit today against two individuals and a Dallas-based group of medical clinics, alleging fraudulent billing practices for hundreds of automobile collision insurance claims. The case was filed in the U.S. District Court in Dallas against Michael Mantas, M.D., Farshad Barkhordar, and seven companies involved in the operation of the clinics.
Virginia Gov. Kaine Signs Small Business Insurance Purchasing Bill - Virginia Governor Timothy M. Kaine has signed a General Assembly bill that allows small businesses to collectively purchase health insurance, which supporters hope will help address health care concerns within the state's small business community.

June 20, 2006

New DuPont Car Finishes Will Be Tougher Due to Polymers Made with Renewable Resources - A new generation of tough, chip-resistant DuPont automotive refinish products, reinforced with newly invented bio-based polymers, could be available for use in auto collision repair centers by 2008. The new coatings will be made using renewably sourced intermediate ingredients that are biodegradable and virtually non-toxic.
Hybrid Collision Repair: Safety First - Hybrids are flying off the lots. The more hybrids on the road, the sooner one will show up at your shop. Are you up to the challenge?
Car insurers cut hassle, choice - Companies are offering to manage nearly the entire auto-repair process � at no cost. But there's a trade-off: Consumers agree to use a body shop selected by the insurer.
Women in Michigan Collision Industry form new organization - The Automotive Service Association of Michigan is forming a new organization to address the challenges faced by women in the collision industry. The group, Women of MI-ASA, will hold its first meeting on July 26 in Traverse City, Mich.
Hybrids: Is It Time for You to Specialize? - Why not take the plunge into the hybrid world? Sales of hybrids are only going up, and as warranties expire on existing hybrids, real opportunities exist for independent shops to gain more business.
Mechanics Learn Nuances Of Hybrids In Leominster - There's no question that with rising gas prices, dealers are selling more people on hybrid cars. -- But what happens when one of those cars breaks down? Mechanics from all over the world are in Leominster right now, learning how to keep up with changing times.
"Women Train To Become Mechanics" - More and more women are breaking into the man's world of auto mechanics.
There Still Money in Glass Repair? - A variety of factors have made in-house glass work less profitable, but some shop owners still make it work. Is it right for you?
New Lines at Parts Finishing Group Support Growth of Henkel's Autophoretic(R) Coatings - The line contains ACC(R) 915, Henkel's high-performance, durable, and heat-resistant product known as the "smart solution" because it reduces the number and complexity of stages involved in painting parts. PFG's ACC(R) 915 is the largest line of its kind in North America.
Teens team up with parents, local experts to restore older cars - Car repair shows have become popular in the last few years in part because of an increased interest in restoring cars such as 1970s and 1980s Buicks, Oldsmobiles and Chevrolets.
Mitchell to Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS): We Hear You! - Mitchell Tackles Top Collision Industry Concerns by Providing Transparency on How Labor Times Are Developed, Verified, and Maintained
Growing Speculation About New Diamond Triumph Auto Glass Name - Last month, glassBYTES.com reported that Diamond Triumph Auto Glass would be announcing a new name and logo redesign.
KEYSTONE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRIES INC Files SEC form 8-K, Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement - EDGAR Online
ADESA, Inc. Announces Appointment of Timothy Clayton as Interim CFO - ADESA, Inc., North America's largest publicly traded provider of wholesale vehicle auctions and used vehicle dealer floorplan financing, announced today the appointment of Timothy C. Clayton as interim Chief Financial Officer.
Growing International Competition for US Wrecked Vehicles - The Internet has changed many aspects of daily life and business.
4 join Ford top suppliers list - 1. Clarion Co., a Japanese maker of audio systems -- 2. Sanyo Electric Co., a Japanese maker of audio systems -- 3. PPG Industries Inc., a Pittsburgh maker of coatings and glass -- 4. BASF AG, a German maker of coatings and plastics.
Tenneco Announces New Aftermarket Business and Second Quarter Restructuring Initiatives - Awarded new aftermarket business with revenue of $8 million annually -- Restructuring projects estimated to generate $10 million in annual savings
Ford expects up to 11,000 workers to accept buyouts - Ford Motor Co. said on Monday that it expects 10,000 to 11,000 unionized hourly workers to accept early retirement and buyout offers by the end of the year.
Mercedes-Benz Announces Voluntary Recall Campaign of Certain SLR McLaren Vehicles - Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC will conduct a voluntary recall campaign on certain model year 2005 - 2006 SLR McLaren vehicles with regard to the alternator.
Cars Lacking Side Air Bags Fail Crash Test - The Chrysler 300, the Ford Five Hundred and other full-size sedans without side air bags failed recent side-impact crash tests, according to test results released yesterday by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
GM Again Earns Most Quality Awards, Says Strategic Vision - For the second straight year, General Motors scored the most wins on Strategic Vision's Total Quality Index(TM) (TQI), leading in five segments out of the eight won by domestics. The San-Diego-based research firm today announced 2006 results, based on the ratings of new vehicle owners.
Wimpiest Cars of 2006 - Cars may be getting more powerful, but there are still some tortoises among the hares
AAA Texas Offers Recovery Tips for Vehicles and Homes Flooded - Some Texas residents, including many Houstonians, are recovering after being hit with a deluge of rainfall.
AAA Minnesota/Iowa Announces Significant Minnesota Auto Insurance Rate Reductions; Changes Result in an Overall 8.9 Percent Rate Decrease - AAA Minnesota/Iowa announced today significant auto insurance rate reductions in Minnesota with a combined impact of an 8.9 percent decrease. AAA estimates over 90 percent of their current insureds will receive rate reductions and more than 50% of those reductions will be in excess of 10 percent.
High Point Auto Insurance Helps Family Who Will be Appearing on Extreme Makeover Home Edition - High Point, one of the top New Jersey auto insurers, is reaching out to one of its customers in their time of need.
In Restrepo, State Auto gets outsider with eye on change - The insurer's new CEO takes over a well-run, if not conservative, insurance machine, but he wants to step up the company's product competitiveness - and even make a few acquisitions, if they'll help
The other insurance crisis - FL: The same shockwaves that have homeowners reeling are striking business owners who must now confront premiums that have increased since last year by as much as 400 percent -- when they can get insurance. -- In Oldsmar, Mary Bailey and husband David own Creative Body Works Inc., an auto body shop with 12 employees, 25 service bays and, come July 1, no property insurance.

June 19, 2006

Expanding Your Automotive Services - AutobodyOnline: Is offering more than collision repair becoming a necessity?
Jury out on use of aftermarket auto parts - Bill Fellows' son had a fender bender with the Portland family's car that put minor dents in the other driver's bumper but crumpled the front end of his own nearly new Honda Civic. -- A Honda dealer estimated repairs at $5,000 plus; one body shop said it could be done for $3,800; and a third body shop came in at $2,800. The Safeco Insurance adjuster disagreed with everyone, and estimated the work could be done for $2,500 to $2,600.
Master of business teaches others - Dave Dunn founded Dave's Autobody on Grand Avenue more than 30 years ago and started attracting national attention in the collision repair business. His success in the business gave him the opportunity to practice what he preaches.
New California association to push for steering law enforcement - Called the Collision Repair Association of California (CRAC), the new association aims to "represent the industry and promote a more level playing field."
Auto Paint - Color Us Impressed! - Squirt your own color and be safe doing it with the Auto-Air Colors line of water-based paints
Man and machine - Putting together a 1929 Mercedes
Sonic CEO receives entrepreneur award - Bruton Smith, chief executive of Sonic Automotive Inc. and Speedway Motorsports Inc., has received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award for the Carolinas.
PPG Names Five New Vice Presidents - James V. Latch, vice president, automotive replacement glass and insurance and services; Viktor Sekmakas, vice president, coatings, and managing director, Asia/Pacific; Jorge A. Steyerthal, vice president, coatings, and managing director, Latin America; Glenn E. Bost II, vice president and associate general counsel; and Reg Norton, vice president, environment, health and safety.
Japan firm finishes Pilkington purchase - Tokyo's Nippon Sheet Glass Co. Ltd. completed its $3 billion acquisition of Pilkington PLC, giving Toledo's former Libbey-Owens-Ford Co. its second owner in 20 years.
ACE developing innovative protection for world automotive market - ACE/Security Laminates Corporation(TM) has been in development of an innovative method to protect people in automobiles using ACE laminates.
Delphi offers buyouts to 8,000 workers - Supplier will extend deals worth $35,000 to $140,000 to members of its second-biggest union.
Mother, student, car owner - NJ: The Center for Family Services has been providing counseling and support services to the South Jersey region since 1920. In their latest act of giving, they have teamed up with a Washington Township auto body shop to provide a car for a single mother.
Car Parts Often Stolen for Illegal Street Racing - UT: Police see a new trend with car thieves along the Wasatch Front. They're not only stealing cars, but car parts. -- If you own a Honda Civic or an Acura Integra, you may want to seriously think about an alarm system; or at least make sure the car is in a locked garage at night.
New PLIOGRIP� by Valvoline tape for molding and emblems introduced to auto repair market - A new acrylic double-sided tape for moldings and emblems is now available to the automobile repair market from Ashland Specialty Polymers & Adhesives, a business group of Ashland Specialty Chemical, a division of Ashland Inc. The new double-sided tape, part of the PLIOGRIP by Valvoline line of auto body repair products, is water clear, and features a solid core.
Eastern Technical students race to diagnose automotive ills - Instead of celebrating their first days of summer vacation on the beach, Chris Bowerman and Nick Venzke have had their noses in the books and their heads under the hood.
NFIB Survey Shows 78 Percent of Garage Owners Without Access to Repair Information have to Turn Customers Away - Right to Repair Act is a Solution for Independent Repair Shops
Putting your car polish to the test - We tested and rated more than two-dozen car-care products that come in three forms: liquid, paste and spray. Many newer products are made of synthetic ingredients, but some are still formulated with natural waxes such as carnauba, as they have been for generations.
Bogus gas-saving devices scrutinized - Authorities pump up pressure on makers who falsely claim products improve vehicle mileage.
U.S. cars score well in quality, study says - But in trucks and SUVs, Japanese gain in traditional Big 3 stronghold.
Ford's plan for Mexico riles workers - Firm should focus on U.S., they say
Ford prepares to roll out fumes-to-fuel system at plants - Ford Motor Co. is preparing to roll out system to capture toxic paint fumes and convert them into electrical power that was tested at its Rouge complex and the automaker's Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne.
Toyota, Nissan target higher used-car sales with new dealerships - Toyota has formed jointly with three sales companies a firm to purchase and sell preowned autos.
"Don't Sell Parts to Hyundai" - Toyota Leader's Shocking Words
Workers at Canadian owned auto parts maker in U.S. accept buyout package - Almost 400 union workers at Canadian-owned New Process Gear have accepted offers of up to $70,000 US to retire, quit or transfer to a plant in Illinois.
Auto parts-makers build risk factor - 38% in `fiscal danger,' consultant estimates
Geico's rating practice raises claims of bias - A driver's job and education are legitimate criteria, it says.
Financial profiling? - Insurers' use of credit scoring may end in Florida
Insurance Firms Ranked on How They Treat Online Customers in Second Quarter 2006 Online Customer Respect Study - Insurance Industry Records Lowest Scores for Online Customer Respect Among 12 Industries Studied
Payroll Company Accidentally Faxes Data - Paul Dullea, a financial planner who lives in Nashua, said he received 121 pages of information Thursday from Automatic Data Processing Inc. The pages had the names, addresses, Social Security numbers and income information for at least 80 people who work for companies in Illinois, California and Florida.

June 16, 2006

Reward set in arsons - AZ: A Chandler auto-body shop owner and her husband are fighting back and offering thousands in reward money after their new business was hit twice by arsonists this week. The most recent incident was Thursday.
I-CAR adds Dodge procedure to its online training library - I-CAR says that the latest addition to its online training library is the Dodge Durango Rear Frame Tip Replacement procedure. According to I-CAR, this procedure shows the specifics of structural part replacement. Similar to other vehicle-specific online training programs, this program covers multiple model years.
eAutoclaims, Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2006 Financial Results - Collision repair management revenue for the three-months ended April 30, 2006, was $3.0 million, which is a 9% increase compared to $2.8 million for the three-months ended April 30, 2005.
Ohio Companies Receive $650,000 in Small Business Contracts for Environmental Technology Projects - $220,000 recipient: Light Curable Coatings, located in Valley View, for developing an environmentally friendly, solvent-free coating system that can be used in automotive refinishing, floor and aircraft coating. -- $70,000 recipient: Applied Science Inc., based in Cedarville, will develop a simple, solvent-free method for adapting polymers to the electrostatic spray painting process for the auto body business.
AIAG Guideline on Heat Treat Process Aims to Lower Automotive Recalls and Warranty Costs - The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) has developed a guideline to help companies lower recalls and warranty costs by ensuring the quality and reliability of automotive parts undergoing heat treatment. The automotive industry spent $13.5 to $14 billion in warranty claims in 2005, according to AMR Research.
Auto-parts makers at risk, report says - Suppliers urged to cut costs, change products
TRW Advanced Pre-Crash Radar and Seatbelt System Further Integrates Active and Passive Safety - TRW provides advanced safety and technology products and services for the global automotive markets.
TRW Showcases Integrated Steering and Braking Systems to Deliver Improved Vehicle Dynamic Control and Braking Performance - The integration of the braking and steering system can deliver braking performance improvements on split coefficient (mu) surfaces -- such as two wheels braking on pavement and two wheels braking on ice -- as well as driver support and comfort through the steering control.
Dispute settlement consultation over auto-parts tariffs may continue - An arbitration panel of the World Trade Organization (WTO) has not been called to hear a tariff dispute involving the import of auto parts to China due to China's willingness to continue with the consultation with relevant countries.
DuPont sees faster Chinese growth - DuPont Co., the second largest U.S. chemicals maker, said its strong double-digit revenue growth in China would accelerate while it increased investment and manpower in its fastest growing market.
Glass.net Completes Beta Testing; Rolling Back System for Fine Tuning - glassBYTES.com� has confirmed that RBS Interactive, the company that owns and operates Glass.net, has temporarily suspended nationwide use of the internet-based job referral program while it "fine tunes" specific aspects of the process.
Ford intends to update frequently - Competitors drive need for changes
Ford postpones layoffs at St. Paul plant - Ford Motor Co. said Wednesday it will close its Ranger manufacturing plant in St. Paul for the month of July and postpone the permanent layoffs of 182 workers there.
Ford says new model lineup is on track - Responding to rising criticism, Fields defends the pace of turnaround plan.
Chrysler Will Add 750 Jobs at Toledo Plant - About 750 jobs will be added at DaimlerChrysler AG's assembly plant later this year as production will begin on the Dodge Nitro sport utility vehicle, the Chrysler Group said Thursday.
Chrysler hires all-temps third shift at Ill. plant - DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group, under a provision negotiated with the United Auto Workers in its 2003 labor contract, will use temporary workers to staff a third shift at its Belvidere, Ill., plant.
Advanced Technologies Give Jeep(R) Compass Excellent Durability, Ride and Handling, and Body Stiffness, While Reducing Noise, Vibration and Harshness - When developing Jeep� Compass, engineers used high-strength, lightweight and sound-absorbent materials to create a safe, quiet body structure that is designed to both meet impact performance criteria and be durable enough to be a Jeep.
Hailstorm hits Jackson - MT: Chris Moss, owner of Prazma Paint and Auto Body Inc., said his business had done about a dozen damage estimates by Wednesday afternoon.
Car Rust Repair as Easy as Sand, Scrap and Paint - Once rust starts to eat away at your car, there is no turning back.
Auto Restoration Program Featured in New York Times - McPherson College�s automotive restoration program is recognized internationally for the excellent preparation it provides its students.
Auto shop students driven to compete in national contest - CA: "The only difference was the color of the paint" teacher John Andersen said of the two wrecked Ford Escape cars repaired by his students in a state competition at Irwindale Speedway.
Bugs leave behind sticky legacy - As lovebug season peaks this month, irritated motorists race their insect-encrusted vehicles to local car washes and detailing specialists to wash away what some believe is harmful, paint-damaging lovebug acid.
A.M. Best Affirms Financial Strength Ratings of State Farm Group; Upgrades Rating of State Farm Indemnity Company - The ratings reflect State Farm's superior capitalization, improved operating performance, strength of brand and market presence as the largest property/casualty writer in the United States.
USAA reducing auto insurance premiums in San Antonio - Even though gasoline prices are steadily rising this summer, USAA is working to cut the cost of driving, the insurance company said Thursday.
Former township trustee charged with insurance fraud - IL: A former Cuba Township trustee who aspired to be the 8th District congressman has been charged in Lake County Circuit Court with insurance fraud and conspiracy to commit insurance fraud.
Focus only on risk - Auto insurance companies are entitled to price their policies to accurately reflect the risk posed by motorists. But using a driver's education and occupation as factors in calculating a driver's premium, as Geico and other insurers do, amounts to economic profiling.

June 15, 2006

PPG Announces NEXA Autocolor Summer/Fall Training Schedule - PPG has announced its Nexa Autocolor� summer/fall training schedule for refinish industry personnel. Classes are held at state-of-the-art Business Development Centers across North America, equipped for hands-on instruction.
Bankruptcy Concerns for Auto Suppliers Continue to Increase, According to New AlixPartners Study - 38% of North American and 24% of Global Suppliers Face Possible Insolvency Yet Study Also Shows Auto Industry Remains a Great Place for Well-run Companies
CBC students give area law enforcement vehicles a lift - WA: A trio of local law enforcement vehicles are sporting new paint jobs thanks to Columbia Basin College students.
Auto body student shows Midas touch - Alex Heaman-Maracle tops in his discipline at National Skills Competition in Halifax.
CarFixWORLD speakers bring valuable business knowledge - Several business-oriented speakers of interest to the collision repair sector are have signed on to share their knowledge at CarFixWORLD, the dynamic one-stop shopping industry event for the Canadian automotive service and collision industry taking place Sept. 29 to Oct. 1 in Toronto.
Four Democrats Withdraw Support for Right to Repair - According to recent news reports, on June 8 Colorado Rep. Diana DeGette, Illinois Rep. Janice Schakwosky, Massachusetts Rep. Ed Markey and Wisconsin Rep. Tammy Baldwin each requested to have their names withdrawn as co-sponsors of the bill. The four Democrats cited the recent changes to the bill among several reasons for withdrawing their support.
AAIA Releases 2006 Employee Compensation Survey Biennial Report Also Available on CD-ROM - The 2006 edition of the Employee Compensation Survey, published by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), is now available in both print and electronic formats. This distributors-only survey offers a comprehensive guide to understanding compensation, incentive and benefit levels in aftermarket distribution.
Changes at Diamond Triumph - The past few months have seen a number of changes at Diamond Triumph Auto Glass, Kingston, Pa. Speculation has been rampant in the industry and on the AGRR Magazine message forum as to what all these changes mean, for the company and for the industry. The July/August issue of AGRR contains an in-depth interview with Doug Boyle, chief executive officer, and Karen Christopher, president, the new top management at the company.
DuPont Safety Glass Technology Provides Added Protection & Comfort in New Auto Designs - Auto industry experts predict that by 2010 40 percent of all new cars will feature sunroofs in response to consumer demands for brighter, more open vehicle interiors. In addition, the use of panoramic sunroofs, which provide even greater exposure to the exterior environment, is increasing rapidly. As sunroofs grow in size, so do vehicle weight and concerns about safety in the event of impact.
Lloyd W. Talbert Appointed President, COO of C.R. Laurence Co. Inc. - C.R. Laurence Co. Inc. (CRL), a supplier to the glazing, architectural, construction, and automotive industries, has announced that Lloyd W. Talbert has been appointed president and chief operating officer (COO) of the company. He most recently served as executive vice president of CRL. Donald E. Friese will remain as chairperson of the board and chief executive officer.
KEYSTONE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRIES INC Files SEC form 10-K, Annual Report - EDGAR Online
The Hunt for New Ideas, New Resins Drive NPE Attendance, According to DuPont Engineering Polymers Pre-Show Survey Results - The need for innovation, new technologies and strategies to manage challenges borne from a fiercely competitive global marketplace are a few of the themes that emerged from the results of the DuPont Engineering Polymers survey of plastics professionals attending the NPE next week in Chicago.
"Pimp My Ride" Returns to MTV - Galpin Auto Sports has created a superb stage not only for those automotive enthusiasts who are eager to put their personality into their vehicles but also for the few lucky kids chosen to have their rides Galpinized for the hottest automotive show in the world!
China to cut tariff on cars, auto parts from July 1 - China will further cut import taxes on some cars and auto parts as of July 1, the Ministry of Finance announced Thursday. -- With the approval of the Chinese government, the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council, has decided to lower the tariffs on cars, SUVs (sports utility vehicles or cross-country vehicles), and mini-buses from 28 percent to 25 percent, said the ministry.
Honda Recalls 561,594 Vehicles - Honda Motor Co. is recalling over 561,000 vehicles in three models to replace a faulty part used in starting an engine, a company official said Wednesday.
Exec says cuts at Ford going faster than expected - Ford Motor Co. is making faster-than-expected progress in reducing its hourly work force as part of a restructuring, a senior company official said on Wednesday.
Ford to invest billions in Mexico: report - Ford Motor Co., which is slashing jobs and closing plants in the United States as it seeks to return its North American operations to profitability, is preparing to invest up to $9.2 billion in Mexico to leverage its low operating costs there, a Michigan newspaper reported on Wednesday.
Ford investigates leak to press - Officials say internal report on Mexico venture was released to humiliate Fields and Gettelfinger.
Ford Motor Company to be Honored by Boy Scouts as Motorsports Company of the Year - Ford Motor Company will be honored as the Motorsports Company of the Year by the Boy Scouts of America�s Cascade Pacific Council during the 17th annual Motorsports Breakfast on Thursday, June 15 in Portland, Ore.
Toyota to Explore Plug-In Hybrids - The Japanese carmaker will make a big push to boost its offering of fuel-efficient vehicles, a top executive says.
UAW pours money into organizing - Union will use $110M from strike fund to bolster membership and its day-to-day operations.
DaimlerChrysler bids to retake police car market from Ford with Dodge Charger - Canada's road-going scofflaws may have to learn to recognize a new cop-car silhouette as DaimlerChrysler begins a bold attempt to recapture its historic dominance of the police vehicle market.
Honda Recalls 561,594 Vehicles - Subject to the recall are 217,953 Odyssey minivans, 141,652 CR-V sport-utility models and 123,580 Step Wagon minivans, said Honda spokeswoman Yu Kimoto. -- The three models involved were produced between Oct. 3, 1994, and May 15, 1997. -- The vehicle's engine can suddenly stop because some of its parts can be damaged by heat if used repeatedly over time. There were five cases of drivers getting minor burns after the solder used in the defective parts melted and fell onto their feet, Kimoto said.
Honda Recalls 480,000 Vehicles in Japan - Honda Motor Co. is recalling more than 480,000 vehicles in Japan with defective ignition switches, the company said. Another 77,000 Honda exports of the same models may also be recalled, the government said.
DaimlerChrysler AG Recalls Grand Cherokees - DaimlerChrysler AG said Tuesday that it was recalling 131,500 Jeep Grand Cherokee sport utility vehicles because the plastic blades in the engine's cooling fan could separate and cause an injury.
Progressive May Profit Remains Flat - Progressive Corp., which sells car insurance to personal and commercial drivers, said Wednesday its May profit was essentially flat on slight increases in net premiums written and earned.
Industry in media blitz on auto insurance bill - An industry-backed coalition has been ramping up its efforts to drive auto insurance reform at the State House before lawmakers adjourn for the year from formal sessions on July 31.
16 indicted in bid to bilk auto insurance - Junk cars allegedly passed for classics
Let movies just be movies - So really, why even bother making the actual movie anymore? -- State Farm Insurance courted the moviemakers for the tie-in rights to a �Cars� ad campaign.

June 14, 2006

Cost of staying on top keeps rising - One way to keep work coming into your shop is to make sure you have the most up-to-date equipment and certifications. That, however, can be expensive.
Keystone Automotive Donates $10,000 to Collision Industry Foundation - Last week Keystone Automotive announced that it will donate $10,000 to the Collision Industry Foundation. The donation, part of a celebration of Keystone's re-opening of its New Orleans branch, will support the continued mission to help collision repair professionals affected by disasters and other worthy causes.
Service King Collision Repair Opens Three New Locations - �We are excited to expand into the under-served areas of the Fort Worth, Grapevine, and Duncanville vicinities,� said Eddie Lennox, founder and CEO of Service King.
Quality Management System Education Available at MQVP Quality College - MQVP Quality College Inc., a newly organized corporation headquartered in Rochester Hills, MI has launched a program to provide education on topics related to quality management and the tools essential in the implementation of an effective quality management system.
Damaged-car auction given 3 months to clear out - The Harrison County Board of Supervisors has given Copart Auto Auction three months to auction off Katrina-damaged cars and move out of their Landon Road location.
XPEL inks deal to expand automotive products distribution in Russia - San Antonio-based XPEL inked a deal with Cartel Trading that will allow Cartel to initially set up seven retail stores with the capability of fitting cars and trucks with XPEL's paint protection film. Cartel already markets automotive products to dealers in this region.
Talks proceed at parts plant - Union officials hope that a dispute at a St. Joseph auto-parts plant will be settled despite complaints being filed recently with the federal government.
Visteon Corp. Closes New 7-Year Loan - Automotive supplier Visteon Corp. said Tuesday it closed on a new seven-year secured loan of $800 million.
Underutilized eMarketing Will Be Focus of Track Session During the 2006 Aftermarket eForum� - The subject of eMarketing will be front and center during the first day of the 2006 Aftermarket eForum� on Monday, July 17. -- And according to the moderator of this track session, Dan Jondron, president, Advanced Digital Strategies, �eMarketing is an area of marketing that most companies have underutilized.�
GM to face strikes amid European job fears - General Motors faces industrial action across its European factories as trade unions campaign against the shift of production from the west to cheaper countries in the east.
BASF says it'll form global unit in Jersey - It will be the first time BASF has formed a division for automotive catalysts that scrub engine exhaust to remove harmful pollutants.
Plant closing expected to cost 190 their jobs - When Summit Polymers closes its Columbia plant later this year, 190 employees are expected to lose their jobs. -- The plant makes plastic parts for the interiors of automobiles for companies such as Ford and Mitsubishi.
"National Hot Rod Reunion" Days Proclaimed by Federal, State and Local Officials for June 16-18 - The fourth annual Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion, presented by DuPont Automotive Finishes, will be held at Beech Bend Raceway Park in Bowling Green.
GM, Isuzu agree to set up joint venture to develop pickup trucks - General Motors and Japanese truckmaker Isuzu have agreed to set up a joint venture to develop pickup trucks together for emerging markets around the world, the companies said Tuesday.
Russian auto plants are 'Detroit North' - With new $115 million assembly site, General Motors will join Ford, Nissan and Toyota.
Chrysler reshapes sales team as two key execs retire - Automaker's changes come as analysts fear the summer will be marked by slumping sales.
Jeep Grand Cherokee May Suddenly Accelerate - The Connecticut Attorney General is telling federal regulators that they ought to investigate unintended acceleration in the Chrysler Jeep Grand Cherokee after a 52-year-old man was run over and killed by a Grand Cherokee in a Connecticut car wash.
The new mantra for auto makers: Safety sells - Buyers are willing to pay for security
Insurers Defend Job, Education as Auto Insurance Pricing Criteria in N.J. - Insurance industry representatives urged New Jersey lawmakers not to restrict insurers' use of certain rating variables including occupation and education in the pricing of auto insurance policies, insisting that the freedom to experiment with rating factors is an essential part of a competitive marketplace.
State Auto, Strategic Insurance Software Win ACORD Awards - The State Auto Insurance Group (State Auto) and its software development subsidiary, Strategic Insurance Software, Inc., (SIS), of Gahanna, Ohio, both won prestigious awards at the ACORD LOMA Insurance Systems Forum held in Las Vegas earlier this month.

June 13, 2006

People Pleasers - AutobodyOnline: Every customer that is buying a product is looking to save a little money.
Audatex Launches ClaimsElement - Audatex, a Solera company, today announced the release of ClaimsElement(TM), a Shoplink� add-on module that allows collision repair facilities to electronically retrieve data from insurance adjuster estimates prepared using Audatex solutions.
Collision repair: Mediator Mark Stein says first step in addressing workplace conflict is acknowledging it exists - Mediation services and training for all types of business and personal disputes
Valley Auto heavily damaged by fire - AL: Valley Auto Body and Frame Shop on Rooks Street was heavily damaged by fire Tuesday afternoon when a van that was being worked on exploded and caused flames to spread throughout the two-story building.
Car thieves target high-end wheels - CT: Thieves have been targeting the ultra-expensive tires and rims on BMW X5 SUVs over the past two months, part of a larger criminal trend of stealing parts from high-end cars throughout Westchester and Fairfield County, according to police
I-CAR Offers Free Self-Print Transcripts Online - "Members of the collision industry want and need to know their training status as soon as possible," explained I-CAR Director of Business Development and North American Operations Rick Tuuri.
Advantage Online: Advanced High-Strength Steels - A Collision Repair Perspective - The use of advanced high-strength steels (AHSS) is increasing in popularity for almost every vehicle maker.
1,000th I-CAR Online Training Program Purchased & New "Steel Alloyed With Boron" Online Program Introduced - Less than a year from its launch, collision industry professionals have learned proper collision repair procedures through over 1,000 I-CAR Online Training program units taken by the industry.
Diamond Triumph Announces Sales and Operations Appointments - "These appointments are another part of our ongoing plan to strengthen the core operations of the company," said Douglas Boyle, Diamond Triumph�s chief executive officer.
Jaguar Selected to Appear on ''The Global Learning Series'' - Jaguar designed its 2004 XJ and 2007 XK to impress, not only with its mastery of advanced aluminum architectures and elegant style, but also with its commitment to reducing the cost of repairs for the sedan and sport coupe.
Car Show Draws Big Crowd - VA: Proceeds from the show will benefit the Auto Collision Repair program at the C.S. Monroe Technology Center in Leesburg.
Old Ford car parts keep family in business - When Don Baxter sold his Speed Shop business north of Lawrence 30 years ago, he intended to spend his time restoring classic cars.
Auto body shop owner frustrated with borough - PA: A businessman who has tried to expand an auto body shop on West Lancaster Avenue in the heart of Downingtown had his building permit denied recently -- the second time his plans have been rejected by the borough.
Premier Software Offers a Superior Auto Procurement Solution - For most of us, life revolves around transportation � from getting us to work on time to mailing holiday packages to friends. With our increasingly mobile lifestyles, we desperately depend on automobiles as a means of survival. So what happens when it�s time for a new vehicle, or an auto body shop needs to find a new part to get the delivery truck back on the road? Automotix is the answer.
Auto parts firms seek exports - China: The soaring prices of raw materials and stiff competition in China's auto parts market have prompted a growing number of car components makers to export their products.
Boomerang Tracking Recovers its 5000th Stolen Vehicle - Milestone Recovery Brings Total Value of Recovered Assets to More Than $250 Million
Study: ESC Could Reduce Fatal Car Crashes - Ten thousand fatal automobile crashes a year, nearly one-third of all such accidents, could be prevented if more vehicles were equipped with technology that helps to keep them from rolling over, the insurance industry said Tuesday.
DaimlerChrysler Recalls 111,687 Jeeps for Seat Fires - DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler unit recalled 111,687 Jeep Grand Cherokees after some heated front seats on the sport-utility vehicles caught fire. - The automaker received 32 reports of fires or overheating, with 15 injuries, said Max Gates, a spokesman at Chrysler's headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan. He said at least six lawsuits have been filed by owners who were burned.
Germantown firm opens Malaysian operations - Ellsworth Adhesives Specialty Chemical Distribution is a Germantown-based distributor of adhesive products and equipment. It distributes brands 3M, Henkel Loctite, Dow Corning, Sika, Pliobond, Bostik and others.
Progressive Announces Direct Group President - The Progressive Corporation today announced the appointment of John P. Sauerland as the President of the Progressive Direct Group of Insurance Companies. Mr. Sauerland, 41, who currently serves as the Claims General Manager for the Midwest Region, first joined Progressive full time in 1991 as an Assistant Product Manager. He served at different times as the Auto Product Manager for various states as well as the General Manager for Mississippi, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Lawmaker: Auto insurers' rating criteria biased - Auto insurance companies that use a person's education and occupation to set rates are discriminatory and circumvent laws against using race and income to calculate prices, a state senator said Monday.

June 12, 2006

CARS Opens Online Registration - Online registration for the 2006 Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) is now available on the CARS Web site. CARS will be held Nov. 2-4 at The Mirage in Las Vegas.