ALPHARETTA, Ga. (April 23, 2010) – LeasePlan USA, a leading fleet and vehicle management company, recently announced the introduction of its new Government Fleet Services program, which is a complete fleet support service designed for government fleets and their unique needs.
To spearhead its Government Fleet Services program, LeasePlan recently appointed 30-year industry veteran, Matthew P. Betz, to the position of vice president, government fleet services.
Previously, Matthew served as vice president of national account sales for AmeriFleet Transportation where he was responsible for the company’s North America sales and marketing efforts. In his position, he oversaw the development of large fleet accounts, programs to increase value in vehicle logistics and managed the company’s public relations and marketing efforts.
Matthew currently serves on the boards of the National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA), Automotive Fleet & Leasing Association (AFLA) and the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS).
“Matt has the proven track record, industry experience and knowledge to launch this new program and make it a huge success,” said Jon J. Toups, senior vice president, chief sales & marketing officer. “LeasePlan has the expertise to meet the needs of the government fleet sector, and now with the right leader in place, we look forward to expanding our market share in this growing section of our industry.”
With leasing and managing vehicles as its core and only business, LeasePlan offers a broad range of solutions that are designed to cut fleet costs, increase driver productivity and reduce overall administration.
LeasePlan USA, a subsidiary of LeasePlan Corp. N.V., is a global leader in vehicle leasing and fleet management solutions. The company, which manages
1.3 million vehicles worldwide, offers clients customized plans for total fleet cost reduction through its technologically advanced products and dedication to customer service.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
FORD’S 2011 FLEET VEHICLE LINEUP LAUNCHES WITH 100 PERCENT SUSTAINABLE POWERTRAIN TECHNOLOGY
DEARBORN, Mich., April 22, 2010 – Ford, the industry leader in commercial and government fleet sales, will offer 100 percent of its fleet vehicles this year with fuel-efficient powertrains and other sustainable technologies – including battery electric, hybrid, natural gas, propane, E-85, biodiesel (B20) and EcoBoost – making the Blue Oval the industry’s greenest full-line fleet provider.
“Companies and the government are greening their fleets, and Ford is here to help,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “Ford is driving America with a full line of vehicles featuring alternative fuel powertrains and advanced sustainable technologies aimed at improving fuel economy, reducing CO2 emissions and significantly reducing the cost of owning our vehicles for fleet customers nationwide while providing healthy returns to our business.”
Ford fleet leadership
In 2009, Ford commanded the largest share of commercial and government fleet sales, with 32 percent and 44 percent, respectively.
Ford F-Series, Ranger, Econoline, Fusion, Escape and Taurus were the sales leaders in their respective commercial segments. Plus, F-Series, Crown Victoria and Econoline were the top three sellers in the government fleet sector.
“Fleet customers are turning to Ford because our comprehensive product lineup provides solutions for virtually every need,” said Kevin Koswick, director of Ford North American Fleet, Leasing and Remarketing Operations. “Plus, the top quality, class-leading fuel economy and strong resale values of our vehicles help reduce vehicle ownership costs and provide a compelling value proposition.”
Ford’s improving residual values is the main reason. From the 2009 to the 2010 model year, Ford achieved the industry’s largest gain in resale values, an increase of roughly $1,300 per vehicle.
Resale value of Ford’s three brands at auction rose 23 percent from a year ago to outpace the industry, which saw resale values increase by 19 percent, according to the latest National Automobile Dealers Association auction data. Additionally, Kelley Blue Book recognized the 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Ford Super Duty with its Best Resale Value Awards, singling out the full-size car and full-size pickup as vehicles expected to hold the greatest proportion of their value after five years of ownership.
“Rising resale values means more money in fleet customers’ pockets when it is time to sell or trade in for new vehicles,” said Charles Pecoraro, Ford residual forecast manager. “Combine these savings with lower repair and maintenance costs and lower fuel costs, thanks to our improved fuel economy fleetwide, and the cost to own a Ford product drops dramatically during the life of the vehicle, providing tremendous cost savings for large fleet buyers.”
Kraft Foods recently purchased a fleet of 2,500 new Ford Fusions for its national sales staff. At the same time, the world’s second-largest food company says it reached a corporate sustainability objective, saving fuel and reducing CO2 emissions.
“Transportation and distribution is one of six sustainability focus areas at Kraft Foods,” said John Dmochowsky, sales fleet manager, Kraft Foods. “The company has realized substantial fuel cost savings by switching from six- to four-cylinder engines.”
According to the latest EPA report, Ford has improved the fuel efficiency of its lineup more than any other automaker and more than twice that of its nearest competitor.
That translates to real-world benefits for fleet buyers. For instance, if a fleet customer purchasing 2,000 vehicles chooses a 2010 Ford Fusion S four-cylinder, 2.5-liter regular gas vehicle instead of a 2010 Toyota Camry six-cylinder, 3.5-liter regular gas model, the Fusions would result in annual fuel cost savings of $558,000 and a 2,400-ton reduction in CO2 emissions.
Right vehicles for customers at the right time
In communities across America, Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptors patrol neighborhoods. Ford Econoline ambulances transport patients to the nearest hospitals. Ford Super Duty chassis cabs are upfitted as tow trucks, utility repair vehicles and snowplows. And chances are, most taxis are Ford vehicles.
“Today, customers have so many different needs, there is no ‘one product fits all’ solution,” said Len Deluca, director, Ford Commercial Trucks. “Ford’s plan is to continue offering a complete range of high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles designed and engineered to help our fleet customers significantly reduce their vehicle ownership costs.”
Ford will offer a new Police Interceptor sedan when production of the Ford Crown Victoria ends in 2011, maintaining Ford’s 15-year leadership in the police fleet market.
The new Ford Police Interceptor will be available with a highly efficient 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers at least 263 horsepower and E-85 compatibility. That is 25 percent more efficient than the 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 offered in the current Crown Victoria Police Interceptor. It also will be offered with an all-new 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged, direct-injection V-6 that will deliver at least 365 horsepower and 350 ft.-lb. of torque across a broad rpm range.
Later this year, Ford will reveal an additional Police Interceptor utility vehicle. This pursuit-rated vehicle will offer departments another choice to best meet law enforcement’s needs.
The Transit Connect – launched last summer and named 2010 North American Truck of the Year – filled an unmet need in the marketplace by providing small business owners with a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle choice. Ford is building on the success of that product by offering a pure electric-powered version of the Transit Connect later this year.
Additionally, a Transit Connect Taxi comes to market later this year with compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane (LPG). Ford has been a leader in the taxi business for decades and was the first manufacturer to introduce gas-electric hybrid-powered taxis into North American fleets with the launch of the Ford Escape Hybrid in San Francisco and New York City in early 2005.
The all-new 2011 Super Duty, in dealer showrooms now, is available with diesel and gas engines that have flexible fueling options. The 2011 F-150 will be available with EcoBoost engines, and E-Series will be offered with engine prep packages that allow conversion to CNG or LPG. In addition to the hybrid models, the top-selling Escape and Fusion also will be available with E-85 fuel capabilities.
“Advanced gas engines, including EcoBoost, along with cleaner, alternative fuel vehicles and advanced hybrid and electric technologies are an important part of Ford’s fleet lineup,” Fields said. “Ford is committed to delivering great products, a strong business and a better world.”
“Companies and the government are greening their fleets, and Ford is here to help,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “Ford is driving America with a full line of vehicles featuring alternative fuel powertrains and advanced sustainable technologies aimed at improving fuel economy, reducing CO2 emissions and significantly reducing the cost of owning our vehicles for fleet customers nationwide while providing healthy returns to our business.”
Ford fleet leadership
In 2009, Ford commanded the largest share of commercial and government fleet sales, with 32 percent and 44 percent, respectively.
Ford F-Series, Ranger, Econoline, Fusion, Escape and Taurus were the sales leaders in their respective commercial segments. Plus, F-Series, Crown Victoria and Econoline were the top three sellers in the government fleet sector.
“Fleet customers are turning to Ford because our comprehensive product lineup provides solutions for virtually every need,” said Kevin Koswick, director of Ford North American Fleet, Leasing and Remarketing Operations. “Plus, the top quality, class-leading fuel economy and strong resale values of our vehicles help reduce vehicle ownership costs and provide a compelling value proposition.”
Ford’s improving residual values is the main reason. From the 2009 to the 2010 model year, Ford achieved the industry’s largest gain in resale values, an increase of roughly $1,300 per vehicle.
Resale value of Ford’s three brands at auction rose 23 percent from a year ago to outpace the industry, which saw resale values increase by 19 percent, according to the latest National Automobile Dealers Association auction data. Additionally, Kelley Blue Book recognized the 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Ford Super Duty with its Best Resale Value Awards, singling out the full-size car and full-size pickup as vehicles expected to hold the greatest proportion of their value after five years of ownership.
“Rising resale values means more money in fleet customers’ pockets when it is time to sell or trade in for new vehicles,” said Charles Pecoraro, Ford residual forecast manager. “Combine these savings with lower repair and maintenance costs and lower fuel costs, thanks to our improved fuel economy fleetwide, and the cost to own a Ford product drops dramatically during the life of the vehicle, providing tremendous cost savings for large fleet buyers.”
Kraft Foods recently purchased a fleet of 2,500 new Ford Fusions for its national sales staff. At the same time, the world’s second-largest food company says it reached a corporate sustainability objective, saving fuel and reducing CO2 emissions.
“Transportation and distribution is one of six sustainability focus areas at Kraft Foods,” said John Dmochowsky, sales fleet manager, Kraft Foods. “The company has realized substantial fuel cost savings by switching from six- to four-cylinder engines.”
According to the latest EPA report, Ford has improved the fuel efficiency of its lineup more than any other automaker and more than twice that of its nearest competitor.
That translates to real-world benefits for fleet buyers. For instance, if a fleet customer purchasing 2,000 vehicles chooses a 2010 Ford Fusion S four-cylinder, 2.5-liter regular gas vehicle instead of a 2010 Toyota Camry six-cylinder, 3.5-liter regular gas model, the Fusions would result in annual fuel cost savings of $558,000 and a 2,400-ton reduction in CO2 emissions.
Right vehicles for customers at the right time
In communities across America, Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptors patrol neighborhoods. Ford Econoline ambulances transport patients to the nearest hospitals. Ford Super Duty chassis cabs are upfitted as tow trucks, utility repair vehicles and snowplows. And chances are, most taxis are Ford vehicles.
“Today, customers have so many different needs, there is no ‘one product fits all’ solution,” said Len Deluca, director, Ford Commercial Trucks. “Ford’s plan is to continue offering a complete range of high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles designed and engineered to help our fleet customers significantly reduce their vehicle ownership costs.”
Ford will offer a new Police Interceptor sedan when production of the Ford Crown Victoria ends in 2011, maintaining Ford’s 15-year leadership in the police fleet market.
The new Ford Police Interceptor will be available with a highly efficient 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers at least 263 horsepower and E-85 compatibility. That is 25 percent more efficient than the 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 offered in the current Crown Victoria Police Interceptor. It also will be offered with an all-new 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged, direct-injection V-6 that will deliver at least 365 horsepower and 350 ft.-lb. of torque across a broad rpm range.
Later this year, Ford will reveal an additional Police Interceptor utility vehicle. This pursuit-rated vehicle will offer departments another choice to best meet law enforcement’s needs.
The Transit Connect – launched last summer and named 2010 North American Truck of the Year – filled an unmet need in the marketplace by providing small business owners with a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle choice. Ford is building on the success of that product by offering a pure electric-powered version of the Transit Connect later this year.
Additionally, a Transit Connect Taxi comes to market later this year with compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane (LPG). Ford has been a leader in the taxi business for decades and was the first manufacturer to introduce gas-electric hybrid-powered taxis into North American fleets with the launch of the Ford Escape Hybrid in San Francisco and New York City in early 2005.
The all-new 2011 Super Duty, in dealer showrooms now, is available with diesel and gas engines that have flexible fueling options. The 2011 F-150 will be available with EcoBoost engines, and E-Series will be offered with engine prep packages that allow conversion to CNG or LPG. In addition to the hybrid models, the top-selling Escape and Fusion also will be available with E-85 fuel capabilities.
“Advanced gas engines, including EcoBoost, along with cleaner, alternative fuel vehicles and advanced hybrid and electric technologies are an important part of Ford’s fleet lineup,” Fields said. “Ford is committed to delivering great products, a strong business and a better world.”
Technology is Key to Improving Fleet Loss Recovery PerformanceTechnology is Key to Improving Fleet Loss Recovery Performance
Trevose, PA, April 22, 2010 – Fleets can cut their loss recovery times by nearly 60 percent and save their companies millions of dollars a years in labor and interest expenses by making better use of technology, Chris Villella, senior manager of loss recovery and insurance services for the CEI Group, Inc. told an audience of subrogation professionals at the Fifth Annual National Automobile Subrogations Strategies ExecuSummit.
Including savings on time, labor, paper and postage and reduced interest expenses, a subrogation department that processes $1 million in recovery claims a month can generate savings of nearly $250,000 a year, Villella told the gathering of subrogation professionals, held at the Monhegan Sun Resort and Casino in Uncasville, CT.
Citing specific examples, Villella told the group that:
• Using faxes instead of the US mail to send and receive claim documents can reduce the amount of time it takes to recover damages by as much as 28 percent, or 23 days off an 80-day average recovery cycle period.
• Using email can cut claim recovery time by another 60 percent, or 25 days.
• A pilot program of a web-based subrogation clearinghouse called E-Subro Hub, created and operated by the non-profit Arbitration Forums, Inc., has reduced average recovery claim time for participating firms by another 19 days.
A recent study of CEI’s own subrogration claims processing found that using faxes and emails resulted in nearly seven fewer follow-up contacts and more than an hour of labor time per claim, resulting in operational savings of more nearly $34 each, Villella told the group. Participation in the E-Subro Hub pilot program has yielded CEI nearly another $8 in savings per processed claim. Last year, the program was conducted in six states and the District of Columbia, he said.
Villella said the major benefit of reducing damage loss recovery time is a faster inflow of cash, enabling a company or government to depend less on short-term lines of credit to cover operating expenses.
About The CEI Group, Inc. (CEI)
CEI is a leading provider of technology-enhanced vehicle accident, driver safety and fleet risk management services. Its provider network includes some 4,000 collision repair shops in North America, including more than 800 heavy-duty truck collision repair centers. Its customers include self-insured commercial, institutional and governmental fleets, directly and through its alliances with fleet leasing companies. CEI also provides vehicle direct repair program outsourcing to leading property and casualty insurance companies.
Founded in 1983, CEI has headquarters near Philadelphia, PA, with field sales offices in Trevose, PA; Monroe, MI; Tulsa, OK; and Pittsburgh PA. In 2000, CEI launched DriverCare™, a line of fleet risk management and driver safety services, including DriverCare Risk Manager™, DriverCare mvrComplete™, DriverCare Quarterly™ and DriverCare Web-Based Training™. For more information about CEI, please visit www.ceinetwork.com.
Including savings on time, labor, paper and postage and reduced interest expenses, a subrogation department that processes $1 million in recovery claims a month can generate savings of nearly $250,000 a year, Villella told the gathering of subrogation professionals, held at the Monhegan Sun Resort and Casino in Uncasville, CT.
Citing specific examples, Villella told the group that:
• Using faxes instead of the US mail to send and receive claim documents can reduce the amount of time it takes to recover damages by as much as 28 percent, or 23 days off an 80-day average recovery cycle period.
• Using email can cut claim recovery time by another 60 percent, or 25 days.
• A pilot program of a web-based subrogation clearinghouse called E-Subro Hub, created and operated by the non-profit Arbitration Forums, Inc., has reduced average recovery claim time for participating firms by another 19 days.
A recent study of CEI’s own subrogration claims processing found that using faxes and emails resulted in nearly seven fewer follow-up contacts and more than an hour of labor time per claim, resulting in operational savings of more nearly $34 each, Villella told the group. Participation in the E-Subro Hub pilot program has yielded CEI nearly another $8 in savings per processed claim. Last year, the program was conducted in six states and the District of Columbia, he said.
Villella said the major benefit of reducing damage loss recovery time is a faster inflow of cash, enabling a company or government to depend less on short-term lines of credit to cover operating expenses.
About The CEI Group, Inc. (CEI)
CEI is a leading provider of technology-enhanced vehicle accident, driver safety and fleet risk management services. Its provider network includes some 4,000 collision repair shops in North America, including more than 800 heavy-duty truck collision repair centers. Its customers include self-insured commercial, institutional and governmental fleets, directly and through its alliances with fleet leasing companies. CEI also provides vehicle direct repair program outsourcing to leading property and casualty insurance companies.
Founded in 1983, CEI has headquarters near Philadelphia, PA, with field sales offices in Trevose, PA; Monroe, MI; Tulsa, OK; and Pittsburgh PA. In 2000, CEI launched DriverCare™, a line of fleet risk management and driver safety services, including DriverCare Risk Manager™, DriverCare mvrComplete™, DriverCare Quarterly™ and DriverCare Web-Based Training™. For more information about CEI, please visit www.ceinetwork.com.
Tony Cristello of BB&T Capital Markets To Present Aftermarket Forecast at GAAS 2010
CHICAGO, IL – April 21, 2010 – Tony Cristello, senior vice president, BB&T Capital Markets, will examine the financial past and future of the aftermarket at the 2010 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS), May 18-19 at the Hyatt Regency near Chicago. Cristello, one of the most popular speakers during previous appearances at GAAS, will address "The Economy and the Aftermarket."
"A year ago, we were cautiously optimistic that 2009 would prove to be a solid year for the aftermarket. Between a financially constrained consumer base, reduced new vehicle sales, and the fallout of dealership closings, we thought underlying industry fundamentals for the independent aftermarket would improve - and they did," said Cristello. "Now many investors are asking, 'Is this a temporary phenomenon or rather a multi-year cycle that should provide above average growth in 2010 and beyond?'” We will take a look at how the publicly traded companies in our coverage universe have performed, which were the winners (and losers) and what, if any, structural shifts may have occurred across the automotive supply chain as a result of one of the worst macro environments on record."
Cristello directs the automotive aftermarket research platform at BB&T Capital Markets. He has been featured on various television programs discussing the aftermarket industry, including CNBC and Bloomberg television. Before rejoining BB&T Capital Markets Equity Research in 2000, Cristello was an associate analyst with ABN AMRO in Chicago. He is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University. BB&T Capital Markets is the only Wall Street firm with an equity research team dedicated exclusively to the automotive aftermarket industry.
To register for GAAS 2010, visit http://www.globalsymposium.org/registration.shtml. GAAS 2010 room rates at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare are $168 (single or double). The date to receive this guaranteed, discounted room rate has been extended until Monday, April 26. Reservations can be made by phone at (800) 233-1234, or (847) 696-1234. Be sure to mention the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium to obtain the discounted group rate.
For more information on GAAS 2010, visit www.globalsymposium.org or phone (301) 654-6664.
"A year ago, we were cautiously optimistic that 2009 would prove to be a solid year for the aftermarket. Between a financially constrained consumer base, reduced new vehicle sales, and the fallout of dealership closings, we thought underlying industry fundamentals for the independent aftermarket would improve - and they did," said Cristello. "Now many investors are asking, 'Is this a temporary phenomenon or rather a multi-year cycle that should provide above average growth in 2010 and beyond?'” We will take a look at how the publicly traded companies in our coverage universe have performed, which were the winners (and losers) and what, if any, structural shifts may have occurred across the automotive supply chain as a result of one of the worst macro environments on record."
Cristello directs the automotive aftermarket research platform at BB&T Capital Markets. He has been featured on various television programs discussing the aftermarket industry, including CNBC and Bloomberg television. Before rejoining BB&T Capital Markets Equity Research in 2000, Cristello was an associate analyst with ABN AMRO in Chicago. He is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University. BB&T Capital Markets is the only Wall Street firm with an equity research team dedicated exclusively to the automotive aftermarket industry.
To register for GAAS 2010, visit http://www.globalsymposium.org/registration.shtml. GAAS 2010 room rates at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare are $168 (single or double). The date to receive this guaranteed, discounted room rate has been extended until Monday, April 26. Reservations can be made by phone at (800) 233-1234, or (847) 696-1234. Be sure to mention the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium to obtain the discounted group rate.
For more information on GAAS 2010, visit www.globalsymposium.org or phone (301) 654-6664.
Car Care Council and CalRecycle Partner on Tire Sustainability Program
Bethesda, MD – April 20, 2010 – The Car Care Council and CalRecycle have partnered to promote California’s new Tire Sustainability Program – “Just Check It” – to inform consumers about the benefits of tire inflation and maintenance.
CalRecycle will kick-off the education campaign at a special event at the State Capitol Southeast Parklands in Sacramento on Thursday, April 22, coinciding with Earth Day and National Car Care Month. State legislators, consumers and the media are invited to attend the event. The California Air Resources Board (CARB), the Bureau of Auto Repair (BAR), AAA of Northern California and other state agencies and industry and environmental groups are expected to exhibit and participate along with the Car Care Council.
“Working with CalRecycle on its public awareness outreach is a natural fit for the Council’s ‘Be Car Care Aware’ consumer education campaign,” said Rich White, executive director. “Proper tire inflation and care is a key maintenance message echoed by the Council for improved vehicle fuel efficiency, safety and extended tire life.”
“Now more than ever, Californians are looking for simple ways to save money and live green,” said CalRecycle Acting Director Margo Reid Brown. “Checking tire pressure once a month takes just a few short minutes and delivers many lasting benefits, including better performance, improved fuel efficiency and longer lasting tires, which saves money while helping to protect the environment.”
About the Car Care Council:
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.
About CalRecycle:
CalRecycle is the state's leading authority on recycling, waste reduction, and product reuse. CalRecycle plays an important role in the stewardship of California's vast resources and promotes innovation in technology to encourage economic and environmental sustainability. For more information, visit www.calrecycle.ca.gov.
CalRecycle is part of the California Natural Resources Agency.
CalRecycle will kick-off the education campaign at a special event at the State Capitol Southeast Parklands in Sacramento on Thursday, April 22, coinciding with Earth Day and National Car Care Month. State legislators, consumers and the media are invited to attend the event. The California Air Resources Board (CARB), the Bureau of Auto Repair (BAR), AAA of Northern California and other state agencies and industry and environmental groups are expected to exhibit and participate along with the Car Care Council.
“Working with CalRecycle on its public awareness outreach is a natural fit for the Council’s ‘Be Car Care Aware’ consumer education campaign,” said Rich White, executive director. “Proper tire inflation and care is a key maintenance message echoed by the Council for improved vehicle fuel efficiency, safety and extended tire life.”
“Now more than ever, Californians are looking for simple ways to save money and live green,” said CalRecycle Acting Director Margo Reid Brown. “Checking tire pressure once a month takes just a few short minutes and delivers many lasting benefits, including better performance, improved fuel efficiency and longer lasting tires, which saves money while helping to protect the environment.”
About the Car Care Council:
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.
About CalRecycle:
CalRecycle is the state's leading authority on recycling, waste reduction, and product reuse. CalRecycle plays an important role in the stewardship of California's vast resources and promotes innovation in technology to encourage economic and environmental sustainability. For more information, visit www.calrecycle.ca.gov.
CalRecycle is part of the California Natural Resources Agency.
FORD IS MAKING GREENER VEHICLES THROUGH INCREASED USE OF RENEWABLE AND RECYCLABLE MATERIALS
DEARBORN, Mich., April 20, 2010 – Ford is making its vehicles more eco-friendly through increased use of renewable and recyclable materials such as the soy and bio-based seat cushions and seatbacks on the 2010 Ford Taurus.
Ford vehicles are now 85 percent recyclable by weight. In 2009, Ford saved approximately $4.5 million by using recycled materials, and diverted between 25 and 30 million pounds of plastic from landfills in North America alone.
“By increasing the use of recycled or renewable content and reducing the use of undesirable materials whenever possible, we’re helping to reduce waste to landfills by millions of pounds – and we’re doing it around the world,” said John Viera, Ford’s director of Sustainability and Environmental Policy. “More than ever before, the spirit of ONE Ford that drives our global product strategy also drives our commitment to sustainability.”
The 2010 Ford Taurus is the eleventh Ford vehicle to feature earth-friendly bio-based seat cushions and seatbacks. Ford has more vehicle models with seats that use soy and other bio-based foams than any other automaker. Ford Mustang, F-150, Focus, Flex, Escape, Expedition and Econoline as well as Mercury Mariner, Lincoln MKS and Navigator also use the sustainable material.
“We already have bio-based foam on more than 2 million vehicles and we’re looking to convert 100 percent of our fleet to it in the future,” said Jerry Brown, Ford chief engineer of seat and restraint engineering. “This is just one way that Ford is advancing the use of eco-friendly materials in the industry.”
Ford’s “reduce, reuse and recycle” commitments are part of the company’s broader global sustainability strategy to reduce its environmental footprint while accelerating the development of advanced fuel-efficient vehicle technologies around the world.
Building in green materials
For the past several years, Ford has concentrated on increasing the use of non-metal recycled and bio-based materials, including:
* Bio-based (such as soy) polyurethane foams on the seat cushions, seatbacks and headliners on 11 vehicle models. The 2 million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles on the road today with bio-foam seats equates to a reduction in petroleum oil usage of approximately 1.5 million pounds
* Post-consumer recycled resins such as detergent bottles, tires and battery casings used to make underbody systems, such as aerodynamic shields, splash shields and radiator air deflector shields. The latest example is the engine cam cover on the 3.0-liter V-6 2010 Ford Escape. As a result, Ford has diverted between 25 and 30 million pounds of plastic from landfills
* Post-industrial recycled yarns for seat fabrics on vehicles such as the Ford Escape and Escape Hybrid. A 100 percent usage of recycled yarns can mean a 64 percent reduction in energy consumption and a 60 percent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the use of new yarns
* Repurposed nylon carpeting made into nylon resin and molded into cylinder head covers for Ford’s 3.0-liter Duratec® engine. The industry’s first eco-friendly cylinder head cover is used in the 2010 Ford Fusion and Escape
* The automotive industry’s first application of wheat straw-reinforced plastic for the third-row storage bins of the 2010 Ford Flex. The natural fiber replaces energy-inefficient glass fibers commonly used to reinforce plastic parts
In support of Ford’s global product development strategy, material engineers are developing standardized specifications for sustainable materials while working with parts purchasers and suppliers to use eco-friendly components in different markets.
For example, the European Ford Focus uses recycled polymer in such components as the battery tray, wheel arch liners, seat fabric and carpets. Materials engineers are in the process of determining if recycled polymer can be used for similar components in the global Focus coming to North America and Europe in 2011.
“Sustainable materials need to meet the same high standards for quality, durability and performance as virgin material; there can be no compromise on product quality,” said Valentina Cerato, Ford materials engineer in Europe.
What the future holds
Materials researchers continue to explore sustainable material applications, such as an eco-friendly replacement for the fiberglass used between the headliner and roof sheet metal that will be bio-based, lighter weight, and will deliver improved acoustics and neutralize odor.
In addition, Ford researchers are developing natural-fiber composites as a potential substitute for the glass fibers traditionally used in plastic car parts to make them stronger while reducing vehicle weight, which helps improve fuel economy and reduces emissions. Natural fiber composites also are more eco-friendly, because their production and end-of-life incineration are less energy intensive than glass fibers, which also results in lower emissions.
Ford researchers also are investigating ways to use plastics made entirely from sustainable resources such as corn, sugar beets, sweet potatoes and other vegetables. These renewable materials will help reduce dependency on petroleum, reduce CO2 emissions and allow the composting of the material at the end of a vehicle’s life.
“Natural fiber-reinforced plastics and plant-based polymer resins help reduce CO2 emissions by being entirely compostable, and in some cases reduce weight, which helps improve fuel economy,” said Debbie Mielewski, technical leader, Ford Plastics Research. “We have to entertain the thought of bio-replacement in baby steps, looking at every aspect of a car that could be green. One day I hope to see the world of automotive plastics go totally compostable, removing petroleum by 100 percent.”
What comes out
Automobiles are among the most recycled consumer products in the world. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, more than 95 percent of all end-of-life vehicles in the U.S. are processed for recycling – compared to 52 percent of all paper and 31 percent of all plastic soft drink bottles.
In Europe, automakers are required to take back the vehicles they’ve produced at the end of the vehicles’ useful lives. Ford has end-of-life recycling networks for its vehicles in 16 European markets and participates in industry collective systems in another 10. In 2007, Ford became one of the first automakers in Europe to be certified in compliance with end-of-life requirements, including:
* Design and produce vehicles that facilitate the dismantling, reuse, recovery and recycling of them at end-of-life
* Reduce the use of hazardous substances when designing vehicles
* Increase the use of recycled materials in vehicle manufacture
* Ensure that parts do not contain mercury, hexavalent chromium, cadmium or lead
Reuse is a big part of the recycling story. Auto recyclers supply more than one third of all ferrous scrap to the U.S. scrap processing industry. When manufacturers use scrap iron and steel instead of newly produced ore, they reduce air and water pollution by more than half during the manufacturing process.
“In theory, end-of-life vehicles are nearly 100 percent recoverable. In practice, however, the cost in energy and labor to recover all vehicle material often exceeds the value of the materials and offers insignificant value to the environment,” Viera said. “We remain focused on achieving the highest economically viable and environmentally sound recovery percentage possible.”
Ford vehicles are now 85 percent recyclable by weight. In 2009, Ford saved approximately $4.5 million by using recycled materials, and diverted between 25 and 30 million pounds of plastic from landfills in North America alone.
“By increasing the use of recycled or renewable content and reducing the use of undesirable materials whenever possible, we’re helping to reduce waste to landfills by millions of pounds – and we’re doing it around the world,” said John Viera, Ford’s director of Sustainability and Environmental Policy. “More than ever before, the spirit of ONE Ford that drives our global product strategy also drives our commitment to sustainability.”
The 2010 Ford Taurus is the eleventh Ford vehicle to feature earth-friendly bio-based seat cushions and seatbacks. Ford has more vehicle models with seats that use soy and other bio-based foams than any other automaker. Ford Mustang, F-150, Focus, Flex, Escape, Expedition and Econoline as well as Mercury Mariner, Lincoln MKS and Navigator also use the sustainable material.
“We already have bio-based foam on more than 2 million vehicles and we’re looking to convert 100 percent of our fleet to it in the future,” said Jerry Brown, Ford chief engineer of seat and restraint engineering. “This is just one way that Ford is advancing the use of eco-friendly materials in the industry.”
Ford’s “reduce, reuse and recycle” commitments are part of the company’s broader global sustainability strategy to reduce its environmental footprint while accelerating the development of advanced fuel-efficient vehicle technologies around the world.
Building in green materials
For the past several years, Ford has concentrated on increasing the use of non-metal recycled and bio-based materials, including:
* Bio-based (such as soy) polyurethane foams on the seat cushions, seatbacks and headliners on 11 vehicle models. The 2 million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles on the road today with bio-foam seats equates to a reduction in petroleum oil usage of approximately 1.5 million pounds
* Post-consumer recycled resins such as detergent bottles, tires and battery casings used to make underbody systems, such as aerodynamic shields, splash shields and radiator air deflector shields. The latest example is the engine cam cover on the 3.0-liter V-6 2010 Ford Escape. As a result, Ford has diverted between 25 and 30 million pounds of plastic from landfills
* Post-industrial recycled yarns for seat fabrics on vehicles such as the Ford Escape and Escape Hybrid. A 100 percent usage of recycled yarns can mean a 64 percent reduction in energy consumption and a 60 percent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the use of new yarns
* Repurposed nylon carpeting made into nylon resin and molded into cylinder head covers for Ford’s 3.0-liter Duratec® engine. The industry’s first eco-friendly cylinder head cover is used in the 2010 Ford Fusion and Escape
* The automotive industry’s first application of wheat straw-reinforced plastic for the third-row storage bins of the 2010 Ford Flex. The natural fiber replaces energy-inefficient glass fibers commonly used to reinforce plastic parts
In support of Ford’s global product development strategy, material engineers are developing standardized specifications for sustainable materials while working with parts purchasers and suppliers to use eco-friendly components in different markets.
For example, the European Ford Focus uses recycled polymer in such components as the battery tray, wheel arch liners, seat fabric and carpets. Materials engineers are in the process of determining if recycled polymer can be used for similar components in the global Focus coming to North America and Europe in 2011.
“Sustainable materials need to meet the same high standards for quality, durability and performance as virgin material; there can be no compromise on product quality,” said Valentina Cerato, Ford materials engineer in Europe.
What the future holds
Materials researchers continue to explore sustainable material applications, such as an eco-friendly replacement for the fiberglass used between the headliner and roof sheet metal that will be bio-based, lighter weight, and will deliver improved acoustics and neutralize odor.
In addition, Ford researchers are developing natural-fiber composites as a potential substitute for the glass fibers traditionally used in plastic car parts to make them stronger while reducing vehicle weight, which helps improve fuel economy and reduces emissions. Natural fiber composites also are more eco-friendly, because their production and end-of-life incineration are less energy intensive than glass fibers, which also results in lower emissions.
Ford researchers also are investigating ways to use plastics made entirely from sustainable resources such as corn, sugar beets, sweet potatoes and other vegetables. These renewable materials will help reduce dependency on petroleum, reduce CO2 emissions and allow the composting of the material at the end of a vehicle’s life.
“Natural fiber-reinforced plastics and plant-based polymer resins help reduce CO2 emissions by being entirely compostable, and in some cases reduce weight, which helps improve fuel economy,” said Debbie Mielewski, technical leader, Ford Plastics Research. “We have to entertain the thought of bio-replacement in baby steps, looking at every aspect of a car that could be green. One day I hope to see the world of automotive plastics go totally compostable, removing petroleum by 100 percent.”
What comes out
Automobiles are among the most recycled consumer products in the world. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, more than 95 percent of all end-of-life vehicles in the U.S. are processed for recycling – compared to 52 percent of all paper and 31 percent of all plastic soft drink bottles.
In Europe, automakers are required to take back the vehicles they’ve produced at the end of the vehicles’ useful lives. Ford has end-of-life recycling networks for its vehicles in 16 European markets and participates in industry collective systems in another 10. In 2007, Ford became one of the first automakers in Europe to be certified in compliance with end-of-life requirements, including:
* Design and produce vehicles that facilitate the dismantling, reuse, recovery and recycling of them at end-of-life
* Reduce the use of hazardous substances when designing vehicles
* Increase the use of recycled materials in vehicle manufacture
* Ensure that parts do not contain mercury, hexavalent chromium, cadmium or lead
Reuse is a big part of the recycling story. Auto recyclers supply more than one third of all ferrous scrap to the U.S. scrap processing industry. When manufacturers use scrap iron and steel instead of newly produced ore, they reduce air and water pollution by more than half during the manufacturing process.
“In theory, end-of-life vehicles are nearly 100 percent recoverable. In practice, however, the cost in energy and labor to recover all vehicle material often exceeds the value of the materials and offers insignificant value to the environment,” Viera said. “We remain focused on achieving the highest economically viable and environmentally sound recovery percentage possible.”
Federal Law Enforcement Training Center Purchases Six Driver Training Simulators from MPRI
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — April 20, 2010 — L-3 MPRI, a global leader in ground vehicle, airport ramp, and maritime simulator products as well as training services and facilities, announced today that the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Artesia, N.M., has purchased and installed six new PatrolSim™ driver training simulators. This brings the total number of MPRI simulators purchased by FLETC to 61 in the past four years.
The Artesia Training Division is using the PatrolSims to support its Land Management Police Training Program, which includes trainees from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The curriculum combines four hours of simulator-based training with classroom and field exercises. Driving skills practiced via simulator include pursuits, defensive driving, day and nighttime emergency response and skid control. Approximately 150 students will be trained on the new simulators in Artesia this year. FLETC has purchased PatrolSims from MPRI every year since 2006, and other FLETC locations utilizing them include Glynco, Ga., and Cheltenham, Md.
“FLETC’s commitment to world-class, technology-driven education is underscored in this latest purchase of MPRI driver training simulators,” said Dennis Corrigan, general manager of MPRI’s Training Systems Group. “By utilizing the PatrolSim, FLETC enables students to practice critical, high-risk tasks that are too dangerous or costly to be conducted frequently in actual vehicles. We commend FLETC for delivering the safest and broadest driver training experience possible.”
Each PatrolSim features the actual seat and steering console of a patrol vehicle surrounded by a three-channel plasma display that provides an immersive 180-degree view of driving environments. State-of-the-art software delivers sharp, lifelike images, and force-loaded steering provides real-time feedback to augment muscle memory in situations such as tire blowouts or PIT (precision immobilization technique) maneuvers. The PatrolSim also features the Instructor Operating Station, which allows instructors to track, record and play back the movements of multiple networked simulators, optimizing the practice of coordinated efforts. By utilizing MPRI simulators FLETC is able to reduce the frequency and severity of vehicle-related accidents and overall training-related costs.
About MPRI
Headquartered in Alexandria, Va., MPRI is a recognized global leader in national security, law enforcement, the environment, international development and public health programs – both domestically and abroad. All of MPRI products, people and programs are governed by the division’s commitment to quality and ethics. For further information, please visit the company’s Web site at www.mpri.com.
Headquartered in New York City, L-3 Communications employs approximately 67,000 people worldwide and is a prime contractor in C3ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) systems, aircraft modernization and maintenance and government services. L-3 is also a leading provider of a broad range of electronic systems used on military and commercial platforms. The company reported 2009 sales of $15.6 billion.
To learn more about L-3, please visit the company’s Web site at www.L-3com.com.
The Artesia Training Division is using the PatrolSims to support its Land Management Police Training Program, which includes trainees from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The curriculum combines four hours of simulator-based training with classroom and field exercises. Driving skills practiced via simulator include pursuits, defensive driving, day and nighttime emergency response and skid control. Approximately 150 students will be trained on the new simulators in Artesia this year. FLETC has purchased PatrolSims from MPRI every year since 2006, and other FLETC locations utilizing them include Glynco, Ga., and Cheltenham, Md.
“FLETC’s commitment to world-class, technology-driven education is underscored in this latest purchase of MPRI driver training simulators,” said Dennis Corrigan, general manager of MPRI’s Training Systems Group. “By utilizing the PatrolSim, FLETC enables students to practice critical, high-risk tasks that are too dangerous or costly to be conducted frequently in actual vehicles. We commend FLETC for delivering the safest and broadest driver training experience possible.”
Each PatrolSim features the actual seat and steering console of a patrol vehicle surrounded by a three-channel plasma display that provides an immersive 180-degree view of driving environments. State-of-the-art software delivers sharp, lifelike images, and force-loaded steering provides real-time feedback to augment muscle memory in situations such as tire blowouts or PIT (precision immobilization technique) maneuvers. The PatrolSim also features the Instructor Operating Station, which allows instructors to track, record and play back the movements of multiple networked simulators, optimizing the practice of coordinated efforts. By utilizing MPRI simulators FLETC is able to reduce the frequency and severity of vehicle-related accidents and overall training-related costs.
About MPRI
Headquartered in Alexandria, Va., MPRI is a recognized global leader in national security, law enforcement, the environment, international development and public health programs – both domestically and abroad. All of MPRI products, people and programs are governed by the division’s commitment to quality and ethics. For further information, please visit the company’s Web site at www.mpri.com.
Headquartered in New York City, L-3 Communications employs approximately 67,000 people worldwide and is a prime contractor in C3ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) systems, aircraft modernization and maintenance and government services. L-3 is also a leading provider of a broad range of electronic systems used on military and commercial platforms. The company reported 2009 sales of $15.6 billion.
To learn more about L-3, please visit the company’s Web site at www.L-3com.com.
Kinedyne Announces Second Annual College Scholarship Program
BRANCHBURG, NJ (April 20, 2010) – Kinedyne has launched its second annual Kinedyne Cares College Scholarship Program, which in 2010 will provide a $2,500 award to one applicant each from the Virginia and Ohio state trucking associations.
To enter, applicants must submit an entry form and write an essay, of 500 words or less, addressing the topic “How the trucking industry has had a positive impact on my life.” To qualify, candidates must be members in good standing of the Virginia Trucking Association or Ohio Trucking Association. Applicants may also be directly related to a member of either association. In addition, candidates must currently be enrolled in, or in the process of registering to attend, a college or university. The submission deadline is May 31, 2010.
“All of us affiliated in any way with the trucking industry understand it will be some time before it recovers fully,” says James Klausmann II, the company’s Executive Vice President. “Families are faced with many financial hardships, not the least of which is funding a college education. We initiated this scholarship program last year as part of our Kinedyne Cares program, to help provide some assistance to deserving families within our industry. The program was very well received in its first year and we’re excited to be in a position to continue supporting people associated with the trucking industry.”
The Kinedyne Cares initiative was launched in 2008 as part of the company’s ongoing effort to give back to the trucking industry and drivers employed in the transportation sector.
An entry form is available online at http://tinyurl.com/ScholarshipForm
About Kinedyne Corporation
Founded in 1968, Kinedyne Corporation is the world leader in manufacturing and distributing cargo control products for the transportation industry. The company maintains the top market share in several industry sectors through the development and engineering of a high-quality product offering, which features more than 5,000 items, including multiple patented products. Kinedyne products service users that include OEM’s, fleet operators and independent owner/operators. The company serves several markets including Heavy Duty Trucking, Government & Military, Farm & Agricultural, Moving & Storage, Automotive and Recreational Vehicles.
Headquartered in Branchburg, NJ, the company operates facilities in Lawrence, KS, Prattville, AL, and Reno, NV. In addition, it is the parent company for a worldwide operations group including Kinedyne Canada Ltd. (Canada) and Nantong Kinedyne Ltd. (China), and its affiliate Sistemas Kinedyne, S.A. (Mexico).
To enter, applicants must submit an entry form and write an essay, of 500 words or less, addressing the topic “How the trucking industry has had a positive impact on my life.” To qualify, candidates must be members in good standing of the Virginia Trucking Association or Ohio Trucking Association. Applicants may also be directly related to a member of either association. In addition, candidates must currently be enrolled in, or in the process of registering to attend, a college or university. The submission deadline is May 31, 2010.
“All of us affiliated in any way with the trucking industry understand it will be some time before it recovers fully,” says James Klausmann II, the company’s Executive Vice President. “Families are faced with many financial hardships, not the least of which is funding a college education. We initiated this scholarship program last year as part of our Kinedyne Cares program, to help provide some assistance to deserving families within our industry. The program was very well received in its first year and we’re excited to be in a position to continue supporting people associated with the trucking industry.”
The Kinedyne Cares initiative was launched in 2008 as part of the company’s ongoing effort to give back to the trucking industry and drivers employed in the transportation sector.
An entry form is available online at http://tinyurl.com/ScholarshipForm
About Kinedyne Corporation
Founded in 1968, Kinedyne Corporation is the world leader in manufacturing and distributing cargo control products for the transportation industry. The company maintains the top market share in several industry sectors through the development and engineering of a high-quality product offering, which features more than 5,000 items, including multiple patented products. Kinedyne products service users that include OEM’s, fleet operators and independent owner/operators. The company serves several markets including Heavy Duty Trucking, Government & Military, Farm & Agricultural, Moving & Storage, Automotive and Recreational Vehicles.
Headquartered in Branchburg, NJ, the company operates facilities in Lawrence, KS, Prattville, AL, and Reno, NV. In addition, it is the parent company for a worldwide operations group including Kinedyne Canada Ltd. (Canada) and Nantong Kinedyne Ltd. (China), and its affiliate Sistemas Kinedyne, S.A. (Mexico).
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers launches world's first 21-language equipment auction web site
Industry-leading rbauction.com offers multi-lingual equipment search, auction results and online bidding
MUNICH, Germany, April 20 /CNW/ - Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers (NYSE and TSX: RBA), the world's largest auctioneer of heavy equipment, officially launched its powerful industry-leading, 21-language web site (www.rbauction.com) at the bauma trade show in Munich, Germany this week (April 19-25, 2010).
Millions of unique visitors already use the Ritchie Bros. web site annually, purchasing more than US$830 million of equipment online in 2009 alone. The new rbauction.com delivers the world's largest used equipment inventory, largest database of auction results and equipment specifications, and more features in more languages than any other equipment auction web site.
Key features of the new rbauction.com include:
- Current auction inventory and equipment search now in 21 languages
- Auction results now in 14 languages with equipment photos
- Live online bidding service now in seven languages
- Online bidding amounts and Auction Results in your preferred currency
- Enhanced search functionality: find items by make, model, auction
details, lot number or serial number
- Zoomable, high-resolution equipment photos
- Side-by-side equipment comparison tool: compare by make, model,
usage, specifications and auction
- Fully functional account services in 14 languages, featuring saved
searches, a personal Watchlist and customized email alerts
"I am glad that the Ritchie Bros. web site will soon also appear in Greek," said Timoleon Papadakis of Tripolis, Greece, who does not speak English and has been buying equipment at Ritchie Bros. auctions since 2003. "Being able to search for equipment in Greek will be very helpful for all Greek customers and will probably bring more. It will make it a lot easier to do business with Ritchie Bros. I hope they plan on having auctions in Greece soon."
Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, Ritchie Bros. has 40 auction sites in 10 countries and more than 620,000 customers in over 200 countries. Ritchie Bros. sold more than 283,000 lots at more than 325 unreserved public auctions worldwide in 2009. Each year the company's web site, rbauction.com, receives millions of unique visitors searching for used equipment, upcoming auctions, selling prices from recent auctions and other information. One in three bidders at Ritchie Bros. auctions participate in auctions live and in real time at rbauction.com.
"We serve a global market of equipment buyers and sellers; our goal is to provide as much information and as many services as possible to them in their own language," said Stephen Branch, Ritchie Bros. Vice President. "The new rbauction.com is a powerful tool for equipment users. Our customers have always been able to find the equipment they need at our auctions; now they can find more information in their language to make informed buying decisions. At the same time, sellers will benefit from increased exposure through rbauction.com and interest from a wider global bidding audience."
Mr. Branch continued: "Our company has a long history of innovation, from the development of the ramp style of equipment auction to the introduction of real-time internet bidding and now to the world's most comprehensive, multi-lingual used equipment web site. We think our customers will be just as excited about the new rbauction.com as we are and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors from around the world to our web site - and our auctions."
Quick Facts about the NEW rbauction.com
- Current inventory equipment search in 21 languages
- More than 80 upcoming auctions and over 30,000 items currently listed
- Auction results in 14 languages
- More than 856,000 items currently listed in auction results, which
includes selling prices from the past 24 months of Ritchie Bros.
auctions
- Languages offered: English, North American French, European French,
Latin American Spanish, European Spanish, German, Italian,
Portuguese, Polish, Romanian, Turkish, simplified Chinese,
traditional Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Greek, Russian, Indonesian,
Korean, Thai, Vietnamese
Other rbauction.com statistics
- 29.6 million equipment searches (2009)
- 2.3 million auction results searches (2009)
- 30% more unique visitors in 2009 than 2008
- Close to 130,000 people from 196 countries are approved to bid online
at rbauction.com
- US$3.4 billion of equipment sold to online bidders since Ritchie
Bros. introduced the service in 2002
- Directly linked to the world's largest equipment specifications
database (www.RitchieWiki.com), which contains specifications for
more than 11,300 different equipment items
MUNICH, Germany, April 20 /CNW/ - Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers (NYSE and TSX: RBA), the world's largest auctioneer of heavy equipment, officially launched its powerful industry-leading, 21-language web site (www.rbauction.com) at the bauma trade show in Munich, Germany this week (April 19-25, 2010).
Millions of unique visitors already use the Ritchie Bros. web site annually, purchasing more than US$830 million of equipment online in 2009 alone. The new rbauction.com delivers the world's largest used equipment inventory, largest database of auction results and equipment specifications, and more features in more languages than any other equipment auction web site.
Key features of the new rbauction.com include:
- Current auction inventory and equipment search now in 21 languages
- Auction results now in 14 languages with equipment photos
- Live online bidding service now in seven languages
- Online bidding amounts and Auction Results in your preferred currency
- Enhanced search functionality: find items by make, model, auction
details, lot number or serial number
- Zoomable, high-resolution equipment photos
- Side-by-side equipment comparison tool: compare by make, model,
usage, specifications and auction
- Fully functional account services in 14 languages, featuring saved
searches, a personal Watchlist and customized email alerts
"I am glad that the Ritchie Bros. web site will soon also appear in Greek," said Timoleon Papadakis of Tripolis, Greece, who does not speak English and has been buying equipment at Ritchie Bros. auctions since 2003. "Being able to search for equipment in Greek will be very helpful for all Greek customers and will probably bring more. It will make it a lot easier to do business with Ritchie Bros. I hope they plan on having auctions in Greece soon."
Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, Ritchie Bros. has 40 auction sites in 10 countries and more than 620,000 customers in over 200 countries. Ritchie Bros. sold more than 283,000 lots at more than 325 unreserved public auctions worldwide in 2009. Each year the company's web site, rbauction.com, receives millions of unique visitors searching for used equipment, upcoming auctions, selling prices from recent auctions and other information. One in three bidders at Ritchie Bros. auctions participate in auctions live and in real time at rbauction.com.
"We serve a global market of equipment buyers and sellers; our goal is to provide as much information and as many services as possible to them in their own language," said Stephen Branch, Ritchie Bros. Vice President. "The new rbauction.com is a powerful tool for equipment users. Our customers have always been able to find the equipment they need at our auctions; now they can find more information in their language to make informed buying decisions. At the same time, sellers will benefit from increased exposure through rbauction.com and interest from a wider global bidding audience."
Mr. Branch continued: "Our company has a long history of innovation, from the development of the ramp style of equipment auction to the introduction of real-time internet bidding and now to the world's most comprehensive, multi-lingual used equipment web site. We think our customers will be just as excited about the new rbauction.com as we are and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors from around the world to our web site - and our auctions."
Quick Facts about the NEW rbauction.com
- Current inventory equipment search in 21 languages
- More than 80 upcoming auctions and over 30,000 items currently listed
- Auction results in 14 languages
- More than 856,000 items currently listed in auction results, which
includes selling prices from the past 24 months of Ritchie Bros.
auctions
- Languages offered: English, North American French, European French,
Latin American Spanish, European Spanish, German, Italian,
Portuguese, Polish, Romanian, Turkish, simplified Chinese,
traditional Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Greek, Russian, Indonesian,
Korean, Thai, Vietnamese
Other rbauction.com statistics
- 29.6 million equipment searches (2009)
- 2.3 million auction results searches (2009)
- 30% more unique visitors in 2009 than 2008
- Close to 130,000 people from 196 countries are approved to bid online
at rbauction.com
- US$3.4 billion of equipment sold to online bidders since Ritchie
Bros. introduced the service in 2002
- Directly linked to the world's largest equipment specifications
database (www.RitchieWiki.com), which contains specifications for
more than 11,300 different equipment items
Firestone Industrial Products Announces North American Market Price Increase
INDIANAPOLIS (USA) (April 19, 2010) — Due to the escalating costs of raw materials, Firestone Industrial Products Company, LLC, will increase its prices by up to five percent on air springs for the North American heavy-duty aftermarket, effective July 1, 2010.
“Raw material prices continue to rise, and despite our diligent efforts to manage external costs through internal cost reductions and efficiency improvements, it is necessary for us to increase our prices at this time,” said Mike Cerio, president of Firestone Industrial Products. “While the programs we have implemented have helped, currently we are unable to fully combat these escalating costs.”
About Firestone Industrial Products Company, LLC:
Firestone Industrial Products Company, LLC, a subsidiary of Firestone Diversified Products, LLC, specializes in air spring manufacturing and technology with a history of more than 70 years of research and development on technologically advanced air springs. Its famous Airide(TM) brand has set the standard for air spring manufacturing and technology since 1939. For more information, visit www.firestoneip.com.
“Raw material prices continue to rise, and despite our diligent efforts to manage external costs through internal cost reductions and efficiency improvements, it is necessary for us to increase our prices at this time,” said Mike Cerio, president of Firestone Industrial Products. “While the programs we have implemented have helped, currently we are unable to fully combat these escalating costs.”
About Firestone Industrial Products Company, LLC:
Firestone Industrial Products Company, LLC, a subsidiary of Firestone Diversified Products, LLC, specializes in air spring manufacturing and technology with a history of more than 70 years of research and development on technologically advanced air springs. Its famous Airide(TM) brand has set the standard for air spring manufacturing and technology since 1939. For more information, visit www.firestoneip.com.
LeasePlan USA Receives Team Impact Award for its Philanthropic Efforts
ROLLING MEADOWS, Il. (April 19, 2010) – LeasePlan USA, a leader in vehicle leasing and fleet management solutions with strong ties to the Chicago community, recently was awarded the Team Impact Award from the Volunteer Center of Northwest Suburban Chicago, a non-profit organization that develops, advances and promotes community volunteer initiatives.
The Team Impact Award is one of five awards honoring individuals, organizations and businesses for their impressive contributions to Chicago's northwest suburbs. The award was presented on April 12, 2010, to members of LeasePlan Cares, the company’s community outreach program, during the 2010 Volunteer Impact Award ceremony.
LeasePlan won the award for its work with Shelter, Inc., a non-profit child welfare agency based in Arlington Heights. LeasePlan’s influence on the community served by Shelter, Inc. made such an impression on the organization that they nominated LeasePlan for the Team Impact Award, given to a team or group who identified a need and made a demonstrated impact on the community.
Erin Tamms, volunteer coordinator for Shelter, Inc. sums it up by saying, “LeasePlan is truly an inspiration for other companies to follow. They have proven and continue to show what possibilities there are for a company's ceaseless involvement with an organization.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Shelter, Inc. to provide much needed assistance to the children they serve every day. The commitment that our employees have shown to this organization; and the difference they’ve made in such a short amount of time is wonderful,” said Mary Christy, senior vice president, human resources.
LeasePlan USA, a subsidiary of LeasePlan Corp. N.V., is a global leader in vehicle leasing and fleet management solutions. The company, which manages
1.3 million vehicles worldwide, offers clients customized plans for total fleet cost reduction through its technologically advanced products and dedication to customer service.
The Team Impact Award is one of five awards honoring individuals, organizations and businesses for their impressive contributions to Chicago's northwest suburbs. The award was presented on April 12, 2010, to members of LeasePlan Cares, the company’s community outreach program, during the 2010 Volunteer Impact Award ceremony.
LeasePlan won the award for its work with Shelter, Inc., a non-profit child welfare agency based in Arlington Heights. LeasePlan’s influence on the community served by Shelter, Inc. made such an impression on the organization that they nominated LeasePlan for the Team Impact Award, given to a team or group who identified a need and made a demonstrated impact on the community.
Erin Tamms, volunteer coordinator for Shelter, Inc. sums it up by saying, “LeasePlan is truly an inspiration for other companies to follow. They have proven and continue to show what possibilities there are for a company's ceaseless involvement with an organization.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Shelter, Inc. to provide much needed assistance to the children they serve every day. The commitment that our employees have shown to this organization; and the difference they’ve made in such a short amount of time is wonderful,” said Mary Christy, senior vice president, human resources.
LeasePlan USA, a subsidiary of LeasePlan Corp. N.V., is a global leader in vehicle leasing and fleet management solutions. The company, which manages
1.3 million vehicles worldwide, offers clients customized plans for total fleet cost reduction through its technologically advanced products and dedication to customer service.
Donlen Expands Award-Winning Fleet Management Tool Mobile Application Functionality v2.0 for the iPhone™ and Blackberry®
Northbrook, IL – Donlen Corporation, North America’s fastest growing fleet leasing and management company, announced today the expansion of their fleet management apps for iPhone™ and other smartphone devices including BlackBerry® and DROID by Motorola.
With the launch of Fleetweb Mobile™ v2.0 and DonlenDriver Mobile™ v2.0, Donlen continues to extend their award-winning FleetWeb® and DonlenDriver® platforms to enhance the effectiveness of fleet managers and fleet drivers with best-in-class online tools. Both the FleetWeb Mobile™ and DonlenDriver Mobile™ apps seamlessly exchange data in real time with existing Donlen database platforms, assuring the same functionality that customers utilize now is available when they are away from their computer.
In addition to vehicle ordering, personal and business use reporting, and maintenance purchase order approvals, fleet managers can now use Auto Quote™, accessing Donlen's proprietary National Auction Index™ (NAI) database which houses 7-9 million annual transactions.
With AutoQuote, fleet managers can:
• Easily access real-time fair market values in the NAI database
• Email quotes to drivers for personal sales requests
• Create all sales tax and paperwork to finalize transactions
Also included in this launch is an expanded customer specific contact and policy information section in DonlenDriver Mobile™ that allows fleet drivers to always have the most important phone, email, and policy content with them 24/7.
“Donlen continues to enhance our mobile technology tools and expand the reach and flexibility of FleetWeb® and DonlenDriver®,” said Barry Steel, Donlen’s Sr. VP of Sales Development and Strategy. “As customers request more functionality, we are able to quickly expand these mobile applications. As their needs change, we can deliver the solutions that they need.”
DonlenDriver Mobile and FleetWeb Mobile are now even easier to download for BlackBerry, iPhone™, and Droid by Motorola. Go to http://www.donlen.com/mobile-technology.aspx for more information and links to easily download the applications to any smartphone, or visit the Apple iTunes™ mobile app store where both apps are downloadable for free for all Donlen customers.
About Donlen
Donlen is a global provider of innovative fleet management programs with headquarters in Northbrook, IL, and offices nationwide. Since 1965, Donlen has offered its clients highly personalized and responsive customer service. Donlen has been recognized as one of Crain’s Chicago Business “List of 20 Best Places to Work in Chicago for 2009 and 2010,” National Association for Business Resources “101 Best and Brightest Places to Work For in Chicago” in 2007 and 2008, and as a “Top 100 Global Outsourcing Leader” by the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals (IAOP) each year from 2006-2009. For more information about Donlen visit www.donlen.com
With the launch of Fleetweb Mobile™ v2.0 and DonlenDriver Mobile™ v2.0, Donlen continues to extend their award-winning FleetWeb® and DonlenDriver® platforms to enhance the effectiveness of fleet managers and fleet drivers with best-in-class online tools. Both the FleetWeb Mobile™ and DonlenDriver Mobile™ apps seamlessly exchange data in real time with existing Donlen database platforms, assuring the same functionality that customers utilize now is available when they are away from their computer.
In addition to vehicle ordering, personal and business use reporting, and maintenance purchase order approvals, fleet managers can now use Auto Quote™, accessing Donlen's proprietary National Auction Index™ (NAI) database which houses 7-9 million annual transactions.
With AutoQuote, fleet managers can:
• Easily access real-time fair market values in the NAI database
• Email quotes to drivers for personal sales requests
• Create all sales tax and paperwork to finalize transactions
Also included in this launch is an expanded customer specific contact and policy information section in DonlenDriver Mobile™ that allows fleet drivers to always have the most important phone, email, and policy content with them 24/7.
“Donlen continues to enhance our mobile technology tools and expand the reach and flexibility of FleetWeb® and DonlenDriver®,” said Barry Steel, Donlen’s Sr. VP of Sales Development and Strategy. “As customers request more functionality, we are able to quickly expand these mobile applications. As their needs change, we can deliver the solutions that they need.”
DonlenDriver Mobile and FleetWeb Mobile are now even easier to download for BlackBerry, iPhone™, and Droid by Motorola. Go to http://www.donlen.com/mobile-technology.aspx for more information and links to easily download the applications to any smartphone, or visit the Apple iTunes™ mobile app store where both apps are downloadable for free for all Donlen customers.
About Donlen
Donlen is a global provider of innovative fleet management programs with headquarters in Northbrook, IL, and offices nationwide. Since 1965, Donlen has offered its clients highly personalized and responsive customer service. Donlen has been recognized as one of Crain’s Chicago Business “List of 20 Best Places to Work in Chicago for 2009 and 2010,” National Association for Business Resources “101 Best and Brightest Places to Work For in Chicago” in 2007 and 2008, and as a “Top 100 Global Outsourcing Leader” by the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals (IAOP) each year from 2006-2009. For more information about Donlen visit www.donlen.com
PHH Arval hosts annual Truck Fleet Management Conference
Annual conference for private truck fleet managers provides expert insight into trucking challenges and solutions
Sparks, MD – April 12, 2010 – PHH Arval, a premier provider of fleet management services for all classes of vehicles including heavy trucks and trailers, recently hosted its annual Truck Fleet Management Conference in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The conference focused on a wide variety of topics of concern to managers of private truck fleets.
According to Keith Trumbull, vice president of PHH’s truck & equipment services division, “Truck fleets today are being bombarded with all kinds of regulations, new products and services, competitive and cost pressures, legislation and regulations, and more. Our annual conference for our truck clients was a two-day event that covered these topics. The objective was to help our clients understand current and future challenges and solutions, and hear some distinguished speakers, who represented all aspects of the truck industry. These experts presented detailed evaluations and recommendations to the conference attendees.”
Shelby Green, director, fleet operations for Pepsi Bottling Group, felt the conference was a success for its informational and networking opportunities: “The conference had very applicable topics. I was quite impressed with the content and made some new contacts.”
Featured speakers included Jim Meil, chief economist from Eaton Corporation, who shared his insights into the state of the economy and its impact on truck manufacturers and fleets; and Ralph Petta, interim president, Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA), who discussed challenges in the equipment financing arena for leasing companies and banks, current legislation and ELFA’s legislative activities.
In addition, other truck experts presented or participated in panel discussions on the following topics:
• 2010 truck emissions
• Vehicle-to-grid technology
• Truck cargo theft challenges
• Transportation legislation and regulatory update
• Information about truck salvage, parts and used trucks
• Alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles, and
• Truck telematics technology
For more information about PHH Truck & Equipment Services, please visit www.phharval.com
About 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 outsourced fleet management solutions to corporate clients, including nearly one-third of the Fortune 500 companies. The PHH Truck & Equipment Services division provides the full range of services to fleets with light, medium and heavy trucks and equipment. For more information, visit www.phharval.com, or call 800 ONLY PHH.
About PHH Corporation
Headquartered in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, PHH Corporation is a leading outsource provider of mortgage and vehicle fleet management services. Its subsidiary, PHH Mortgage, is one of the top five retail originators of residential mortgages in the United States1, and its subsidiary, PHH Arval, is a leading fleet management services provider in the United States and Canada. For additional information about the company and its subsidiaries, please visit our Web site at www.phh.com.
Sparks, MD – April 12, 2010 – PHH Arval, a premier provider of fleet management services for all classes of vehicles including heavy trucks and trailers, recently hosted its annual Truck Fleet Management Conference in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The conference focused on a wide variety of topics of concern to managers of private truck fleets.
According to Keith Trumbull, vice president of PHH’s truck & equipment services division, “Truck fleets today are being bombarded with all kinds of regulations, new products and services, competitive and cost pressures, legislation and regulations, and more. Our annual conference for our truck clients was a two-day event that covered these topics. The objective was to help our clients understand current and future challenges and solutions, and hear some distinguished speakers, who represented all aspects of the truck industry. These experts presented detailed evaluations and recommendations to the conference attendees.”
Shelby Green, director, fleet operations for Pepsi Bottling Group, felt the conference was a success for its informational and networking opportunities: “The conference had very applicable topics. I was quite impressed with the content and made some new contacts.”
Featured speakers included Jim Meil, chief economist from Eaton Corporation, who shared his insights into the state of the economy and its impact on truck manufacturers and fleets; and Ralph Petta, interim president, Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA), who discussed challenges in the equipment financing arena for leasing companies and banks, current legislation and ELFA’s legislative activities.
In addition, other truck experts presented or participated in panel discussions on the following topics:
• 2010 truck emissions
• Vehicle-to-grid technology
• Truck cargo theft challenges
• Transportation legislation and regulatory update
• Information about truck salvage, parts and used trucks
• Alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles, and
• Truck telematics technology
For more information about PHH Truck & Equipment Services, please visit www.phharval.com
About 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 outsourced fleet management solutions to corporate clients, including nearly one-third of the Fortune 500 companies. The PHH Truck & Equipment Services division provides the full range of services to fleets with light, medium and heavy trucks and equipment. For more information, visit www.phharval.com, or call 800 ONLY PHH.
About PHH Corporation
Headquartered in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, PHH Corporation is a leading outsource provider of mortgage and vehicle fleet management services. Its subsidiary, PHH Mortgage, is one of the top five retail originators of residential mortgages in the United States1, and its subsidiary, PHH Arval, is a leading fleet management services provider in the United States and Canada. For additional information about the company and its subsidiaries, please visit our Web site at www.phh.com.
ADTS Launches In-Territory Driver Safety Ride-Along Program
Advanced Driver Training Services (ADTS), a leading provider of driver safety training services, announced the launch of a new Safety Ride-Along Program designed to train business drivers in territory, reducing an organization’s risk while eliminating travel costs.
The full-day Safety Ride-Along program provides comprehensive, effective training in the driver’s own territory, keeping the employee productive and saving the organization money by avoiding travel expenses. This one-on-one program is an ideal option for organizations that need safety training for a small number of drivers or for employees located in remote areas.
“The Safety Ride-Along Program offers fleet and safety managers the flexibility to schedule training at the convenience of individual drivers and to conduct the training during the course of a typical work day, avoiding downtime, improving productivity, and reducing the risk of a crash,” said Phil Moser, National Sales Manager, ADTS.
An ADTS driver safety instructor travels to the employee’s territory and spends a full day observing how the driver operates the vehicle during the course of normal business. Throughout the day, the instructor provides comprehensive safety instruction in response to the employee’s specific driving practices. At the end of the day, the employee receives a checklist that documents his or her good driving techniques and highlights areas needing improvement.
To reinforce the trainer’s instruction and improve retention, the employee is assigned an appropriate follow-up ADTS driver safety online course to complete after the Safety Ride-Along Program.
About ADTS
ADTS is a leading provider of driver safety training services and products that include a full-day Driver Skill Enhancement program (combining classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction), one-to-one training for high-risk drivers, seminars, post-incident coaching and other consulting services, online training, and the OnRoads bimonthly driver safety magazine. For more details, visit www.adtsweb.com or contact the company at 1-800-486-ADTS or info@adtsweb.com.
The full-day Safety Ride-Along program provides comprehensive, effective training in the driver’s own territory, keeping the employee productive and saving the organization money by avoiding travel expenses. This one-on-one program is an ideal option for organizations that need safety training for a small number of drivers or for employees located in remote areas.
“The Safety Ride-Along Program offers fleet and safety managers the flexibility to schedule training at the convenience of individual drivers and to conduct the training during the course of a typical work day, avoiding downtime, improving productivity, and reducing the risk of a crash,” said Phil Moser, National Sales Manager, ADTS.
An ADTS driver safety instructor travels to the employee’s territory and spends a full day observing how the driver operates the vehicle during the course of normal business. Throughout the day, the instructor provides comprehensive safety instruction in response to the employee’s specific driving practices. At the end of the day, the employee receives a checklist that documents his or her good driving techniques and highlights areas needing improvement.
To reinforce the trainer’s instruction and improve retention, the employee is assigned an appropriate follow-up ADTS driver safety online course to complete after the Safety Ride-Along Program.
About ADTS
ADTS is a leading provider of driver safety training services and products that include a full-day Driver Skill Enhancement program (combining classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction), one-to-one training for high-risk drivers, seminars, post-incident coaching and other consulting services, online training, and the OnRoads bimonthly driver safety magazine. For more details, visit www.adtsweb.com or contact the company at 1-800-486-ADTS or info@adtsweb.com.
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