Savannah, Ga. – November 25, 2013 – At the Georgia Ports Authority board meeting Monday, Executive Director Curtis Foltz reported that the GPA achieved record volumes and added additional customer accounts in October.
"Strong growth, new customer accounts and additional harbor deepening funding announced this month are all positive signs that Georgia's ports are moving in the right direction," said Foltz.
Georgia ports moved a record 2.54 million tons of cargo during October – a 22 percent increase over the same month a year ago. The Colonel’s Island Terminal at the Port of Brunswick and Savannah’s Ocean Terminal combined to move a record 62,343 units of automobiles and heavy machinery in October, for an increase of 10,045 or 19.2 percent over October 2012.
October’s growth pushed total tonnage to 9.6 million for the fiscal year to date, a 9.2 percent increase over the same period in FY2013.
Also in October, the GPA achieved a 19 percent increase in twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs), reaching 274,362 TEUs – an increase of 43,723 for the month. For the fiscal year, the GPA has moved 1.06 million TEUs, for a 5.3 percent increase over the previous year.
At the board meeting, Foltz also reported that major new accounts have been added to the Port of Savannah’s portfolio. Those included Hankook Tires, which has established a new distribution facility in Liberty County, which will house 600,000 tires and serve 10 states in the Southeastern U.S.
Another win for the GPA was the relocation of flooring producer Shaw Industries’ Southeast distribution center to Savannah from Columbia, S.C. With the move, the Dalton, Ga., company has doubled its square footage at its Northport Parkway location from 156,000 square feet to more than 300,000.
“The superior efficiency of our ports is a powerful draw, bringing jobs and commerce to the state,” said Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal. “Georgia ports have risen to prominence by partnering with U.S. companies seeking new markets for their products. Today, the Georgia Ports Authority serves about 21,000 companies from all 50 states.”
Last week, at the Atlanta State of the Port event, Gov. Deal announced his intention to seek another $35 million from the General Assembly to help fund the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project. The new request will bring the total state dollars allotted to the harbor deepening to $266 million. This would fulfill the state’s portion of the total project cost of $652 million.
“The harbor deepening and the GPA have enjoyed the steadfast support of our state leaders and our delegation to Washington from the start of this project in 1999,” said GPA Board Chairman Robert Jepson. “The commitment and foresight of Gov. Deal and others have brought us to where we stand today – ready to begin construction.”
In landside infrastructure, the GPA board dedicated $8 million to expand its program to electrify the rubber-tired gantry cranes used to handle containers at Garden City Terminal. The new technology reduces diesel consumption by an estimated 95 percent per crane.
In FY2013, during the program’s first phase, the GPA electrified four RTG cranes. The next phase of the project will expand the electrification system to a larger area and convert 10 cranes from diesel to electric power.
“At GPA, we are focused on serving customers and promoting economic growth, but doing it in a way that preserves and protects the environment,” said Jepson. “That’s why we are making significant investments in reducing diesel consumption, in more efficient container yard lighting and in storm water treatment that protects the Savannah River.”
Georgia’s deepwater ports and inland barge terminals support more than 352,000 jobs throughout the state annually and contribute $18.5 billion in income, $66.9 billion in revenue and $2.5 billion in state and local taxes to Georgia’s economy. The Port of Savannah handled 8 percent of the U.S. containerized cargo volume and 10.9 percent of all U.S. containerized exports in FY2013. Check out GPA’s Youtube channel here.
Monday, November 25, 2013
Fontaine Fifth Wheel and Fontaine Renew Donate TMCSuperTech Test Stands to Lincoln Technical Institute
Trussville, Ala. (Nov. 25, 2013) – Fontaine Fifth Wheel and sister company Fontaine Renew teamed up to test TMCSuperTech 2013 competitors on one of the most important connections in trucking: the one between the tractor and the trailer. After the event, they used the same equipment to connect with future technicians at Lincoln Technical Institute in South Plainfield, N.J.
The Fontaine team focused the Fifth Wheel Testing Stations at this year’s TMCSuperTech event on the trailer bolster plate and king pin. These components are vital to the proper coupling and uncoupling of the tractor and trailer.
The Fontaine companies built seven test stands designed specifically to test the competitors on TMC RP750, the Recommended Practice for maintaining and inspecting the trailer king pin and bolster plate. These custom test stands made it possible for technicians to determine whether measurements were within spec and to identify any equipment damage. The companies also provided judges for the testing station, three from Fontaine Fifth Wheel: Todd Kuipers, key account manager/marketing manager, Aaron Puckett, director of national fleet sales and Steve Mann, vice president of engineering; and two from Fontaine Renew: Hamilton Bridges, sales manager, and Robbie Laney, engineering and operations manager.
At the conclusion of the TMC event, the Fontaine companies donated the test stands to Lincoln Technical Institute for its diesel and truck technology program. Instructors will use the stands to teach proper fifth wheel maintenance, disassembly, inspection and assembly.
“It is always a pleasure to work with ‘Partners in Industry’ like Fontaine in helping LTI train and develop the technicians of tomorrow,” says Tim O’Connor, director of education at Lincoln Technical Institute. “The hardest part of teaching diesel and truck technology is keeping up with all the technical, maintenance and hardware changes in the industry. Fontaine’s donation of the fifth wheel stands is a well-accepted improvement to our training aids. I look forward to a continued relationship with the Fontaine companies.”
About Fontaine Fifth Wheel
Based in Trussville, Ala., Fontaine Fifth Wheel is the world’s largest fifth wheel manufacturer. It has ISO 14001 registered manufacturing facilities worldwide. Fontaine Fifth Wheel is a Marmon Highway Technologies (MHT) company. MHT companies support the transportation industry worldwide with a wide range of high-quality products and services.
MHT companies are members of The Marmon Group, an international association of business units that operate independently within diverse business sectors. The Marmon Group is a Berkshire Hathaway company. For more information about Fontaine Fifth Wheel, visit www.fifthwheel.com or call (800) 874-9780.
About Fontaine Renew
Fontaine Renew is a business unit of Fontaine Trailer Company, the largest platform trailer manufacturer in the world producing a complete line of aluminum, steel and composite trailers for the flatbed, dropdeck and heavy-haul markets. Manufacturing facilities are located in Jasper, Haleyville and Springville, Ala. Fontaine Trailer is a Marmon Highway Technologies/Berkshire Hathaway company. For more information about Fontaine Renew, visit www.fontainerenew.com or call (800) 821-6535.
The Fontaine team focused the Fifth Wheel Testing Stations at this year’s TMCSuperTech event on the trailer bolster plate and king pin. These components are vital to the proper coupling and uncoupling of the tractor and trailer.
The Fontaine companies built seven test stands designed specifically to test the competitors on TMC RP750, the Recommended Practice for maintaining and inspecting the trailer king pin and bolster plate. These custom test stands made it possible for technicians to determine whether measurements were within spec and to identify any equipment damage. The companies also provided judges for the testing station, three from Fontaine Fifth Wheel: Todd Kuipers, key account manager/marketing manager, Aaron Puckett, director of national fleet sales and Steve Mann, vice president of engineering; and two from Fontaine Renew: Hamilton Bridges, sales manager, and Robbie Laney, engineering and operations manager.
At the conclusion of the TMC event, the Fontaine companies donated the test stands to Lincoln Technical Institute for its diesel and truck technology program. Instructors will use the stands to teach proper fifth wheel maintenance, disassembly, inspection and assembly.
“It is always a pleasure to work with ‘Partners in Industry’ like Fontaine in helping LTI train and develop the technicians of tomorrow,” says Tim O’Connor, director of education at Lincoln Technical Institute. “The hardest part of teaching diesel and truck technology is keeping up with all the technical, maintenance and hardware changes in the industry. Fontaine’s donation of the fifth wheel stands is a well-accepted improvement to our training aids. I look forward to a continued relationship with the Fontaine companies.”
About Fontaine Fifth Wheel
Based in Trussville, Ala., Fontaine Fifth Wheel is the world’s largest fifth wheel manufacturer. It has ISO 14001 registered manufacturing facilities worldwide. Fontaine Fifth Wheel is a Marmon Highway Technologies (MHT) company. MHT companies support the transportation industry worldwide with a wide range of high-quality products and services.
MHT companies are members of The Marmon Group, an international association of business units that operate independently within diverse business sectors. The Marmon Group is a Berkshire Hathaway company. For more information about Fontaine Fifth Wheel, visit www.fifthwheel.com or call (800) 874-9780.
About Fontaine Renew
Fontaine Renew is a business unit of Fontaine Trailer Company, the largest platform trailer manufacturer in the world producing a complete line of aluminum, steel and composite trailers for the flatbed, dropdeck and heavy-haul markets. Manufacturing facilities are located in Jasper, Haleyville and Springville, Ala. Fontaine Trailer is a Marmon Highway Technologies/Berkshire Hathaway company. For more information about Fontaine Renew, visit www.fontainerenew.com or call (800) 821-6535.
MANHEIM NAMES NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT VICE PRESIDENT
ATLANTA – As part of its continuing focus to develop products that drive business results for customers, Manheim has selected Bonnie Hensler as vice president of product development. Hensler fills this role, previously held by Joe George, who became senior vice president and chief strategy officer for Manheim and the AutoTrader Group earlier this month. Hensler will report to Janet Barnard, Manheim’s executive vice president and chief operating officer.
“Bonnie’s knowledge and experience in all aspects of product strategy, development and operations make her a perfect fit for this key position at Manheim,” Barnard said. “As the marketplace and customers’ needs continue to evolve, I am confident that Bonnie and her team will develop product plans that drive future strategy, innovation and results for our business and customers.”
As vice president of product development, Hensler will be responsible for enhancing existing in-lane and digital products while bringing new product solutions to market. Hensler and her team also will manage products – from creation to implementation – providing innovative thinking, strategy, training and best practices for Manheim’s diverse portfolio of new and existing products.
Hensler joined Manheim last year as vice president of product operations. In this role, she successfully created a product operations organization revolving around three core functions – product management, product implementation and product launch effectiveness. The product operations function will continue to drive new and efficient processes that result in enhanced product quality, improved time-to-market and better product options for customers.
Previously, she worked for Promethean, a leading education solutions provider. In this role, she served as vice president of global solutions and helped to create Promethean’s first SaaS (software as a service) or cloud-based strategy and roadmap. Her efforts in this area helped to successfully innovate and launch a variety of leading global products.
About Manheim (www.manheim.com)
Manheim is the leading global provider of vehicle remarketing services, connecting buyers and sellers of used vehicles to the largest wholesale used-vehicle marketplace. The company helps dealer and commercial customers achieve results by providing physical and digital auction channels, data analysis, financing, transportation and mobile products and solutions.
Manheim pioneered in-lane vehicle auctions and has been an innovator in both digital and mobile auction platforms. Manheim registers nearly 8 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing more than $50 billion in value. Manheim’s research and consulting arm, Manheim Consulting, provides industry-leading market intelligence and publishes the widely recognized annual Used Car Market Report. The company offers dealer financing though NextGear Capital, Inc., and transportation services through Ready Auto Transport.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim has more than 20,000 employees in 107 worldwide sites and generates annual revenues of more than $2.5 billion. A subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, Manheim participates in “Go Green with Manheim,” the company’s sustainability program.
“Bonnie’s knowledge and experience in all aspects of product strategy, development and operations make her a perfect fit for this key position at Manheim,” Barnard said. “As the marketplace and customers’ needs continue to evolve, I am confident that Bonnie and her team will develop product plans that drive future strategy, innovation and results for our business and customers.”
As vice president of product development, Hensler will be responsible for enhancing existing in-lane and digital products while bringing new product solutions to market. Hensler and her team also will manage products – from creation to implementation – providing innovative thinking, strategy, training and best practices for Manheim’s diverse portfolio of new and existing products.
Hensler joined Manheim last year as vice president of product operations. In this role, she successfully created a product operations organization revolving around three core functions – product management, product implementation and product launch effectiveness. The product operations function will continue to drive new and efficient processes that result in enhanced product quality, improved time-to-market and better product options for customers.
Previously, she worked for Promethean, a leading education solutions provider. In this role, she served as vice president of global solutions and helped to create Promethean’s first SaaS (software as a service) or cloud-based strategy and roadmap. Her efforts in this area helped to successfully innovate and launch a variety of leading global products.
About Manheim (www.manheim.com)
Manheim is the leading global provider of vehicle remarketing services, connecting buyers and sellers of used vehicles to the largest wholesale used-vehicle marketplace. The company helps dealer and commercial customers achieve results by providing physical and digital auction channels, data analysis, financing, transportation and mobile products and solutions.
Manheim pioneered in-lane vehicle auctions and has been an innovator in both digital and mobile auction platforms. Manheim registers nearly 8 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing more than $50 billion in value. Manheim’s research and consulting arm, Manheim Consulting, provides industry-leading market intelligence and publishes the widely recognized annual Used Car Market Report. The company offers dealer financing though NextGear Capital, Inc., and transportation services through Ready Auto Transport.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim has more than 20,000 employees in 107 worldwide sites and generates annual revenues of more than $2.5 billion. A subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, Manheim participates in “Go Green with Manheim,” the company’s sustainability program.
Equipment Leasing and Finance Association’s Survey of Economic Activity: Monthly Leasing and Finance Index
Washington, DC, November 25, 2013— The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association’s (ELFA) Monthly Leasing and Finance Index (MLFI-25), which reports economic activity from 25 companies representing a cross section of the $827 billion equipment finance sector, showed their overall new business volume for October was $7.6 billion, unchanged from new business volume in October 2012. Month-over-month, new business volume was down 1 percent from September. Year to date, cumulative new business volume increased 5 percent compared to 2012.
Receivables over 30 days were at 1.5 percent in October, unchanged from September. Delinquencies declined from 1.7 percent in the same period in 2012. Charge-offs were unchanged from the previous two months at 0.4 percent, and only slightly higher than the all-time low of 0.3 percent.
Credit approvals totaled 77.6 percent in October, up slightly from 77.3 percent the previous month. Eighty-two percent of participating organizations reported submitting more transactions for approval during October, a spike from 56 percent in September.
Finally, total headcount for equipment finance companies was up 1 percent year over year.
Separately, the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation's Monthly Confidence Index (MCI-EFI) for November is 56.9, an increase from the October index of 54.0, demonstrating an overall steady industry outlook despite continuing concerns about the U.S. economy and the negative impact of federal government fiscal policies.
ELFA President and CEO William G. Sutton, CAE, said: “As we enter the final quarter of the year, the equipment finance industry continues to perform well, illustrated by healthy new business generation and solid credit quality metrics. We remain cautiously optimistic that business demand for capital equipment will continue unabated into the 4th Quarter, which is a typically strong period for the industry. We hope that the ongoing and unresolved debate over fiscal policy will not act as a drag on the overall economy and the industry as we end 2013 and enter a new year.”
David Mirsky, Chief Executive Officer, Pacific Rim Capital, Inc., said, “The MLFI-25 clearly demonstrates the current slow growth or no growth economy that we are experiencing at the moment. However, the industry remains optimistic based upon the year-to-date growth of 5 percent and the increase in submissions for credit approval. Pacific Rim Capital has experienced slightly stronger growth in its sector and is planning for conservative expansion until the uncertainties in the economy are clarified.”
About the ELFA’s MLFI-25
The MLFI-25 is the only index that reflects capex, or the volume of commercial equipment financed in the U.S. The MLFI-25 is released globally at 8 a.m. Eastern time from Washington, D.C., each month on the day before the U.S. Department of Commerce releases the durable goods report. The MLFI-25 is a financial indicator that complements the durable goods report and other economic indexes, including the Institute for Supply Management Index, which reports economic activity in the manufacturing sector. Together with the MLFI-25 these reports provide a complete view of the status of productive assets in the U.S. economy: equipment produced, acquired and financed.
The MLFI-25 is a time series that reflects two years of business activity for the 25 companies currently participating in the survey. The latest MLFI-25, including methodology and participants is available below and also at http://www.elfaonline.org/Research/MLFI/
MLFI-25 Methodology
The ELFA produces the MLFI-25 survey to help member organizations achieve competitive advantage by providing them with leading-edge research and benchmarking information to support strategic business decision making.
The MLFI-25 is a barometer of the trends in U.S. capital equipment investment. Five components are included in the survey: new business volume (originations), aging of receivables, charge-offs, credit approval ratios, (approved vs. submitted) and headcount for the equipment finance business.
The MLFI-25 measures monthly commercial equipment lease and loan activity as reported by participating ELFA member equipment finance companies representing a cross section of the equipment finance sector, including small ticket, middle-market, large ticket, bank, captive and independent leasing and finance companies. Based on hard survey data, the responses mirror the economic activity of the broader equipment finance sector and current business conditions nationally.
ELFA MLFI-25 Participants
ADP Credit
BancorpSouth Equipment Finance
Bank of America
Bank of the West
BB&T Bank
BMO Harris Equipment Finance
Canon Financial Services
Caterpillar Financial Services
CIT
De Lage Landen Financial Services
Dell Financial Services
Direct Capital Corporation
EverBank Commercial Finance
Fifth Third Equipment Finance
First American Equipment Finance, a City National Bank Company
GreatAmerica Financial Services
Hitachi Credit America
HP Financial Services
Huntington Equipment Finance
John Deere Financial
Key Equipment Finance
LEAF Commercial Capital
M&T Bank
Marlin Leasing
Merchants Capital
PNC Equipment Finance
RBS Asset Finance
SG Equipment Finance
Siemens Financial Services
Stearns Bank
Suntrust
Susquehanna Commercial Finance
US Bancorp Equipment Finance
Verizon Capital
Volvo Financial Services
Wells Fargo Equipment Finance
About the ELFA
The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA) is the trade association that represents companies in the $827 billion equipment finance sector, which includes financial services companies and manufacturers engaged in financing capital goods. ELFA members are the driving force behind the growth in the commercial equipment finance market and contribute to capital formation in the U.S. and abroad. Its more than 575 members include independent and captive leasing and finance companies, banks, financial services corporations, broker/packagers and investment banks, as well as manufacturers and service providers. ELFA has been equipping business for success for more than 50 years. For more information, please visit www.elfaonline.org.
Receivables over 30 days were at 1.5 percent in October, unchanged from September. Delinquencies declined from 1.7 percent in the same period in 2012. Charge-offs were unchanged from the previous two months at 0.4 percent, and only slightly higher than the all-time low of 0.3 percent.
Credit approvals totaled 77.6 percent in October, up slightly from 77.3 percent the previous month. Eighty-two percent of participating organizations reported submitting more transactions for approval during October, a spike from 56 percent in September.
Finally, total headcount for equipment finance companies was up 1 percent year over year.
Separately, the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation's Monthly Confidence Index (MCI-EFI) for November is 56.9, an increase from the October index of 54.0, demonstrating an overall steady industry outlook despite continuing concerns about the U.S. economy and the negative impact of federal government fiscal policies.
ELFA President and CEO William G. Sutton, CAE, said: “As we enter the final quarter of the year, the equipment finance industry continues to perform well, illustrated by healthy new business generation and solid credit quality metrics. We remain cautiously optimistic that business demand for capital equipment will continue unabated into the 4th Quarter, which is a typically strong period for the industry. We hope that the ongoing and unresolved debate over fiscal policy will not act as a drag on the overall economy and the industry as we end 2013 and enter a new year.”
David Mirsky, Chief Executive Officer, Pacific Rim Capital, Inc., said, “The MLFI-25 clearly demonstrates the current slow growth or no growth economy that we are experiencing at the moment. However, the industry remains optimistic based upon the year-to-date growth of 5 percent and the increase in submissions for credit approval. Pacific Rim Capital has experienced slightly stronger growth in its sector and is planning for conservative expansion until the uncertainties in the economy are clarified.”
About the ELFA’s MLFI-25
The MLFI-25 is the only index that reflects capex, or the volume of commercial equipment financed in the U.S. The MLFI-25 is released globally at 8 a.m. Eastern time from Washington, D.C., each month on the day before the U.S. Department of Commerce releases the durable goods report. The MLFI-25 is a financial indicator that complements the durable goods report and other economic indexes, including the Institute for Supply Management Index, which reports economic activity in the manufacturing sector. Together with the MLFI-25 these reports provide a complete view of the status of productive assets in the U.S. economy: equipment produced, acquired and financed.
The MLFI-25 is a time series that reflects two years of business activity for the 25 companies currently participating in the survey. The latest MLFI-25, including methodology and participants is available below and also at http://www.elfaonline.org/Research/MLFI/
MLFI-25 Methodology
The ELFA produces the MLFI-25 survey to help member organizations achieve competitive advantage by providing them with leading-edge research and benchmarking information to support strategic business decision making.
The MLFI-25 is a barometer of the trends in U.S. capital equipment investment. Five components are included in the survey: new business volume (originations), aging of receivables, charge-offs, credit approval ratios, (approved vs. submitted) and headcount for the equipment finance business.
The MLFI-25 measures monthly commercial equipment lease and loan activity as reported by participating ELFA member equipment finance companies representing a cross section of the equipment finance sector, including small ticket, middle-market, large ticket, bank, captive and independent leasing and finance companies. Based on hard survey data, the responses mirror the economic activity of the broader equipment finance sector and current business conditions nationally.
ELFA MLFI-25 Participants
ADP Credit
BancorpSouth Equipment Finance
Bank of America
Bank of the West
BB&T Bank
BMO Harris Equipment Finance
Canon Financial Services
Caterpillar Financial Services
CIT
De Lage Landen Financial Services
Dell Financial Services
Direct Capital Corporation
EverBank Commercial Finance
Fifth Third Equipment Finance
First American Equipment Finance, a City National Bank Company
GreatAmerica Financial Services
Hitachi Credit America
HP Financial Services
Huntington Equipment Finance
John Deere Financial
Key Equipment Finance
LEAF Commercial Capital
M&T Bank
Marlin Leasing
Merchants Capital
PNC Equipment Finance
RBS Asset Finance
SG Equipment Finance
Siemens Financial Services
Stearns Bank
Suntrust
Susquehanna Commercial Finance
US Bancorp Equipment Finance
Verizon Capital
Volvo Financial Services
Wells Fargo Equipment Finance
About the ELFA
The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA) is the trade association that represents companies in the $827 billion equipment finance sector, which includes financial services companies and manufacturers engaged in financing capital goods. ELFA members are the driving force behind the growth in the commercial equipment finance market and contribute to capital formation in the U.S. and abroad. Its more than 575 members include independent and captive leasing and finance companies, banks, financial services corporations, broker/packagers and investment banks, as well as manufacturers and service providers. ELFA has been equipping business for success for more than 50 years. For more information, please visit www.elfaonline.org.
US Engine Production, MI Announces Winning Contract for Toronto Transit Commission Hybrid Bus
US
Engine Production, MI (USEP) Announces Winning Contract For Toronto
Transit Commission Hybrid Bus Fleet Engine Repowering With Clean Burning
Cummins ISBE 6.7L Diesel Engines
USEP contract award will allow the City of Toronto to replace older, less efficient bus engines with lower emissions and improved fuel economy for years to come. Refreshing the fleet also enables the Toronto Transit Commission to maintain and improve levels of service while providing additional customer benefits such as lower operating costs with fewer disruptions of service.
“USEP was successful in wining this contract based upon our competitive price, technical capabilities, highly experienced engine assembly workforce, and new state of the art facility” said Joseph Tencza, Operations Manager of USEP’s Vassar facility.
The Cummins ISBE 6.7L Diesel Engine is a ultra-green burning and fuel efficient engine when installed in a hybrid bus. The hybrid engine will provide 260 horsepower and more than adequate torque output.
Headquartered in Vassar, MI, USEP is one of the United States leading engine rebuilding and vehicle repowering manufacturer specializing in Diesel Engines. USEP provides engine solutions for customers worldwide. USEP’s sister company Advanced Vehicle Assembly, Inc (AVA) specializing in HMMWV (Hummer H1) repowering for the military and civilian markets all located in the same 150,000 square foot faulty.
*Humvee is a registered trademark of AM General LLC. HUMMER, H1, and H2 are registered trademarks of General Motors.
USEP contract award will allow the City of Toronto to replace older, less efficient bus engines with lower emissions and improved fuel economy for years to come. Refreshing the fleet also enables the Toronto Transit Commission to maintain and improve levels of service while providing additional customer benefits such as lower operating costs with fewer disruptions of service.
“USEP was successful in wining this contract based upon our competitive price, technical capabilities, highly experienced engine assembly workforce, and new state of the art facility” said Joseph Tencza, Operations Manager of USEP’s Vassar facility.
The Cummins ISBE 6.7L Diesel Engine is a ultra-green burning and fuel efficient engine when installed in a hybrid bus. The hybrid engine will provide 260 horsepower and more than adequate torque output.
Headquartered in Vassar, MI, USEP is one of the United States leading engine rebuilding and vehicle repowering manufacturer specializing in Diesel Engines. USEP provides engine solutions for customers worldwide. USEP’s sister company Advanced Vehicle Assembly, Inc (AVA) specializing in HMMWV (Hummer H1) repowering for the military and civilian markets all located in the same 150,000 square foot faulty.
*Humvee is a registered trademark of AM General LLC. HUMMER, H1, and H2 are registered trademarks of General Motors.
DONLEN RELEASES FUEL ECONOMY BY MODEL YEAR
Northbrook, IL — Donlen, the fleet industry's most comprehensive provider of integrated financing and asset management solutions, today released analysis of fuel economy by model year for the three-month period of June, July, and August 2013.
Donlen’s Strategic Consultants analyzed data from their pool of fleet vehicles, based on the several criteria including Donlen’s internal vehicle segment code, use of the Donlen Fleet MasterCard® Card for fuel purchases, and vehicles with purchased gallons associated with valid mileage entries.
The final analysis also includes key observations that can impact a fleet, including cycling, cost savings, and technology.
“Analysis like this is only one way we’re helping fleets reduce or control costs,” said Amy Blaine, Donlen’s VP, Consulting, Analytics, and Sustainability. “After depreciation, fuel is the largest fleet expense. Through analysis, the consultants help drive down cost by assisting fleets in finding cost effective vehicles that meet their application requirements. Fleets that are able to move from an SUV to a sedan or an intermediate sedan to a compact sedan will save on both depreciation as well as fuel expense over the lifecycle of the vehicle.”
To download the PDF, visit http://www.donlen.com/pdf/Donlen-Fuel-Economy-by-Model-Year.pdf
For more information about Donlen visit www.donlen.com. The Donlen Fleet MasterCard® Card is issued by Regions Bank pursuant to a license by MasterCard® International Incorporated. MasterCard and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated.
About Donlen Corporation
Donlen is the industry's leading provider of integrated financing and management solutions for corporate fleets. Utilizing a highly consultative and strategic approach, Donlen helps fleets reduce cost, improve utilization, and increase driver safety and productivity. Donlen's innovation has been honored with the Computerworld 2012 Honors Laureate for Economic Development, the 2012 and 2013 InformationWeek 500 List of Top Technology Innovators Across America, and the 2013 CIO 100. Their workplace excellence has been recognized on the IAOP The Global Outsourcing 100® list for seven of the last eight years, and as one of the 101 Best and Brightest Places to Work For in Chicago each year from 2007-2012. Founded in 1965 and headquartered in Northbrook, IL, Donlen is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Hertz Corporation (NYSE: HTZ). For more information about Donlen, visit www.donlen.com.
Donlen’s Strategic Consultants analyzed data from their pool of fleet vehicles, based on the several criteria including Donlen’s internal vehicle segment code, use of the Donlen Fleet MasterCard® Card for fuel purchases, and vehicles with purchased gallons associated with valid mileage entries.
The final analysis also includes key observations that can impact a fleet, including cycling, cost savings, and technology.
“Analysis like this is only one way we’re helping fleets reduce or control costs,” said Amy Blaine, Donlen’s VP, Consulting, Analytics, and Sustainability. “After depreciation, fuel is the largest fleet expense. Through analysis, the consultants help drive down cost by assisting fleets in finding cost effective vehicles that meet their application requirements. Fleets that are able to move from an SUV to a sedan or an intermediate sedan to a compact sedan will save on both depreciation as well as fuel expense over the lifecycle of the vehicle.”
To download the PDF, visit http://www.donlen.com/pdf/Donlen-Fuel-Economy-by-Model-Year.pdf
For more information about Donlen visit www.donlen.com. The Donlen Fleet MasterCard® Card is issued by Regions Bank pursuant to a license by MasterCard® International Incorporated. MasterCard and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated.
About Donlen Corporation
Donlen is the industry's leading provider of integrated financing and management solutions for corporate fleets. Utilizing a highly consultative and strategic approach, Donlen helps fleets reduce cost, improve utilization, and increase driver safety and productivity. Donlen's innovation has been honored with the Computerworld 2012 Honors Laureate for Economic Development, the 2012 and 2013 InformationWeek 500 List of Top Technology Innovators Across America, and the 2013 CIO 100. Their workplace excellence has been recognized on the IAOP The Global Outsourcing 100® list for seven of the last eight years, and as one of the 101 Best and Brightest Places to Work For in Chicago each year from 2007-2012. Founded in 1965 and headquartered in Northbrook, IL, Donlen is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Hertz Corporation (NYSE: HTZ). For more information about Donlen, visit www.donlen.com.
Friday, November 22, 2013
NGVAmerica Honors Recipients of the 2013 NGV Achievement Award
WASHINGTON, D.C. – NGVAmerica publicly recognized this year’s 11 recipients of the 2013 NGV Achievement Award at an awards ceremony held Wednesday, Nov. 20 as part of the 2013 North American NGV Conference and Expo. The awards ceremony followed a well-attended gala and reception dinner at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta.
The NGV Achievement Award recognizes national innovators and early adopters for their outstanding leadership, vision and innovation to advance natural gas as a vehicular fuel. Every year, NGVAmerica members submit nominations recognizing their customers, partners and industry advocates for their contributions to growing the NGV industry. Award winners are then selected by NGVAmerica staff after a thorough review of members’ submissions.
The recipients of the 2013 NGV Achievement Award:
· Casella Waste Systems, Inc., Rutland, VT – NGV Advocacy & Fleet Implementation Program
· Central Freight Lines, Inc., Waco, TX – Natural Gas Fleet Deployment Program
· Dillon Transport, Inc., Burr Ridge, IL – Natural Gas Fleet Program
· Drive Natural Gas, Washington, DC – “Add Natural Gas” Vehicle Demonstration Program
· Fair Oaks Farms, Fair Oaks, IN – Renewable Natural Gas – Compressed Natural Gas Fleet & Station Program
· Richard R. Kolodziej, President of NGVAmerica, Washington, DC – Lifetime Achievement Award
· Monarch Beverage Company, Indianapolis, IN – NGV Fleet & Station Program
· Ozinga Ready Mix Concrete, Inc., Mokena, IL – NGV Fleet & Station Program
· Smith Dairy, Orville, OH – NGV Advocacy & Fleet-Station Implementation Program
· Mike Scarpino/Regional Manager, DOE Clean Cities Coalition – Outstanding NGV Advocate-Ally
· United Parcel Service of America, Atlanta, GA – 25 Years of Exemplary NGV Industry Leadership
The awards were presented by NGVAmerica President Richard Kolodziej and Clean Vehicle Education Foundation (CVEF) President Doug Horne, P.E. The recipients of the 21st annual NGV Achievement Award are now part of a select group of leaders whose hard work has been most impactful to advancing the natural gas vehicle industry.
“The NGV Achievement Award provides an important opportunity to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of our industry’s leaders,” said Richard Kolodziej, President of NGVAmerica. “Their vision and hard work is growing the NGV industry and is helping others to realize the economic and environmental benefits of using natural gas as a vehicular fuel.”
About NGVAmerica
NGVAmerica is a national organization dedicated to the development of a growing, profitable, and sustainable market for vehicles powered by natural gas or biomethane. NGVAmerica represents more than 200 companies, environmental groups, and government organizations interested in the promotion and use of natural gas and biomethane as transportation fuels. Our member companies are those that produce, distribute, and market natural gas and biomethane across the country; manufacture and service natural gas vehicles, engines, and equipment; and operate fleets powered by clean-burning gaseous fuels. For more information about NGVAmerica, visit www.ngvamerica.org.
The NGV Achievement Award recognizes national innovators and early adopters for their outstanding leadership, vision and innovation to advance natural gas as a vehicular fuel. Every year, NGVAmerica members submit nominations recognizing their customers, partners and industry advocates for their contributions to growing the NGV industry. Award winners are then selected by NGVAmerica staff after a thorough review of members’ submissions.
The recipients of the 2013 NGV Achievement Award:
· Casella Waste Systems, Inc., Rutland, VT – NGV Advocacy & Fleet Implementation Program
· Central Freight Lines, Inc., Waco, TX – Natural Gas Fleet Deployment Program
· Dillon Transport, Inc., Burr Ridge, IL – Natural Gas Fleet Program
· Drive Natural Gas, Washington, DC – “Add Natural Gas” Vehicle Demonstration Program
· Fair Oaks Farms, Fair Oaks, IN – Renewable Natural Gas – Compressed Natural Gas Fleet & Station Program
· Richard R. Kolodziej, President of NGVAmerica, Washington, DC – Lifetime Achievement Award
· Monarch Beverage Company, Indianapolis, IN – NGV Fleet & Station Program
· Ozinga Ready Mix Concrete, Inc., Mokena, IL – NGV Fleet & Station Program
· Smith Dairy, Orville, OH – NGV Advocacy & Fleet-Station Implementation Program
· Mike Scarpino/Regional Manager, DOE Clean Cities Coalition – Outstanding NGV Advocate-Ally
· United Parcel Service of America, Atlanta, GA – 25 Years of Exemplary NGV Industry Leadership
The awards were presented by NGVAmerica President Richard Kolodziej and Clean Vehicle Education Foundation (CVEF) President Doug Horne, P.E. The recipients of the 21st annual NGV Achievement Award are now part of a select group of leaders whose hard work has been most impactful to advancing the natural gas vehicle industry.
“The NGV Achievement Award provides an important opportunity to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of our industry’s leaders,” said Richard Kolodziej, President of NGVAmerica. “Their vision and hard work is growing the NGV industry and is helping others to realize the economic and environmental benefits of using natural gas as a vehicular fuel.”
About NGVAmerica
NGVAmerica is a national organization dedicated to the development of a growing, profitable, and sustainable market for vehicles powered by natural gas or biomethane. NGVAmerica represents more than 200 companies, environmental groups, and government organizations interested in the promotion and use of natural gas and biomethane as transportation fuels. Our member companies are those that produce, distribute, and market natural gas and biomethane across the country; manufacture and service natural gas vehicles, engines, and equipment; and operate fleets powered by clean-burning gaseous fuels. For more information about NGVAmerica, visit www.ngvamerica.org.
PHH Arval Appoints Senior Vice President of US Sales
Sparks, Md., Nov. 21, 2013 – PHH Arval, a global fleet management services provider, today announced that Michael Quimby has been promoted to senior vice president of U.S. sales, where he will oversee a larger and enhanced sales team that will leverage the combined experience of PHH's core fleet and truck organizations. In this role, Mike will join the PHH Arval North America senior leadership team.
"With Mike’s expanded role, PHH will continue to assertively focus our efforts on delivering end-to-end customer solutions that enrich the client experience while identifying opportunities to reduce costs for all asset classes, improving our clients’ competitive position, both today and in the future,” said Jim Halliday, senior vice president and chief business development officer for North America, PHH Arval. "The vast truck and fleet experience that Mike brings to the team, coupled with PHH's history and leadership, will continue to position PHH as a leader in the industry."
Since 2012 Quimby has held the position of vice president of sales for PHH FirstFleet, a division of PHH Arval dedicated to fleets of light, medium and heavy trucks and equipment. Prior to joining PHH, Quimby served as the vice president of sales and marketing for Ryder System, Inc. During his career, he has held various executive leadership and sales role, including corporate officer at GE Commercial Finance, GE Fleet Services and Ryder. Quimby’s experience spans more than 25 years in transportation management services, logistics and financial industries.
Quimby has a Bachelor of Science degree from Keene State College and a certificate in finance from Harvard University.
To respond to increased customer needs, PHH has added the following sales executives as part of an ongoing expansion:
Lee Ness, regional vice president, Northwest Sales, joins PHH with more than 18 years of sales and sales management experience with Enterprise Rent a Car, Delta Airlines, and most recently Reynolds and Reynolds, where he managed new business relationships in the northwest region.
James Wineland, regional director, Midwest Sales, comes to PHH with nearly nine years of sales experience with Penske Truck Leasing, where he managed new business relationships in Salt Lake City, and most recently in Detroit.
"We're excited about Mike's new role and the addition of Lee and James as we continue to build on the strong depth and breadth that we offer clients requiring increasingly complex asset and cost management solutions,” said Halliday.
About PHH Arval
PHH Arval, a subsidiary of PHH Corporation (NYSE: PHH), is a leading fleet management services provider in the United States and Canada. PHH Arval provides fleet management solutions to a broad range of industries. Through consultative expertise, flexible customer service, and innovative technology, PHH Arval helps clients reduce costs and increase productivity. PHH is a founding member of the PHH Arval Global Alliance, which operates more than two million vehicles across North America, Europe, Australia, Africa, Asia and South America. For more information, visit www.phharval.com, LinkedIn, Twitter or call (800) ONLY-PHH.
"With Mike’s expanded role, PHH will continue to assertively focus our efforts on delivering end-to-end customer solutions that enrich the client experience while identifying opportunities to reduce costs for all asset classes, improving our clients’ competitive position, both today and in the future,” said Jim Halliday, senior vice president and chief business development officer for North America, PHH Arval. "The vast truck and fleet experience that Mike brings to the team, coupled with PHH's history and leadership, will continue to position PHH as a leader in the industry."
Since 2012 Quimby has held the position of vice president of sales for PHH FirstFleet, a division of PHH Arval dedicated to fleets of light, medium and heavy trucks and equipment. Prior to joining PHH, Quimby served as the vice president of sales and marketing for Ryder System, Inc. During his career, he has held various executive leadership and sales role, including corporate officer at GE Commercial Finance, GE Fleet Services and Ryder. Quimby’s experience spans more than 25 years in transportation management services, logistics and financial industries.
Quimby has a Bachelor of Science degree from Keene State College and a certificate in finance from Harvard University.
To respond to increased customer needs, PHH has added the following sales executives as part of an ongoing expansion:
Lee Ness, regional vice president, Northwest Sales, joins PHH with more than 18 years of sales and sales management experience with Enterprise Rent a Car, Delta Airlines, and most recently Reynolds and Reynolds, where he managed new business relationships in the northwest region.
James Wineland, regional director, Midwest Sales, comes to PHH with nearly nine years of sales experience with Penske Truck Leasing, where he managed new business relationships in Salt Lake City, and most recently in Detroit.
"We're excited about Mike's new role and the addition of Lee and James as we continue to build on the strong depth and breadth that we offer clients requiring increasingly complex asset and cost management solutions,” said Halliday.
About PHH Arval
PHH Arval, a subsidiary of PHH Corporation (NYSE: PHH), is a leading fleet management services provider in the United States and Canada. PHH Arval provides fleet management solutions to a broad range of industries. Through consultative expertise, flexible customer service, and innovative technology, PHH Arval helps clients reduce costs and increase productivity. PHH is a founding member of the PHH Arval Global Alliance, which operates more than two million vehicles across North America, Europe, Australia, Africa, Asia and South America. For more information, visit www.phharval.com, LinkedIn, Twitter or call (800) ONLY-PHH.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
ARI Celebrates 65 Years in the Fleet Management Industry
MT. LAUREL, NJ (November 21, 2013): ARI®, a leading global fleet services provider specializing in complex car and truck fleets, was proud to celebrate 65 years in business in October. Founded in 1948 by Steward Holman, ARI is now a leading global fleet management and services provider with a workforce numbering more than 2,500 and locations throughout North America, the UK, Europe, and Hong Kong. Currently ARI manages more than one million fleet vehicles in North America, the UK and Europe, and together with its global partners, more than two million worldwide.
“We’re proud to mark this incredible milestone in our company’s history,” said ARI President Carl A. Ortell. “Many things have changed since our company’s earliest days, but the one thing that hasn’t changed is our people and their dedication to providing our customers with superior service and unmatched expertise in running a best-in-class fleet. Without question, our strength is our people and I would like to thank everyone at ARI for their continued focus on excellence.” Ortell also extended recognition and thanks to all of ARI’s customers and business partners, and affirmed the company’s continued commitment to providing innovative solutions that help lower total cost of ownership and to the development of market-leading technologies.
Since its founding, ARI has been at the forefront, offering the fleet industry ground-breaking products and state-of-the-art solutions that have helped companies find efficiencies and run better fleets. ARI has also been a leader within the industry, serving as a charter member of the American Automotive Leasing Association (AALA) in its very first decade of operation. In the years that followed, ARI opened offices across the US and beyond, developed processes that streamlined fleet management, and created alliances with strategic global partners in order to deliver more value and meet customer need. ARI also developed and implemented the industry’s first quality assurance program, Partners In Excellence®, which in addition to ensuring 100 percent customer satisfaction, offers rewards and bonuses for employees based on the company’s achievement of specifically defined performance goals
In recent years, ARI has continued to distinguish itself for its investments in technology and the development of pioneering programs. In 2011, ARI was one of the first 100 companies in the world and the first in the fleet industry to invest in SAP’s innovative in-memory technology. This revolutionary database gives ARI the ability to quickly process and analyze large amounts of data from multiple sources in a fraction of the time it would take other tools, which provides both ARI and its customers with the critical insight needed to make impactful business decisions in real time. This in turn has allowed ARI and its customers the opportunity to identify possible cost reductions and efficiency gains, which translate into lowered costs and improved operations. The company’s ground-breaking investment in technology has not gone unnoticed. In 2013, ARI was named to both the InformationWeek 500 and to CIO Magazine’s CIO 100 for using innovative technology to deliver genuine business value. ARI was also honored at the 11th Annual American Business Awards in the “Tech Innovation of the Year” category and named a Constellation Research SuperNova award winner in 2012 in the “Data to Decisions” category.
ARI has also expanded across the globe over the past several years, first with ARI Fleet UK, and more recently with ARI Fleet Germany and the acquisition of HPI Fleet & Mobility in Europe, which closed in October 2013. This growth reflects ARI’s commitment to serving the needs of its multi-national customers as well as those with regional requirements across the world and especially in Europe. In the coming years, the company plans to continue to bring its unique approach to customer service, its innovative technology solutions and its customized products and services to new markets and regions.
ARI has long been recognized not just for its innovation in the marketplace, but also for its commitment to hiring, developing and supporting the best professionals in the industry. This commitment was recognized in 2013 when ARI was named to FORTUNE’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list. Noted for fostering a family-like atmosphere and strongly emphasizing employee development, ARI was lauded for developing a culture of trust, cooperation and collaboration. The company was honored to be recognized by FORTUNE, noting in a release that it seeks to be a place where an individual can build a satisfying, long-term career.
At every turn, ARI has sought to partner with its customers to help them manage their fleets ensuring that they are getting the most value and best-in-class performance from their vehicles. At the same time, the company has sought to invest in technology while empowering its people to be their very best and exceed customer expectations, and in the coming years the company plans to continue to invest in people, processes and technology in order to remain a market leader in fleet management solutions worldwide.
“We’re proud to mark this incredible milestone in our company’s history,” said ARI President Carl A. Ortell. “Many things have changed since our company’s earliest days, but the one thing that hasn’t changed is our people and their dedication to providing our customers with superior service and unmatched expertise in running a best-in-class fleet. Without question, our strength is our people and I would like to thank everyone at ARI for their continued focus on excellence.” Ortell also extended recognition and thanks to all of ARI’s customers and business partners, and affirmed the company’s continued commitment to providing innovative solutions that help lower total cost of ownership and to the development of market-leading technologies.
Since its founding, ARI has been at the forefront, offering the fleet industry ground-breaking products and state-of-the-art solutions that have helped companies find efficiencies and run better fleets. ARI has also been a leader within the industry, serving as a charter member of the American Automotive Leasing Association (AALA) in its very first decade of operation. In the years that followed, ARI opened offices across the US and beyond, developed processes that streamlined fleet management, and created alliances with strategic global partners in order to deliver more value and meet customer need. ARI also developed and implemented the industry’s first quality assurance program, Partners In Excellence®, which in addition to ensuring 100 percent customer satisfaction, offers rewards and bonuses for employees based on the company’s achievement of specifically defined performance goals
In recent years, ARI has continued to distinguish itself for its investments in technology and the development of pioneering programs. In 2011, ARI was one of the first 100 companies in the world and the first in the fleet industry to invest in SAP’s innovative in-memory technology. This revolutionary database gives ARI the ability to quickly process and analyze large amounts of data from multiple sources in a fraction of the time it would take other tools, which provides both ARI and its customers with the critical insight needed to make impactful business decisions in real time. This in turn has allowed ARI and its customers the opportunity to identify possible cost reductions and efficiency gains, which translate into lowered costs and improved operations. The company’s ground-breaking investment in technology has not gone unnoticed. In 2013, ARI was named to both the InformationWeek 500 and to CIO Magazine’s CIO 100 for using innovative technology to deliver genuine business value. ARI was also honored at the 11th Annual American Business Awards in the “Tech Innovation of the Year” category and named a Constellation Research SuperNova award winner in 2012 in the “Data to Decisions” category.
ARI has also expanded across the globe over the past several years, first with ARI Fleet UK, and more recently with ARI Fleet Germany and the acquisition of HPI Fleet & Mobility in Europe, which closed in October 2013. This growth reflects ARI’s commitment to serving the needs of its multi-national customers as well as those with regional requirements across the world and especially in Europe. In the coming years, the company plans to continue to bring its unique approach to customer service, its innovative technology solutions and its customized products and services to new markets and regions.
ARI has long been recognized not just for its innovation in the marketplace, but also for its commitment to hiring, developing and supporting the best professionals in the industry. This commitment was recognized in 2013 when ARI was named to FORTUNE’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list. Noted for fostering a family-like atmosphere and strongly emphasizing employee development, ARI was lauded for developing a culture of trust, cooperation and collaboration. The company was honored to be recognized by FORTUNE, noting in a release that it seeks to be a place where an individual can build a satisfying, long-term career.
At every turn, ARI has sought to partner with its customers to help them manage their fleets ensuring that they are getting the most value and best-in-class performance from their vehicles. At the same time, the company has sought to invest in technology while empowering its people to be their very best and exceed customer expectations, and in the coming years the company plans to continue to invest in people, processes and technology in order to remain a market leader in fleet management solutions worldwide.
Equipment Lease Finance Industry Confidence Improves in November
Washington, DC, November 21, 2013 –- The Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation (the Foundation) releases the November 2013 Monthly Confidence Index for the Equipment Finance Industry (MCI-EFI) today. Designed to collect leadership data, the index reports a qualitative assessment of both the prevailing business conditions and expectations for the future as reported by key executives from the $827 billion equipment finance sector. Overall, confidence in the equipment finance market is 56.9, an increase from the October index of 54.0, demonstrating an overall steady industry outlook despite continuing concerns about the U.S. economy and the negative impact of federal government fiscal policies.
When asked about the outlook for the future, MCI survey respondent Russell Nelson, President, CoBank Farm Credit Leasing, said, “Continued stability and modest growth in the economy combined with increased strength in customer balance sheets, low interest rates, and pent-up demand for replacement/new assets for 2014 and beyond will generate double digit growth for equipment and facility financing over the next 18 to 24 months.”
November 2013 Survey Results:
The overall MCI-EFI is 56.9, an increase from the October index of 54.0.
When asked to assess their business conditions over the next four months, 17.2% of executives responding said they believe business conditions will improve over the next four months, up from 11% in October. 79.3% of respondents believe business conditions will remain the same over the next four months, up from 74% in October. 3.4% believe business conditions will worsen, down from 15% who believed so the previous month.
13.8% of survey respondents believe demand for leases and loans to fund capital expenditures (capex) will increase over the next four months, up from 7.4% in October. 75.9% believe demand will “remain the same” during the same four-month time period, down from 77.8% the previous month. 10.3% believe demand will decline, down from 15% who believed so in October.
24% of executives expect more access to capital to fund equipment acquisitions over the next four months, up from 18.5% in October. 72.4% of survey respondents indicate they expect the “same” access to capital to fund business, down from 81.8% in October. 3.4% expect “less” access to capital, up from no one who expected less access in October.
When asked, 27.6% of the executives reported they expect to hire more employees over the next four months, a decrease from 33.3% in October. 65.5% expect no change in headcount over the next four months, down slightly from 66.7% last month. 6.9% expect fewer employees, up from no one who expected fewer employees in October.
6.9% of the leadership evaluates the current U.S. economy as “excellent”, up from no one who believed so last month. 75.9% of the leadership evaluates the current U.S. economy as “fair,” down from 85.2% last month. 17.2 % rate it as “poor,” up from 15% in October.
17.2% of the of survey respondents believe that U.S. economic conditions will get “better” over the next six months, an increase from no one who believed so in October. 72.4% of survey respondents indicate they believe the U.S. economy will “stay the same” over the next six months, a decrease from 89% in October. 10.3% believe economic conditions in the U.S. will worsen over the next six months, relatively unchanged from last month.
In November, 34.5% of respondents indicate they believe their company will increase spending on business development activities during the next six months, a slight increase from 33.3% in October. 65.5% believe there will be “no change” in business development spending, also a slight increase from 66.7% last month. No one believes there will be a decrease in spending, unchanged from October.
November 2013 MCI Survey Comments from Industry Executive Leadership:
Depending on the market segment they represent, executives have differing points of view on the current and future outlook for the industry.
Independent, Small Ticket
“The industry continues to perform well with historic low delinquency rates. Demand has increased slightly as the end-of- the-year push for transaction closings is in process. We would believe that demand will remain at lower levels until issues regarding the budget crisis and healthcare insurance are fully resolved.” Valerie Hayes Jester, President, Brandywine Capital Associates, Inc.
Bank, Middle Ticket
“The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association’s Monthly Leasing and Finance Index has continued its downward trend since the beginning of the second quarter, in tandem with the general direction of the economy and investment in capital equipment. With no real leadership coming from Washington, this lackluster performance is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.” Thomas Jaschik, President, BB&T Equipment Finance
Bank, Middle Ticket
“We are starting to see some slowdown in several sectors, but growth is still happening.” Harry Kaplun, President, Frost Equipment Leasing and Finance
Why an MCI-EFI?
Confidence in the U.S. economy and the capital markets is a critical driver to the equipment finance industry. Throughout history, when confidence increases, consumers and businesses are more apt to acquire more consumer goods, equipment and durables, and invest at prevailing prices. When confidence decreases, spending and risk-taking tend to fall. Investors are said to be confident when the news about the future is good and stock prices are rising.
Who participates in the MCI-EFI?
The respondents are comprised of a wide cross section of industry executives, including large-ticket, middle-market and small-ticket banks, independents and captive equipment finance companies. The MCI-EFI uses the same pool of 50 organization leaders to respond monthly to ensure the survey’s integrity. Since the same organizations provide the data from month to month, the results constitute a consistent barometer of the industry's confidence.
How is the MCI-EFI designed?
The survey consists of seven questions and an area for comments, asking the respondents’ opinions about the following:
How may I access the MCI-EFI?
Survey results are posted on the Foundation website, http://www.leasefoundation.org/IndRsrcs/MCI/, included in the Foundation Forecast newsletter and included in press releases. Survey respondent demographics and additional information about the MCI are also available at the link above.
When asked about the outlook for the future, MCI survey respondent Russell Nelson, President, CoBank Farm Credit Leasing, said, “Continued stability and modest growth in the economy combined with increased strength in customer balance sheets, low interest rates, and pent-up demand for replacement/new assets for 2014 and beyond will generate double digit growth for equipment and facility financing over the next 18 to 24 months.”
November 2013 Survey Results:
The overall MCI-EFI is 56.9, an increase from the October index of 54.0.
When asked to assess their business conditions over the next four months, 17.2% of executives responding said they believe business conditions will improve over the next four months, up from 11% in October. 79.3% of respondents believe business conditions will remain the same over the next four months, up from 74% in October. 3.4% believe business conditions will worsen, down from 15% who believed so the previous month.
13.8% of survey respondents believe demand for leases and loans to fund capital expenditures (capex) will increase over the next four months, up from 7.4% in October. 75.9% believe demand will “remain the same” during the same four-month time period, down from 77.8% the previous month. 10.3% believe demand will decline, down from 15% who believed so in October.
24% of executives expect more access to capital to fund equipment acquisitions over the next four months, up from 18.5% in October. 72.4% of survey respondents indicate they expect the “same” access to capital to fund business, down from 81.8% in October. 3.4% expect “less” access to capital, up from no one who expected less access in October.
When asked, 27.6% of the executives reported they expect to hire more employees over the next four months, a decrease from 33.3% in October. 65.5% expect no change in headcount over the next four months, down slightly from 66.7% last month. 6.9% expect fewer employees, up from no one who expected fewer employees in October.
6.9% of the leadership evaluates the current U.S. economy as “excellent”, up from no one who believed so last month. 75.9% of the leadership evaluates the current U.S. economy as “fair,” down from 85.2% last month. 17.2 % rate it as “poor,” up from 15% in October.
17.2% of the of survey respondents believe that U.S. economic conditions will get “better” over the next six months, an increase from no one who believed so in October. 72.4% of survey respondents indicate they believe the U.S. economy will “stay the same” over the next six months, a decrease from 89% in October. 10.3% believe economic conditions in the U.S. will worsen over the next six months, relatively unchanged from last month.
In November, 34.5% of respondents indicate they believe their company will increase spending on business development activities during the next six months, a slight increase from 33.3% in October. 65.5% believe there will be “no change” in business development spending, also a slight increase from 66.7% last month. No one believes there will be a decrease in spending, unchanged from October.
November 2013 MCI Survey Comments from Industry Executive Leadership:
Depending on the market segment they represent, executives have differing points of view on the current and future outlook for the industry.
Independent, Small Ticket
“The industry continues to perform well with historic low delinquency rates. Demand has increased slightly as the end-of- the-year push for transaction closings is in process. We would believe that demand will remain at lower levels until issues regarding the budget crisis and healthcare insurance are fully resolved.” Valerie Hayes Jester, President, Brandywine Capital Associates, Inc.
Bank, Middle Ticket
“The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association’s Monthly Leasing and Finance Index has continued its downward trend since the beginning of the second quarter, in tandem with the general direction of the economy and investment in capital equipment. With no real leadership coming from Washington, this lackluster performance is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.” Thomas Jaschik, President, BB&T Equipment Finance
Bank, Middle Ticket
“We are starting to see some slowdown in several sectors, but growth is still happening.” Harry Kaplun, President, Frost Equipment Leasing and Finance
Why an MCI-EFI?
Confidence in the U.S. economy and the capital markets is a critical driver to the equipment finance industry. Throughout history, when confidence increases, consumers and businesses are more apt to acquire more consumer goods, equipment and durables, and invest at prevailing prices. When confidence decreases, spending and risk-taking tend to fall. Investors are said to be confident when the news about the future is good and stock prices are rising.
Who participates in the MCI-EFI?
The respondents are comprised of a wide cross section of industry executives, including large-ticket, middle-market and small-ticket banks, independents and captive equipment finance companies. The MCI-EFI uses the same pool of 50 organization leaders to respond monthly to ensure the survey’s integrity. Since the same organizations provide the data from month to month, the results constitute a consistent barometer of the industry's confidence.
How is the MCI-EFI designed?
The survey consists of seven questions and an area for comments, asking the respondents’ opinions about the following:
- Current business conditions
- Expected product demand over the next four months
- Access to capital over the next four months
- Future employment conditions
- Evaluation of the current U.S. economy
- U.S. economic conditions over the next six months
- Business development spending expectations
- Open-ended question for comment
How may I access the MCI-EFI?
Survey results are posted on the Foundation website, http://www.leasefoundation.org/IndRsrcs/MCI/, included in the Foundation Forecast newsletter and included in press releases. Survey respondent demographics and additional information about the MCI are also available at the link above.
Eco Ultra Proves Top Performance in Two-Year 150,000 Mile Taxi-Tough Field Test
Universal Lubricants’ Closed Loop System Protects Engines and the Environment
WICHITA, Kan. (November 21, 2013) The results are in. After a two-year, 150,000-mile field test in the extreme weather and grueling service conditions faced by Las Vegas taxi cab engines, Universal Lubricants® Eco Ultra® Synthetic Blend Motor Oil, made from re-refined EcoClear™ base oil, matched the superior protection and performance of the leading premium virgin-based oil on the market.
The engine teardown, performed last summer by a major third-party global additive company, evaluated the 2009 Chevrolet Impalas that began the test with new 3.5-liter V-6 GM engines and operated nearly 24 hours a day in the extreme heat of desert days and the extreme cold of its winter nights.
“You always want to go up against the best, and this was proof positive that our re-refined base oil meets the highest performance levels of the best virgin crude base oil out there,” said Sonny Mays, Universal Lubricants director of technical sales who was on-site during the engine teardown and inspection. “No one has magic in a can. But this study backed up everything we knew from lab tests about our product. Eco Ultra stands with the best in performance, and our closed loop process goes several steps further in protecting the environment and reducing our nation’s dependency on foreign oil.”
Universal Lubricants® is a recognized leader in environmental services and the manufacturing and distribution of quality proprietary lubricants. Its closed loop process is an infinitely repeatable, sustainable, self-contained system for collecting used oil, then re-refining, blending, servicing and distributing it as clean, purified, high performance lubricants.
Results of the teardown, in which the parts were inspected and rated according to Coordinating Research Council (CRC) guidelines, showed outstanding sludge and varnish ratings and indicated exceptional wear protection and superior oxidation control for Eco Ultra versus the premium competitive brand made with virgin base stock.
“After 150,000 miles of round-the-clock taxi service with oil change intervals extended to 10,000 miles, comparison pictures of parts and components taken during the engine teardown were virtually identical,” Mays said. “In fact, the average sludge ratings of 9.7 for the covers, rockers and head were extremely close to the 10.0 control rating for a new engine.”
Mike Wyant, technical services manager for Universal Lubricants with more than 20 years in the business, called the two-year project the most structured, impressive field test he’s ever seen. “The severe driving conditions for a Las Vegas taxi cab is the ultimate viscosity test, since heat oxidizes oils and stop-and-go driving at slow speeds puts a severe strain on an engine. Ultimately, it’s the base oil that’s being attacked in oxidation. An inferior base oil will oxidize rapidly, lose its lubrication and flow properties, and thicken exponentially. If oil doesn’t flow and lubricate your engine, it will seize and fail to operate.”
The company’s state-of-the-art re-refinery in Wichita, Kansas collects more than 40 million gallons of used oil from customers each year. Using a sophisticated hydrotreating process, Universal Lubricants’ operators remove the old additives and impurities in the used oil to produce clean, API compliant Group II EcoClear base oil, which is then blended with high performance additives to produce the company’s Eco Ultra® line of high-quality lubricants.
“We can repeat the process of re-refining used oil over and over again,” said Wyant. “It’s good for consumers, helps our nation’s economy and is the right thing to do to protect the environment.”
About 1.3 billion gallons of oil are used in the U.S. each year, but only about 10-15 percent of that oil is repurposed. Re-refining used lubricants requires up to 89 percent less energy and releases up to 65 percent fewer harmful emissions than refining from crude. Putting used lubricants into the re-refining cycle and treating oily wastewater also eliminates the danger that comes from improper disposal. One gallon of improperly disposed motor oil can contaminate one million gallons of ground water.
For more information about Universal Lubricants’ closed loop quality standards and Eco Ultra products, please visit www.ecoultraoil.com.
About Universal Lubricants®
Founded in 1929, Universal Lubricants is a driving force in used oil collection, base oil refining and distribution. Through its closed loop process, the company collects, re-refines, blends and re-distributes its own engine oils and lubricants – never losing guardianship within the chain – to ensure that every quart is of the highest quality for optimal performance. Universal Lubricants operates 32 facilities nationally, including one of the world's most technologically advanced re-refineries in Wichita, Kansas. A leader in research and development, Universal Lubricants is a Pegasus Capital Advisors portfolio company and employs more than 390 workers. For more information visit www.universallubes.com.
WICHITA, Kan. (November 21, 2013) The results are in. After a two-year, 150,000-mile field test in the extreme weather and grueling service conditions faced by Las Vegas taxi cab engines, Universal Lubricants® Eco Ultra® Synthetic Blend Motor Oil, made from re-refined EcoClear™ base oil, matched the superior protection and performance of the leading premium virgin-based oil on the market.
The engine teardown, performed last summer by a major third-party global additive company, evaluated the 2009 Chevrolet Impalas that began the test with new 3.5-liter V-6 GM engines and operated nearly 24 hours a day in the extreme heat of desert days and the extreme cold of its winter nights.
“You always want to go up against the best, and this was proof positive that our re-refined base oil meets the highest performance levels of the best virgin crude base oil out there,” said Sonny Mays, Universal Lubricants director of technical sales who was on-site during the engine teardown and inspection. “No one has magic in a can. But this study backed up everything we knew from lab tests about our product. Eco Ultra stands with the best in performance, and our closed loop process goes several steps further in protecting the environment and reducing our nation’s dependency on foreign oil.”
Universal Lubricants® is a recognized leader in environmental services and the manufacturing and distribution of quality proprietary lubricants. Its closed loop process is an infinitely repeatable, sustainable, self-contained system for collecting used oil, then re-refining, blending, servicing and distributing it as clean, purified, high performance lubricants.
Results of the teardown, in which the parts were inspected and rated according to Coordinating Research Council (CRC) guidelines, showed outstanding sludge and varnish ratings and indicated exceptional wear protection and superior oxidation control for Eco Ultra versus the premium competitive brand made with virgin base stock.
“After 150,000 miles of round-the-clock taxi service with oil change intervals extended to 10,000 miles, comparison pictures of parts and components taken during the engine teardown were virtually identical,” Mays said. “In fact, the average sludge ratings of 9.7 for the covers, rockers and head were extremely close to the 10.0 control rating for a new engine.”
Mike Wyant, technical services manager for Universal Lubricants with more than 20 years in the business, called the two-year project the most structured, impressive field test he’s ever seen. “The severe driving conditions for a Las Vegas taxi cab is the ultimate viscosity test, since heat oxidizes oils and stop-and-go driving at slow speeds puts a severe strain on an engine. Ultimately, it’s the base oil that’s being attacked in oxidation. An inferior base oil will oxidize rapidly, lose its lubrication and flow properties, and thicken exponentially. If oil doesn’t flow and lubricate your engine, it will seize and fail to operate.”
The company’s state-of-the-art re-refinery in Wichita, Kansas collects more than 40 million gallons of used oil from customers each year. Using a sophisticated hydrotreating process, Universal Lubricants’ operators remove the old additives and impurities in the used oil to produce clean, API compliant Group II EcoClear base oil, which is then blended with high performance additives to produce the company’s Eco Ultra® line of high-quality lubricants.
“We can repeat the process of re-refining used oil over and over again,” said Wyant. “It’s good for consumers, helps our nation’s economy and is the right thing to do to protect the environment.”
About 1.3 billion gallons of oil are used in the U.S. each year, but only about 10-15 percent of that oil is repurposed. Re-refining used lubricants requires up to 89 percent less energy and releases up to 65 percent fewer harmful emissions than refining from crude. Putting used lubricants into the re-refining cycle and treating oily wastewater also eliminates the danger that comes from improper disposal. One gallon of improperly disposed motor oil can contaminate one million gallons of ground water.
For more information about Universal Lubricants’ closed loop quality standards and Eco Ultra products, please visit www.ecoultraoil.com.
About Universal Lubricants®
Founded in 1929, Universal Lubricants is a driving force in used oil collection, base oil refining and distribution. Through its closed loop process, the company collects, re-refines, blends and re-distributes its own engine oils and lubricants – never losing guardianship within the chain – to ensure that every quart is of the highest quality for optimal performance. Universal Lubricants operates 32 facilities nationally, including one of the world's most technologically advanced re-refineries in Wichita, Kansas. A leader in research and development, Universal Lubricants is a Pegasus Capital Advisors portfolio company and employs more than 390 workers. For more information visit www.universallubes.com.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
MANHEIM CREATES JOINT VENTURE WITH DRIVETIME
ATLANTA – Manheim announced today the creation of Go Auto Exchange, LLC - a new joint venture with DriveTime, the nation’s largest subprime credit used car dealer. This partnership creates a separate, independent wholesale auction company focused on independent dealers and the low-end vehicle segment. Go Auto Exchange will establish locations this year in Atlanta, Ga. and Phoenix, Ariz., and plans to expand to other key markets in 2014.
Tim Janego will serve as President of Go Auto Exchange. Janego, who most recently served as Manheim Regional Vice President for the East Region, brings broad experience and deep expertise in the wholesale auction industry. He will work closely with teams from Manheim and DriveTime to have the new locations open by the end of the year.
“Tim’s extensive background in the wholesale auction industry made him a perfect fit to lead this exciting new business,” said Manheim SVP and CFO, Joe Luppino. “Go Auto Exchange will benefit from Tim’s deep operational experience in running wholesale auctions and from DriveTime’s inventory and deep knowledge of this growing market segment.”
Go Auto Exchange and its locations will operate independently from Manheim and DriveTime locations. The company will be headquartered in Atlanta and plans to add locations in early 2014.
“As Manheim’s business today focuses on serving many different customers, Go Auto Exchange’s focus will be exclusively on the low-end vehicle segment in local markets,” said Janego. “Our highly-targeted approach allows us to concentrate solely on growing this segment, while allowing us to aggressively compete.”
Go Auto Exchange plans to hire a combination of auction pros and industry experts to run its locations. In addition, the company will partner with NextGear Capital to offer vehicle financing options to independent dealers. Go Auto Exchange will share more details in the weeks ahead.
“We’ve been a long-time Manheim customer, and this new arrangement with them is a result of our close collaboration and identifying what our mutual customers need and want to succeed,” said DriveTime Chairman Ernie Garcia. “Manheim’s success with wholesale auto auctions and our deep knowledge of the low-end vehicle market and independent dealers is a perfect match.”
About Manheim (www.manheim.com)
Manheim is the leading global provider of vehicle remarketing services, connecting buyers and sellers of used vehicles to the largest wholesale used-vehicle marketplace. The company helps dealer and commercial customers achieve results by providing physical and digital auction channels, data analysis, financing, transportation and mobile products and solutions.
Manheim pioneered in-lane vehicle auctions and has been an innovator in both digital and mobile auction platforms. Manheim registers nearly 8 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing more than $50 billion in value. Manheim’s research and consulting arm, Manheim Consulting, provides industry-leading market intelligence and publishes the widely recognized annual Used Car Market Report. The company offers dealer financing though NextGear Capital, Inc., and transportation services through Ready Auto Transport.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim has more than 20,000 employees in 106 worldwide sites and generates annual revenues of more than $2.5 billion. A subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, Manheim participates in “Go Green with Manheim,” the company’s sustainability program.
About DriveTime
DriveTime is the nation’s largest dealer helping people with credit issues find and finance their perfect vehicle. Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, DriveTime currently operates 108 stores in 47 markets, with more than 75 used cars available at each dealership. The company has sold more than 600,000 used cars to consumers of all credit types since 2002. For more information about DriveTime Automotive Group or the company’s used car dealerships, please visit www.drivetime.com or call the customer service line at 1-888-418-1212.
Tim Janego will serve as President of Go Auto Exchange. Janego, who most recently served as Manheim Regional Vice President for the East Region, brings broad experience and deep expertise in the wholesale auction industry. He will work closely with teams from Manheim and DriveTime to have the new locations open by the end of the year.
“Tim’s extensive background in the wholesale auction industry made him a perfect fit to lead this exciting new business,” said Manheim SVP and CFO, Joe Luppino. “Go Auto Exchange will benefit from Tim’s deep operational experience in running wholesale auctions and from DriveTime’s inventory and deep knowledge of this growing market segment.”
Go Auto Exchange and its locations will operate independently from Manheim and DriveTime locations. The company will be headquartered in Atlanta and plans to add locations in early 2014.
“As Manheim’s business today focuses on serving many different customers, Go Auto Exchange’s focus will be exclusively on the low-end vehicle segment in local markets,” said Janego. “Our highly-targeted approach allows us to concentrate solely on growing this segment, while allowing us to aggressively compete.”
Go Auto Exchange plans to hire a combination of auction pros and industry experts to run its locations. In addition, the company will partner with NextGear Capital to offer vehicle financing options to independent dealers. Go Auto Exchange will share more details in the weeks ahead.
“We’ve been a long-time Manheim customer, and this new arrangement with them is a result of our close collaboration and identifying what our mutual customers need and want to succeed,” said DriveTime Chairman Ernie Garcia. “Manheim’s success with wholesale auto auctions and our deep knowledge of the low-end vehicle market and independent dealers is a perfect match.”
About Manheim (www.manheim.com)
Manheim is the leading global provider of vehicle remarketing services, connecting buyers and sellers of used vehicles to the largest wholesale used-vehicle marketplace. The company helps dealer and commercial customers achieve results by providing physical and digital auction channels, data analysis, financing, transportation and mobile products and solutions.
Manheim pioneered in-lane vehicle auctions and has been an innovator in both digital and mobile auction platforms. Manheim registers nearly 8 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing more than $50 billion in value. Manheim’s research and consulting arm, Manheim Consulting, provides industry-leading market intelligence and publishes the widely recognized annual Used Car Market Report. The company offers dealer financing though NextGear Capital, Inc., and transportation services through Ready Auto Transport.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim has more than 20,000 employees in 106 worldwide sites and generates annual revenues of more than $2.5 billion. A subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, Manheim participates in “Go Green with Manheim,” the company’s sustainability program.
About DriveTime
DriveTime is the nation’s largest dealer helping people with credit issues find and finance their perfect vehicle. Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, DriveTime currently operates 108 stores in 47 markets, with more than 75 used cars available at each dealership. The company has sold more than 600,000 used cars to consumers of all credit types since 2002. For more information about DriveTime Automotive Group or the company’s used car dealerships, please visit www.drivetime.com or call the customer service line at 1-888-418-1212.
EPA Offers Funding to Reduce Pollution from Diesel Engines
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made available $2 million in funding for rebates to help public and private construction equipment owners replace or retrofit older diesel construction engines. The rebates will reduce harmful pollution and improve air quality in local areas.
“Exhaust from diesel construction equipment affects children, senior citizens and others in neighborhoods across the country”,” said Janet McCabe, acting assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. "These rebates will help equipment owners protect public health and improve air quality near construction sites while updating their fleets.”
Rebates will be offered as part of the Diesel Emission Reduction Act, also known as DERA. This is the second rebate program offered since Congress reauthorized DERA in 2010 to allow rebates in addition to grants and revolving loans. The rebates will support the program’s effort to replace and update existing diesel vehicles, and will target where people are exposed to unhealthy air.
Since 2008, DERA has awarded more than $500 million to grantees across the country to retrofit, replace, or repower more than 50,000 vehicles. By cutting air pollution and preventing thousands of asthma attacks, emergency room visits and premature deaths, these clean diesel projects are projected to generate health benefits worth up to $8.2 billion.
Public and private construction equipment owners in eligible counties that are facing air quality challenges are encouraged to apply for rebates for the replacement or retrofit of construction equipment engines. EPA will accept applications from November 20, 2013, to January 15, 2014 and anticipates awarding the rebates in February 2014.
Construction equipment engines are very durable and can operate for decades. EPA has implemented standards to make diesel engines cleaner, but many older pieces of construction equipment remain in operation and predate these standards. Older diesel engines emit large amounts of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). These pollutants are linked to health problems, including asthma, lung and heart disease, and even premature death. Equipment is readily available that can reduce emissions from these engines.
To learn more about the rebate program, the list of eligible counties, applicant eligibility and selection process, please visit http://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel/dera-rebate-construction.htm
“Exhaust from diesel construction equipment affects children, senior citizens and others in neighborhoods across the country”,” said Janet McCabe, acting assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. "These rebates will help equipment owners protect public health and improve air quality near construction sites while updating their fleets.”
Rebates will be offered as part of the Diesel Emission Reduction Act, also known as DERA. This is the second rebate program offered since Congress reauthorized DERA in 2010 to allow rebates in addition to grants and revolving loans. The rebates will support the program’s effort to replace and update existing diesel vehicles, and will target where people are exposed to unhealthy air.
Since 2008, DERA has awarded more than $500 million to grantees across the country to retrofit, replace, or repower more than 50,000 vehicles. By cutting air pollution and preventing thousands of asthma attacks, emergency room visits and premature deaths, these clean diesel projects are projected to generate health benefits worth up to $8.2 billion.
Public and private construction equipment owners in eligible counties that are facing air quality challenges are encouraged to apply for rebates for the replacement or retrofit of construction equipment engines. EPA will accept applications from November 20, 2013, to January 15, 2014 and anticipates awarding the rebates in February 2014.
Construction equipment engines are very durable and can operate for decades. EPA has implemented standards to make diesel engines cleaner, but many older pieces of construction equipment remain in operation and predate these standards. Older diesel engines emit large amounts of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). These pollutants are linked to health problems, including asthma, lung and heart disease, and even premature death. Equipment is readily available that can reduce emissions from these engines.
To learn more about the rebate program, the list of eligible counties, applicant eligibility and selection process, please visit http://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel/dera-rebate-construction.htm
GE Capital Fleet Services, Minnesota Department of Economic Development Host Career Event for Veterans
Eden Prairie, Minn. – November 20, 2013 – GE Capital Fleet Services and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) hosted a special career development event on Tuesday to assist military veterans with resume preparation, job interview skills and career networking strategies.
Veterans attending the event at GE’s campus in Eden Prairie, Minn., took part in workshops on resume writing, interviewing, and speed networking led by GE hiring managers and human resources experts to help participants gain skills to better compete in the job market. After the workshops ended, veterans also had the opportunity to learn about and test drive a variety of alternative fuel vehicles on the driving course of GE’s Vehicle Innovation Center in Eden Prairie, where GE customers come to try out new vehicles for their fleets.
“GE is continually working with our veterans community across the country through events like this one to get our heroes into civilian jobs,” said Dave Telep, human resources leader for GE Capital Fleet Services. “We’re pleased to be working with the Minnesota Department of Economic Development today to help a great group of veterans position themselves for employment.”
“This career event provided a terrific opportunity to help Minnesota veterans find meaningful employment,” said DEED Commissioner Katie Clark Sieben. “At DEED, we are committed to promoting the strengths of our men and women in uniform, and GE helped set the stage to match our veterans’ desirable skills with future employment opportunities. We are grateful for their active role in this effort.”
GE employs more than 10,000 veterans and has been named to the Top 100 Military Friendly Employers® list every year since the inception of the list in 2003. The company runs a number of programs and partnerships that teach veterans new technical and leadership skills and help them cross to the civilian life.
DEED provides specialized staff and employment services to help all military veterans prepare for, find, and keep a job – no matter their era of service. The agency’s one-stop website provides information and resources for all Minnesota veterans who are seeking employment, including tips on how to find a job, a list of career events for veterans, employment services, and more.
About GE Capital Fleet Services
GE Capital Fleet Services, based in Eden Prairie, Minn., is a global fleet management company. With strategic consulting, deep analytical insights and experience in every industry, we’re uniquely positioned to help you continuously drive results – from the road all the way to the board room. Visit the website at www.gefleet.com or follow the company’s eco news and updates via Twitter (@GEFleetSvcs).
GE Capital offers consumers and businesses around the globe an array of financial products and services. For more information, visit www.gecapital.com or follow company news via Twitter (@GECapital). GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.
About DEED
DEED is the State of Minnesota’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development. For more details about the agency and our services, visit us at http://mn.gov/deed/ . Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/mndeed .
Veterans attending the event at GE’s campus in Eden Prairie, Minn., took part in workshops on resume writing, interviewing, and speed networking led by GE hiring managers and human resources experts to help participants gain skills to better compete in the job market. After the workshops ended, veterans also had the opportunity to learn about and test drive a variety of alternative fuel vehicles on the driving course of GE’s Vehicle Innovation Center in Eden Prairie, where GE customers come to try out new vehicles for their fleets.
“GE is continually working with our veterans community across the country through events like this one to get our heroes into civilian jobs,” said Dave Telep, human resources leader for GE Capital Fleet Services. “We’re pleased to be working with the Minnesota Department of Economic Development today to help a great group of veterans position themselves for employment.”
“This career event provided a terrific opportunity to help Minnesota veterans find meaningful employment,” said DEED Commissioner Katie Clark Sieben. “At DEED, we are committed to promoting the strengths of our men and women in uniform, and GE helped set the stage to match our veterans’ desirable skills with future employment opportunities. We are grateful for their active role in this effort.”
GE employs more than 10,000 veterans and has been named to the Top 100 Military Friendly Employers® list every year since the inception of the list in 2003. The company runs a number of programs and partnerships that teach veterans new technical and leadership skills and help them cross to the civilian life.
DEED provides specialized staff and employment services to help all military veterans prepare for, find, and keep a job – no matter their era of service. The agency’s one-stop website provides information and resources for all Minnesota veterans who are seeking employment, including tips on how to find a job, a list of career events for veterans, employment services, and more.
About GE Capital Fleet Services
GE Capital Fleet Services, based in Eden Prairie, Minn., is a global fleet management company. With strategic consulting, deep analytical insights and experience in every industry, we’re uniquely positioned to help you continuously drive results – from the road all the way to the board room. Visit the website at www.gefleet.com or follow the company’s eco news and updates via Twitter (@GEFleetSvcs).
GE Capital offers consumers and businesses around the globe an array of financial products and services. For more information, visit www.gecapital.com or follow company news via Twitter (@GECapital). GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.
About DEED
DEED is the State of Minnesota’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development. For more details about the agency and our services, visit us at http://mn.gov/deed/ . Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/mndeed .
EPA Offers Funding to Reduce Pollution from Diesel Engines
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made available $2 million in funding for rebates to help public and private construction equipment owners replace or retrofit older diesel construction engines. The rebates will reduce harmful pollution and improve air quality in local areas.
“Exhaust from diesel construction equipment affects children, senior citizens and others in neighborhoods across the country”,” said Janet McCabe, acting assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. "These rebates will help equipment owners protect public health and improve air quality near construction sites while updating their fleets.”
Rebates will be offered as part of the Diesel Emission Reduction Act, also known as DERA. This is the second rebate program offered since Congress reauthorized DERA in 2010 to allow rebates in addition to grants and revolving loans. The rebates will support the program’s effort to replace and update existing diesel vehicles, and will target where people are exposed to unhealthy air.
Since 2008, DERA has awarded more than $500 million to grantees across the country to retrofit, replace, or repower more than 50,000 vehicles. By cutting air pollution and preventing thousands of asthma attacks, emergency room visits and premature deaths, these clean diesel projects are projected to generate health benefits worth up to $8.2 billion.
Public and private construction equipment owners in eligible counties that are facing air quality challenges are encouraged to apply for rebates for the replacement or retrofit of construction equipment engines. EPA will accept applications from November 20, 2013, to January 15, 2014 and anticipates awarding the rebates in February 2014.
Construction equipment engines are very durable and can operate for decades. EPA has implemented standards to make diesel engines cleaner, but many older pieces of construction equipment remain in operation and predate these standards. Older diesel engines emit large amounts of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). These pollutants are linked to health problems, including asthma, lung and heart disease, and even premature death. Equipment is readily available that can reduce emissions from these engines.
To learn more about the rebate program, the list of eligible counties, applicant eligibility and selection process, please visit http://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel/dera-rebate-construction.htm
“Exhaust from diesel construction equipment affects children, senior citizens and others in neighborhoods across the country”,” said Janet McCabe, acting assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. "These rebates will help equipment owners protect public health and improve air quality near construction sites while updating their fleets.”
Rebates will be offered as part of the Diesel Emission Reduction Act, also known as DERA. This is the second rebate program offered since Congress reauthorized DERA in 2010 to allow rebates in addition to grants and revolving loans. The rebates will support the program’s effort to replace and update existing diesel vehicles, and will target where people are exposed to unhealthy air.
Since 2008, DERA has awarded more than $500 million to grantees across the country to retrofit, replace, or repower more than 50,000 vehicles. By cutting air pollution and preventing thousands of asthma attacks, emergency room visits and premature deaths, these clean diesel projects are projected to generate health benefits worth up to $8.2 billion.
Public and private construction equipment owners in eligible counties that are facing air quality challenges are encouraged to apply for rebates for the replacement or retrofit of construction equipment engines. EPA will accept applications from November 20, 2013, to January 15, 2014 and anticipates awarding the rebates in February 2014.
Construction equipment engines are very durable and can operate for decades. EPA has implemented standards to make diesel engines cleaner, but many older pieces of construction equipment remain in operation and predate these standards. Older diesel engines emit large amounts of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). These pollutants are linked to health problems, including asthma, lung and heart disease, and even premature death. Equipment is readily available that can reduce emissions from these engines.
To learn more about the rebate program, the list of eligible counties, applicant eligibility and selection process, please visit http://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel/dera-rebate-construction.htm
Audi announces the connected car future will arrive in 2014 with all-new Audi A3 sedan
Audi of America announced that the long-awaited connected car future
will arrive in the U.S. next Spring with the arrival of the all-new,
technology-rich Audi A3 sedan.
The 4G LTE capability designed into the A3 family of cars fulfills the core requirement of the connected car vision: A secure high-speed wireless pipeline to the Internet, which provides access to a wide range of data, now and in the future.
No other model in the world enables that kind of connectivity. In a press conference at the 2013 Connected Car Expo at the Los Angeles Auto Show today, Audi officials detailed the services and long-term opportunities enabled by this pioneering technology.
Initially, the new Audi connect 4G LTE service will allow enhancements, such as smoother renderings of the Google Earth™ and Google Street View features that come with Audi MMI navigation plus. The 4G LTE connectivity will also provide faster downloads and high-definition video streaming for up to eight devices used by passengers over the in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot.
“With the introduction of the new A3 family Audi is putting the most advanced technology into the compact luxury segment,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. “Offering drivers a 4G LTE connection will provide the fastest in-vehicle connection available and significantly enhance the infotainment experience.”
The new A3 family will feature the most advanced version of Audi connect including picture navigation, read-aloud news headlines, Facebook and Twitter alerts; access to more than 7,000 Web radio stations; personalized RSS news feeds, and more.
Longer term, Audi expects to use the broadband wireless data connection to access vast amounts of Big Data services and, potentially, communicate with smart infrastructure, parking garages and other connected cars.
Audi was the first automaker to embrace wireless technology and quickly implement 3G-plus technology across most of its model lineup. Now, with 4G LTE quickly becoming the standard for smartphones and other advanced mobile devices, this technology is the natural progression for the next-generation of Audi connect. Audi plans to roll out 4G LTE capability across its entire lineup as new or refreshed models come to the market.
The new Audi connect 4G LTE service will be powered by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.’s advanced, second generation LTE chipset, the Qualcomm® Gobi™ MDM 9215. The embedded 4G LTE solution is the same technology found in many of today’s leading smartphones and tablets
With 4G LTE, the A3 models will have download speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
Audi expects to make an announcement in the near future about its U.S. wireless carrier partner for the 4G LTE service in the A3 family of models.
Audi also intends to add further customer conveniences for Audi connect subscribers with services, such as the ability to add the A3 4G LTE service to an existing smart device data plan. Audi also expects to offer many Audi connect customers greater choice on their wireless data carrier in the future.
The 4G LTE capability designed into the A3 family of cars fulfills the core requirement of the connected car vision: A secure high-speed wireless pipeline to the Internet, which provides access to a wide range of data, now and in the future.
No other model in the world enables that kind of connectivity. In a press conference at the 2013 Connected Car Expo at the Los Angeles Auto Show today, Audi officials detailed the services and long-term opportunities enabled by this pioneering technology.
Initially, the new Audi connect 4G LTE service will allow enhancements, such as smoother renderings of the Google Earth™ and Google Street View features that come with Audi MMI navigation plus. The 4G LTE connectivity will also provide faster downloads and high-definition video streaming for up to eight devices used by passengers over the in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot.
“With the introduction of the new A3 family Audi is putting the most advanced technology into the compact luxury segment,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. “Offering drivers a 4G LTE connection will provide the fastest in-vehicle connection available and significantly enhance the infotainment experience.”
The new A3 family will feature the most advanced version of Audi connect including picture navigation, read-aloud news headlines, Facebook and Twitter alerts; access to more than 7,000 Web radio stations; personalized RSS news feeds, and more.
Longer term, Audi expects to use the broadband wireless data connection to access vast amounts of Big Data services and, potentially, communicate with smart infrastructure, parking garages and other connected cars.
Audi was the first automaker to embrace wireless technology and quickly implement 3G-plus technology across most of its model lineup. Now, with 4G LTE quickly becoming the standard for smartphones and other advanced mobile devices, this technology is the natural progression for the next-generation of Audi connect. Audi plans to roll out 4G LTE capability across its entire lineup as new or refreshed models come to the market.
The new Audi connect 4G LTE service will be powered by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.’s advanced, second generation LTE chipset, the Qualcomm® Gobi™ MDM 9215. The embedded 4G LTE solution is the same technology found in many of today’s leading smartphones and tablets
With 4G LTE, the A3 models will have download speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
Audi expects to make an announcement in the near future about its U.S. wireless carrier partner for the 4G LTE service in the A3 family of models.
Audi also intends to add further customer conveniences for Audi connect subscribers with services, such as the ability to add the A3 4G LTE service to an existing smart device data plan. Audi also expects to offer many Audi connect customers greater choice on their wireless data carrier in the future.
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Researchers Develop New Type of Crude Oil Using Carbon Dioxide and Hydrogen
Beer-Sheva, Israel...November 20, 2013 -- Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) researchers have developed an innovative process to convert carbon dioxide and hydrogen into a renewable alternative for crude oil, which could transform fuels used in gas and diesel-powered vehicles and jets.
The "green feed" crude oil can be refined into renewable liquid fuels using established technologies and can be transported using existing infrastructure to gas stations. The highly efficient advance is made possible in part using nanomaterials that significantly reduce the amount of energy required in the catalytic process to make the crude oil.
"We can now use zero cost resources, carbon dioxide, water, energy from the sun, and combine them to get real fuels," said BGU's Prof. Moti Hershkowitz, presenting the new renewable fuel process at the Bloomberg Fuel Choices Summit in Tel Aviv on November 13. Carbon dioxide and hydrogen are two of the most common elements available on earth.
"Ethanol (alcohol), biodiesel and/or blends of these fuels with conventional fuels are far from ideal," Hershkowitz explains. "There is a pressing need for a game-changing approach to produce alternative, drop-in, liquid transportation fuels by sustainable, technologically viable and environmentally acceptable emissions processes from abundant, low-cost, renewable materials."
"BGU has filed the patents and we are ready to demonstrate and commercialize it," Hershkowitz says. "Since there are no foreseen technological barriers, the new process could become a reality within five to10 years," he adds.
The BGU crude oil process produces hydrogen from water, which is mixed with carbon dioxide captured from external sources and synthetic gas (syngas). This green feed mixture is placed into a reactor that contains a nano-structured solid catalyst, also developed at BGU, to produce an organic liquid and gas.
Prof. Moti Herskowitz is the Israel Cohen Chair in Chemical Engineering and the vice president and dean of research and development at BGU. He led the team that also includes Prof. Miron Landau, Dr. Roxana Vidruk and others at BGU's Blechner Center for Industrial Catalysis and Process Development.
The Blechner Center, founded in 1995, has the infrastructure and expertise required to deal with a wide variety of challenging topics related to basic and applied aspects of catalysis and catalytic processes. This was accomplished with major funding from various sources that include science foundations, industrial partners and individual donors such as the lateNorbert Blechner. Researchers at the Blechner Center have also developed a novel process for converting vegetable and algae oils to advanced green diesel and jet fuels, as well as a novel process for producing zero-sulfur diesel.
"Ben-Gurion University's Blechner Center has been at the forefront of alternative fuel research and development, working with major American oil and automotive companies for more than 20 years," says Doron Krakow, executive vice president, American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. "We applaud these new developments and BGU's focus on giving the world new technologies for more efficient, renewable fuel alternatives."
This project is partially supported by I-SAEF (Israel Strategic Alternative Energy Foundation).
American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (AABGU)
American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (AABGU) plays a vital role in sustaining David Ben-Gurion's vision, creating a world-class institution of education and research in the Israeli desert, nurturing the Negev community and sharing the University's expertise locally and around the globe. With some 20,000 students on campuses in Beer-Sheva, Sede Boqer and Eilat in Israel's southern desert, BGU is a university with a conscience, where the highest academic standards are integrated with community involvement, committed to sustainable development of the Negev. AABGU is headquartered in Manhattan and has nine regional offices throughout the United States. For more information, please visit www.aabgu.org
The "green feed" crude oil can be refined into renewable liquid fuels using established technologies and can be transported using existing infrastructure to gas stations. The highly efficient advance is made possible in part using nanomaterials that significantly reduce the amount of energy required in the catalytic process to make the crude oil.
"We can now use zero cost resources, carbon dioxide, water, energy from the sun, and combine them to get real fuels," said BGU's Prof. Moti Hershkowitz, presenting the new renewable fuel process at the Bloomberg Fuel Choices Summit in Tel Aviv on November 13. Carbon dioxide and hydrogen are two of the most common elements available on earth.
"Ethanol (alcohol), biodiesel and/or blends of these fuels with conventional fuels are far from ideal," Hershkowitz explains. "There is a pressing need for a game-changing approach to produce alternative, drop-in, liquid transportation fuels by sustainable, technologically viable and environmentally acceptable emissions processes from abundant, low-cost, renewable materials."
"BGU has filed the patents and we are ready to demonstrate and commercialize it," Hershkowitz says. "Since there are no foreseen technological barriers, the new process could become a reality within five to10 years," he adds.
The BGU crude oil process produces hydrogen from water, which is mixed with carbon dioxide captured from external sources and synthetic gas (syngas). This green feed mixture is placed into a reactor that contains a nano-structured solid catalyst, also developed at BGU, to produce an organic liquid and gas.
Prof. Moti Herskowitz is the Israel Cohen Chair in Chemical Engineering and the vice president and dean of research and development at BGU. He led the team that also includes Prof. Miron Landau, Dr. Roxana Vidruk and others at BGU's Blechner Center for Industrial Catalysis and Process Development.
The Blechner Center, founded in 1995, has the infrastructure and expertise required to deal with a wide variety of challenging topics related to basic and applied aspects of catalysis and catalytic processes. This was accomplished with major funding from various sources that include science foundations, industrial partners and individual donors such as the lateNorbert Blechner. Researchers at the Blechner Center have also developed a novel process for converting vegetable and algae oils to advanced green diesel and jet fuels, as well as a novel process for producing zero-sulfur diesel.
"Ben-Gurion University's Blechner Center has been at the forefront of alternative fuel research and development, working with major American oil and automotive companies for more than 20 years," says Doron Krakow, executive vice president, American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. "We applaud these new developments and BGU's focus on giving the world new technologies for more efficient, renewable fuel alternatives."
This project is partially supported by I-SAEF (Israel Strategic Alternative Energy Foundation).
American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (AABGU)
American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (AABGU) plays a vital role in sustaining David Ben-Gurion's vision, creating a world-class institution of education and research in the Israeli desert, nurturing the Negev community and sharing the University's expertise locally and around the globe. With some 20,000 students on campuses in Beer-Sheva, Sede Boqer and Eilat in Israel's southern desert, BGU is a university with a conscience, where the highest academic standards are integrated with community involvement, committed to sustainable development of the Negev. AABGU is headquartered in Manhattan and has nine regional offices throughout the United States. For more information, please visit www.aabgu.org
SambaSafety Launches Innovative Driver Score Functionality to Help Employers Proactively Identify Unsafe Driver Behaviors
Albuquerque, NM and Denver, CO, Nov. 20, 2013 -- SambaSafety™, the nation’s leading provider of driver risk management solutions, today announced the availability of new functionality that gives employers powerful new capabilities to understand the driving behaviors of their commercial and professional drivers as well as any driver in their company.
SambaSafety’s DriverScoreSM addresses a significant challenge that employers with large, multi-state fleets face when monitoring the safety of their drivers. Because each state imposes their own point system for driving violations, companies often lack a comprehensive view of all their drivers’ records.
By consolidating publicly-available motor vehicle record (MVR) data across states and applying a standardized set of codes to traffic violations, Samba DriverScore enables employers to measure driver safety with a common standardregardless of which states its drivers operate.
The Samba DriverScore is based on a drivers’ individual driving performance, initially leveraging motor vehicle record (MVR) data. The higher the DriverScore, the more of a safety concern an individual drivers’ performance represents.
Because it’s a dynamic score that changes when driving violations, crashes or non-compliance occurs, employers can benchmark how specific drivers or its entire fleet are performing. With new robust reporting tools, employers also can readily identify overall safety trends.
“Understanding driver performance is critical to putting safety first, but this information doesn’t come from just one source. Samba DriverScore consolidates driver data from a number of resources and provides a consistent way to measure driver performance over time and across geographical boundaries,” said Richard Lacey, SambaSafety’s Vice President of Product Management. “This innovative scoring approach developed by SambaSafety gives employers a powerful tool to identify important trends both for individual drivers and their overall fleet.”
These new Samba DriverScore features are part of SambaSafety’s innovative Driver Risk Management solution, which provides employers with a 360-degree view of its drivers. This solution gives employers the ability to monitor all driver behavior, including a driver’s history, employee background checks and compliance, through an easy-to-use and intuitive web-based dashboard. With this insight, employers can take swift action to address unsafe driver behavior, reducing accidents and improving the safety of our communities.
About SambaSafety
SambaSafety is the pioneer and leading provider of driver risk management solutions in North America. Patented technology and advanced workflow management deliver a full range of driver-centric solutions from motor vehicle records and true continuous driver monitoring to driver policy enforcement and benchmarking. Through the collection, correlation and analysis of multiple data sources, SambaSafety enables employers, fleet managers, and insurance carriers to reduce accidents and limit risk—ultimately improving driver and community safety. For more information, go to www.sambasafety.com.
SambaSafety’s DriverScoreSM addresses a significant challenge that employers with large, multi-state fleets face when monitoring the safety of their drivers. Because each state imposes their own point system for driving violations, companies often lack a comprehensive view of all their drivers’ records.
By consolidating publicly-available motor vehicle record (MVR) data across states and applying a standardized set of codes to traffic violations, Samba DriverScore enables employers to measure driver safety with a common standardregardless of which states its drivers operate.
The Samba DriverScore is based on a drivers’ individual driving performance, initially leveraging motor vehicle record (MVR) data. The higher the DriverScore, the more of a safety concern an individual drivers’ performance represents.
Because it’s a dynamic score that changes when driving violations, crashes or non-compliance occurs, employers can benchmark how specific drivers or its entire fleet are performing. With new robust reporting tools, employers also can readily identify overall safety trends.
“Understanding driver performance is critical to putting safety first, but this information doesn’t come from just one source. Samba DriverScore consolidates driver data from a number of resources and provides a consistent way to measure driver performance over time and across geographical boundaries,” said Richard Lacey, SambaSafety’s Vice President of Product Management. “This innovative scoring approach developed by SambaSafety gives employers a powerful tool to identify important trends both for individual drivers and their overall fleet.”
These new Samba DriverScore features are part of SambaSafety’s innovative Driver Risk Management solution, which provides employers with a 360-degree view of its drivers. This solution gives employers the ability to monitor all driver behavior, including a driver’s history, employee background checks and compliance, through an easy-to-use and intuitive web-based dashboard. With this insight, employers can take swift action to address unsafe driver behavior, reducing accidents and improving the safety of our communities.
About SambaSafety
SambaSafety is the pioneer and leading provider of driver risk management solutions in North America. Patented technology and advanced workflow management deliver a full range of driver-centric solutions from motor vehicle records and true continuous driver monitoring to driver policy enforcement and benchmarking. Through the collection, correlation and analysis of multiple data sources, SambaSafety enables employers, fleet managers, and insurance carriers to reduce accidents and limit risk—ultimately improving driver and community safety. For more information, go to www.sambasafety.com.
Connected World Award Nominations Reach Unprecedented Levels for 2014
Chicago, IL November 20, 2013: If there’s any truth in numbers, the global innovation community has responded in droves to the call to tout their latest developments in device and M2M connectivity for the annual Connected World Awards program. The award winners will be announced during the Connected World Conference February 6-17 to be held at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show.
The Connected World Awards honor companies that have successfully leveraged, with quantifiable results, interconnected M2M technologies in order to solve critical problems. Particular emphasis is given to the process of combining multiple technologies, such as device, connectivity, hardware, radio modules, network service and provisioning, as well as application software and infrastructure, to create a winning solution. Past winners in this awards program have included companies like Anheuser Busch, Bank of America, BP, Chrysler, City of Denver, Duke University Medical Center, Garmin, Hertz, Hilton Hotels Corp., Southwest Airlines Cargo, Progressive, Time Warner Cable, U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command, The Coca-Cola Bottling Co., and Volkswagen Brazil. Such companies as AT&T, Cisco Systems, GE Security, IBM, Sony Ericsson, Sprint, T-Mobile, Qualcomm, and Verizon Wireless, have been honored as technology enablers.
Entries for 2014 cover a broad range of technologies that are helping connect the infrastructure that powers the private and public sectors. From GPS devices that help decrease the incidence of crash factors for drivers, the development of solar and wind-powered streetlights, peat farmers monitoring weather patterns, service companies verifying customer reviews in realtime, and construction companies that are combining RFID with a virtual model of their projects, entries to this year’s Connected World Awards demonstrate just how pervasive M2M has become across the globe.
“We have been covering the interconnected market for well over a decade and are finally seeing a very public recognition of the types of companies that have been toiling in the shadows for years. It is a pleasure to shine a spotlight on the innovations that have been quietly connecting our world at such a major venue as the Chicago Auto Show,” says Peggy Smedley, editorial director, Connected World magazine.
Winners of The Connected World Awards will be honored during a formal dinner and ceremony on Feb. 13, 2014 as a part of the Connected World Conference, the global expo for the connected technologies that are transforming our professional and personal lives.
About the Connected World Conference:
The Connected World Conference is the window into the emerging technology trends shaping the future of connected devices. The conference is a destination for everyone interested in learning, sharing, and presenting their ideas and visions about the future of our digital lifestyle, connecting to our vehicles, our homes, our energy, our apps, and our health/fitness. This event gives attendees a chance to explore the strategic shifts that new technologies will have now and into the future. www.connectedworldmag.com/conference
The Connected World Awards honor companies that have successfully leveraged, with quantifiable results, interconnected M2M technologies in order to solve critical problems. Particular emphasis is given to the process of combining multiple technologies, such as device, connectivity, hardware, radio modules, network service and provisioning, as well as application software and infrastructure, to create a winning solution. Past winners in this awards program have included companies like Anheuser Busch, Bank of America, BP, Chrysler, City of Denver, Duke University Medical Center, Garmin, Hertz, Hilton Hotels Corp., Southwest Airlines Cargo, Progressive, Time Warner Cable, U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command, The Coca-Cola Bottling Co., and Volkswagen Brazil. Such companies as AT&T, Cisco Systems, GE Security, IBM, Sony Ericsson, Sprint, T-Mobile, Qualcomm, and Verizon Wireless, have been honored as technology enablers.
Entries for 2014 cover a broad range of technologies that are helping connect the infrastructure that powers the private and public sectors. From GPS devices that help decrease the incidence of crash factors for drivers, the development of solar and wind-powered streetlights, peat farmers monitoring weather patterns, service companies verifying customer reviews in realtime, and construction companies that are combining RFID with a virtual model of their projects, entries to this year’s Connected World Awards demonstrate just how pervasive M2M has become across the globe.
“We have been covering the interconnected market for well over a decade and are finally seeing a very public recognition of the types of companies that have been toiling in the shadows for years. It is a pleasure to shine a spotlight on the innovations that have been quietly connecting our world at such a major venue as the Chicago Auto Show,” says Peggy Smedley, editorial director, Connected World magazine.
Winners of The Connected World Awards will be honored during a formal dinner and ceremony on Feb. 13, 2014 as a part of the Connected World Conference, the global expo for the connected technologies that are transforming our professional and personal lives.
About the Connected World Conference:
The Connected World Conference is the window into the emerging technology trends shaping the future of connected devices. The conference is a destination for everyone interested in learning, sharing, and presenting their ideas and visions about the future of our digital lifestyle, connecting to our vehicles, our homes, our energy, our apps, and our health/fitness. This event gives attendees a chance to explore the strategic shifts that new technologies will have now and into the future. www.connectedworldmag.com/conference
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
CAR LEASE CUSTOMER CREDIT APPROVALS LEVEL OFF IN OCTOBER
CINCINNATI, OHIO (November 19, 2013) – Swapalease.com, the nation’s largest car lease marketplace, reports credit approvals were relatively unchanged in October compared with the previous month. The year-to-date approvals for customer credit finished October at 72.8%, compared with September levels of 72.7%.
The current rate shows a marked improvement over last year’s percentage, when 64.4% of approvals were processed through the end of October, 2012. A 70% approval rating is considered healthy on the Swapalease.com marketplace. The small monthly improvement in October reverses a three-month trend where the credit approval rating had slipped from a high of 75.6% in July. What's more, October approvals alone were registered at 73.7%, compared with 70.0% during October, 2012.
“We anticipated an eventual rebound in credit approvals, especially since car leasing has grown throughout the year,” said Scot Hall, Executive Vice President of Swapalease.com. “We fully expect to see the balance of the year show continued trending that supports healthy approvals patterns as we head into 2014.”
One clear reason why the approvals numbers have fallen compared with the beginning of the year is the fact that more people are going through the approvals process in general. A total of 36% more applicants have gone through the approvals process over the last five months, compared with the first five months of 2013. This sharp increase in total number of customers will often result in an increased number of people not being approved for credit.
The previous sixty days’ approval activity has been the strongest two-month span so far in 2013, with a 75.5% approval rating during that time. July and August were also the strongest two months of 2012, when a combined 75.0% approvals were recorded. The total number of applicants year-to-date has remained relatively unchanged compared with the same time period last year.
About Swapalease.com
Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Swapalease.com is the world’s largest automotive lease marketplace and the pioneer in facilitating lease transfers online. More specifically Swapalease.com matches individuals who want to get out of their lease with people who are looking for short-term lease agreements. Prospective buyers can search the listings for the exact vehicle they want, and then register for a nominal fee, allowing them to use Swapalease.com’s safe online system to contact the prospective seller and close the deal. For more information about Swapalease.com or how to exit your lease early, call 866-SWAPNOW or visit www.swapalease.com.
The current rate shows a marked improvement over last year’s percentage, when 64.4% of approvals were processed through the end of October, 2012. A 70% approval rating is considered healthy on the Swapalease.com marketplace. The small monthly improvement in October reverses a three-month trend where the credit approval rating had slipped from a high of 75.6% in July. What's more, October approvals alone were registered at 73.7%, compared with 70.0% during October, 2012.
“We anticipated an eventual rebound in credit approvals, especially since car leasing has grown throughout the year,” said Scot Hall, Executive Vice President of Swapalease.com. “We fully expect to see the balance of the year show continued trending that supports healthy approvals patterns as we head into 2014.”
One clear reason why the approvals numbers have fallen compared with the beginning of the year is the fact that more people are going through the approvals process in general. A total of 36% more applicants have gone through the approvals process over the last five months, compared with the first five months of 2013. This sharp increase in total number of customers will often result in an increased number of people not being approved for credit.
The previous sixty days’ approval activity has been the strongest two-month span so far in 2013, with a 75.5% approval rating during that time. July and August were also the strongest two months of 2012, when a combined 75.0% approvals were recorded. The total number of applicants year-to-date has remained relatively unchanged compared with the same time period last year.
About Swapalease.com
Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Swapalease.com is the world’s largest automotive lease marketplace and the pioneer in facilitating lease transfers online. More specifically Swapalease.com matches individuals who want to get out of their lease with people who are looking for short-term lease agreements. Prospective buyers can search the listings for the exact vehicle they want, and then register for a nominal fee, allowing them to use Swapalease.com’s safe online system to contact the prospective seller and close the deal. For more information about Swapalease.com or how to exit your lease early, call 866-SWAPNOW or visit www.swapalease.com.
UNIVISION ANNOUNCES FIRST TRANSMEDIA PARTNERSHIP THROUGH GROUNDBREAKING DEAL WITH TOYOTA
NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 18, 2013 – Univision Communications Inc., the leading media company serving Hispanic America, and Toyota, the world’s top automaker, have today announced a first-of-its-kind transmedia partnership that will include integration of Toyota vehicles into one of Televisa’s most highly-anticipated new telenovelas. The Company’s transmedia initiative was unveiled by Univision at its Digital Content NewFront presentation earlier this year and will combine TV, digital, and social to bring consumers immersive multi-platform experiences and first-of-its-kind access via exclusive content and interactive opportunities.
Through this partnership, Toyota is presenting sponsor of “Lo Que La Vida Me Robo,” which premieres on the Univision Network on Nov. 18, 2013. Toyota will reach and influence millions of consumers across all platforms, including the Univision Network – the #1 broadcast network this summer among Adults 18-34 and 18-49, out-delivering ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX in both demographics. Toyota will help deliver several months of exclusive content and memorable experiences to fans, while also reaching them through integrations, and special segments. Throughout the telenovelas run, “Lo Que La Vida Me Robo” fans will be able to step through the fourth wall of the primetime novela. Viewers will have ongoing digital correspondence with the main characters, becoming off-camera participants in every plot twist, becoming the first to receive exclusive content, news and gossip delivered via the UVideos second screen and social media platforms. This includes additional content, created by the show’s producers, across all screens and devices – from text and voice messages from the characters to exclusive photos, videos and polls.
“Our goal is to deliver the most compelling and engaging content, across all screens, while creating a super-charged, effective marketing platform for our clients who recognize that for super-fans, passive viewing and complementary second-screen content is no longer enough,” said Keith Turner, president, Advertising Sales and Marketing, Univision Communications Inc. “We are committed to a transmedia approach that is completely immersive and interactive, and believe it will create new incremental value for our clients.”
“Latino consumers spend a great deal of their time moving from screen to screen on multiple devices, making connections and sharing their viewpoints along the way,” said Dionne Colvin, National Marketing Media Manager, TOYOTA. “This is a terrific opportunity to connect with this audience in a way that reflects how they live life. Consumers will also be able to see the all-new 2014 Tundra in action in rural and urban settings, just as many Tundra owners experience the vehicle every day.”
This is part of a comprehensive, multi-platform campaign for Toyota across Univision’s portfolio. Toyota not only owns the experience, but also reaches consumers via second screen and social media; the ability to continuously engage with consumers via sponsored segments on Univision’s popular morning show “Despierta America” (Wake Up America); sponsored editorial content at www.novelasyseries.com; and continuous social chatter on Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter.
Toyota’s Hispanic communications partner, Conill, negotiated the integration and will provide creative direction on vehicle use and coordinate social engagement activities throughout the campaign. “We continually ask our media partners to push the envelope and Univision delivered in a big way for this initiative,” said Brett Dennis, Chief Media Communications Officer, Conill. “This is a first to market opportunity on a platform that evolves content across channels in the same way that our Tundra target consumes media. We will have an incredibly broad array of connection points to bring the brand into the conversations happening all around us.”
Univision worked closely with Televisa producers and writers to create content from the inception of the script adaptation. During production, Univision and Televisa worked together on set to provide real-time content that will be shared via the bilingual UVideos digital video app – now available on more than 240 million connected devices. UVideos will feature a co-branded Toyota/“Lo Que La Vida Me Robo” section that will be live throughout the novela’s run, inviting fans to select one of four central characters to follow for exclusive additional storyline info. Users will receive the special exclusive content when logged into the app and only after they opt in to sync up with the Toyota experience.
Through this partnership, Toyota is presenting sponsor of “Lo Que La Vida Me Robo,” which premieres on the Univision Network on Nov. 18, 2013. Toyota will reach and influence millions of consumers across all platforms, including the Univision Network – the #1 broadcast network this summer among Adults 18-34 and 18-49, out-delivering ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX in both demographics. Toyota will help deliver several months of exclusive content and memorable experiences to fans, while also reaching them through integrations, and special segments. Throughout the telenovelas run, “Lo Que La Vida Me Robo” fans will be able to step through the fourth wall of the primetime novela. Viewers will have ongoing digital correspondence with the main characters, becoming off-camera participants in every plot twist, becoming the first to receive exclusive content, news and gossip delivered via the UVideos second screen and social media platforms. This includes additional content, created by the show’s producers, across all screens and devices – from text and voice messages from the characters to exclusive photos, videos and polls.
“Our goal is to deliver the most compelling and engaging content, across all screens, while creating a super-charged, effective marketing platform for our clients who recognize that for super-fans, passive viewing and complementary second-screen content is no longer enough,” said Keith Turner, president, Advertising Sales and Marketing, Univision Communications Inc. “We are committed to a transmedia approach that is completely immersive and interactive, and believe it will create new incremental value for our clients.”
“Latino consumers spend a great deal of their time moving from screen to screen on multiple devices, making connections and sharing their viewpoints along the way,” said Dionne Colvin, National Marketing Media Manager, TOYOTA. “This is a terrific opportunity to connect with this audience in a way that reflects how they live life. Consumers will also be able to see the all-new 2014 Tundra in action in rural and urban settings, just as many Tundra owners experience the vehicle every day.”
This is part of a comprehensive, multi-platform campaign for Toyota across Univision’s portfolio. Toyota not only owns the experience, but also reaches consumers via second screen and social media; the ability to continuously engage with consumers via sponsored segments on Univision’s popular morning show “Despierta America” (Wake Up America); sponsored editorial content at www.novelasyseries.com; and continuous social chatter on Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter.
Toyota’s Hispanic communications partner, Conill, negotiated the integration and will provide creative direction on vehicle use and coordinate social engagement activities throughout the campaign. “We continually ask our media partners to push the envelope and Univision delivered in a big way for this initiative,” said Brett Dennis, Chief Media Communications Officer, Conill. “This is a first to market opportunity on a platform that evolves content across channels in the same way that our Tundra target consumes media. We will have an incredibly broad array of connection points to bring the brand into the conversations happening all around us.”
Univision worked closely with Televisa producers and writers to create content from the inception of the script adaptation. During production, Univision and Televisa worked together on set to provide real-time content that will be shared via the bilingual UVideos digital video app – now available on more than 240 million connected devices. UVideos will feature a co-branded Toyota/“Lo Que La Vida Me Robo” section that will be live throughout the novela’s run, inviting fans to select one of four central characters to follow for exclusive additional storyline info. Users will receive the special exclusive content when logged into the app and only after they opt in to sync up with the Toyota experience.
Old Dominion Wins Fourth Consecutive Mastio Award
THOMASVILLE, N.C. (Nov. 14, 2013) – Mastio & Company has honored Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. with a 2013 Mastio Quality Award, naming the company No. 1 national LTL (less-than-truckload) carrier.
This is the fourth consecutive year Old Dominion has topped the Mastio & Company’s Value and Loyalty Benchmarking Study. Old Dominion is the only LTL carrier in the history of this prestigious annual ranking to top the list four years in a row.
To develop its rankings, Mastio & Company surveyed more than 2,000 transportation decision makers about their shipping preferences and needs. Shippers participating in the study graded carriers’ performances in 25 service attributes, including quality of shipping service, on-time delivery and likelihood to recommend the company’s service to others.
Respondents ranked Old Dominion highest in several categories to include courteous and professional drivers, knowledgeable and helpful sales representatives and proactive communications. OD also scored highest as a highly trusted carrier and for delivering shipments when promised with no shortages or damages. As a result, customers responded that they were very likely to continue using Old Dominion’s services.
“We’re honored that the shipping public continues to hold Old Dominion in such high regards,” said David Congdon, President and CEO of Old Dominion. “This award serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of every Old Dominion employee, and reaffirms our commitment to deliver premium service.”
For over 79 years, Old Dominion has been in the business of keeping promises to its customers and historically has one of the lowest claims ratios and best time on-time records in the industry.
“The Mastio Quality Award is widely considered the most reliable measure of customer value and loyalty within the LTL industry,” said Kevin Huntsman, Vice President of Mastio & Company. “For four years in a row, Old Dominion’s numbers have been a cut above the rest. We commend Old Dominion for its continued commitment to providing its customers with a premium service.”
For more information about Old Dominion, visit www.odfl.com or call (800) 432-6335.
This is the fourth consecutive year Old Dominion has topped the Mastio & Company’s Value and Loyalty Benchmarking Study. Old Dominion is the only LTL carrier in the history of this prestigious annual ranking to top the list four years in a row.
To develop its rankings, Mastio & Company surveyed more than 2,000 transportation decision makers about their shipping preferences and needs. Shippers participating in the study graded carriers’ performances in 25 service attributes, including quality of shipping service, on-time delivery and likelihood to recommend the company’s service to others.
Respondents ranked Old Dominion highest in several categories to include courteous and professional drivers, knowledgeable and helpful sales representatives and proactive communications. OD also scored highest as a highly trusted carrier and for delivering shipments when promised with no shortages or damages. As a result, customers responded that they were very likely to continue using Old Dominion’s services.
“We’re honored that the shipping public continues to hold Old Dominion in such high regards,” said David Congdon, President and CEO of Old Dominion. “This award serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of every Old Dominion employee, and reaffirms our commitment to deliver premium service.”
For over 79 years, Old Dominion has been in the business of keeping promises to its customers and historically has one of the lowest claims ratios and best time on-time records in the industry.
“The Mastio Quality Award is widely considered the most reliable measure of customer value and loyalty within the LTL industry,” said Kevin Huntsman, Vice President of Mastio & Company. “For four years in a row, Old Dominion’s numbers have been a cut above the rest. We commend Old Dominion for its continued commitment to providing its customers with a premium service.”
For more information about Old Dominion, visit www.odfl.com or call (800) 432-6335.
Audi Receives Three 2014 ALG Residual Value Awards
Audi today announced that it has received three Residual Value Awards
from ALG, the industry benchmark for residual values and depreciation
data. The annual ALG Residual Value Awards recognize automakers'
outstanding achievements in producing new vehicles that are predicted to
retain the highest percentage of their original price after a
conventional three-year period. The Audi A5, A6 and Q7 received
recognition for the 2014 model year.
“Audi continues to strive to produce vehicles that represent the best in design, performance, technology, and luxury. More importantly, Audi vehicles stand the test of time,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. “We are pleased to have received three ALG Residual Value Awards, a testament to the value of the Audi A5, A6 and Q7 model lines.”
Audi A5
The 2014 Audi A5 received an ALG Residual Value Award in the Premium Midsize Car category. Known for setting new standards for sportiness and efficiency in the mid-size segment of the premium market, the 2014 A5 combines beauty, power and efficiency. The A5 features a 2.0-liter TFSI® engine that exclusively offers quattro® all-wheel drive and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed Tiptronic®. For the 2014 Model Year, the A5 received an increase in horsepower to 220. Inside, the A5 represents an ever-higher standard being set by Audi for its expressiveness, comfort and technology matched by the brand’s trademark fit and finish.
Audi A6
The 2014 Audi A6 took home an ALG Residual Value Award in the Premium Fullsize Car category. The A6 boasts an all-aluminum Audi 3.0 L TFSI® supercharged V6 engine with 310 horsepower. One of Audi’s most innovative and technologically-advanced models to date, the A6 makes up to 2,000 decisions per second to assist the driver. Innovative technologies include the award-winning infotainment system Audi connect® with in-vehicle Wi-Fi connectivity and Google Earth™ Maps, MMI® Touch pad with handwriting recognition, Night Vision Assistant, Audi Pre-Sense Plus safety system, and more. Inside, the Audi A6 also features luxurious materials, functional amenities, and sophisticated design elements. The 2014 Audi A6 is also offered with a TDI® clean diesel engine, achieving an EPA estimated fuel economy of 24 city/ 38 highway/ 29 combined MPG, while at the same time producing an impressive 240hp and 428lb-ft of torque.
Audi Q7
The 2014 Audi Q7 received the award in the Premium Midsize Utility Vehicle – 3 Row category. The seven-passenger Audi Q7 exceeds driver and passenger expectations for functionality and comfort. Q7 customers have the option of a gasoline turbocharged, fuel-injected 3.0 liter TFSI engine, or a powerful yet fuel efficient V6 turbocharged direct injection TDI clean diesel engine. The Audi Q7 features a luxurious, premium interior including heated and available cooled, twelve-way power front seats, fore and aft adjustable rear middle seats, and foldable seats in the third row. The 2014 Audi Q7 offers the most advanced Audi technologies available, including Audi connect with a rolling Wi-Fi® Hotspot for up to eight devices and Google Voice Local Search. The Audi music interface with iPod®/iPhone® connectivity ensures user friendly perusing of play lists and song titles via the Audi MMI system. A full complement of airbags, including Sideguard® head curtain airbags for all three rows of seats ensures passengers stay safe.
ALG Residual Value Award winners are determined through careful study of the competition in each segment, historical vehicle performance and industry trends. Vehicle quality, production levels relative to demand, and pricing and marketing strategies represent key factors that impact ALG’s residual value forecasts.
To learn more about the 2014 Audi models, please visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com.
“Audi continues to strive to produce vehicles that represent the best in design, performance, technology, and luxury. More importantly, Audi vehicles stand the test of time,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. “We are pleased to have received three ALG Residual Value Awards, a testament to the value of the Audi A5, A6 and Q7 model lines.”
Audi A5
The 2014 Audi A5 received an ALG Residual Value Award in the Premium Midsize Car category. Known for setting new standards for sportiness and efficiency in the mid-size segment of the premium market, the 2014 A5 combines beauty, power and efficiency. The A5 features a 2.0-liter TFSI® engine that exclusively offers quattro® all-wheel drive and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed Tiptronic®. For the 2014 Model Year, the A5 received an increase in horsepower to 220. Inside, the A5 represents an ever-higher standard being set by Audi for its expressiveness, comfort and technology matched by the brand’s trademark fit and finish.
Audi A6
The 2014 Audi A6 took home an ALG Residual Value Award in the Premium Fullsize Car category. The A6 boasts an all-aluminum Audi 3.0 L TFSI® supercharged V6 engine with 310 horsepower. One of Audi’s most innovative and technologically-advanced models to date, the A6 makes up to 2,000 decisions per second to assist the driver. Innovative technologies include the award-winning infotainment system Audi connect® with in-vehicle Wi-Fi connectivity and Google Earth™ Maps, MMI® Touch pad with handwriting recognition, Night Vision Assistant, Audi Pre-Sense Plus safety system, and more. Inside, the Audi A6 also features luxurious materials, functional amenities, and sophisticated design elements. The 2014 Audi A6 is also offered with a TDI® clean diesel engine, achieving an EPA estimated fuel economy of 24 city/ 38 highway/ 29 combined MPG, while at the same time producing an impressive 240hp and 428lb-ft of torque.
Audi Q7
The 2014 Audi Q7 received the award in the Premium Midsize Utility Vehicle – 3 Row category. The seven-passenger Audi Q7 exceeds driver and passenger expectations for functionality and comfort. Q7 customers have the option of a gasoline turbocharged, fuel-injected 3.0 liter TFSI engine, or a powerful yet fuel efficient V6 turbocharged direct injection TDI clean diesel engine. The Audi Q7 features a luxurious, premium interior including heated and available cooled, twelve-way power front seats, fore and aft adjustable rear middle seats, and foldable seats in the third row. The 2014 Audi Q7 offers the most advanced Audi technologies available, including Audi connect with a rolling Wi-Fi® Hotspot for up to eight devices and Google Voice Local Search. The Audi music interface with iPod®/iPhone® connectivity ensures user friendly perusing of play lists and song titles via the Audi MMI system. A full complement of airbags, including Sideguard® head curtain airbags for all three rows of seats ensures passengers stay safe.
ALG Residual Value Award winners are determined through careful study of the competition in each segment, historical vehicle performance and industry trends. Vehicle quality, production levels relative to demand, and pricing and marketing strategies represent key factors that impact ALG’s residual value forecasts.
To learn more about the 2014 Audi models, please visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com.
Verizon Launches New Security Suite to Protect Internet-Connected Objects, Machines
NEW YORK -- The number of Internet-connected automobiles, smart meters and home-monitoring systems has increased dramatically, yet cybersecurity services to safeguard them are proving to be inadequate. To address this emerging technology risk, Verizon Enterprise Solutions has launched Managed Certificate Services, a next-generation, cloud-based platform.
Offering a first line of defense, Verizon’s new Managed Certificate Services (MCS) platform is specifically designed to authenticate objects and machines -- verifying object and machine “identities” -- and securing data transmitted between these connections. It is available immediately in the U.S. and Europe, with a December rollout planned for the Asia-Pacific region.
Verizon’s new class of cloud-based certificates provides strong security while eliminating the need for expensive hardware and complex implementations that were once the hallmark of public key infrastructure (PKI)-based solutions. Verizon MCS offers a fully managed environment that allows clients to remain focused on their core business without the complexity and cost of managing and monitoring their certificate infrastructure.
In addition, the MCS service employs a pay-as-you-go model so that organizations only pay for resources they need when they need them.
“With the continued explosion of The Internet of Things and the expansion of connected objects and machines, businesses require a simple, scalable and effective way to manage identity and data integrity,” said Eddie Schwartz, vice president of Global Security Solutions for Verizon Enterprise Solutions. “Verizon’s Managed Certificate Services build upon our solid digital certificate technology and managed security services expertise with a cloud-based platform to deliver an ideal offering for the age of connected solutions.”
Verizon’s new offerings are highly scalable and can simultaneously verify billions of devices, applications and machines. The solution set offers easy integration with existing client networks and applications through a range of flexible application programming interfaces and provides administrators access to a Web-based portal for ease of use.
Verizon’s Next-Gen MCS Portfolio Suitable for a Range of Uses
Verizon’s next-generation MCS portfolio is applicable for a wide range of uses. They include authenticating and verifying applications, services and enterprise infrastructures such as online shopping cart applications, and e-government service delivery such as license plate renewals and passport services requiring sophisticated identity-proofing capabilities.
Verizon’s next-generation MCS platform also can help enterprises to meet new regulatory guidelines aimed at protecting device-to-machine and machine-to-machine connections now found in automobiles, smart meters and home-monitoring systems.
For example, new compliance guidelines call for smart meters to be secure. One way to do so is to provide certificates during device production or client-site installation. This way, devices can be authenticated when “talking” to each other while also ensuring the traffic traverses a secure connection. Devices not configured with a certificate would not be able to penetrate or “attach” to the network, protecting the energy grid from harm.
Verizon Offers Comprehensive Security Solutions to Safeguard Enterprises
Verizon’s offers a full continuum of managed security solutions including advanced security analytics and intelligence; distributed denial of service defense; investigative response; governance, risk and compliance solutions; identity and access management solutions; and vulnerability management services -- delivered in the cloud or on premises in more than 50 countries. For more information, visit us at http://www.verizonenterprise.com/solutions/security/.
About Verizon
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to consumer, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America’s most reliable wireless network, with more than 101 million retail connections nationwide. Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America’s most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers in more than 150 countries. A Dow 30 company with nearly $116 billion in 2012 revenues, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of 178,300. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.
Offering a first line of defense, Verizon’s new Managed Certificate Services (MCS) platform is specifically designed to authenticate objects and machines -- verifying object and machine “identities” -- and securing data transmitted between these connections. It is available immediately in the U.S. and Europe, with a December rollout planned for the Asia-Pacific region.
Verizon’s new class of cloud-based certificates provides strong security while eliminating the need for expensive hardware and complex implementations that were once the hallmark of public key infrastructure (PKI)-based solutions. Verizon MCS offers a fully managed environment that allows clients to remain focused on their core business without the complexity and cost of managing and monitoring their certificate infrastructure.
In addition, the MCS service employs a pay-as-you-go model so that organizations only pay for resources they need when they need them.
“With the continued explosion of The Internet of Things and the expansion of connected objects and machines, businesses require a simple, scalable and effective way to manage identity and data integrity,” said Eddie Schwartz, vice president of Global Security Solutions for Verizon Enterprise Solutions. “Verizon’s Managed Certificate Services build upon our solid digital certificate technology and managed security services expertise with a cloud-based platform to deliver an ideal offering for the age of connected solutions.”
Verizon’s new offerings are highly scalable and can simultaneously verify billions of devices, applications and machines. The solution set offers easy integration with existing client networks and applications through a range of flexible application programming interfaces and provides administrators access to a Web-based portal for ease of use.
Verizon’s Next-Gen MCS Portfolio Suitable for a Range of Uses
Verizon’s next-generation MCS portfolio is applicable for a wide range of uses. They include authenticating and verifying applications, services and enterprise infrastructures such as online shopping cart applications, and e-government service delivery such as license plate renewals and passport services requiring sophisticated identity-proofing capabilities.
Verizon’s next-generation MCS platform also can help enterprises to meet new regulatory guidelines aimed at protecting device-to-machine and machine-to-machine connections now found in automobiles, smart meters and home-monitoring systems.
For example, new compliance guidelines call for smart meters to be secure. One way to do so is to provide certificates during device production or client-site installation. This way, devices can be authenticated when “talking” to each other while also ensuring the traffic traverses a secure connection. Devices not configured with a certificate would not be able to penetrate or “attach” to the network, protecting the energy grid from harm.
Verizon Offers Comprehensive Security Solutions to Safeguard Enterprises
Verizon’s offers a full continuum of managed security solutions including advanced security analytics and intelligence; distributed denial of service defense; investigative response; governance, risk and compliance solutions; identity and access management solutions; and vulnerability management services -- delivered in the cloud or on premises in more than 50 countries. For more information, visit us at http://www.verizonenterprise.com/solutions/security/.
About Verizon
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to consumer, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America’s most reliable wireless network, with more than 101 million retail connections nationwide. Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America’s most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers in more than 150 countries. A Dow 30 company with nearly $116 billion in 2012 revenues, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of 178,300. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.
Davis Instruments Announces CarChip Connect® — Real-time GPS telematics for Small Businesses and Fleet Managers
HAYWARD, CA— Davis Instruments announces CarChip Connect, its real-time GPS telematics device for small business and fleet managers. Designed to the highest engineering standards, CarChip Connect provides intelligent telematics and powerful web analytics to help small businesses and fleet managers improve driver safety and their bottom lines.
“The use of the CarChip devices has helped us decrease our insurance costs by over $1 million, lowered the number of accidents, improved driver performance and safety, and improved maintenance efficiency,” said Rita Guitron, Business Services Manager at First Alarm. “As a leader in the security business, we feel these devices have enhanced the safety of our employees and the quality of service we provide to our customers.”
Equipped with an onboard accelerometer and backup battery, CarChip Connect is one of the few OBD II-based telematics devices that stores driving parameters and geofences on the device. The minicomputer design provides fleet managers more immediate safety and location data, real-time alerts and tamper notifications. It also stores trip data when a vehicle is out of coverage. CarChip Connect’s audible alarm gives drivers real-time feedback on their driving behavior, promoting safer driving.
CarChip Connect’s website offers valuable information to managers and drivers. Each company’s home page provides fleet managers a quick, yet comprehensive view of their fleets, featuring a map, alerts, emission readiness and fleet summary panes. Supported by Davis’ powerful web-based reporting, fleet data is combined into a single company score, providing color-coded at-a-glance information on how the fleet is performing. Drivers can view their individual scores and see how they are performing relative to the company as a whole. Additional reports hone in on driver safety, efficiency, location and vehicle maintenance. Reports can be customized for each fleet or location, focusing on specific areas of interest to a small business or fleet manager.
Three Bottom-Line Benefits to Businesses
CarChip Connect offers three bottom-line benefits:
Safety — Small businesses and fleet managers can prevent accidents by identifying bad driving habits. Incorporating CarChip Connect into a vehicle safety program improves driver performance and decreases accident risk. Fewer accidents can lead to lower insurance premiums and lower repair costs. CarChip Connect’s audible alarm alerts drivers in real-time that they are speeding, hard braking, cornering or exceeding other company set parameters.
Savings — CarChip Connect’s web reports identify inefficiencies such as idle time and aggressive driving. Identifying and reducing idle time saves approximately one gallon of gas for each hour of idle time eliminated. Emissions reports and alerts encourage timely vehicle maintenance, reducing wear and tear on vehicles and keeping them on the road longer.
Simplicity — No tools needed. Easy to install and reallocate when vehicles rotate out of the fleet. CarChip Connect plugs into the OBD II port in about 20 seconds and starts transmitting data immediately.
About Davis Instruments
CarChip Connect is the latest vehicle tracking device developed by Davis Instruments. A leader in vehicle monitoring since 1995, Davis Instruments designs systems to meet the reporting and management needs for fleets of all sizes. Davis Instruments is also known for its innovative line of consumer electronics, including a complete line of wireless weather monitoring stations. Davis is located in Hayward, California, where its research and design, production, technical support, and customer support departments reside. For more information, call(800) 678-3669 or (510) 732- 9229. You can also find out more about CarChip Connect at www.carchipconnect.com and more about Davis Instruments at www.davisnet.com.
“The use of the CarChip devices has helped us decrease our insurance costs by over $1 million, lowered the number of accidents, improved driver performance and safety, and improved maintenance efficiency,” said Rita Guitron, Business Services Manager at First Alarm. “As a leader in the security business, we feel these devices have enhanced the safety of our employees and the quality of service we provide to our customers.”
Equipped with an onboard accelerometer and backup battery, CarChip Connect is one of the few OBD II-based telematics devices that stores driving parameters and geofences on the device. The minicomputer design provides fleet managers more immediate safety and location data, real-time alerts and tamper notifications. It also stores trip data when a vehicle is out of coverage. CarChip Connect’s audible alarm gives drivers real-time feedback on their driving behavior, promoting safer driving.
CarChip Connect’s website offers valuable information to managers and drivers. Each company’s home page provides fleet managers a quick, yet comprehensive view of their fleets, featuring a map, alerts, emission readiness and fleet summary panes. Supported by Davis’ powerful web-based reporting, fleet data is combined into a single company score, providing color-coded at-a-glance information on how the fleet is performing. Drivers can view their individual scores and see how they are performing relative to the company as a whole. Additional reports hone in on driver safety, efficiency, location and vehicle maintenance. Reports can be customized for each fleet or location, focusing on specific areas of interest to a small business or fleet manager.
Three Bottom-Line Benefits to Businesses
CarChip Connect offers three bottom-line benefits:
Safety — Small businesses and fleet managers can prevent accidents by identifying bad driving habits. Incorporating CarChip Connect into a vehicle safety program improves driver performance and decreases accident risk. Fewer accidents can lead to lower insurance premiums and lower repair costs. CarChip Connect’s audible alarm alerts drivers in real-time that they are speeding, hard braking, cornering or exceeding other company set parameters.
Savings — CarChip Connect’s web reports identify inefficiencies such as idle time and aggressive driving. Identifying and reducing idle time saves approximately one gallon of gas for each hour of idle time eliminated. Emissions reports and alerts encourage timely vehicle maintenance, reducing wear and tear on vehicles and keeping them on the road longer.
Simplicity — No tools needed. Easy to install and reallocate when vehicles rotate out of the fleet. CarChip Connect plugs into the OBD II port in about 20 seconds and starts transmitting data immediately.
About Davis Instruments
CarChip Connect is the latest vehicle tracking device developed by Davis Instruments. A leader in vehicle monitoring since 1995, Davis Instruments designs systems to meet the reporting and management needs for fleets of all sizes. Davis Instruments is also known for its innovative line of consumer electronics, including a complete line of wireless weather monitoring stations. Davis is located in Hayward, California, where its research and design, production, technical support, and customer support departments reside. For more information, call(800) 678-3669 or (510) 732- 9229. You can also find out more about CarChip Connect at www.carchipconnect.com and more about Davis Instruments at www.davisnet.com.
Fuel Savings Drive Up ROI on New Truck Purchases
CHERRY HILL, NJ, November 14, 2013 – A recent AmeriQuest blog
post attempts to balance the higher cost of new trucks with the savings
realized through the new fuel-efficient technology those trucks
possess. While admitting that a new vehicle today can cost as much as
$30,000 more than a new vehicle would have cost before 2006, the blog
shows how much these new trucks can save in fuel costs over time.
AmeriQuest Transportation Services finds that with just an additional 1.5 miles per gallon in fuel efficiency can lead to substantial savings in the first year and up into the fifth year. The blog contains a chart that shows the difference in cost between getting 5.5 miles per gallon and 7 miles per gallon with the new technology.
The result is “… an overall cost savings of 21% year over year,” says Byron Lay, Director of AmeriQuest Road Rescue, with the acknowledgement that the savings will rise or fall depending on market fuel costs. Lay also notes that newer trucks may often require less maintenance and thus, less down time. You can read the entire blog for a more in-depth view of the numbers: http://blog.ameriquestcorp.com/fuel-savings-drive-roi-new-truck-purchases/.
AmeriQuest Transportation Services finds that with just an additional 1.5 miles per gallon in fuel efficiency can lead to substantial savings in the first year and up into the fifth year. The blog contains a chart that shows the difference in cost between getting 5.5 miles per gallon and 7 miles per gallon with the new technology.
The result is “… an overall cost savings of 21% year over year,” says Byron Lay, Director of AmeriQuest Road Rescue, with the acknowledgement that the savings will rise or fall depending on market fuel costs. Lay also notes that newer trucks may often require less maintenance and thus, less down time. You can read the entire blog for a more in-depth view of the numbers: http://blog.ameriquestcorp.com/fuel-savings-drive-roi-new-truck-purchases/.
About AmeriQuest Transportation Services
AmeriQuest, headquartered in Cherry Hill, NJ, is a leading provider of comprehensive fleet management services. By leveraging the strength of more than 700,000 vehicles, AmeriQuest delivers savings, expertise, and opportunities to its private fleet and truckload carrier members. AmeriQuest provides supply management services, asset management services, material handling services, financing, technology products, and outsourced transportation management services such as full service leasing, integrated logistics, and contract maintenance. More information can be found at ameriquestcorp.com/transportation/.
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