MT. LAUREL, NJ (January 30, 2014): ARI®, a leading global fleet services provider specializing in complex car and truck fleets, announced the release of its 2014 Industry Outlook, an annual publication produced by the company’s Strategic Consulting team that gives fleet managers tactical insight into the trends and opportunities that are expected to impact their fleet operations throughout the year.
Nearly all of the topics presented in this year’s publication focus on how total cost of ownership is being influenced in some degree by the approaching deadlines for the revised Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, which have been put in place to increase fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
An example is the trend towards using lighter materials like aluminum in the manufacturing and upfitting process and the expected impact this may have with regard both to costs and safety. Fleet managers seeking to mitigate potential cost increases have started to implement policy changes related to the personal use of company-provided vehicles.
“This year’s Industry Outlook is unique in that so many of the 2014 trends can be traced back to one single initiative – the CAFE regulations,” said ARI’s Director of Strategic Consulting Chris Morgan. “This publication will help fleet managers understand the ripple effect of these and other compliance issues, such as stricter violations enforcement, on their cost-control efforts. With this insight, they’ll be better prepared to make it a successful year through proactive and strategic planning.”
The publication also covers some of positive ways CAFE is influencing the industry, such as the evolution of the cargo van segment and the expanding market for alternative fuel vehicles. Other topics covered in the Industry Outlook include the increasingly aggressive approach governments and tolling authorities are taking to recover unpaid violations and the emergence of advanced fleet technology that allows for the easy visualization of Big Data though the use of easy-to-understand alerts, dashboards and reports.
ARI’s 2014 Industry Outlook is available for download on the company’s website: arifleet.com/news.
About ARI®
ARI, part of the Holman Automotive Group, is a global vehicle fleet management organization that drives the best results for each of its clients’ unique and complex needs by employing the industry’s best fleet professionals, processes, and technology. A workforce numbering more than 2,500 collaborates across offices located throughout North America, Europe, the UK, and Hong Kong to manage more than 1,000,000 fleet vehicles in North America, the UK and Europe, and combined with its strategic partners more than two million fleet vehicles globally. A leader in its industry, ARI has been recognized as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE magazine. ARI is headquartered in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Learn more at www.arifleet.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Drivewyze Offers Free Nationwide Weigh Station Alerts with New Version of PreClear
BURLINGAME, Calif., Jan. 30, 2014 – Drivewyze is announcing a free nationwide weigh station and inspection site alert service available without subscription to all truck drivers with the launch of PreClear 3.0, the newest version of its weigh station app.
“By downloading this free app from the Google Play store onto their Android smartphones or tablets, drivers will receive advance notice of upcoming weigh stations and inspection sites, so they have time to prepare,” said Brian Mofford, vice president of Drivewyze. “Users will get an audio and visual alert two miles and one mile before the weigh station. They will know when they need to be in the correct lane and to slow down to pull in to the station or inspection site, if necessary.”
Users can download the free app and use it immediately without any obligation or time limits, Mofford said. Plus, they don’t have to create accounts to access the free weigh station alert service.
"We know most drivers appreciate practical tools to improve safety," he said. "The Drivewyze Weigh Station Heads Up service works in all 50 states and recognizes both permanent weigh stations and temporary inspection sites at more than 700 locations nationwide.”
At any time, users can click a button in the app and start an optional 30-day free trial of the subscription-based Drivewyze PreClear weigh station bypass service. With the bypass service, drivers receive not only a free heads-up notification, but also the opportunity to request and receive bypass privileges at 252 weigh stations and inspection sites across 19 states. Bypass rates range from 50 percent to 98 percent based on a carrier’s credentials and safety record.
The new version of PreClear 3.0 also features improved functionalities to enhance the ease and simplicity of its interface, Mofford said. Drivewyze is a hands-free service that is safe and compliant with all federal and state driving laws.
The initial release of the nationwide Weigh Station Heads Up service is available only for Android users. The PreClear bypass service remains available for both iOS and Android devices.
While the Drivewyze PreClear heads-up service is free, the bypass service is subscription-based and starts at $15.75 per vehicle per month with free trial offers and volume discounts available.
“An FMCSA study demonstrated that one weigh station stop made for several minutes at a time can cost $8.68 in fuel and time lost so the cost of PreClear bypass service pays for itself in just a few bypasses per month,” Mofford added.
“The number of states and weigh stations offering the premium bypass service is quickly growing,” Mofford said. “Less than 12 percent of trucks use traditional bypass services and more and more agency partners across the country are recognizing that offering more bypass options to trucks will lead to higher industry participation. Industry wins with more choice, more bypass sites and more profit, while everyone advances in the mutual goals of improving highway safety and mobility.”
About Drivewyze Inc.
Drivewyze Inc. is the smart mobility services company for the transportation industry. Drivewyze and its sister company, Intelligent Imaging Systems Inc., are on a mission to revolutionize the delivery of highway safety and transportation management through world-class products, systems and services. Drivewyze serves commercial drivers and fleets with innovative offerings such as Drivewyze Weigh Station Heads Up and Drivewyze PreClear Bypass service. Learn more about Drivewyze at www.drivewyze.com.
“By downloading this free app from the Google Play store onto their Android smartphones or tablets, drivers will receive advance notice of upcoming weigh stations and inspection sites, so they have time to prepare,” said Brian Mofford, vice president of Drivewyze. “Users will get an audio and visual alert two miles and one mile before the weigh station. They will know when they need to be in the correct lane and to slow down to pull in to the station or inspection site, if necessary.”
Users can download the free app and use it immediately without any obligation or time limits, Mofford said. Plus, they don’t have to create accounts to access the free weigh station alert service.
"We know most drivers appreciate practical tools to improve safety," he said. "The Drivewyze Weigh Station Heads Up service works in all 50 states and recognizes both permanent weigh stations and temporary inspection sites at more than 700 locations nationwide.”
At any time, users can click a button in the app and start an optional 30-day free trial of the subscription-based Drivewyze PreClear weigh station bypass service. With the bypass service, drivers receive not only a free heads-up notification, but also the opportunity to request and receive bypass privileges at 252 weigh stations and inspection sites across 19 states. Bypass rates range from 50 percent to 98 percent based on a carrier’s credentials and safety record.
The new version of PreClear 3.0 also features improved functionalities to enhance the ease and simplicity of its interface, Mofford said. Drivewyze is a hands-free service that is safe and compliant with all federal and state driving laws.
The initial release of the nationwide Weigh Station Heads Up service is available only for Android users. The PreClear bypass service remains available for both iOS and Android devices.
While the Drivewyze PreClear heads-up service is free, the bypass service is subscription-based and starts at $15.75 per vehicle per month with free trial offers and volume discounts available.
“An FMCSA study demonstrated that one weigh station stop made for several minutes at a time can cost $8.68 in fuel and time lost so the cost of PreClear bypass service pays for itself in just a few bypasses per month,” Mofford added.
“The number of states and weigh stations offering the premium bypass service is quickly growing,” Mofford said. “Less than 12 percent of trucks use traditional bypass services and more and more agency partners across the country are recognizing that offering more bypass options to trucks will lead to higher industry participation. Industry wins with more choice, more bypass sites and more profit, while everyone advances in the mutual goals of improving highway safety and mobility.”
About Drivewyze Inc.
Drivewyze Inc. is the smart mobility services company for the transportation industry. Drivewyze and its sister company, Intelligent Imaging Systems Inc., are on a mission to revolutionize the delivery of highway safety and transportation management through world-class products, systems and services. Drivewyze serves commercial drivers and fleets with innovative offerings such as Drivewyze Weigh Station Heads Up and Drivewyze PreClear Bypass service. Learn more about Drivewyze at www.drivewyze.com.
LEASEPLAN CANADA OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Toronto, ON (January 30, 2014)--LeasePlan Corporation N.V., the world’s leading fleet management and driver mobility company, today officially launched LeasePlan Canada (LPCA). In November 2013, LeasePlan announced that it would expand its North American service offering to include Canada. LPCA provides a full spectrum of services from leasing, maintenance, repair and accident management to vehicle remarketing. It has signed contracts with their first client and expects to have their first vehicle on the road shortly.
“LeasePlan customers in North America have come to expect a high level of service and they don’t believe that service level should be restricted by country borders,” stated Jeff Hartley, president of LeasePlan Canada, “And we at LeasePlan Canada are dedicated to providing that same level of service.”
Jon Toups, chief sales and marketing officer for LeasePlan USA adds “In addition to the full portfolio of services, LeasePlan Canada and LeasePlan USA have partnered to create a regional fleet management solution that includes consolidated data and one-point-of-contact account management. We are very excited that LeasePlan is now in a position to provide our regional clients with an integrated service offering.”
With the launch of LeasePlan Canada, LeasePlan now has complete North American coverage with locations in the US, Mexico and Canada.
About LeasePlan Canada
LeasePlan is the world’s leading provider of fleet and vehicle management solutions. Our global franchise manages some 1.36 million multi-brand vehicles and provides fleet and vehicle management services in 32 countries. LeasePlan Canada prides itself on delivering high-touch service and innovative products that offer total cost reduction for fleets.
Find out why it’s easier to leaseplan.
Visit www.leaseplan.ca for more information.
“LeasePlan customers in North America have come to expect a high level of service and they don’t believe that service level should be restricted by country borders,” stated Jeff Hartley, president of LeasePlan Canada, “And we at LeasePlan Canada are dedicated to providing that same level of service.”
Jon Toups, chief sales and marketing officer for LeasePlan USA adds “In addition to the full portfolio of services, LeasePlan Canada and LeasePlan USA have partnered to create a regional fleet management solution that includes consolidated data and one-point-of-contact account management. We are very excited that LeasePlan is now in a position to provide our regional clients with an integrated service offering.”
With the launch of LeasePlan Canada, LeasePlan now has complete North American coverage with locations in the US, Mexico and Canada.
About LeasePlan Canada
LeasePlan is the world’s leading provider of fleet and vehicle management solutions. Our global franchise manages some 1.36 million multi-brand vehicles and provides fleet and vehicle management services in 32 countries. LeasePlan Canada prides itself on delivering high-touch service and innovative products that offer total cost reduction for fleets.
Find out why it’s easier to leaseplan.
Visit www.leaseplan.ca for more information.
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Greenercars.org Releases 2014 Environmental Scores: Smart ForTwo Electric Drive Tops Greenest Vehicles List
Washington, D.C. (January 28, 2014): Looking forward to vehicle sales above 16 million in 2014 for the first time in seven years, automakers are capitalizing on the market upswing by offering customers a vast array of vehicle options. Today at greenercars.org, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) released its 17th annual comprehensive environmental ratings for vehicles.
This year, the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive tops the "Greenest" list with a highest-ever score of 59 out of 100, just in time for the vehicle's nationwide rollout. Following closely behind are the Toyota Prius C and the Nissan Leaf with scores of 57 and 55 respectively. Toyota's entire family of Priuses performs exceedingly well again this year, with the regular Prius and the Prius plug-in hybrid nabbing spots #4 and #7. Other top scorers for 2014 include the Honda Civic Hybrid (#5), Lexus CT 200H (#6), Honda Insight (#10), and the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid (#12). Making its return to the "Greenest" list after an absence last year is the Honda Civic Natural Gas vehicle (#9).
New to the list this year is the Mitsubishi Mirage, Mitsubishi's new subcompact offering for the American market. With a Green Score of 55, the gasoline vehicle takes the 8th spot on our list. The only other non-hybrid gasoline model to make the list this year is the Smart ForTwo which placed at #11.
"We've had such an influx of hybrid and electric vehicles in recent years that the race to earn a spot on the "Greenest" list is more competitive than ever, particularly for conventional vehicles. It's encouraging to see automakers investing heavily in eco-savvy vehicles on the whole," said ACEEE lead vehicle analyst Shruti Vaidyanathan.
"From the rise in the number of efficient vehicles in car-sharing and car rental fleets to the myriad advanced technology vehicle choices available to consumers, the leading edge of the U.S. auto market is evolving rapidly," said Steve Nadel, ACEEE's Executive Director.
The greenercars.org website also identifies top widely-available models in each vehicle class. This "Greener Choices" list includes trucks and SUVs such as the Buick Encore, Nissan Rogue, and the Ram 1500 HFE. The Chevrolet Spark and Nissan Juke top their respective car classes. As the list demonstrates, consumers can make "greener choices" whatever their vehicle needs may be. Domestic manufacturers claimed four of the twelve "Greener Choices" spots.
Greenercars.org provides the facts necessary to examine the eco-performance of any 2014 model. The site assigns each vehicle a "Green Score," a singular measure that incorporates lifecycle greenhouse gas and criteria pollutant emissions. This year, a number of updates were made to the greenercars.org methodology to more accurately estimate vehicles' environmental impacts. These include updates to in-use emissions of methane and nitrous oxides, evaporative emissions estimates, and gasoline, diesel, and natural gas "upstream" emissions. Vehicles not intended to achieve significant sales volumes are not eligible for spots on the "Greenest" list.
The "Meanest" list this year is comprised of heavier light-duty vehicles and European sports cars that are the least friendly to the environment. The dirtiest vehicle for 2014 is the Class 2B Ram 2500 with a Green Score of 18, followed by the Bugatti Veyron and the Ford E-150 FFV Wagon with scores of 19 and 21 respectively.Special use vans above 8,500 lbs are given a Green Score but are not included on the "Meanest" list.
In addition to highlighting the year's "Greenest," "Meanest," "Greener Choices," and best-in-class lists, the greenercars.org website features informational write-ups on model year 2014 highlights, a consumer primer on vehicles and the environment, and advice on how to buy green when shopping for a new car or truck.
Summary "Green Scores" of the 1,000+ configurations of all model year 2014 vehicles are made available to subscribers of the greenercars.org interactive database along with each configuration's fuel economy, health-related pollution impacts, and greenhouse gas emissions. Subscribers can also build custom lists for comparing vehicles. Monthly and annual subscriptions to greenercars.org are available on the website.
For access to all 2014 environmental scores, media should contact Patrick Kiker at 202.507.4010, pkiker@aceee.org.
About ACEEE: The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy acts as a catalyst to advance energy efficiency policies, programs, technologies, investments, and behaviors. For information about ACEEE and its programs, publications, and conferences, visit aceee.org.
This year, the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive tops the "Greenest" list with a highest-ever score of 59 out of 100, just in time for the vehicle's nationwide rollout. Following closely behind are the Toyota Prius C and the Nissan Leaf with scores of 57 and 55 respectively. Toyota's entire family of Priuses performs exceedingly well again this year, with the regular Prius and the Prius plug-in hybrid nabbing spots #4 and #7. Other top scorers for 2014 include the Honda Civic Hybrid (#5), Lexus CT 200H (#6), Honda Insight (#10), and the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid (#12). Making its return to the "Greenest" list after an absence last year is the Honda Civic Natural Gas vehicle (#9).
New to the list this year is the Mitsubishi Mirage, Mitsubishi's new subcompact offering for the American market. With a Green Score of 55, the gasoline vehicle takes the 8th spot on our list. The only other non-hybrid gasoline model to make the list this year is the Smart ForTwo which placed at #11.
"We've had such an influx of hybrid and electric vehicles in recent years that the race to earn a spot on the "Greenest" list is more competitive than ever, particularly for conventional vehicles. It's encouraging to see automakers investing heavily in eco-savvy vehicles on the whole," said ACEEE lead vehicle analyst Shruti Vaidyanathan.
"From the rise in the number of efficient vehicles in car-sharing and car rental fleets to the myriad advanced technology vehicle choices available to consumers, the leading edge of the U.S. auto market is evolving rapidly," said Steve Nadel, ACEEE's Executive Director.
The greenercars.org website also identifies top widely-available models in each vehicle class. This "Greener Choices" list includes trucks and SUVs such as the Buick Encore, Nissan Rogue, and the Ram 1500 HFE. The Chevrolet Spark and Nissan Juke top their respective car classes. As the list demonstrates, consumers can make "greener choices" whatever their vehicle needs may be. Domestic manufacturers claimed four of the twelve "Greener Choices" spots.
Greenercars.org provides the facts necessary to examine the eco-performance of any 2014 model. The site assigns each vehicle a "Green Score," a singular measure that incorporates lifecycle greenhouse gas and criteria pollutant emissions. This year, a number of updates were made to the greenercars.org methodology to more accurately estimate vehicles' environmental impacts. These include updates to in-use emissions of methane and nitrous oxides, evaporative emissions estimates, and gasoline, diesel, and natural gas "upstream" emissions. Vehicles not intended to achieve significant sales volumes are not eligible for spots on the "Greenest" list.
The "Meanest" list this year is comprised of heavier light-duty vehicles and European sports cars that are the least friendly to the environment. The dirtiest vehicle for 2014 is the Class 2B Ram 2500 with a Green Score of 18, followed by the Bugatti Veyron and the Ford E-150 FFV Wagon with scores of 19 and 21 respectively.Special use vans above 8,500 lbs are given a Green Score but are not included on the "Meanest" list.
In addition to highlighting the year's "Greenest," "Meanest," "Greener Choices," and best-in-class lists, the greenercars.org website features informational write-ups on model year 2014 highlights, a consumer primer on vehicles and the environment, and advice on how to buy green when shopping for a new car or truck.
Summary "Green Scores" of the 1,000+ configurations of all model year 2014 vehicles are made available to subscribers of the greenercars.org interactive database along with each configuration's fuel economy, health-related pollution impacts, and greenhouse gas emissions. Subscribers can also build custom lists for comparing vehicles. Monthly and annual subscriptions to greenercars.org are available on the website.
For access to all 2014 environmental scores, media should contact Patrick Kiker at 202.507.4010, pkiker@aceee.org.
About ACEEE: The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy acts as a catalyst to advance energy efficiency policies, programs, technologies, investments, and behaviors. For information about ACEEE and its programs, publications, and conferences, visit aceee.org.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Comdata Reaches Agreement to Settle Class Action Litigation
Brentwood, Tenn.— January 21, 2014 — Comdata
Inc., a recognized leader in fleet payment solutions, announced today
that it has signed a memorandum of understanding to resolve claims
brought by a putative
class of U.S. retail fueling merchants in the U.S. District Court for
the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
Stuart C. Harvey, Jr.,
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Comdata Inc. stated,
“We are very pleased to have reached an agreement that directly
addresses merchant issues while continuing to emphasize
and ensure fair treatment at the point of sale for fleets that carry the
Comdata Card. While Comdata believes the lawsuit lacked merit, we
decided to resolve the lawsuit so that we can continue to focus our full
attention on strengthening and growing our relationships
with our merchant and fleet customers.”
Randy Morgan, Executive
Vice President of Comdata’s fleet business stated, “Comdata’s number
one priority is, and has always been, to serve as a trusted, independent
partner for customers on both sides of fueling
transactions. This settlement reflects our commitment to leadership in
the industry by moving forward in a way that is fair and appropriate to
both fueling merchants and the fleets that patronize them.”
Under
the terms of the memorandum of understanding, which will need to be
finalized in a definitive settlement agreement and approved by the
Court, Comdata has agreed to make a one-time cash payment of $100
million
as part of a $130 million global settlement with other defendants in the
lawsuit, and to provide certain prospective relief with respect to
specific provisions in its merchant agreements. This settlement will
provide Comdata and affiliated companies, including
its parent, Ceridian, which was also named in the lawsuit, with a broad
release of claims and will limit their exposure to legal claims by
merchants. Further details about the prospective relief and other
settlement details will not be public until after the
definitive settlement agreement is final.
The lawsuit, Marchbanks
Truck Service, Inc. d/b/a Bear Mountain Truck Stop, et al. v. Comdata
Network, Inc., et al., was initiated in March, 2007.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Nearly 1,000 New Hires Start Work at Kansas City Assembly Plant to Launch All-New Ford Transit; Ford Hires 175 More
KANSAS CITY, Mo., Jan. 16, 2014 – Ford this week begins welcoming nearly 1,000 new employees at its Kansas City Assembly Plant to prepare for the launch of the all-new Ford Transit that goes on sale in the United States this summer.
The company also is announcing that 175 additional employees will be hired by March to help build the new Transit. The new employees put Ford Motor Company on the top 10 list of Missouri employers.
The all-new Transit builds on its more than 45 years of heritage in Europe, where it is the best-selling medium commercial vehicle nameplate. On sale this summer, Transit will offer the widest choice of roof heights, wheelbases and body lengths to maximize flexibility, plus a full suite of onboard features and technologies that are intuitive, easy to operate and designed for business. Three proven powertrains will offer best-in-class mileage with plenty of performance to get the job done, while also providing alternative fuel options.
Transit is part of an unprecedented product year for Ford Motor Company. It is one of 16 new North American products – and 23 global products – Ford will launch in 2014, triple the number of new products Ford launched last year in North America.
Transit eventually will replace Ford E-Series, which has reigned as America’s best-selling van for 35 years.
“For decades, Ford E-Series has been the leading choice among business owners for a tough, durable cargo vehicle that also delivers unmatched flexibility and capability,” said John Ruppert, Ford general manager, commercial vehicle sales and marketing. “Transit is the natural successor to E-Series, taking flexibility and capability to new levels, while also adding in superior fuel efficiency.”
Kansas City Assembly Plant is home of the 2014 F-150 and will begin producing the all-new 2015 F-150 in the first quarter of 2015. The 1,000 employees announced today are part of more than 2,000 jobs that have been added at the plant to meet growing demand for Ford trucks, and to launch production of the all-new Ford Transit van. To prepare for the new van, 300 employees started work at the plant in late 2013, with an additional 300 workers joining the week of Jan. 6 and 400 more this week.
Jobs at Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant increased more than 35 percent year-over-year, with approximately 3,400 employees in 2013 and more than 4,600 who will report for work by March. The new jobs also make Ford the top auto employer in Kansas City.
Overall this year, Ford is creating more than 5,000 new jobs in the U.S., including 3,300 salaried positions. It is the largest hiring initiative for the company since 2000, and builds on more than 14,000 jobs Ford has created during the past two years in North America.
Ford Transit
Transit first was sold in 1965, and is the best-selling commercial van in the UK for 48 years. More than 7 million Transit vans have been sold globally. Like the venerable E-Series, the all-new Transit is Built Ford Tough, offering drivers the power, durability and capability they need to get the job done efficiently.
Transit also brings customers more choices than ever from a Ford van. Cargo volume ranges from about 250 cubic feet to almost 500 cubic feet – more than twice the volume of today’s standard E-Series – saving customers the time and hassle of a second trip and associated fuel costs. Ford Transit will achieve an average of 25 percent better fuel economy and haul at least 300 pounds more than today’s E-Series.
For more information on the 2015 Ford Transit, click here.
Committed to Kansas City
The additional jobs at Kansas City Assembly Plant come as Ford continues to retool and expand the facility through a $1.1 billion investment for Transit production. When Transit production begins nearly 275 suppliers nationally and six suppliers locally will grow their businesses through job creation and manufacturing investment.
“With Ford hiring the 1,000th worker to work on the Transit, it’s clear that our efforts to rebuild Missouri’s auto sector continue to pay real dividends for Missouri families in the Kansas City region and across our state,” said Gov. Jay Nixon. “As governor, I greatly appreciate Ford’s strong and growing investment in our state and the outstanding workers who will build this next-generation vehicle right here in Missouri.”
The company also is announcing that 175 additional employees will be hired by March to help build the new Transit. The new employees put Ford Motor Company on the top 10 list of Missouri employers.
The all-new Transit builds on its more than 45 years of heritage in Europe, where it is the best-selling medium commercial vehicle nameplate. On sale this summer, Transit will offer the widest choice of roof heights, wheelbases and body lengths to maximize flexibility, plus a full suite of onboard features and technologies that are intuitive, easy to operate and designed for business. Three proven powertrains will offer best-in-class mileage with plenty of performance to get the job done, while also providing alternative fuel options.
Transit is part of an unprecedented product year for Ford Motor Company. It is one of 16 new North American products – and 23 global products – Ford will launch in 2014, triple the number of new products Ford launched last year in North America.
Transit eventually will replace Ford E-Series, which has reigned as America’s best-selling van for 35 years.
“For decades, Ford E-Series has been the leading choice among business owners for a tough, durable cargo vehicle that also delivers unmatched flexibility and capability,” said John Ruppert, Ford general manager, commercial vehicle sales and marketing. “Transit is the natural successor to E-Series, taking flexibility and capability to new levels, while also adding in superior fuel efficiency.”
Kansas City Assembly Plant is home of the 2014 F-150 and will begin producing the all-new 2015 F-150 in the first quarter of 2015. The 1,000 employees announced today are part of more than 2,000 jobs that have been added at the plant to meet growing demand for Ford trucks, and to launch production of the all-new Ford Transit van. To prepare for the new van, 300 employees started work at the plant in late 2013, with an additional 300 workers joining the week of Jan. 6 and 400 more this week.
Jobs at Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant increased more than 35 percent year-over-year, with approximately 3,400 employees in 2013 and more than 4,600 who will report for work by March. The new jobs also make Ford the top auto employer in Kansas City.
Overall this year, Ford is creating more than 5,000 new jobs in the U.S., including 3,300 salaried positions. It is the largest hiring initiative for the company since 2000, and builds on more than 14,000 jobs Ford has created during the past two years in North America.
Ford Transit
Transit first was sold in 1965, and is the best-selling commercial van in the UK for 48 years. More than 7 million Transit vans have been sold globally. Like the venerable E-Series, the all-new Transit is Built Ford Tough, offering drivers the power, durability and capability they need to get the job done efficiently.
Transit also brings customers more choices than ever from a Ford van. Cargo volume ranges from about 250 cubic feet to almost 500 cubic feet – more than twice the volume of today’s standard E-Series – saving customers the time and hassle of a second trip and associated fuel costs. Ford Transit will achieve an average of 25 percent better fuel economy and haul at least 300 pounds more than today’s E-Series.
For more information on the 2015 Ford Transit, click here.
Committed to Kansas City
The additional jobs at Kansas City Assembly Plant come as Ford continues to retool and expand the facility through a $1.1 billion investment for Transit production. When Transit production begins nearly 275 suppliers nationally and six suppliers locally will grow their businesses through job creation and manufacturing investment.
“With Ford hiring the 1,000th worker to work on the Transit, it’s clear that our efforts to rebuild Missouri’s auto sector continue to pay real dividends for Missouri families in the Kansas City region and across our state,” said Gov. Jay Nixon. “As governor, I greatly appreciate Ford’s strong and growing investment in our state and the outstanding workers who will build this next-generation vehicle right here in Missouri.”
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Holman Automotive and ARI Raise $29,000 in Support of Several Charitable Initiatives throughout the Fall
MT. LAUREL, NJ (January 15, 2014): Holman Automotive and ARI®, a leading global fleet services provider specializing in complex car and truck fleets, raised more than $29,000 through donations and participation in several charitable initiatives throughout October, November and December of 2013. These initiatives included a variety of charity walks, participation in the global Movember movement and donations to the Food Bank of South Jersey.
“Each of these organizations directly impacts the community in which we live and work. Our employees and their families feel a strong bond to each of these remarkable causes and both the Holman Automotive Group and ARI are proud to foster and support this connection to our community,” said President and Chief Executive Officer Mindy Holman. “We are honored to support these tremendous charitable initiatives and look forward to continuing to do so for many years to come.”
Together, Holman and ARI participated in the following charity walks:
The Southern NJ Fall Heart Walk -- The event, which took place October 26 at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken, New Jersey, supports the American Heart Association.
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer -- The American Cancer Society events took place on October 20 in Ocean City, New Jersey and October 27 at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken, New Jersey, raising funds and awareness to support the fight against breast cancer. Holman and ARI have supported this inspiring walk for more than 20 years.
JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes -- Holman and ARI participated in the walk which helps to raise funds for the millions of people living with and affected by Type 1 diabetes. The event was held at the Waterfront at the Susquehanna Bank Center in Camden, New Jersey on October 27.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s -- The walk helps to support the Alzheimer’s Association’s efforts to raise money and awareness to support research to treat and prevent Alzheimer’s. This year’s event took place on November 10 at Citizen’s Bank Park in Philadelphia.
Throughout the fall months, both Holman and ARI also encouraged employees to support these worthy causes by offering custom-designed t-shirts for a $15 donation as well as the opportunity to purchase dress down days for a $10 donation with all funds raised being divided among the charities.
Together, more than 140 people participated in the five walks and, combined with the additional donations collected, raised nearly $14,000 for the four organizations.
Additionally, throughout the month of November, more than 100 men across ARI’s global offices in the United States, Canada and the UK united as one to support the global Movember initiative. The Movember Foundation encourages men to join the movement by growing a moustache for the month of November to raise awareness and funds to combat prostate and testicular cancer as well as mental health challenges. The 100 participants raised more than $9,000, making ARI one of the top 200 multi-national teams.
Finally, ARI and Holman also donated more than $6,000 to the Food Bank of South Jersey during the month of December. This included a $4,000 monetary donation and more than 1,600 pounds of turkeys valued at approximately $2,000. The Holman Automotive group, including ARI, also conducted a food drive across all its location to benefit the Food Bank, collecting nearly 5,800 pounds of food. Located in Pennsauken, New Jersey, the Food Bank of South Jersey is the leading provider of nutritional food to individuals in need throughout the region.
Also as part of Holman’s food drive efforts, locations throughout Florida also collected more than 1,000 pounds of food which was donated to Feeding South Florida. Feeding South Florida, a part of the Feeding America network, is the leading hunger relief organization in South Florida, serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. Programs include soup kitchens, food pantries, homeless shelters, group homes and other emergency food service programs.
For more information, please visit ARIFleet.com. Photos from each event are available upon request.
About Holman Automotive Group, Inc.
Founded in 1924 by Steward Holman, the Holman Automotive Group, Inc. is comprised of more than 25 different operating companies, including dealerships serving Southern New Jersey, the Philadelphia metro region, and Southern Florida; leasing and finance companies; a parts distributorship; truck up-fitting operations; and, the largest privately-owned fleet leasing and management business in the country. Now into the third generation of family leadership, Holman Automotive remains committed to providing the industry's best automotive related services and to the ideals upon which the company was founded: provide exceptional customer service to our customers, support and develop our employees, and give back to the communities that support our success.
About ARI®
ARI, part of the Holman Automotive Group, is a global vehicle fleet management organization that drives the best results for each of its clients’ unique and complex needs by employing the industry’s best fleet professionals, processes, and technology. A workforce numbering more than 2,500 collaborates across offices located throughout North America, Europe, the UK, and Hong Kong to manage more than 1,000,000 fleet vehicles in North America, the UK and Europe, and combined with its strategic partners more than two million fleet vehicles globally. A leader in its industry, ARI has been recognized as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE magazine. ARI is headquartered in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Learn more at www.arifleet.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
“Each of these organizations directly impacts the community in which we live and work. Our employees and their families feel a strong bond to each of these remarkable causes and both the Holman Automotive Group and ARI are proud to foster and support this connection to our community,” said President and Chief Executive Officer Mindy Holman. “We are honored to support these tremendous charitable initiatives and look forward to continuing to do so for many years to come.”
Together, Holman and ARI participated in the following charity walks:
The Southern NJ Fall Heart Walk -- The event, which took place October 26 at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken, New Jersey, supports the American Heart Association.
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer -- The American Cancer Society events took place on October 20 in Ocean City, New Jersey and October 27 at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken, New Jersey, raising funds and awareness to support the fight against breast cancer. Holman and ARI have supported this inspiring walk for more than 20 years.
JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes -- Holman and ARI participated in the walk which helps to raise funds for the millions of people living with and affected by Type 1 diabetes. The event was held at the Waterfront at the Susquehanna Bank Center in Camden, New Jersey on October 27.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s -- The walk helps to support the Alzheimer’s Association’s efforts to raise money and awareness to support research to treat and prevent Alzheimer’s. This year’s event took place on November 10 at Citizen’s Bank Park in Philadelphia.
Throughout the fall months, both Holman and ARI also encouraged employees to support these worthy causes by offering custom-designed t-shirts for a $15 donation as well as the opportunity to purchase dress down days for a $10 donation with all funds raised being divided among the charities.
Together, more than 140 people participated in the five walks and, combined with the additional donations collected, raised nearly $14,000 for the four organizations.
Additionally, throughout the month of November, more than 100 men across ARI’s global offices in the United States, Canada and the UK united as one to support the global Movember initiative. The Movember Foundation encourages men to join the movement by growing a moustache for the month of November to raise awareness and funds to combat prostate and testicular cancer as well as mental health challenges. The 100 participants raised more than $9,000, making ARI one of the top 200 multi-national teams.
Finally, ARI and Holman also donated more than $6,000 to the Food Bank of South Jersey during the month of December. This included a $4,000 monetary donation and more than 1,600 pounds of turkeys valued at approximately $2,000. The Holman Automotive group, including ARI, also conducted a food drive across all its location to benefit the Food Bank, collecting nearly 5,800 pounds of food. Located in Pennsauken, New Jersey, the Food Bank of South Jersey is the leading provider of nutritional food to individuals in need throughout the region.
Also as part of Holman’s food drive efforts, locations throughout Florida also collected more than 1,000 pounds of food which was donated to Feeding South Florida. Feeding South Florida, a part of the Feeding America network, is the leading hunger relief organization in South Florida, serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. Programs include soup kitchens, food pantries, homeless shelters, group homes and other emergency food service programs.
For more information, please visit ARIFleet.com. Photos from each event are available upon request.
About Holman Automotive Group, Inc.
Founded in 1924 by Steward Holman, the Holman Automotive Group, Inc. is comprised of more than 25 different operating companies, including dealerships serving Southern New Jersey, the Philadelphia metro region, and Southern Florida; leasing and finance companies; a parts distributorship; truck up-fitting operations; and, the largest privately-owned fleet leasing and management business in the country. Now into the third generation of family leadership, Holman Automotive remains committed to providing the industry's best automotive related services and to the ideals upon which the company was founded: provide exceptional customer service to our customers, support and develop our employees, and give back to the communities that support our success.
About ARI®
ARI, part of the Holman Automotive Group, is a global vehicle fleet management organization that drives the best results for each of its clients’ unique and complex needs by employing the industry’s best fleet professionals, processes, and technology. A workforce numbering more than 2,500 collaborates across offices located throughout North America, Europe, the UK, and Hong Kong to manage more than 1,000,000 fleet vehicles in North America, the UK and Europe, and combined with its strategic partners more than two million fleet vehicles globally. A leader in its industry, ARI has been recognized as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE magazine. ARI is headquartered in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Learn more at www.arifleet.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Green fleet issues becoming bigger motivator for adopting fleet software in 2014, says Chevin Fleet Solutions
Environmental issues – especially overall carbon emissions – are becoming an ever more important motivator for adopting fleet management software in 2014.
So believes Chevin Fleet Solutions, which says that use of the extensive environmental reporting tools available in its fleet management software is spreading rapidly, especially among federal, municipal and large corporate fleets.
Senior Vice President, North American Sales Ron Katz said: “More and more organizations are adopting alternative fuel targets and innovative transportation initiatives as part of wider environmental policies and vehicle operations strategies in an effort to meet sustainability goals.
“We are seeing increasing numbers of clients making moves to switch from six to four cylinder selectors, or taking steps to ensure that bi-fuel vehicles are burning the correct fuel for the lowest possible emissions output.
“Some ‘early adopter’ fleets are even starting to operate electric vehicles in an effort to make their environmental impact as low as possible.”
Ron explained that one of the difficulties for fleets with sustainability goals is tracking actual fuel usage in a credible way and producing compliance metrics that stand up to environmental auditing.
He said: “Producing figures that validate a fleets environmental performance is a complex task and one that many fleets are finding difficult to handle without help.
“This is why we’re seeing more and more interest in the alternative fuel management capabilities and environmental reporting analytics available using our FleetWave software. Detailed, accurate and timely fuel usage information is readily available by clicking a few buttons within the software.
“Throughout 2013, we’ve found that accurate analysis of sustainability goals has become a more important factor for fleets choosing to adopt our fleet management software and we expect this trend to continue in 2014. Certainly, a fleet’s environmental impact is not a subject that is going to go away any time soon.”
About Chevin Fleet Solutions
Chevin is a leading, global provider of dedicated fleet management software solutions. Our software is used in more than 120 countries worldwide to manage more than 700,000 vehicles with offices in the US, UK, Australia and Europe. We provide software solutions to the public sector, utility, construction and corporate sectors as well as governments and international aid operations of every size and type
So believes Chevin Fleet Solutions, which says that use of the extensive environmental reporting tools available in its fleet management software is spreading rapidly, especially among federal, municipal and large corporate fleets.
Senior Vice President, North American Sales Ron Katz said: “More and more organizations are adopting alternative fuel targets and innovative transportation initiatives as part of wider environmental policies and vehicle operations strategies in an effort to meet sustainability goals.
“We are seeing increasing numbers of clients making moves to switch from six to four cylinder selectors, or taking steps to ensure that bi-fuel vehicles are burning the correct fuel for the lowest possible emissions output.
“Some ‘early adopter’ fleets are even starting to operate electric vehicles in an effort to make their environmental impact as low as possible.”
Ron explained that one of the difficulties for fleets with sustainability goals is tracking actual fuel usage in a credible way and producing compliance metrics that stand up to environmental auditing.
He said: “Producing figures that validate a fleets environmental performance is a complex task and one that many fleets are finding difficult to handle without help.
“This is why we’re seeing more and more interest in the alternative fuel management capabilities and environmental reporting analytics available using our FleetWave software. Detailed, accurate and timely fuel usage information is readily available by clicking a few buttons within the software.
“Throughout 2013, we’ve found that accurate analysis of sustainability goals has become a more important factor for fleets choosing to adopt our fleet management software and we expect this trend to continue in 2014. Certainly, a fleet’s environmental impact is not a subject that is going to go away any time soon.”
About Chevin Fleet Solutions
Chevin is a leading, global provider of dedicated fleet management software solutions. Our software is used in more than 120 countries worldwide to manage more than 700,000 vehicles with offices in the US, UK, Australia and Europe. We provide software solutions to the public sector, utility, construction and corporate sectors as well as governments and international aid operations of every size and type
Drivewyze Continues March Westward Adding Inspection Site Bypass in Colorado
Colorado Becomes 19th State to Offer Drivewyze PreClear Bypass Service
BURLINGAME, Calif., Jan. 14, 2013 – Drivewyze and the Colorado State Patrol announced that Colorado has become the 19th state to offer the Drivewyze PreClear bypass service, which uses tablets, smartphones and select electronic on-board recorders to provide commercial vehicles with inspection site bypass opportunities.
“We’re pleased that the Colorado State Patrol recognizes the value in offering the trucking industry additional inspection site bypass options,” said Brian Heath, president of Drivewyze. “The addition of Colorado, which is on the heels of adding Kansas, is a significant part of our expansion of service westward across the United States. With Colorado now on board, truckers traveling across the United States with Drivewyze PreClear will find more inspection site bypass opportunities along their routes.”
Drivewyze mobile-based bypass services are now available at 13 fixed locations in Colorado, including the southbound Monument Port of Entry near Exit 11 on U.S. Interstate 25 and the eastbound Loma Port of Entry near Exit 15 on U.S. Interstate 70. The service officially went live on Dec. 13.
“The addition of this mobile-based inspection site bypass service is another tool for us to improve highway safety,” said Kirstie Nixon, port of entry director for the Colorado State Patrol. “Drivewyze provides safety information to port of entry weigh stations two miles before the truck arrives, which, in most cases, allows the driver to clear the port without pulling into the port. It improves our ability to concentrate our efforts on vehicles that should be inspected, and helps to reduce congestion. It also helps us keep freight moving more quickly across Colorado, while still properly vetting trucks and carriers for safety. Drivewyze benefits both the trucking industry and the motoring public.
“Drivewyze adds no cost to the Port of Entry and gives us the opportunity to work with new types of technology to bring additional efficiency and effectiveness to what we do,” Nixon added.
Drivewyze leverages cellular networks and the internet to add transponder-like functionality to tablets, smartphones and select electronic on-board recorders like those offered by PeopleNet, Zonar and XRS. Unlike traditional methods that use dedicated short-range communication transponders in every truck, Drivewyze doesn’t require the installation of additional equipment.
Drivewyze is available from Google Play as an app for Android-based tablets or smartphones or from the Drivewyze web site for iOS-based tablets or smartphones. It is both safe and easy to use, with assured privacy and data protection, meeting both federal and state distracted driving laws. Drivewyze benefits safe truck fleets and operators by giving them opportunities to gain bypasses through the strength of their safety scores and other factors including registration and IFTA tax compliance.
A free trial period and in-app trial activation allows drivers and fleets new to the subscription service to take full advantage of bypass opportunities almost immediately. Following the trial period, the regular subscription fee is $15.75 per truck per month. There’s no annual commitment and users can cancel at any time.
About Drivewyze Inc.
Drivewyze Inc. is the smart mobility services company for the transportation industry. Drivewyze and its sister company, Intelligent Imaging Systems Inc., are on a mission to revolutionize the delivery of highway safety and transportation management through world-class products, systems and services. Drivewyze serves commercial drivers and fleets with innovative trucking apps such as Drivewyze Weigh Station Heads Up and Drivewyze PreClear Bypass service. Learn more about Drivewyze at www.drivewyze.com.
BURLINGAME, Calif., Jan. 14, 2013 – Drivewyze and the Colorado State Patrol announced that Colorado has become the 19th state to offer the Drivewyze PreClear bypass service, which uses tablets, smartphones and select electronic on-board recorders to provide commercial vehicles with inspection site bypass opportunities.
“We’re pleased that the Colorado State Patrol recognizes the value in offering the trucking industry additional inspection site bypass options,” said Brian Heath, president of Drivewyze. “The addition of Colorado, which is on the heels of adding Kansas, is a significant part of our expansion of service westward across the United States. With Colorado now on board, truckers traveling across the United States with Drivewyze PreClear will find more inspection site bypass opportunities along their routes.”
Drivewyze mobile-based bypass services are now available at 13 fixed locations in Colorado, including the southbound Monument Port of Entry near Exit 11 on U.S. Interstate 25 and the eastbound Loma Port of Entry near Exit 15 on U.S. Interstate 70. The service officially went live on Dec. 13.
“The addition of this mobile-based inspection site bypass service is another tool for us to improve highway safety,” said Kirstie Nixon, port of entry director for the Colorado State Patrol. “Drivewyze provides safety information to port of entry weigh stations two miles before the truck arrives, which, in most cases, allows the driver to clear the port without pulling into the port. It improves our ability to concentrate our efforts on vehicles that should be inspected, and helps to reduce congestion. It also helps us keep freight moving more quickly across Colorado, while still properly vetting trucks and carriers for safety. Drivewyze benefits both the trucking industry and the motoring public.
“Drivewyze adds no cost to the Port of Entry and gives us the opportunity to work with new types of technology to bring additional efficiency and effectiveness to what we do,” Nixon added.
Drivewyze leverages cellular networks and the internet to add transponder-like functionality to tablets, smartphones and select electronic on-board recorders like those offered by PeopleNet, Zonar and XRS. Unlike traditional methods that use dedicated short-range communication transponders in every truck, Drivewyze doesn’t require the installation of additional equipment.
Drivewyze is available from Google Play as an app for Android-based tablets or smartphones or from the Drivewyze web site for iOS-based tablets or smartphones. It is both safe and easy to use, with assured privacy and data protection, meeting both federal and state distracted driving laws. Drivewyze benefits safe truck fleets and operators by giving them opportunities to gain bypasses through the strength of their safety scores and other factors including registration and IFTA tax compliance.
A free trial period and in-app trial activation allows drivers and fleets new to the subscription service to take full advantage of bypass opportunities almost immediately. Following the trial period, the regular subscription fee is $15.75 per truck per month. There’s no annual commitment and users can cancel at any time.
About Drivewyze Inc.
Drivewyze Inc. is the smart mobility services company for the transportation industry. Drivewyze and its sister company, Intelligent Imaging Systems Inc., are on a mission to revolutionize the delivery of highway safety and transportation management through world-class products, systems and services. Drivewyze serves commercial drivers and fleets with innovative trucking apps such as Drivewyze Weigh Station Heads Up and Drivewyze PreClear Bypass service. Learn more about Drivewyze at www.drivewyze.com.
Proterra Closes Second Round of Series C Investment on Strong Sales Performance, Industry Leadership
GREENVILLE, S.C., – Proterra Inc., manufacturer of the most cost-effective zero emission battery electric buses on the market today, has closed round two of its Series C funding on January 8. More than $10 million was raised in this second round, bringing total Series C funding to date to more than $34 million. Funding was based in large measure on the company’s strong 2013 performance and aggressive sales.
The second round of Series C investment was led by Nick and Joby Pritzker through their family’s firm, Tao Invest, and selected existing shareholders. Previous investors include electric industry leaders Edison Energy, Inc. and Constellation, along with Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, GM Ventures, Mitsui & Co. Global Investment, Inc., Vision Ridge Partners, Hennessey Capital and 88 Green Ventures.
Proterra expects to close Series C funding before the end of Q1 2014.
“There is no doubt that cities and campuses alike are choosing to explore and invest in more energy-efficient clean transit options to help reduce costs, meet environmental mandates and improve quality of life,” said Nick Pritzker. “With the growing trend toward re-urbanization, demand will only continue to grow. We chose to invest in Proterra based on its clear leadership in this burgeoning market.”
Proterra is the manufacturer of the only battery-electric buses purchased for revenue service anywhere in North America. Its BE35 is the only electric transit bus to ever pass stringent federally-required Altoona testing. The company has recently announced a host of new sales, including several from repeat customers. Proterra will use these additional Series C proceeds to continue to fund production growth and product development efforts to keep pace with accelerating demand.
“Thanks in large measure to our unparalleled technology and unwavering commitment to providing superior service, as well as the vision and advice of our investors, like the Pritzkers, Proterra is riding a wave of success right now,” noted Proterra Chief Executive Officer Garrett Mikita. “We are closing sales, delivering buses and earning repeat business from satisfied customers at an incredibly rapid pace, and we only expect that to continue as more of our early adopters become evangelists for the value proposition presented by our fast-charge, lightweight EV buses.”
About Proterra
Proterra is a leader in the design and manufacture of clean technology and clean energy, providing zero emission vehicles that enable bus fleet operators to significantly reduce operating cost while delivering clean, quiet power to the community. The EcoRide™ is the world’s first battery electric bus with fast charge enabled infinite range. With unmatched durability and energy efficiency based on rigorous industry testing at Altoona, the Proterra product is proudly made in America and based in Greenville, SC. For more information about Proterra, please visit www.proterra.com.
The second round of Series C investment was led by Nick and Joby Pritzker through their family’s firm, Tao Invest, and selected existing shareholders. Previous investors include electric industry leaders Edison Energy, Inc. and Constellation, along with Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, GM Ventures, Mitsui & Co. Global Investment, Inc., Vision Ridge Partners, Hennessey Capital and 88 Green Ventures.
Proterra expects to close Series C funding before the end of Q1 2014.
“There is no doubt that cities and campuses alike are choosing to explore and invest in more energy-efficient clean transit options to help reduce costs, meet environmental mandates and improve quality of life,” said Nick Pritzker. “With the growing trend toward re-urbanization, demand will only continue to grow. We chose to invest in Proterra based on its clear leadership in this burgeoning market.”
Proterra is the manufacturer of the only battery-electric buses purchased for revenue service anywhere in North America. Its BE35 is the only electric transit bus to ever pass stringent federally-required Altoona testing. The company has recently announced a host of new sales, including several from repeat customers. Proterra will use these additional Series C proceeds to continue to fund production growth and product development efforts to keep pace with accelerating demand.
“Thanks in large measure to our unparalleled technology and unwavering commitment to providing superior service, as well as the vision and advice of our investors, like the Pritzkers, Proterra is riding a wave of success right now,” noted Proterra Chief Executive Officer Garrett Mikita. “We are closing sales, delivering buses and earning repeat business from satisfied customers at an incredibly rapid pace, and we only expect that to continue as more of our early adopters become evangelists for the value proposition presented by our fast-charge, lightweight EV buses.”
About Proterra
Proterra is a leader in the design and manufacture of clean technology and clean energy, providing zero emission vehicles that enable bus fleet operators to significantly reduce operating cost while delivering clean, quiet power to the community. The EcoRide™ is the world’s first battery electric bus with fast charge enabled infinite range. With unmatched durability and energy efficiency based on rigorous industry testing at Altoona, the Proterra product is proudly made in America and based in Greenville, SC. For more information about Proterra, please visit www.proterra.com.
Agenda Announced for 2014 Alternative Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo
North America’s largest clean fleet expo will examine case studies from the world’s most progressive fleet operators, spanning all alternative fuels and vehicle weight classes.
SANTA MONICA, Calif.—Jan. 7, 2014—Gladstein, Neandross and Associates (GNA), organizers of the 2014 Alternative Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, today released the agenda for the four-day event taking place May 5–8 at the Long Beach Convention Center.The fleet-focused program was crafted with input from high-volume fleets, including Frito-Lay, City of Los Angeles, GE Capital, Penske, Pacific Gas & Electric, UPS, Coca-Cola, Ryder System, and many others, as well as a US Department of Energy Clean Cities committee, and international alternative fuel industry associations.
With a focus on fuel-cost and emission reductions, ACT Expo 2014 will feature tailored educational sessions, off-site technical tours, an AFV ride and drive event, peer-to-peer networking events, and an expansive expo hall. Plenary and breakout sessions will address the latest fueling, equipment, and technology advancements spanning all weight classes and alternative fuel types—including electric, hybrid, natural gas, propane autogas, renewable fuels, and advanced technologies. Leading public and private fleet operators will share key lessons learned from their clean transportation initiatives. In addition, the industry’s leading experts and policy makers will convene in plenary sessions to share their insight on the future of the ever-diversifying transportation sector.
“We are seeing gains across the entire spectrum of clean and advanced transportation options,” said Erik Neandross, CEO at GNA. “Records are being set in electric vehicles sales, and the momentum continues in heavy-duty natural gas trucks.”
Neandross continued, “Hydrogen fuel cell cars are emerging, at last, as a viable option, and biofuels are benefiting from technology gains and superior, evolved policies. Propane autogas is solidifying its gains in key markets, both by vehicle type and geographically—sales of LPG vehicles doubled last year, says a recent forecast, and could reach 40,000 annually by 2020.”
ACT Expo 2014 is co-located with the 14th biennial NGV Global Conference and Exposition, giving attendees full access to sessions focused on the rapidly evolving global natural gas market. More than 3,500 stakeholdersare expected to gather in Southern California—fleets, technology companies, OEMs, infrastructure developers, fuel providers, and policy makers—making this the largest sustainable transportation event in North America.
Sponsored by nearly 200 leading equipment manufacturers, technology providers and fuels suppliers, the co-located conferences will host some of the top names and leaders across the alternative fuels and clean vehicle technologies arena. Keynotes and speakers will be announced soon.
To view the ACT Expo 2014 agenda in its entirety, visit www.actexpo.com.
SANTA MONICA, Calif.—Jan. 7, 2014—Gladstein, Neandross and Associates (GNA), organizers of the 2014 Alternative Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, today released the agenda for the four-day event taking place May 5–8 at the Long Beach Convention Center.The fleet-focused program was crafted with input from high-volume fleets, including Frito-Lay, City of Los Angeles, GE Capital, Penske, Pacific Gas & Electric, UPS, Coca-Cola, Ryder System, and many others, as well as a US Department of Energy Clean Cities committee, and international alternative fuel industry associations.
With a focus on fuel-cost and emission reductions, ACT Expo 2014 will feature tailored educational sessions, off-site technical tours, an AFV ride and drive event, peer-to-peer networking events, and an expansive expo hall. Plenary and breakout sessions will address the latest fueling, equipment, and technology advancements spanning all weight classes and alternative fuel types—including electric, hybrid, natural gas, propane autogas, renewable fuels, and advanced technologies. Leading public and private fleet operators will share key lessons learned from their clean transportation initiatives. In addition, the industry’s leading experts and policy makers will convene in plenary sessions to share their insight on the future of the ever-diversifying transportation sector.
“We are seeing gains across the entire spectrum of clean and advanced transportation options,” said Erik Neandross, CEO at GNA. “Records are being set in electric vehicles sales, and the momentum continues in heavy-duty natural gas trucks.”
Neandross continued, “Hydrogen fuel cell cars are emerging, at last, as a viable option, and biofuels are benefiting from technology gains and superior, evolved policies. Propane autogas is solidifying its gains in key markets, both by vehicle type and geographically—sales of LPG vehicles doubled last year, says a recent forecast, and could reach 40,000 annually by 2020.”
ACT Expo 2014 is co-located with the 14th biennial NGV Global Conference and Exposition, giving attendees full access to sessions focused on the rapidly evolving global natural gas market. More than 3,500 stakeholdersare expected to gather in Southern California—fleets, technology companies, OEMs, infrastructure developers, fuel providers, and policy makers—making this the largest sustainable transportation event in North America.
Sponsored by nearly 200 leading equipment manufacturers, technology providers and fuels suppliers, the co-located conferences will host some of the top names and leaders across the alternative fuels and clean vehicle technologies arena. Keynotes and speakers will be announced soon.
To view the ACT Expo 2014 agenda in its entirety, visit www.actexpo.com.
CAR LEASE CREDIT APPROVALS REBOUND SLIGHTLY IN DECEMBER
Holiday Shopping Trends Help 2013 Finish With Healthy Credit Approvals
CINCINNATI, OHIO (January 14, 2014) – Swapalease.com, the nation’s largest car lease marketplace, reports lease credit approvals were up slightly in December (73.3%) compared with November levels (70%). The overall approvals rate on the year finished at 72.7%, compared with a 2012 rate of 65.3%.
Holiday lease shopping from a higher population of well-qualified lessees helped improve the credit approval rate from November, when just 70% of applicants were approved. Prior to December, the lease credit approval rate had slipped to 67.9% and Swapalease.com executives believed a higher volume of less-than-ideal credit shoppers were placing stress on the approvals rate.
Historical marketplace trends show that a 70% credit approvals rate is considered healthy for Swapalease.com. The approvals rate had jumped as high as 76% in June of this year before dipping back down, mostly as a result of a higher influx of younger drivers dealing with high levels of student loan debt. Credit is the lifeblood of leasing, and the lease company must approval of all incoming lessees before a transfer can complete in the marketplace
“We anticipated that 2013 would outperform 2012 levels due to the rising health of the automotive industry and overall economic conditions that continue to improve,” said Scot Hall, Executive Vice President of Swapalease.com. “The appetite for leasing should remain solid in 2014 and we believe we will maintain several months of healthy approvals activity, pending unforeseen economic climate conditions.”
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.
CINCINNATI, OHIO (January 14, 2014) – Swapalease.com, the nation’s largest car lease marketplace, reports lease credit approvals were up slightly in December (73.3%) compared with November levels (70%). The overall approvals rate on the year finished at 72.7%, compared with a 2012 rate of 65.3%.
Holiday lease shopping from a higher population of well-qualified lessees helped improve the credit approval rate from November, when just 70% of applicants were approved. Prior to December, the lease credit approval rate had slipped to 67.9% and Swapalease.com executives believed a higher volume of less-than-ideal credit shoppers were placing stress on the approvals rate.
Historical marketplace trends show that a 70% credit approvals rate is considered healthy for Swapalease.com. The approvals rate had jumped as high as 76% in June of this year before dipping back down, mostly as a result of a higher influx of younger drivers dealing with high levels of student loan debt. Credit is the lifeblood of leasing, and the lease company must approval of all incoming lessees before a transfer can complete in the marketplace
“We anticipated that 2013 would outperform 2012 levels due to the rising health of the automotive industry and overall economic conditions that continue to improve,” said Scot Hall, Executive Vice President of Swapalease.com. “The appetite for leasing should remain solid in 2014 and we believe we will maintain several months of healthy approvals activity, pending unforeseen economic climate conditions.”
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.
Equipment Leasing and Finance Association Announces Top 10 Equipment Acquisition Trends for 2014
Washington, DC, January 13, 2014— The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA) which represents the $827 billion equipment finance sector, today revealed its Top 10 Equipment Acquisition Trends for 2014. Given U.S. businesses, nonprofits and government agencies will spend in excess of $1.5 trillion in capital goods or fixed business investment (including software) this year, financing more than half of those assets, these trends impact a significant portion of the U.S. economy. Businesses will need to consider a dynamic environment of economic growth, wider credit availability, and favorable interest rates in their equipment acquisition decision-making.
ELFA President and CEO William G. Sutton, CAE, said, “For a majority of U.S. businesses, equipment financing is a critical source of funding, helping them to acquire the equipment they need to operate and grow. Equipment acquisition plays a critical role in driving the supply chains across all U.S. manufacturing and service sectors. To assist businesses in planning their acquisition strategies, we have distilled recent research data, including the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation’s 2014 Equipment Leasing & Finance U.S. Economic Outlook Report, industry participants’ expertise and member input from ELFA meetings and conferences to provide our best insight for the Top 10 Equipment Acquisition Trends for 2014.”
ELFA forecasts the following Top 10 Equipment Acquisition Trends for 2014:
1. Investment in equipment and software will reach an all-time high in 2014. As the U.S. economy and underlying economic fundamentals, including GDP, continue to improve, business investment is forecast to reach a record $1.5 trillion in 2014.
2. Equipment replacement demand will continue to drive investment. Stronger economic growth will boost businesses’ confidence and appetite for capital expenditures, but overall, equipment already in place can be used at a higher capacity. Until businesses find they need to expand their capacity to meet operational demands, their equipment investment will be in replacing existing aging or obsolete equipment.
3. Demand for equipment financing will increase due to greater stability in the federal budgeting process. Businesses will enjoy a greater level of comfort than they have in recent years to make their equipment acquisition decisions for 2014. The two-year budget agreement passed by Congress reduces fiscal pressures and lessens the chance of a potential government shutdown, while a rising tide of economic growth will lift all boats. As equipment acquisitions increase, so will businesses’ demand to finance them.
4. The global economy will play a part in the “big picture” impacting businesses’ equipment acquisition decisions. The lack of long-term breakout growth and expansion in equipment acquisition has some of its causes beyond U.S. shores. External factors like the stagnant Eurozone, foreign oil prices and the cooling of a hot Chinese economy, which have combined to impede growth, will continue in 2014.
5. Rebounding of some industry sectors will spur varied equipment types. Growth in investment is forecast for numerous equipment types, some of which will be the result of increased activity in the housing and energy sectors. The rebounding housing industry will have spillover effects on equipment verticals, including construction as well as trucking and rail transportation to ship homebuilding supplies. Manufacturers’ plans for billions of dollars in investments to take advantage of cheap, rapidly expanding U.S. supplies of oil and natural gas will expand production capacity for energy and downstream products, such as petrochemicals and plastics, and increase demand for industrial equipment.
6. A majority of U.S. businesses will use some form of financing for equipment acquisition. In 2014, investment in plant, equipment and software in the United States is projected to reach $1.5 trillion, of which 57 percent ($860 billion) is expected to be financed through loans, leases and lines of credit, a slight uptick from 55 percent in 2013. In a continuing trend, seven out of 10 businesses will use at least one form of financing to acquire equipment.
7. Credit market conditions will remain favorable for long-term equipment financing. In a continuing trend from last year, businesses will generally find an increasing credit supply as they consider equipment acquisitions.
8. A low short-term interest rate environment will continue, while long-term rates will rise but remain below the historical average. Businesses that want to conserve cash and take advantage of the many other benefits of financing their equipment acquisitions can look forward to the prospect of continued low short-term interest rates until 2015. Although the Federal Reserve’s policy agenda for 2014 will likely result in a rise in long-term interest rates, inducing some companies to lock in lower rates, they will remain low enough by historical standards to keep financing an attractive option for acquiring equipment.
9. Technology innovations will continue to improve the customer experience. While demand for software and technology equipment is expected to remain strong, equipment finance companies will use technology to optimize their delivery and fulfillment systems around customer service. They will meet a growing demand for cloud and mobile technology as well as access to real-time company data and business intelligence.
10. Long-awaited changes to the lease accounting standard will continue to be debated. A new draft of proposed lease accounting changes issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the International Accounting Standards Board issued in 2013 generated substantial opposition for being too burdensome and complex. As a result, the Boards will continue re-deliberations into 2014 and will conduct additional meetings to address concerns before changes are adopted.
For a video that discusses the Top 10 Equipment Acquisition Trends for 2014, go to www.EquipmentFinanceAdvantage.org/Articles/10Trends2014.cfm .
More Information
For businesses that want to learn more about how they can incorporate equipment financing into their business strategies, and for informational resources about equipment financing, including a digital toolkit and infographic, go to www.EquipmentFinanceAdvantage.org .
For forecast data regarding equipment investment and capital spending in the United States, see the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation’s 2014 Equipment Leasing & Finance U.S. Economic Outlook at www.leasefoundation.org/IndRsrcs/EO/ .
About 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 580 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. For more information, please visit www.elfaonline.org.
ELFA President and CEO William G. Sutton, CAE, said, “For a majority of U.S. businesses, equipment financing is a critical source of funding, helping them to acquire the equipment they need to operate and grow. Equipment acquisition plays a critical role in driving the supply chains across all U.S. manufacturing and service sectors. To assist businesses in planning their acquisition strategies, we have distilled recent research data, including the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation’s 2014 Equipment Leasing & Finance U.S. Economic Outlook Report, industry participants’ expertise and member input from ELFA meetings and conferences to provide our best insight for the Top 10 Equipment Acquisition Trends for 2014.”
ELFA forecasts the following Top 10 Equipment Acquisition Trends for 2014:
1. Investment in equipment and software will reach an all-time high in 2014. As the U.S. economy and underlying economic fundamentals, including GDP, continue to improve, business investment is forecast to reach a record $1.5 trillion in 2014.
2. Equipment replacement demand will continue to drive investment. Stronger economic growth will boost businesses’ confidence and appetite for capital expenditures, but overall, equipment already in place can be used at a higher capacity. Until businesses find they need to expand their capacity to meet operational demands, their equipment investment will be in replacing existing aging or obsolete equipment.
3. Demand for equipment financing will increase due to greater stability in the federal budgeting process. Businesses will enjoy a greater level of comfort than they have in recent years to make their equipment acquisition decisions for 2014. The two-year budget agreement passed by Congress reduces fiscal pressures and lessens the chance of a potential government shutdown, while a rising tide of economic growth will lift all boats. As equipment acquisitions increase, so will businesses’ demand to finance them.
4. The global economy will play a part in the “big picture” impacting businesses’ equipment acquisition decisions. The lack of long-term breakout growth and expansion in equipment acquisition has some of its causes beyond U.S. shores. External factors like the stagnant Eurozone, foreign oil prices and the cooling of a hot Chinese economy, which have combined to impede growth, will continue in 2014.
5. Rebounding of some industry sectors will spur varied equipment types. Growth in investment is forecast for numerous equipment types, some of which will be the result of increased activity in the housing and energy sectors. The rebounding housing industry will have spillover effects on equipment verticals, including construction as well as trucking and rail transportation to ship homebuilding supplies. Manufacturers’ plans for billions of dollars in investments to take advantage of cheap, rapidly expanding U.S. supplies of oil and natural gas will expand production capacity for energy and downstream products, such as petrochemicals and plastics, and increase demand for industrial equipment.
6. A majority of U.S. businesses will use some form of financing for equipment acquisition. In 2014, investment in plant, equipment and software in the United States is projected to reach $1.5 trillion, of which 57 percent ($860 billion) is expected to be financed through loans, leases and lines of credit, a slight uptick from 55 percent in 2013. In a continuing trend, seven out of 10 businesses will use at least one form of financing to acquire equipment.
7. Credit market conditions will remain favorable for long-term equipment financing. In a continuing trend from last year, businesses will generally find an increasing credit supply as they consider equipment acquisitions.
8. A low short-term interest rate environment will continue, while long-term rates will rise but remain below the historical average. Businesses that want to conserve cash and take advantage of the many other benefits of financing their equipment acquisitions can look forward to the prospect of continued low short-term interest rates until 2015. Although the Federal Reserve’s policy agenda for 2014 will likely result in a rise in long-term interest rates, inducing some companies to lock in lower rates, they will remain low enough by historical standards to keep financing an attractive option for acquiring equipment.
9. Technology innovations will continue to improve the customer experience. While demand for software and technology equipment is expected to remain strong, equipment finance companies will use technology to optimize their delivery and fulfillment systems around customer service. They will meet a growing demand for cloud and mobile technology as well as access to real-time company data and business intelligence.
10. Long-awaited changes to the lease accounting standard will continue to be debated. A new draft of proposed lease accounting changes issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the International Accounting Standards Board issued in 2013 generated substantial opposition for being too burdensome and complex. As a result, the Boards will continue re-deliberations into 2014 and will conduct additional meetings to address concerns before changes are adopted.
For a video that discusses the Top 10 Equipment Acquisition Trends for 2014, go to www.EquipmentFinanceAdvantage.org/Articles/10Trends2014.cfm .
More Information
For businesses that want to learn more about how they can incorporate equipment financing into their business strategies, and for informational resources about equipment financing, including a digital toolkit and infographic, go to www.EquipmentFinanceAdvantage.org .
For forecast data regarding equipment investment and capital spending in the United States, see the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation’s 2014 Equipment Leasing & Finance U.S. Economic Outlook at www.leasefoundation.org/IndRsrcs/EO/ .
About 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 580 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. For more information, please visit www.elfaonline.org.
Truckload Carriers Association Announces Division Winners in 2013 National Fleet Safety Awards
Alexandria, Virginia -- Since the mid-1970s, the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has been recognizing the safest fleets in North America through its National Fleet Safety Awards. Sponsored by Great West Casualty Company, the awards honor trucking companies that demonstrate a superior commitment to safety and accident reduction. Eighteen companies have been selected as division winners for the 2013 competition and will now attempt to capture one of two grand prizes.
“In addition to focusing the spotlight on companies that work hard to achieve stellar safety records, these awards give us a glimpse of how well the industry is performing as a whole, said Jerry Waddell, CDS, chairman of TCA’s Safety & Security Division and the safety director for Cargo Transporters, Inc., of Claremont, North Carolina. “With the continued decrease in the total contest fleet vehicle accident ratio, it demonstrates the forward safety thinking that our carrier members exhibit on a daily basis when it comes to their day-to-day operations.”
Companies applying for the National Fleet Safety Awards have completed the first of a two-step process. First, their accident frequency per million miles driven was calculated for each of six mileage-based divisions (listed below). The top three division winners were selected and have been audited by an independent expert to verify their accident frequency numbers.
The division winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony to be held during TCA’s Annual Convention, March 23-26, 2014, at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, Texas. They will also be recognized during TCA’s Safety & Security Division Annual Meeting, May 18-20, 2014, at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch in St. Louis, Missouri.
All division winners are now eligible to compete for two grand prizes, one in the “less than 25 million annual miles” category and one in the “25 million or more annual miles” category. To win the grand prize, companies will be judged on their overall safety programs, both on- and off-highway, including employee driver/independent contractor selection procedures, training, supervision, accident investigation, inspection and maintenance of equipment, and outside activities including general highway safety.
As with the division winners, the two grand prize winning companies will be honored at an awards ceremony to be held first during TCA’s Annual Convention and then again during TCA’s Safety & Security Division Annual Meeting.
Below are the names of the 2013 top divisional winners based on low accident frequency ratios per million miles. Companies are listed according to the order that they placed within each category.
Division I Winners (Under 5 million miles)
1. FTC Transportation, Inc., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
2. Specialty Transport, Inc., Knoxville, Tennessee
3. Art Pape Transfer, Inc., Dubuque, Iowa
Division II Winners (5-14.99 million miles)
1. Brian Kurtz Trucking Ltd, Breslau, Ontario
2. MacKinnon Transport Inc, Guelph, Ontario
3. Diamond Transportation System, Inc., Racine, Wisconsin
Division III Winners (15-24.99 million miles)
1. A&A Express, LLC, Brandon, South Dakota
2. Convoy Systems, LLC, Kansas City, Kansas
3. Jet Express Inc, Dayton, Ohio
Division IV Winners (25-49.99 million miles)
1. N.Yanke Transfer, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
2. Erb International, Inc., New Hamburg, Ontario
3. Hill Brothers Transportation, Inc., Omaha, Nebraska
Division V Winners (50-99.99 million miles)
1. May Trucking Company, Salem, Oregon
2. Groupe Robert Inc., Rougemont, Québec
3. J & R Schugel Trucking, Inc., New Ulm, Minnesota
Division VI Winners (100+ million miles)
1. Bison Transport Inc, Winnipeg, Manitoba
2. Gordon Trucking Inc, Pacific, Washington
3. Roehl Transport Inc., Marshfield, Wisconsin
“In addition to focusing the spotlight on companies that work hard to achieve stellar safety records, these awards give us a glimpse of how well the industry is performing as a whole, said Jerry Waddell, CDS, chairman of TCA’s Safety & Security Division and the safety director for Cargo Transporters, Inc., of Claremont, North Carolina. “With the continued decrease in the total contest fleet vehicle accident ratio, it demonstrates the forward safety thinking that our carrier members exhibit on a daily basis when it comes to their day-to-day operations.”
Companies applying for the National Fleet Safety Awards have completed the first of a two-step process. First, their accident frequency per million miles driven was calculated for each of six mileage-based divisions (listed below). The top three division winners were selected and have been audited by an independent expert to verify their accident frequency numbers.
The division winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony to be held during TCA’s Annual Convention, March 23-26, 2014, at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, Texas. They will also be recognized during TCA’s Safety & Security Division Annual Meeting, May 18-20, 2014, at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch in St. Louis, Missouri.
All division winners are now eligible to compete for two grand prizes, one in the “less than 25 million annual miles” category and one in the “25 million or more annual miles” category. To win the grand prize, companies will be judged on their overall safety programs, both on- and off-highway, including employee driver/independent contractor selection procedures, training, supervision, accident investigation, inspection and maintenance of equipment, and outside activities including general highway safety.
As with the division winners, the two grand prize winning companies will be honored at an awards ceremony to be held first during TCA’s Annual Convention and then again during TCA’s Safety & Security Division Annual Meeting.
Below are the names of the 2013 top divisional winners based on low accident frequency ratios per million miles. Companies are listed according to the order that they placed within each category.
Division I Winners (Under 5 million miles)
1. FTC Transportation, Inc., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
2. Specialty Transport, Inc., Knoxville, Tennessee
3. Art Pape Transfer, Inc., Dubuque, Iowa
Division II Winners (5-14.99 million miles)
1. Brian Kurtz Trucking Ltd, Breslau, Ontario
2. MacKinnon Transport Inc, Guelph, Ontario
3. Diamond Transportation System, Inc., Racine, Wisconsin
Division III Winners (15-24.99 million miles)
1. A&A Express, LLC, Brandon, South Dakota
2. Convoy Systems, LLC, Kansas City, Kansas
3. Jet Express Inc, Dayton, Ohio
Division IV Winners (25-49.99 million miles)
1. N.Yanke Transfer, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
2. Erb International, Inc., New Hamburg, Ontario
3. Hill Brothers Transportation, Inc., Omaha, Nebraska
Division V Winners (50-99.99 million miles)
1. May Trucking Company, Salem, Oregon
2. Groupe Robert Inc., Rougemont, Québec
3. J & R Schugel Trucking, Inc., New Ulm, Minnesota
Division VI Winners (100+ million miles)
1. Bison Transport Inc, Winnipeg, Manitoba
2. Gordon Trucking Inc, Pacific, Washington
3. Roehl Transport Inc., Marshfield, Wisconsin
Carrier Transicold Releases TRU-Tech™ and TRU-View™ Software For Easy Management of Transport Refrigeration Units
ATHENS, Ga., Jan. 14, 2014 – Custom configuration of transport refrigeration unit (TRU) settings and operations analysis is now easier than ever with Carrier Transicold’s new TRU-Tech™ and TRU-View™ computer applications. Carrier Transicold helps improve global transport and shipping of temperature-controlled cargoes with a complete line of equipment for refrigerated trucks, trailers and containers, and is a part of UTC Building & Industrial Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
Successors to Carrier Transicold’s popular ReeferManager™ software, the TRU-Tech and TRU-View programs feature a simplified interface with icons and quick links for faster, easier navigation.
TRU-Tech refrigeration unit management software is a complete solution for refrigeration data management, including setting operational parameters and conducting diagnostic functions. TRU-Tech comes with TRU-View refrigeration data analysis software, which provides convenient insight into system performance. TRU-View is also available as a stand-alone application for data analysis, without the unit set-up and diagnostic capabilities of TRU-Tech.
Compatible with the latest Windows® operating systems, the new programs are designed for use with all Vector™, X4™, X2™ and X-Series trailer units, as well as Carrier Transicold’s Supra™ truck units.
“Today’s transport refrigeration units – or TRUs – have a wider array of settings, enabling a higher degree of control sophistication,” said Mark Fragnito, product, manager, electronics, Carrier Transicold. “While each refrigeration unit controller can be manually configured at the unit’s keypad, TRU-Tech software provides a faster and easier way to create multiple settings using either a Windows-based computer or tablet. The settings can then be loaded into a single unit or an entire fleet.”
TRU-Tech software’s intuitive screen layout makes it easy to create error-free IntelliSet™ commodity profiles. IntelliSet profiles, which are used with Carrier Transicold APX™ and Advance™ controls, direct the unit microprocessor to automatically adjust operating parameters for a particular load when the driver selects a commodity or customer name from a list on the control display. Fleets can use IntelliSet profiles to help maintain the optimum balance between temperature control and fuel economy, while also helping to eliminate the chance of driver errors.
TRU-Tech software can also be used by technicians to monitor system parameters, such as sensor inputs and other vital data that may be downloaded for tracking, performance evaluation, record keeping, or analytics. The TRU-View component can generate graphic reports, showing specific TRU system performance over time, and data can be exported into Excel® spreadsheets or PDFs for easy sharing.
With both programs, data transfers can be handled easily via a special USB jump drive with the APX control system or via PC cards with the Advance microprocessor. For telematics-enabled refrigeration units, data transfers can be handled wirelessly.
For more information on TRU-Tech and TRU-View software, turn to the experts within the Carrier Transicold dealer network or visit www.trucktrailer.carrier.com.
About Carrier Transicold
Carrier Transicold helps improve transport and shipping of temperature-controlled cargoes with a complete line of equipment and services for refrigerated transport and cold chain visibility. For more than 40 years, Carrier Transicold has been an industry leader, providing customers around the world with the most advanced, energy efficient and environmentally sound container refrigeration systems and generator sets, direct-drive and diesel truck units and trailer refrigeration systems. Carrier Transicold is a part of UTC Building & Industrial Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp., a leading provider to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide. Visit www.transicold.carrier.com for more information. Follow Carrier on Twitter: @CarrierGreen.
Successors to Carrier Transicold’s popular ReeferManager™ software, the TRU-Tech and TRU-View programs feature a simplified interface with icons and quick links for faster, easier navigation.
TRU-Tech refrigeration unit management software is a complete solution for refrigeration data management, including setting operational parameters and conducting diagnostic functions. TRU-Tech comes with TRU-View refrigeration data analysis software, which provides convenient insight into system performance. TRU-View is also available as a stand-alone application for data analysis, without the unit set-up and diagnostic capabilities of TRU-Tech.
Compatible with the latest Windows® operating systems, the new programs are designed for use with all Vector™, X4™, X2™ and X-Series trailer units, as well as Carrier Transicold’s Supra™ truck units.
“Today’s transport refrigeration units – or TRUs – have a wider array of settings, enabling a higher degree of control sophistication,” said Mark Fragnito, product, manager, electronics, Carrier Transicold. “While each refrigeration unit controller can be manually configured at the unit’s keypad, TRU-Tech software provides a faster and easier way to create multiple settings using either a Windows-based computer or tablet. The settings can then be loaded into a single unit or an entire fleet.”
TRU-Tech software’s intuitive screen layout makes it easy to create error-free IntelliSet™ commodity profiles. IntelliSet profiles, which are used with Carrier Transicold APX™ and Advance™ controls, direct the unit microprocessor to automatically adjust operating parameters for a particular load when the driver selects a commodity or customer name from a list on the control display. Fleets can use IntelliSet profiles to help maintain the optimum balance between temperature control and fuel economy, while also helping to eliminate the chance of driver errors.
TRU-Tech software can also be used by technicians to monitor system parameters, such as sensor inputs and other vital data that may be downloaded for tracking, performance evaluation, record keeping, or analytics. The TRU-View component can generate graphic reports, showing specific TRU system performance over time, and data can be exported into Excel® spreadsheets or PDFs for easy sharing.
With both programs, data transfers can be handled easily via a special USB jump drive with the APX control system or via PC cards with the Advance microprocessor. For telematics-enabled refrigeration units, data transfers can be handled wirelessly.
For more information on TRU-Tech and TRU-View software, turn to the experts within the Carrier Transicold dealer network or visit www.trucktrailer.carrier.com.
About Carrier Transicold
Carrier Transicold helps improve transport and shipping of temperature-controlled cargoes with a complete line of equipment and services for refrigerated transport and cold chain visibility. For more than 40 years, Carrier Transicold has been an industry leader, providing customers around the world with the most advanced, energy efficient and environmentally sound container refrigeration systems and generator sets, direct-drive and diesel truck units and trailer refrigeration systems. Carrier Transicold is a part of UTC Building & Industrial Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp., a leading provider to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide. Visit www.transicold.carrier.com for more information. Follow Carrier on Twitter: @CarrierGreen.
City of Newport News Waterworks Selects AssetWorks Integrated Asset Management Systems
(Wayne, PA –– January 14, 2014) AssetWorks, a leading provider of fleet management software, automated fuel management systems, motor pool systems, and operational asset management systems announced today that the City of Newport News Waterworks has selected AssetWorks integrated asset management systems―FleetFocus, FuelFocus and EAM to manage its broad network of fleet, facilities and infrastructure assets.
Newport News Waterworks is a regional water provider, owned and operated by the City of Newport News that serves over 400,000 people in Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and portions of York County and James City County. Newport News Waterworks maintains over 1,700 miles of treated water pipelines, some of which were installed as early as 1891, earning the department a listing in the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Centurion Club. To keep up with an aging and expanding infrastructure, Newport News Waterworks is focused on continuous improvement and optimizing the total life cycle costs of owning and operating their assets.
AssetWorks integrated product suite was selected to replace an in-house developed system. Newport News Waterworks initial interest was for a fleet management software integrated with a fuel management system, however it expanded to include the new EAM infrastructure management system once they learned that one vendor could provide all the functionality they were seeking.
“Among the reasons we selected AssetWorks integrated asset management solution is their demonstrated ability to accommodate the broad range of assets that we must manage, the enhanced parts and purchasing functionality and their willingness to work with and listen to us about the asset management needs of a water utility,” states David Cooper, Project Lead, Newport News Waterworks. “There is tremendous value for us to work with a single partner for software who understands the complex nature of the various assets and support systems we manage, while striving to provide the best service possible for the residents of the greater Newport News area.”
Building on more than 30 years’ experience providing fleet management solutions, AssetWorks recently launched EAM Infrastructure Management software to manage complex operational assets including networks of linear- and boundary-based assets such as roads, pipelines and parks. AssetWorks’ proven fleet management software is used by more 200 cities and counties in North America, including 35 of the 50 most populated cities.
Newport News Waterworks is a regional water provider, owned and operated by the City of Newport News that serves over 400,000 people in Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and portions of York County and James City County. Newport News Waterworks maintains over 1,700 miles of treated water pipelines, some of which were installed as early as 1891, earning the department a listing in the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Centurion Club. To keep up with an aging and expanding infrastructure, Newport News Waterworks is focused on continuous improvement and optimizing the total life cycle costs of owning and operating their assets.
AssetWorks integrated product suite was selected to replace an in-house developed system. Newport News Waterworks initial interest was for a fleet management software integrated with a fuel management system, however it expanded to include the new EAM infrastructure management system once they learned that one vendor could provide all the functionality they were seeking.
“Among the reasons we selected AssetWorks integrated asset management solution is their demonstrated ability to accommodate the broad range of assets that we must manage, the enhanced parts and purchasing functionality and their willingness to work with and listen to us about the asset management needs of a water utility,” states David Cooper, Project Lead, Newport News Waterworks. “There is tremendous value for us to work with a single partner for software who understands the complex nature of the various assets and support systems we manage, while striving to provide the best service possible for the residents of the greater Newport News area.”
Building on more than 30 years’ experience providing fleet management solutions, AssetWorks recently launched EAM Infrastructure Management software to manage complex operational assets including networks of linear- and boundary-based assets such as roads, pipelines and parks. AssetWorks’ proven fleet management software is used by more 200 cities and counties in North America, including 35 of the 50 most populated cities.
University of the Aftermarket Foundation Announces 2014 Officers and Board of Trustees
Bethesda, MD – January 14, 2014 – The University of the Aftermarket
Foundation announces its newly elected officers for the coming year.
Chairman – Rusty Bishop, AAP
Vice Chairman – Jack Creamer, MAAP
Vice Chairman – Kathleen Schmatz, MAAP
Secretary – John R. Washbish, MAAP
Treasurer – Tim Lee, MAAP
In addition,
the following individuals will serve on the University of the Aftermarket
Foundation board of trustees in the coming year: Bill Babcox; Jeff Brekke, MAAP; Jim Buzzard,
AAP; Michael Cardone III; Carolyn Cook; Jeff Darby; Bob Egan, MAAP; Cliff Hovis;
Scott Howat, AAP; Bill Long, AAP; Bill
Maggs; David O’Reilly; John Passante, AAP; Larry Pavey; Joe Pomaranski, MAAP;
Ed Rammel, MAAP; Mort Schwartz, MAAP; David Segal, MAAP; Eric Sills and Jon
Zieve. Several more will serve as
members of the board of trustees in a variety of support roles: Barbara Cunningham; George Keeley; Ken
Marker; Susan Medick, MAAP; Larry Northup, AAP; Margo Shepard and Jennifer Tio.
“We want to
thank all of these dedicated men and women for volunteering their time and
expertise to help the University of the Aftermarket Foundation continue to make
a difference,” said Bishop. “These leaders all share a common goal of bringing
more education and training to the auto care industry. We thank them for their
continued commitment to the foundation and the future of our great industry.”
About the University of the
Aftermarket Foundation
Since 1986,
the University of the Aftermarket Foundation has funded millions of dollars of
scholarships, grants, research and ongoing educational programs to help develop
a strong, knowledgeable aftermarket work force. The
foundation encourages industry support, including donations for the purpose of
honoring or memorializing individuals or otherwise recognizing special events,
to help ensure the continued availability of training and education that
strengthen the industry. For more information about the University of
the Aftermarket Foundation, call (816) 584-0511.
IBTTA’s Message to Congress: With All Funding Options on the Table, Tolling is a Proven Option
IBTTA Asks Congress to Grant States Maximum Flexibility to Meet Their Transportation Funding Challenges
WASHINGTON, DC – As Congress looks ahead to the reauthorization of surface transportation legislation, the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA), the worldwide association representing toll facility owners and operators and the businesses that serve them, today, calls on Congress to grant states the “maximum flexibility to meet their individual transportation funding challenges.”
In conjunction with this morning’s U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure committee hearing entitled, “Building the Foundation for Surface Transportation Reauthorization”, IBTTA submitted written testimony for the record thanking Congress for beginning the hard-work of passing a successor to the MAP-21 legislation and advocating for an advanced role for tolling in funding our nation’s transportation infrastructure.
IBTTA’s written testimony points out that: “Most of the more than 62 U.S. toll agency members of IBTTA receive no federal or state funds to support their day-to-day operations – yet, on an annual basis, they generate more than $10 billion in tolls. That is equal to nearly one-third of the federal gas tax revenues collected each year.” Without those toll revenues, states would have to go without the vital road, bridge and tunnel infrastructures that those tolls support, including some of the most heavily traveled highways, bridges and tunnels in the country."
“As Congress begins the difficult task of finding a long-term solution to funding our nation’s infrastructure, we want federal and state officials to know that the tolling community stands ready to assist in helping meet that challenge and recommend solutions and outcomes,” said Patrick D. Jones, Executive Director and CEO of IBTTA. “Throughout the 2014 transportation reauthorization debate, the tolling community and our partners will continue to stress the important role tolling has played, and will continue to play, in helping states throughout the country meet their transportation funding needs.”
The written testimony submitted by IBTTA continues:
“The use of tolls is a central component to this nation’s transportation funding system. Tolls establish a direct connection between the use of the road and payment for that use. For too long, motorists have falsely believed our roads are free. Our highways are not free nor have they ever been. However, it’s easy to see why that misperception persists. There is no direct link between paying the fuel tax and using the roads it funds. Tolling re-establishes that connection.”
In 2013, IBTTA launched Moving America Forward, a public awareness campaign that highlights the benefits of tolling to policy-makers, the media, and other interested parties.
WASHINGTON, DC – As Congress looks ahead to the reauthorization of surface transportation legislation, the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA), the worldwide association representing toll facility owners and operators and the businesses that serve them, today, calls on Congress to grant states the “maximum flexibility to meet their individual transportation funding challenges.”
In conjunction with this morning’s U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure committee hearing entitled, “Building the Foundation for Surface Transportation Reauthorization”, IBTTA submitted written testimony for the record thanking Congress for beginning the hard-work of passing a successor to the MAP-21 legislation and advocating for an advanced role for tolling in funding our nation’s transportation infrastructure.
IBTTA’s written testimony points out that: “Most of the more than 62 U.S. toll agency members of IBTTA receive no federal or state funds to support their day-to-day operations – yet, on an annual basis, they generate more than $10 billion in tolls. That is equal to nearly one-third of the federal gas tax revenues collected each year.” Without those toll revenues, states would have to go without the vital road, bridge and tunnel infrastructures that those tolls support, including some of the most heavily traveled highways, bridges and tunnels in the country."
“As Congress begins the difficult task of finding a long-term solution to funding our nation’s infrastructure, we want federal and state officials to know that the tolling community stands ready to assist in helping meet that challenge and recommend solutions and outcomes,” said Patrick D. Jones, Executive Director and CEO of IBTTA. “Throughout the 2014 transportation reauthorization debate, the tolling community and our partners will continue to stress the important role tolling has played, and will continue to play, in helping states throughout the country meet their transportation funding needs.”
The written testimony submitted by IBTTA continues:
“The use of tolls is a central component to this nation’s transportation funding system. Tolls establish a direct connection between the use of the road and payment for that use. For too long, motorists have falsely believed our roads are free. Our highways are not free nor have they ever been. However, it’s easy to see why that misperception persists. There is no direct link between paying the fuel tax and using the roads it funds. Tolling re-establishes that connection.”
In 2013, IBTTA launched Moving America Forward, a public awareness campaign that highlights the benefits of tolling to policy-makers, the media, and other interested parties.
PHH Arval Names Scott Madden Vice President of Business Development
New VP Responsible for Development of Canada’s Central and Eastern Regions
Mississauga, Ontario (Jan. 14, 2014) – PHH Arval, a leading global fleet management services provider, today announced that Scott Madden has been appointed vice president of business development for Canada’s central and eastern regions.
“Scott brings a strong track record of driving growth and building client relationships,” said Pat Furgiuele, PHH Arval senior vice president and general manager, Canada. “His approach aligns with our customer focus and he will play an important role in strategically growing our North American fleet business.”
Madden joins PHH Arval with more than twenty years of transportation and logistics experience. He most recently served as a manager at Purolator, Canada’s leading integrated freight and parcel solutions provider. His responsibilities included sales strategy, customer and vertical market segmentation, contract negotiation, sales operations and implementation. Madden began his career at FedEx Canada, where he held positions in operations and sales.
Madden graduated from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Arts.
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 Latin America. For more information, visit www.phharval.com, LinkedIn, Twitter or call (800) ONLY-PHH.
Mississauga, Ontario (Jan. 14, 2014) – PHH Arval, a leading global fleet management services provider, today announced that Scott Madden has been appointed vice president of business development for Canada’s central and eastern regions.
“Scott brings a strong track record of driving growth and building client relationships,” said Pat Furgiuele, PHH Arval senior vice president and general manager, Canada. “His approach aligns with our customer focus and he will play an important role in strategically growing our North American fleet business.”
Madden joins PHH Arval with more than twenty years of transportation and logistics experience. He most recently served as a manager at Purolator, Canada’s leading integrated freight and parcel solutions provider. His responsibilities included sales strategy, customer and vertical market segmentation, contract negotiation, sales operations and implementation. Madden began his career at FedEx Canada, where he held positions in operations and sales.
Madden graduated from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Arts.
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 Latin America. For more information, visit www.phharval.com, LinkedIn, Twitter or call (800) ONLY-PHH.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
MANHEIM NAMES JULIE PICARD GENERAL MANAGER AND VICE PRESIDENT OF MANHEIM PENNSYLVANIA
ATLANTA – Manheim today announced that Julie Picard, market vice president of Manheim’s Pacific Market has been named general manager and vice president of Manheim Pennsylvania. Picard replaces Tim Van Dam who was named market vice president of Manheim’s Northeast Market earlier this year. Picard reports to Van Dam and began her role on Jan. 1, 2014.
“Julie’s remarketing expertise and business skills, coupled with a record of delivering results in various leadership roles at Manheim made her the right fit for this key role,” said Van Dam. “Her experience in running various auction locations, building diverse customer relationships and challenging her teams to continuously excel, positions her to effectively lead our premier auction operation into the future.”
In her role as general manager and vice president, Picard will be responsible for all aspects of auction operations, both internally with a large diverse workforce and externally with the largest customer base in the industry. In addition, she will spearhead conservation and community service initiatives, which are organization-wide values. Manheim Pennsylvania operates the largest state-of-the-art reconditioning center and a water conservation center that reduces its daily water demand by 60 percent.
In addition to being a dedicated business professional, Picard is also a committed industry leader. Most recently, she was honored as one of Auto Remarketing’s “2013 Women in Remarketing,” and was also the recipient of the prestigious 2013 Laurie Dobberphul Top Achiever Award, presented by GE Remarketing. Both awards spotlight women who continuously make a difference and are passionate about the automobile industry.
Picard graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Montana.
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.
“Julie’s remarketing expertise and business skills, coupled with a record of delivering results in various leadership roles at Manheim made her the right fit for this key role,” said Van Dam. “Her experience in running various auction locations, building diverse customer relationships and challenging her teams to continuously excel, positions her to effectively lead our premier auction operation into the future.”
In her role as general manager and vice president, Picard will be responsible for all aspects of auction operations, both internally with a large diverse workforce and externally with the largest customer base in the industry. In addition, she will spearhead conservation and community service initiatives, which are organization-wide values. Manheim Pennsylvania operates the largest state-of-the-art reconditioning center and a water conservation center that reduces its daily water demand by 60 percent.
In addition to being a dedicated business professional, Picard is also a committed industry leader. Most recently, she was honored as one of Auto Remarketing’s “2013 Women in Remarketing,” and was also the recipient of the prestigious 2013 Laurie Dobberphul Top Achiever Award, presented by GE Remarketing. Both awards spotlight women who continuously make a difference and are passionate about the automobile industry.
Picard graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Montana.
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.
Monday, January 6, 2014
MANHEIM PLOWS THE WAY FOR CUSTOMERS TO BOOST JANUARY SALES DESPITE CHALLENGING WEATHER CONDITIONS
Company to Waive Simulcast, OVE.com Fees To Help Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Northeast, North Central, Customers Continue to Meet Their Vehicle Buying Needs
ATLANTA – In response to severe weather conditions in the Midwest and East Coast, Manheim is responding by waiving online fees for vehicles purchases through Simulcast and facilitation fees for vehicles purchased through OVE.com to assist dealers. The fee waivers are effective from Jan. 6 through Jan. 31, 2014, and apply on all open and closed sales at 28 locations in the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Northeast and North Central Markets.
As January is typically a slower month for vehicle sales, limited access to physical auctions due to the harsh weather conditions can adversely affect a dealers’ business. Providing dealer buyers with a wide selection of vehicles via online and digital channels, while they wait for harsh weather conditions to improve, can help buffer potential weather-related revenue losses.
“Our employees are making every effort to list cars online as fast as possible, ensuring customers in these four markets continue to have access to the most inventory, despite the tough weather conditions,” said Nick Peluso, senior vice president of customer management. “Dealers rely on us to meet their vehicle buying needs 24/7, and we want to do all we can to help them maintain business momentum economically and safely as they start the New Year.”
The short-term changes listed above apply to all vehicles onsite at the following 28 Manheim locations:
Manheim Albany
Manheim Arena-Illinois
Manheim Baltimore-Washington
Manheim Central Pennsylvania
Manheim Chicago
Manheim Cincinnati
Manheim Detroit
Manheim Flint*
Manheim Fredericksburg
Manheim Harrisonburg
Manheim Indianapolis
Manheim Kansas City
Manheim Louisville
Manheim Milwaukee
Manheim Minneapolis
Manheim New England
Manheim New Jersey
Manheim New York
Manheim Northstar Minnesota
Manheim NY Metro Skyline
Manheim Ohio
Manheim Omaha
Manheim Pennsylvania
Manheim Philadelphia
Manheim Pittsburgh
Manheim St. Louis
Manheim Springfield*
Manheim Tulsa*
*Total Resource Auctions locations
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.
ATLANTA – In response to severe weather conditions in the Midwest and East Coast, Manheim is responding by waiving online fees for vehicles purchases through Simulcast and facilitation fees for vehicles purchased through OVE.com to assist dealers. The fee waivers are effective from Jan. 6 through Jan. 31, 2014, and apply on all open and closed sales at 28 locations in the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Northeast and North Central Markets.
As January is typically a slower month for vehicle sales, limited access to physical auctions due to the harsh weather conditions can adversely affect a dealers’ business. Providing dealer buyers with a wide selection of vehicles via online and digital channels, while they wait for harsh weather conditions to improve, can help buffer potential weather-related revenue losses.
“Our employees are making every effort to list cars online as fast as possible, ensuring customers in these four markets continue to have access to the most inventory, despite the tough weather conditions,” said Nick Peluso, senior vice president of customer management. “Dealers rely on us to meet their vehicle buying needs 24/7, and we want to do all we can to help them maintain business momentum economically and safely as they start the New Year.”
The short-term changes listed above apply to all vehicles onsite at the following 28 Manheim locations:
Manheim Albany
Manheim Arena-Illinois
Manheim Baltimore-Washington
Manheim Central Pennsylvania
Manheim Chicago
Manheim Cincinnati
Manheim Detroit
Manheim Flint*
Manheim Fredericksburg
Manheim Harrisonburg
Manheim Indianapolis
Manheim Kansas City
Manheim Louisville
Manheim Milwaukee
Manheim Minneapolis
Manheim New England
Manheim New Jersey
Manheim New York
Manheim Northstar Minnesota
Manheim NY Metro Skyline
Manheim Ohio
Manheim Omaha
Manheim Pennsylvania
Manheim Philadelphia
Manheim Pittsburgh
Manheim St. Louis
Manheim Springfield*
Manheim Tulsa*
*Total Resource Auctions locations
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.
New roads ahead for Android and the Open Automotive Alliance
Tech companies and auto industry leaders join forces to make the connected car a reality starting in 2014
Extending the success of the Android™ ecosystem, which has seen over one billion devices activated to date, a coalition of auto and technology companies announced today a new industry alliance aimed at bringing the Android platform to a device that’s always been mobile: the car.Audi, GM, Google, Honda, Hyundai and NVIDIA have joined together to form the Open Automotive Alliance™ (OAA), a global alliance of technology and auto industry leaders committed to bringing the Android platform to cars starting in 2014. The OAA is dedicated to a common platform that will drive innovation, and make technology in the car safer and more intuitive for everyone.
The OAA is aimed at accelerating auto innovation with an approach that offers openness, customization and scale, key tenets that have already made Android a familiar part of millions of people’s lives. This open development model and common platform will allow automakers to more easily bring cutting-edge technology to their drivers, and create new opportunities for developers to deliver powerful experiences for drivers and passengers in a safe and scalable way.
“The worlds of consumer and automotive technologies have never been more closely aligned, and this alliance will only pave the way for faster innovation,” said Ricky Hudi, Head of Electrics/Electronics Development at AUDI AG. “Working toward a common ecosystems benefits driver safety above all.”
”Partnering with Google and the OAA on an ecosystem that spans across vehicles and handheld mobile devices furthers our mission to bring vehicles into our owners digital lives and their digital lives into their vehicles,” said Mary Chan, President of General Motors’ Global Connected Consumer unit. “We see huge opportunities for the Android platform paired with OnStar 4G LTE connectivity in future Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles.”
"Millions of people are already familiar with Android and use it everyday," said Sundar Pichai, SVP of Android, Chrome & Apps at Google. "The expansion of the Android platform into automotive will allow our industry partners to more easily integrate mobile technology into cars and offer drivers a familiar, seamless experience so they can focus on the road."
"We are very pleased to join this alliance with Google as a founding member because Honda is committed to providing the very best connected-car experience to our customers," said Yoshiharu Yamamoto, president, CEO and director of Honda R&D Co., Ltd. "The Honda team is looking forward to collaborating with Google and all OAA members to help advance the safety, value and ease of use of connected-car technologies."
“We are excited to announce that our customers using Android will soon be able to enjoy the continuous user experience in their Hyundai and Kia vehicles.” said Dr. Woong-Chul Yang, Vice Chairman of R&D, Hyundai Motor Group. “By introducing the latest IT technologies safely and securely throughout our full range of vehicles, we continually strive to provide the highest levels of convenience and to enhance the in-vehicle experience.”
"The car is the ultimate mobile computer. With onboard supercomputing chips, futuristic cars of our dreams will no longer be science fiction," said Jen-Hsun Huang, president and chief executive officer, NVIDIA. "The OAA will enable the car industry to bring these amazing cars to market faster."
OAA members share a vision for the connected car, and bringing these open standards of innovation to the market will help extend people’s mobile experience seamlessly to another platform they already know and love. Timing from each automaker will vary, but you can expect to see the first cars with Android integration by the end of this year. The OAA invites other automotive technology companies to join in this endeavor. Learn more at openautoalliance.net
About the Audi Group
In 2012, the Audi Group (www.audi.com) delivered 1,455,123 cars of the Audi brand to its customers, generated revenue
of €48.8 billion and achieved an operating profit of €5.4 billion. The Audi Group is globally present in
more than 100 markets and currently employs more than 70,000 people worldwide, including around 50,000 in Germany. Total investment of approximately €11 billion is planned by 2015 – mainly in new products and sustainable technologies. Audi lives up to its corporate responsibility and has strategically established the principle of sustainability for its products and processes. The long-term goal is CO2-neutral mobility.
About General Motors Co.
General Motors Co. (www.gm.com, NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM, its subsidiaries and joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://.gm.com
About Google, Inc.
Google (www.google.com) is a global technology leader focused on improving the ways people connect with information. Google’s innovations in web search and advertising have made its website a top Internet property and its brand one of the most recognized in the world. Google is a trademark of Google Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.
About Honda Motor Co.
Honda (www.honda.com) offers a complete lineup of cars and trucks through a network of more than 1,000 dealerships in the United States. Honda has more than 30 years of experience producing automobiles in the region, which began with the Accord in Marysville, Ohio, in November 1982. Having produced more than 25 million vehicles in North America through 2012 using domestic and globally sourced parts, Honda currently operates 14 major manufacturing facilities in North America, producing a wide range of Honda automobiles, all-terrain vehicles, power equipment products, engines and transmissions.
About Hyundai Motor Group
The Hyundai Motor Group (www.hyundai.com) consists of more than fifty automotive-related subsidiaries and affiliates led by South Korea’s two largest automakers - Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors Corporation. In 2013, the two companies together sold 7.56 million vehicles produced at 31 plants in nine countries. As two of the world's fastest growing automotive brands, Hyundai and Kia are committed to providing top quality products and experiences that go beyond customers’ expectations. Together, Hyundai and Kia serve as the official automotive partner of FIFA – the governing body of the FIFA World Cup™.
About NVIDIA Corporation
Since 1993, NVIDIA (www.nvidia.com, NASDAQ: NVDA) has pioneered the art and science of visual computing. The company's technologies are transforming a world of displays into a world of interactive discovery -- for everyone from gamers to scientists, and consumers to enterprise customers.
CEI’s Wayne Smolda: Auto Fleets Facing Higher Repair Costs and Greater Hidden Risk
Automotive fleets are experiencing just the beginning of an accelerating trend toward higher repair costs, greater risk of unsafe repairs, and more liability from victims of fleet accidents. That’s the latest view from Wayne Smolda, founder and chief executive officer of The CEI Group, Inc. Mr. Smolda makes the comments in the November December 2013 issue of Fleet Financials magazine, in guest editorial titled, “Fleet Executives Must Be Futurists.”
Mr. Smolda cites several factors for what he said is “the beginning of a technology-driven increase in the cost of automotive accident repairs.” Among them are the increasing use of plastic, carbon fiber and exotic steel alloys by auto manufacturers in the pursuit of greater fuel efficiency; the extra time and expense it takes repair shops to complete repairs for vehicles with those materials, and a continuing proliferation of expensive safety technology that relies on sensors that must be replaced and precisely repositioned.
Meanwhile, he said that fleets need to be aware that not all repair shops in the financially pressed collision repair industry will be able to make the required investment in advanced tools and training to keep up with the changing content in the vehicles of the future.
“One potential outcome is that some shop owners will save money by repairing vehicles the same way they’ve done for eyars,” Mr. Smolda says. “The danger is inferior repairs, more crashes and significantly reduced vehicle resale values.”
The proliferation of traffic cameras and on-board electronic data recorders means fleets may have incomplete knowledge of who their most dangerous drivers are, and so are more vulnerable to negligent entrustment liability when those drivers cause accidents. Typically, traffic camera violations don’t cite driver names, while fleets may not be using all the data that telematics systems are capturing to identify high-risk drivers, he explained. “In court, this opens fleet operators to the charge that ‘you should have known what you could have known,’” he warns.
To minimize those risks, Mr. Smolda says fleets need to rely on suppliers who can help them evaluate repair shop capabilities, closely monitor repairs, and bridge the information gap to identify their high-risk drivers.
To access the full article, please visit http://www.fleetfinancials.com/article/story/2013/12/fleet-executives-must-be-futurists.aspx?prestitial=1.
Mr. Smolda cites several factors for what he said is “the beginning of a technology-driven increase in the cost of automotive accident repairs.” Among them are the increasing use of plastic, carbon fiber and exotic steel alloys by auto manufacturers in the pursuit of greater fuel efficiency; the extra time and expense it takes repair shops to complete repairs for vehicles with those materials, and a continuing proliferation of expensive safety technology that relies on sensors that must be replaced and precisely repositioned.
Meanwhile, he said that fleets need to be aware that not all repair shops in the financially pressed collision repair industry will be able to make the required investment in advanced tools and training to keep up with the changing content in the vehicles of the future.
“One potential outcome is that some shop owners will save money by repairing vehicles the same way they’ve done for eyars,” Mr. Smolda says. “The danger is inferior repairs, more crashes and significantly reduced vehicle resale values.”
The proliferation of traffic cameras and on-board electronic data recorders means fleets may have incomplete knowledge of who their most dangerous drivers are, and so are more vulnerable to negligent entrustment liability when those drivers cause accidents. Typically, traffic camera violations don’t cite driver names, while fleets may not be using all the data that telematics systems are capturing to identify high-risk drivers, he explained. “In court, this opens fleet operators to the charge that ‘you should have known what you could have known,’” he warns.
To minimize those risks, Mr. Smolda says fleets need to rely on suppliers who can help them evaluate repair shop capabilities, closely monitor repairs, and bridge the information gap to identify their high-risk drivers.
To access the full article, please visit http://www.fleetfinancials.com/article/story/2013/12/fleet-executives-must-be-futurists.aspx?prestitial=1.
Southeastern Freight Lines Receives Expeditors’ 2013 Performance Carrier of the Year Award
Southeastern Freight Lines, the leading provider of regional less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation services, has received the Expeditors Performance Carrier of the Year Award for 2013.
Expeditors, a global logistics company, recognized Southeastern’s service center in Charleston, S.C. at the first annual Expeditors Vendor Appreciation Day for its outstanding service, performance and commitment to Expeditors’ customers.
The award recognizes Southeastern for its commitment to on-time delivery and customer service; highlighting Southeastern’s electronic data interchange (EDI) initiatives that allow for timely updates of delivery progress. Southeastern first started working with Expeditors out of its Charleston service center in May of 2013.
"We are honored to be recognized by Expeditors after just six months of doing business together and look forward to continuing to build on our relationship," said Mike Heaton, senior vice president, Southeastern. "This industry recognition highlights the commitment of Southeastern and our employees to serve Expeditors and all of our third-party logistics clients."
All customers benefit from Southeastern's industry-leading performance, including 99.4 percent of next-day shipments delivered on time, 99.9 percent of shipments handled free of shortage or damage, and a 99.4 percent invoice accuracy measure.
About Southeastern Freight Lines
Southeastern Freight Lines, a privately-owned regional less-than-truckload transportation services provider founded in 1950, specializes in next-day service in the Southeast and Southwest and operates 81 service centers in 12 states and Puerto Rico. Southeastern has a network of service partners to ensure transportation services in the remaining 38 states, Canada, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Mexico. Southeastern Freight Lines provides more than 99.35% on-time service in next day lanes. A dedication to service quality and a continuous quality improvement process that began in 1985 has been recognized by more than 350 quality awards received from customers and associations. Southeastern Freight Lines subsidiary, Southeastern Logistics Solutions, provides expedited service and multi-modal transportation services across the nation through strategic capacity partnerships. For more information, please visit www.sefl.com and www.facebook.com/SoutheasternFreight.
Expeditors, a global logistics company, recognized Southeastern’s service center in Charleston, S.C. at the first annual Expeditors Vendor Appreciation Day for its outstanding service, performance and commitment to Expeditors’ customers.
The award recognizes Southeastern for its commitment to on-time delivery and customer service; highlighting Southeastern’s electronic data interchange (EDI) initiatives that allow for timely updates of delivery progress. Southeastern first started working with Expeditors out of its Charleston service center in May of 2013.
"We are honored to be recognized by Expeditors after just six months of doing business together and look forward to continuing to build on our relationship," said Mike Heaton, senior vice president, Southeastern. "This industry recognition highlights the commitment of Southeastern and our employees to serve Expeditors and all of our third-party logistics clients."
All customers benefit from Southeastern's industry-leading performance, including 99.4 percent of next-day shipments delivered on time, 99.9 percent of shipments handled free of shortage or damage, and a 99.4 percent invoice accuracy measure.
About Southeastern Freight Lines
Southeastern Freight Lines, a privately-owned regional less-than-truckload transportation services provider founded in 1950, specializes in next-day service in the Southeast and Southwest and operates 81 service centers in 12 states and Puerto Rico. Southeastern has a network of service partners to ensure transportation services in the remaining 38 states, Canada, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Mexico. Southeastern Freight Lines provides more than 99.35% on-time service in next day lanes. A dedication to service quality and a continuous quality improvement process that began in 1985 has been recognized by more than 350 quality awards received from customers and associations. Southeastern Freight Lines subsidiary, Southeastern Logistics Solutions, provides expedited service and multi-modal transportation services across the nation through strategic capacity partnerships. For more information, please visit www.sefl.com and www.facebook.com/SoutheasternFreight.
Auto Truck Group Announces New Executive Appointments
Auto Truck Group, a leading North American upfitter specializing in the design, manufacture and installation of truck equipment, is pleased to announce three new executive appointments: Pete Dondlinger has been named Vice President of Operations; Brad Blanco has been named Vice President of IT, Finance, and Administration; and Pam Bodzioch has been named HR Manager.
Dondlinger - who was serving as the Director of Railroad Operations prior to this role - will now oversee operations of all Auto Truck's facilities. He will be charged with making sure each facility has a similar operating structure. The General Manager at each facility will now report through Dondlinger. He will also oversee engineering, quality, sourcing, and parts and service. Dondlinger holds a BS in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University and a MBA from the University of Illinois.
Blanco will assume responsibility for managing Auto Truck Group's IT, Finance and Administration teams. Prior to his current role, he served as Director of Finance. Blanco has been with Auto Truck Group since August 2012. He has held various IT and Finance positions throughout his career. Blanco holds a BS in Accounting and a MBA from Northern Illinois University.
Bodzioch - who is new to the company - will be joining Auto Truck Group as the company's HR Manager. She has more than 15 years of human resources generalist experience. Bodzioch has also been serving in the US Navy Reserves since 2001 and is currently an HR Officer for the NINTH Navy Construction Regiment in Fort Worth, TX. She holds a BA in Psychology from Elmhurst College and a MS in Management from National-Louis University.
Dondlinger - who was serving as the Director of Railroad Operations prior to this role - will now oversee operations of all Auto Truck's facilities. He will be charged with making sure each facility has a similar operating structure. The General Manager at each facility will now report through Dondlinger. He will also oversee engineering, quality, sourcing, and parts and service. Dondlinger holds a BS in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University and a MBA from the University of Illinois.
Blanco will assume responsibility for managing Auto Truck Group's IT, Finance and Administration teams. Prior to his current role, he served as Director of Finance. Blanco has been with Auto Truck Group since August 2012. He has held various IT and Finance positions throughout his career. Blanco holds a BS in Accounting and a MBA from Northern Illinois University.
Bodzioch - who is new to the company - will be joining Auto Truck Group as the company's HR Manager. She has more than 15 years of human resources generalist experience. Bodzioch has also been serving in the US Navy Reserves since 2001 and is currently an HR Officer for the NINTH Navy Construction Regiment in Fort Worth, TX. She holds a BA in Psychology from Elmhurst College and a MS in Management from National-Louis University.
PHH Arval Committed to Alternative Fuels for Fleets
Sparks, Md., Jan 2, 2014 – PHH Arval, a leading global fleet management services provider, has expanded its alternative fuel capabilities through an agreement with VNG.CO, a creator of a compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling network. The agreement will support PHH fleets integrating light-duty natural gas vehicles (NGVs) into their operations.
Across the nation fleet operators can take advantage of NGVs to save up to 40 percent on fuel costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20-25 percent, while enjoying the utility and functionality of gasoline and diesel vehicles. VNG co-locates compressed natural gas fueling equipment within existing gasoline stations convenient to fleet routes at no cost to the fleet operator. VNG takes responsibility for the ownership and operation of the CNG fueling facilities.
“Working with VNG positions us to provide enhanced alternative fuel solutions for our clients,” said Bob Sandler, Vice President, Enterprise Consulting and Analytics, PHH Arval. “In addition, by targeting high-traffic areas of the fleets we manage, we can work with VNG to provide compressed natural gas fueling where it’s most needed.”
“Our relationship with PHH will allow light-duty fleet operators to transition to NGVs with confidence that accessible, convenient and high-quality CNG fueling facilities will be available” said Robert Friedman, Chief Operating Officer of VNG.
Sandler added that this offering from PHH Arval and VNG can be a decision-maker when selecting fleet vehicles. “Lack of station availability is often cited for not making the switch to CNG vehicles – which are more environmentally friendly and considerably cheaper to refuel, than their gasoline and diesel counterparts. That won’t be the reason anymore.”
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 Latin America. For more information, visit www.phharval.com, LinkedIn, Twitter or call (800) ONLY-PHH.
About VNG.CO
VNG offers a nationwide CNG fueling solution to support and accelerate the widespread use of light-duty NGVs by national and regional fleets, and eventually the mass-market consumer segment. Founded by Harvey Lamm, the founder of Subaru of America, and Bob Annunziata, the founder of telecommunications network pioneer Teleport Communications Group, VNG is building a nationwide retail CNG fueling network to support natural gas vehicles. For more information, please visit the company's website at www.vng.co or call (610) 709-5500.
Across the nation fleet operators can take advantage of NGVs to save up to 40 percent on fuel costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20-25 percent, while enjoying the utility and functionality of gasoline and diesel vehicles. VNG co-locates compressed natural gas fueling equipment within existing gasoline stations convenient to fleet routes at no cost to the fleet operator. VNG takes responsibility for the ownership and operation of the CNG fueling facilities.
“Working with VNG positions us to provide enhanced alternative fuel solutions for our clients,” said Bob Sandler, Vice President, Enterprise Consulting and Analytics, PHH Arval. “In addition, by targeting high-traffic areas of the fleets we manage, we can work with VNG to provide compressed natural gas fueling where it’s most needed.”
“Our relationship with PHH will allow light-duty fleet operators to transition to NGVs with confidence that accessible, convenient and high-quality CNG fueling facilities will be available” said Robert Friedman, Chief Operating Officer of VNG.
Sandler added that this offering from PHH Arval and VNG can be a decision-maker when selecting fleet vehicles. “Lack of station availability is often cited for not making the switch to CNG vehicles – which are more environmentally friendly and considerably cheaper to refuel, than their gasoline and diesel counterparts. That won’t be the reason anymore.”
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 Latin America. For more information, visit www.phharval.com, LinkedIn, Twitter or call (800) ONLY-PHH.
About VNG.CO
VNG offers a nationwide CNG fueling solution to support and accelerate the widespread use of light-duty NGVs by national and regional fleets, and eventually the mass-market consumer segment. Founded by Harvey Lamm, the founder of Subaru of America, and Bob Annunziata, the founder of telecommunications network pioneer Teleport Communications Group, VNG is building a nationwide retail CNG fueling network to support natural gas vehicles. For more information, please visit the company's website at www.vng.co or call (610) 709-5500.
Comdata Inc. Acquires Unattended Fuel Management Leader eFueling Technologies
Brentwood, Tenn. — Jan. 6, 2014 — Comdata Inc. has acquired eFueling Technologies, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Woodfin Oil Company. This acquisition allows Comdata to expand its product offerings in the unattended fueling market by combining eFueling’s and Comdata’s product knowledge and industry experience.
Comdata and eFueling partnered to develop a robust, web-based site controller system marketed as SmartSight. Launched in 2013, this system provides fuel merchants with real-time insight into transaction data and activity at unattended fueling sites.
“Comdata has been offering payment processing solutions to fuel merchants for more than 20 years, and we continue to provide tools and data to help our customers drive successful business operations,” said Randy Morgan, executive vice president of the fleet division at Comdata. “The acquisition of eFueling Technologies supports our continuing commitment to growth in fleet fueling market.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for eFueling to join a company that shares our passion for product quality and customer service,” said Jack Woodfin, President of Woodfin Oil Company. He added that the acquisition will take “the new standard in automated fuel management systems developed by eFueling Technologies over the past three years to a global audience. I am very proud of the entire eFueling Technologies team that has a developed a product that has far surpassed anything else in the unattended fuel management marketplace.”
Comdata and eFueling partnered to develop a robust, web-based site controller system marketed as SmartSight. Launched in 2013, this system provides fuel merchants with real-time insight into transaction data and activity at unattended fueling sites.
“Comdata has been offering payment processing solutions to fuel merchants for more than 20 years, and we continue to provide tools and data to help our customers drive successful business operations,” said Randy Morgan, executive vice president of the fleet division at Comdata. “The acquisition of eFueling Technologies supports our continuing commitment to growth in fleet fueling market.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for eFueling to join a company that shares our passion for product quality and customer service,” said Jack Woodfin, President of Woodfin Oil Company. He added that the acquisition will take “the new standard in automated fuel management systems developed by eFueling Technologies over the past three years to a global audience. I am very proud of the entire eFueling Technologies team that has a developed a product that has far surpassed anything else in the unattended fuel management marketplace.”
Heiligenstein Takes Helm as President of International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association
WASHINGTON, DC – On January 1st, Mike Heiligenstein, Executive Director of the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA), Austin, Texas, began his year-long term as President of the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA), the worldwide association representing toll facility owners and operators and the businesses that serve them. In addition to Heiligenstein, eight directors began new terms on IBTTA’s board of directors on January 1st. The new officers and directors were elected last September at IBTTA’s 81st Annual Meeting in Vancouver, British Columbia.
“Over the next year, I look forward to leading our industry’s international association while highlighting the great work at The Mobility Authority and other IBTTA member organizations around the globe,” said Heiligenstein.
“Many of the challenges we face in Central Texas to provide safe, reliable, enjoyable and green mobility in one of the nation’s fastest growing regions are challenges that are universal to transportation authorities around the world,” said Heiligenstein “Throughout 2014, the tolling industry will have the opportunity to share experiences and learn from one another to bring best practices to work on behalf of our customers especially during IBTTA’s 82nd Annual Meeting and Exhibition in Austin, Texas.”
Heiligenstein has been with Mobility Authority since its inception in 2002 and oversaw the development of its initial project, the 183A toll road in Williamson County, which is one of the first projects in the country to transition to all-electronic, cashless toll collection. Before taking the helm at the Mobility Authority, Heiligenstein served the citizens of Williamson County for 23 years as a public official. Heiligenstein serves on the advisory board of the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, and on several other committees and working groups dealing with transportation issues.
“2014 is a crucial year for the advancement of tolling as a proven, reliable method of transportation infrastructure funding,” said Patrick D. Jones, Executive Director and CEO of IBTTA. “The infrastructure funding debate across the globe continues to highlight the need for tolling and other funding methods to help maintain and reconstruct our highways, bridges and tunnels. Mike, our officers and directors will guide our association during this critical debate.”
2014 IBTTA Officers who began their terms on January 1st includes:
· President: Mike Heiligenstein, Austin, Texas, Executive Director, Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority
· 1st Vice President: Javier Rodriguez, Miami, Florida, Executive Director, Miami-Dade Expressway Authority
· 2nd Vice President: Buddy Croft, Jamestown, Rhode Island, Executive Director, Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority
· Intl. Vice President: Emanuela Stocchi, Rome, Italy, Responsible for International Affairs, Associazione Italiana Societa
Concessionarie Autostrade e Trafori
· Immediate Past President: Rob Horr, Alexandria Bay, NY, Executive Director, Thousand Islands Bridge Authority
Eight directors whose new terms began on January 1st, include:
· Chris Tomlinson, Executive Director, Georgia State Road and Tollway Authority (term expires at the end of 2014)
· Chris Waszczuk, Administrator, New Hampshire Department of Transportation, Bureau of Turnpikes, Concord, NH (term expires at the end of 2014)
· Diane Scaccetti, Executive Director and CEO, Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, FL (term expires at the end of 2016)
· Gerald Carrigan, Executive Director, North Texas Tollway Authority, Plano, TX (term expires at the end of 2017)
· Andrew Fremier, P.E., Deputy Executive Director, Bay Area Toll Authority, Metropolitan Transportation Commission, Oakland, CA (term expires at the end of 2017)
· Samuel Johnson, Director of Operations, San Diego Association of Government, San Diego, CA (term expires at the end of 2017)
· Tim Stewart, Executive Director, Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, Oklahoma City, OK (term expires at the end of 2017)
· Cynthia Ward, Director, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, Washington, DC (term expires at the end of 2017)
“Over the next year, I look forward to leading our industry’s international association while highlighting the great work at The Mobility Authority and other IBTTA member organizations around the globe,” said Heiligenstein.
“Many of the challenges we face in Central Texas to provide safe, reliable, enjoyable and green mobility in one of the nation’s fastest growing regions are challenges that are universal to transportation authorities around the world,” said Heiligenstein “Throughout 2014, the tolling industry will have the opportunity to share experiences and learn from one another to bring best practices to work on behalf of our customers especially during IBTTA’s 82nd Annual Meeting and Exhibition in Austin, Texas.”
Heiligenstein has been with Mobility Authority since its inception in 2002 and oversaw the development of its initial project, the 183A toll road in Williamson County, which is one of the first projects in the country to transition to all-electronic, cashless toll collection. Before taking the helm at the Mobility Authority, Heiligenstein served the citizens of Williamson County for 23 years as a public official. Heiligenstein serves on the advisory board of the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, and on several other committees and working groups dealing with transportation issues.
“2014 is a crucial year for the advancement of tolling as a proven, reliable method of transportation infrastructure funding,” said Patrick D. Jones, Executive Director and CEO of IBTTA. “The infrastructure funding debate across the globe continues to highlight the need for tolling and other funding methods to help maintain and reconstruct our highways, bridges and tunnels. Mike, our officers and directors will guide our association during this critical debate.”
2014 IBTTA Officers who began their terms on January 1st includes:
· President: Mike Heiligenstein, Austin, Texas, Executive Director, Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority
· 1st Vice President: Javier Rodriguez, Miami, Florida, Executive Director, Miami-Dade Expressway Authority
· 2nd Vice President: Buddy Croft, Jamestown, Rhode Island, Executive Director, Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority
· Intl. Vice President: Emanuela Stocchi, Rome, Italy, Responsible for International Affairs, Associazione Italiana Societa
Concessionarie Autostrade e Trafori
· Immediate Past President: Rob Horr, Alexandria Bay, NY, Executive Director, Thousand Islands Bridge Authority
Eight directors whose new terms began on January 1st, include:
· Chris Tomlinson, Executive Director, Georgia State Road and Tollway Authority (term expires at the end of 2014)
· Chris Waszczuk, Administrator, New Hampshire Department of Transportation, Bureau of Turnpikes, Concord, NH (term expires at the end of 2014)
· Diane Scaccetti, Executive Director and CEO, Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, FL (term expires at the end of 2016)
· Gerald Carrigan, Executive Director, North Texas Tollway Authority, Plano, TX (term expires at the end of 2017)
· Andrew Fremier, P.E., Deputy Executive Director, Bay Area Toll Authority, Metropolitan Transportation Commission, Oakland, CA (term expires at the end of 2017)
· Samuel Johnson, Director of Operations, San Diego Association of Government, San Diego, CA (term expires at the end of 2017)
· Tim Stewart, Executive Director, Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, Oklahoma City, OK (term expires at the end of 2017)
· Cynthia Ward, Director, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, Washington, DC (term expires at the end of 2017)
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