ALPHARETTA, Ga. (September 27, 2010) – On Sept. 3, 2010, LeasePlan USA hosted a very special guest – Congressman Tom Price – at its company headquarters in Alpharetta.
LeasePlan’s President and CEO, Mike Pitcher, met Congressman Price during a recent American Automotive Leasing Association (AALA) meeting in Washington, D.C. Pitcher is the president of AALA, an organization that ensures that the business interests of the fleet leasing industry are properly represented before Congress, the Executive Branch and regulatory agencies.
“I invited Congressman Price to our office so that he could experience first-hand all the exciting things that are taking place here at LeasePlan USA. I am very proud of our recent achievements and I was eager to introduce him to the company as well as the passionate, committed individuals at LeasePlan,” said Pitcher.
Congressman Price is Georgia’s 6th District representative. While in Congress, he has worked on solutions to the country’s many challenges, including energy, the economy, tax and health care policy. Because of his strong leadership, he was chosen last year by his colleagues to chair the Republican Study Committee, the largest caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives.
During his visit, LeasePlan employees were given the opportunity to ask the Congressman questions in a town hall forum. Topics that came up during the question and answer session included alternative fuel vehicles, fair tax and health care.
“Given that Congressman Price is recognized as a thoughtful problem solver, it was a great chance for our employees to have the ear of such an influential figure in our government. This was truly a special occasion for LeasePlan and we greatly appreciate Congressman Price taking the time out of his busy schedule to share his expertise with us,” said Pitcher.
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.
Monday, October 4, 2010
TIRE RACK TESTS SHOW ALL-SEASON TIRES INADEQUATE FOR WINTER DRIVING
SOUTH BEND, Indiana, SEPT. 27, 2010 – With cold temperatures looming, warmer coats, thicker socks and scarves won’t be enough. The inevitable sleet, slush, snow and ice that require boots for your feet will also require winter-tuned treads for your vehicle. Tire experts at www.tirerack.com, America’s largest independent tire tester and consumer-direct source for tires, have proven the importance of winter tires for all drivers who will face freezing temperatures this winter.
Switching from all-season to winter-grade tires isn’t just smart in theory; it can save you money and even your life. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows crash rates spike from October to February, and in 2008, wintry weather accounted for more than 829,000 crashes.
“The majority of winter-weather accidents are preventable through maintaining control of your vehicle,” said Matt Edmonds, vice president at Tire Rack. “Consumers who live in cold climates should equip their vehicles with appropriate tires to help avoid being part of the thousands of winter crashes that occur annually. On the flip side, consumers who have plans to travel through icy weather this season should also explore installing winter tires on their vehicle.”
A team of Tire Rack experts conducted real-world research for consumers by testing tires on a hockey rink, a test track and even winter courses in Sweden to uncover which tires perform in snow, ice and sleet. The data, available at http://www.tirerack.com/winter, also includes consumer-generated feedback from thousands of seasoned drivers.
To stay safe behind the wheel this season, consumers should keep the following tips from Tire Rack in mind:
• Winter Tires are an Investment. The best way to improve winter tire traction and increase safety is with a set of dedicated winter tires. Starting as low as $200 for a set of four, winter tires can last three or more winter seasons. Plus, temporarily substituting a set of winter tires for all-season tires during the winter months will preserve the all-season tires for use in the following spring, summer and fall months.
• Tread Depth Matters. If sleet, slush and snow covered roads are in your future, replace tires when they reach approximately 6/32" of remaining tread depth to maintain good mobility. Tires with more tread depth offer additional traction to claw their way through sleet, slush and snow.
If the winter season means rain and wet roads are a concern, consider replacing tires when they reach approximately 4/32" of remaining tread depth. Use a quarter, not a penny, to measure tread depth. Tire Rack’s team proved through testing that insufficient tread-depth doubles your stopping distance. Adequate tread reduces hydroplaning and helps prevent accidents.
• Test the Pressure. The air inside your tires supports the weight of your car. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tires lose about 1psi of air pressure. A tire filled to 32psi at 70 degrees will have only 28psi at 30 degrees. Underinflated tires offer less traction, can reduce fuel mileage, can wear out prematurely and cause irreparable damage that compromises their durability. Check tire pressures monthly with a quality air pressure gauge. Fill them to vehicle manufacturer specifications.
• Stay in Traction. Traction loss appears as ambient temperatures near freezing, even without slush or snow on the road. Lower temperatures reduce a tire’s flexibility and grip. At 32-degrees, the tread rubber on the summer tires found on many performance vehicles become so stiff they offer little traction.
• Don’t Tailgate! Adding distance behind the vehicle ahead gives you more time to react and distance to stop. While it’s often recommended to follow two seconds behind at 30mph; four seconds at 60mph. The following times should be doubled in wet conditions and tripled for snow.
• Be a Smooth Operator. Accelerate, brake and steer as if you had a full cup of hot coffee on the dashboard. This helps improve fuel mileage and prevent loss of control.
Consumers can consult a free tire decision guide and a wealth of additional information about buying the correct tires for any driving condition and climate at www.tirerack.com.
About Tire Rack
Tire Rack, family-owned and headquartered in South Bend, Indiana, is America’s largest independent tire tester and consumer-direct source for tires, wheels and performance accessories. Their team of 90-plus test drivers (their sales team) tests tires from every major tire manufacturer on the company’s state-of-the-art, 10-acre test facility. The findings are then posted on the company’s website, www.tirerack.com, where consumers can make an educated decision on a tire, wheel or performance accessory purchase. Tire Rack has also collected results from more than 150,000 consumer surveys representing over 2.5 billion miles of real-world tire data, the largest known cache of such information anywhere. In addition various testing and informational videos are available online in their Video Center at www.tirerack.com/videos/index.jsp.
Since 1979, Tire Rack has grown from a single-point retail store in Indianapolis to encompass over 1.8 million square feet of space in six distribution centers across the country. A diverse and broad in-stock inventory from 17 major tire and 40 wheel brands can be delivered anywhere in the country in two days or less. A national network of more than 5,000 independent Recommended Installers are available to service customers’ local installation needs.
Switching from all-season to winter-grade tires isn’t just smart in theory; it can save you money and even your life. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows crash rates spike from October to February, and in 2008, wintry weather accounted for more than 829,000 crashes.
“The majority of winter-weather accidents are preventable through maintaining control of your vehicle,” said Matt Edmonds, vice president at Tire Rack. “Consumers who live in cold climates should equip their vehicles with appropriate tires to help avoid being part of the thousands of winter crashes that occur annually. On the flip side, consumers who have plans to travel through icy weather this season should also explore installing winter tires on their vehicle.”
A team of Tire Rack experts conducted real-world research for consumers by testing tires on a hockey rink, a test track and even winter courses in Sweden to uncover which tires perform in snow, ice and sleet. The data, available at http://www.tirerack.com/winter, also includes consumer-generated feedback from thousands of seasoned drivers.
To stay safe behind the wheel this season, consumers should keep the following tips from Tire Rack in mind:
• Winter Tires are an Investment. The best way to improve winter tire traction and increase safety is with a set of dedicated winter tires. Starting as low as $200 for a set of four, winter tires can last three or more winter seasons. Plus, temporarily substituting a set of winter tires for all-season tires during the winter months will preserve the all-season tires for use in the following spring, summer and fall months.
• Tread Depth Matters. If sleet, slush and snow covered roads are in your future, replace tires when they reach approximately 6/32" of remaining tread depth to maintain good mobility. Tires with more tread depth offer additional traction to claw their way through sleet, slush and snow.
If the winter season means rain and wet roads are a concern, consider replacing tires when they reach approximately 4/32" of remaining tread depth. Use a quarter, not a penny, to measure tread depth. Tire Rack’s team proved through testing that insufficient tread-depth doubles your stopping distance. Adequate tread reduces hydroplaning and helps prevent accidents.
• Test the Pressure. The air inside your tires supports the weight of your car. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tires lose about 1psi of air pressure. A tire filled to 32psi at 70 degrees will have only 28psi at 30 degrees. Underinflated tires offer less traction, can reduce fuel mileage, can wear out prematurely and cause irreparable damage that compromises their durability. Check tire pressures monthly with a quality air pressure gauge. Fill them to vehicle manufacturer specifications.
• Stay in Traction. Traction loss appears as ambient temperatures near freezing, even without slush or snow on the road. Lower temperatures reduce a tire’s flexibility and grip. At 32-degrees, the tread rubber on the summer tires found on many performance vehicles become so stiff they offer little traction.
• Don’t Tailgate! Adding distance behind the vehicle ahead gives you more time to react and distance to stop. While it’s often recommended to follow two seconds behind at 30mph; four seconds at 60mph. The following times should be doubled in wet conditions and tripled for snow.
• Be a Smooth Operator. Accelerate, brake and steer as if you had a full cup of hot coffee on the dashboard. This helps improve fuel mileage and prevent loss of control.
Consumers can consult a free tire decision guide and a wealth of additional information about buying the correct tires for any driving condition and climate at www.tirerack.com.
About Tire Rack
Tire Rack, family-owned and headquartered in South Bend, Indiana, is America’s largest independent tire tester and consumer-direct source for tires, wheels and performance accessories. Their team of 90-plus test drivers (their sales team) tests tires from every major tire manufacturer on the company’s state-of-the-art, 10-acre test facility. The findings are then posted on the company’s website, www.tirerack.com, where consumers can make an educated decision on a tire, wheel or performance accessory purchase. Tire Rack has also collected results from more than 150,000 consumer surveys representing over 2.5 billion miles of real-world tire data, the largest known cache of such information anywhere. In addition various testing and informational videos are available online in their Video Center at www.tirerack.com/videos/index.jsp.
Since 1979, Tire Rack has grown from a single-point retail store in Indianapolis to encompass over 1.8 million square feet of space in six distribution centers across the country. A diverse and broad in-stock inventory from 17 major tire and 40 wheel brands can be delivered anywhere in the country in two days or less. A national network of more than 5,000 independent Recommended Installers are available to service customers’ local installation needs.
Donaldson Completes Expansion of European Technical Center
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - September 27, 2010 - Donaldson Company (NYSE:DCI), a worldwide manufacturer of filtration solutions and products, announced today the opening of the company's expanded facility in Leuven, Belgium. The facility houses the company's European administrative and engineering operations. An open house is scheduled for October 3rd.
Donaldson opened the Belgium-based Technical Center in 1976 to support sales and operations in the European, Middle East and North African markets. Additionally, the facility provides engineering and testing expertise for the company's industrial and engine product lines. The new 3,700 m2 (40,000 square foot) addition more than doubles capacity of the existing test facility. In doing so, it broadens testing capabilities to support Donaldson engine filtration technologies for liquid, crankcase and air filtration – plus noise vibration and exhaust after treatment.
"Donaldson is committed to making investments in filtration technologies that support our Customers globally and within local and regional markets," said Tod Carpenter, Vice President, Europe and Middle East. "As our Customers' equipment and technology advances, Donaldson continues to develop filtration solutions that anticipate and exceed their evolving requirements. The expansion of our state-of-the-art facility in Belgium provides increased global testing capacity while upgrading our capability to design new and innovative filtration technologies."
For more information about Donaldson, visit www.donaldson.com.
Donaldson opened the Belgium-based Technical Center in 1976 to support sales and operations in the European, Middle East and North African markets. Additionally, the facility provides engineering and testing expertise for the company's industrial and engine product lines. The new 3,700 m2 (40,000 square foot) addition more than doubles capacity of the existing test facility. In doing so, it broadens testing capabilities to support Donaldson engine filtration technologies for liquid, crankcase and air filtration – plus noise vibration and exhaust after treatment.
"Donaldson is committed to making investments in filtration technologies that support our Customers globally and within local and regional markets," said Tod Carpenter, Vice President, Europe and Middle East. "As our Customers' equipment and technology advances, Donaldson continues to develop filtration solutions that anticipate and exceed their evolving requirements. The expansion of our state-of-the-art facility in Belgium provides increased global testing capacity while upgrading our capability to design new and innovative filtration technologies."
For more information about Donaldson, visit www.donaldson.com.
David Girard Joins E.J. Ward, Inc. as Director of Operations
SAN ANTONIO, TX, September 22, 2010 - E.J. Ward, Inc. (Ward), a leading fleet asset management company, announced today the appointment of Mr. David Girard as Ward’s Director of Operations. Mr. Girard replaces Dan Ogle who has pursued other career opportunities outside the company. As Director of Operation, Mr. Girard will manage Ward’s operations and project implementation programs.
Mr. Girard brings almost 30 years of operations management experience to Ward. Prior to joining Ward, Mr. Girard served as Project Manager for DCI Automation where he managed and coordinated multiple new product designs and assisted clients in bringing products to market in a timely and cost effective manner. Preceding his assignment with DCI Automation, Mr. Girard held director of operations positions with Zeo, Inc. and SensAble Technologies. Mr. Girard holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Northeastern University.
"With his background in operations and strong focus on customer support, the addition of David to our management team will significantly benefit our customers," said Troy Goldhammer, Ward Chief Operating Officer. "He brings important senior-level operations experience to Ward and we are extremely pleased to have him as part of our management team.”
Founded in 1974, Ward is a premier fleet asset management company. Headquartered in San Antonio, TX, Ward is a leader in developing advanced technologies for fleet asset and fuel management systems and solutions including fuel management, AVL fleet tracking and tire pressure management systems. Ward is recognized throughout the United States for industry leading technology and services that ensures fleet assets are accounted for and fleet usage is optimized. For more information, visit Ward’s virtual pressroom at www.ejward.com.
Mr. Girard brings almost 30 years of operations management experience to Ward. Prior to joining Ward, Mr. Girard served as Project Manager for DCI Automation where he managed and coordinated multiple new product designs and assisted clients in bringing products to market in a timely and cost effective manner. Preceding his assignment with DCI Automation, Mr. Girard held director of operations positions with Zeo, Inc. and SensAble Technologies. Mr. Girard holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Northeastern University.
"With his background in operations and strong focus on customer support, the addition of David to our management team will significantly benefit our customers," said Troy Goldhammer, Ward Chief Operating Officer. "He brings important senior-level operations experience to Ward and we are extremely pleased to have him as part of our management team.”
Founded in 1974, Ward is a premier fleet asset management company. Headquartered in San Antonio, TX, Ward is a leader in developing advanced technologies for fleet asset and fuel management systems and solutions including fuel management, AVL fleet tracking and tire pressure management systems. Ward is recognized throughout the United States for industry leading technology and services that ensures fleet assets are accounted for and fleet usage is optimized. For more information, visit Ward’s virtual pressroom at www.ejward.com.
JASPER Breaks Ground on Crawford Facility Expansion
Jasper Engines and Transmissions broke ground September 8th on a 41,250 square foot expansion to its Crawford County facility.
Upon its projected completion in March 2011, the Crawford facility will have increased in size to over 408,000 square feet under roof.
The expansion will allow the space needed to merge Jasper Innovative Solutions with the company’s Distribution operations for a more efficient flow of finished product, along with allowing both departments to grow.
“Over the past six months we have added over 45 new jobs to our Crawford Operation,” said Doug Bawel, JASPER President and CEO. “With this new expansion, we will add a minimum of ten additional jobs, along with room for needed growth.”
The Crawford County facility is located approximately 40 miles east of Jasper. Originally constructed in 1998 for the purpose of core processing, the Crawford County facility has evolved into a complete remanufacturing operation in the disassembly, machining, assembly and testing of gas engines, transmissions, transfer cases and select manual transmissions.
JASPER’s Product Distribution Center opened at Crawford County in 2000. Nearly 600 JASPER remanufactured products are shipped from the Distribution Center each day to a network of 40 branch locations throughout the United States. The Distribution Center is also the primary location for the unloading, tagging and identification of cores and miscellaneous product from the branch locations.
Jasper Innovative Solutions, a sister company to JASPER, moved to the Crawford County facility in 2008. JIS is a supplier of vehicle parts to the United States Postal Service Vehicle Maintenance Facilities
Upon its projected completion in March 2011, the Crawford facility will have increased in size to over 408,000 square feet under roof.
The expansion will allow the space needed to merge Jasper Innovative Solutions with the company’s Distribution operations for a more efficient flow of finished product, along with allowing both departments to grow.
“Over the past six months we have added over 45 new jobs to our Crawford Operation,” said Doug Bawel, JASPER President and CEO. “With this new expansion, we will add a minimum of ten additional jobs, along with room for needed growth.”
The Crawford County facility is located approximately 40 miles east of Jasper. Originally constructed in 1998 for the purpose of core processing, the Crawford County facility has evolved into a complete remanufacturing operation in the disassembly, machining, assembly and testing of gas engines, transmissions, transfer cases and select manual transmissions.
JASPER’s Product Distribution Center opened at Crawford County in 2000. Nearly 600 JASPER remanufactured products are shipped from the Distribution Center each day to a network of 40 branch locations throughout the United States. The Distribution Center is also the primary location for the unloading, tagging and identification of cores and miscellaneous product from the branch locations.
Jasper Innovative Solutions, a sister company to JASPER, moved to the Crawford County facility in 2008. JIS is a supplier of vehicle parts to the United States Postal Service Vehicle Maintenance Facilities
Crawford to Offer the CEI Direct Repair Network To Its Vehicle Services Customers
Trevose, PA, September 23, 2010 – The CEI Group Inc. has agreed to make its direct repair network of sedan and truck collision repair shops available to the vehicle services clients of Crawford & Company, an independent provider of claims management solutions to the risk management and insured industry and the self-insured market.
Crawford (NYSE: CRDA; CRDB) said access to CEI’s repair network can help its clients reduce their claims cost and vehicle down-time. CEI’s network consists of some 4,000 collision repair shops, and includes more than 800 truck collision repair centers in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
“Our partnership with CEI will help claims managers attain an immediate reduction in overall claim costs and help customers get back on the road more quickly,” said Dester Terry, director of casualty services for Crawford. “Claims managers can be assured that each estimate has been fully audited and that every cost-saving method was considered during the repair.”
Through Crawford’s vehicle managed repair programs, smaller insurance companies will be able to offer their customers the same comprehensive services as larger carriers competing in today’s market, Blair Bennett, Vehicle Services product manager, added. Crawford’s programs offer:
CEI’s nationwide network of more than 4,000 fully licensed and credentialed repair shops
Preferred scheduling for repairs
Estimates that are audited for accuracy
A national, limited written warranty for customers, guaranteeing the work performed and no future costs associated with the original repairs.
Crawford and CEI also will offer credentialed networks for both rental and glass claims, which can be used in conjunction with the managed repair programs or as stand-alone programs, providing flexibility and customization.
“Studies show that customer satisfaction with collision repairs is a key factor in policyholder retention,” said Domenic Brusco, CEI director of insurance services. “Our experience demonstrates that, by consistently delivering high levels of quality and customer satisfaction, CEI’s repair network and assured processes help carriers manage repair expenses and monitor the policyholder experience. We’re proud that Crawford recognizes CEI’s value, and are honored to help them continue to lead the way in vehicle claim management.”
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 consists of some 4,000 collision repair shops in North America, and includes 800 truck collision repair centers. Its customers include self-insured, commercial, institutional and government fleets, directly and through alliances with fleet leasing companies. CEI also provides vehicle direct repair program outsourcing to leading property and casualty insurance companies.
Crawford (NYSE: CRDA; CRDB) said access to CEI’s repair network can help its clients reduce their claims cost and vehicle down-time. CEI’s network consists of some 4,000 collision repair shops, and includes more than 800 truck collision repair centers in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
“Our partnership with CEI will help claims managers attain an immediate reduction in overall claim costs and help customers get back on the road more quickly,” said Dester Terry, director of casualty services for Crawford. “Claims managers can be assured that each estimate has been fully audited and that every cost-saving method was considered during the repair.”
Through Crawford’s vehicle managed repair programs, smaller insurance companies will be able to offer their customers the same comprehensive services as larger carriers competing in today’s market, Blair Bennett, Vehicle Services product manager, added. Crawford’s programs offer:
CEI’s nationwide network of more than 4,000 fully licensed and credentialed repair shops
Preferred scheduling for repairs
Estimates that are audited for accuracy
A national, limited written warranty for customers, guaranteeing the work performed and no future costs associated with the original repairs.
Crawford and CEI also will offer credentialed networks for both rental and glass claims, which can be used in conjunction with the managed repair programs or as stand-alone programs, providing flexibility and customization.
“Studies show that customer satisfaction with collision repairs is a key factor in policyholder retention,” said Domenic Brusco, CEI director of insurance services. “Our experience demonstrates that, by consistently delivering high levels of quality and customer satisfaction, CEI’s repair network and assured processes help carriers manage repair expenses and monitor the policyholder experience. We’re proud that Crawford recognizes CEI’s value, and are honored to help them continue to lead the way in vehicle claim management.”
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 consists of some 4,000 collision repair shops in North America, and includes 800 truck collision repair centers. Its customers include self-insured, commercial, institutional and government fleets, directly and through alliances with fleet leasing companies. CEI also provides vehicle direct repair program outsourcing to leading property and casualty insurance companies.
Many Ways to Harvest Energy from Shock Absorbers
by Dr Peter Harrop, Chairman, IDTechEx
In the new age of the electric vehicle, almost everything has to be rethought. In one hundred years, people will laugh at today's hybrid and pure electric vehicles rather in the way we laugh at motor vehicles from 1880 that looked like something dragged along by a horse because that was the starting point. Inside and out, today's electric vehicles look almost the same as what went before. We have traction batteries and electrical and electronic controls in big lumps because that is what they had to look like in the past, together with masses of wiring. We have a big lump of noisy, dirty, shaking internal combustion engine in a hybrid because that is what an engine has looked like in the past. Bring in smart electronic surfaces, wireless links, laminar conformal batteries and mini turbine range extenders. Then we really will have moved on in cost, performance and passenger safety, comfort and space available.
However, until we figure out how to make elasticated vehicle bodies we shall need shock absorbers, so they might as well generate electricity. Only 10-16% of fuel energy is used to drive a car along. Hybrid vehicles recapture some of the energy usually lost in braking but the dissipation of vibration energy by shock absorbers in the vehicle suspension remains untapped.
A unique event, the IDTechEx "Future of Electric Vehicles" in San Jose California December 7-8, will look at these future breakthroughs, ignoring the "Surrey with the fringe on top" approach with today's electric vehicles. Unusually, it will look at all electric vehicles - land, water and air, military and non-military - because they are intimately related in nearly all respects. For example, T-Ink will show how they all have to adopt the new printed electronics and electrics.
Past work on harvester shock absorbers
There has been a lot of work on harvesting from shock absorbers. In an ongoing research project of over 24 years, Bose, the loudspeaker company, has created an electromagnetic suspension system intended to replace traditional dampers and springs with electronic actuators and linear motors to generate electricity. In 2005, David Oxenreider of Boiling Springs, PA, presented a design for an electricity generating shock absorber. Experimental Bosch suspension systems have generated electricity. More recently, Electric Truck, LLC has exclusively optioned commercial rights to a technology from Tufts University that uses regenerative shock absorbers to recharge the batteries of any hybrid electric and electric-powered vehicle while it is driven. You will find in tough to buy these products, however. Problems have included the devices being too large, too expensive, too inefficient in converting electricity or just poor shock absorbers because they dispensed with the spring or had the wrong damping characteristics.
Will the next generation be more successful?
More recently, shock absorbers that generate electricity are being developed by Cambridge, MA-based Levant Power, a spinout from MIT. The device can, they suggest, reduce fuel consumption by 1.5-6%, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions, and improve vehicle handling. A presentation on the work will be made at "Future of Electric Vehicles".
The Levant electricity generating shock absorber
[Missing Image]
Source : Levant Power
Levant has demonstrated the technology in road tests with a Humvee (work on the electric military Humvee drive train will be covered at the event) and will expand testing to trucks, buses and other vehicles this summer. The shock absorbers look like conventional ones from the outside, except for a power cord coming out of one end. They can be installed in regular vehicles by mechanics. They plug into a power management device that can also manage power from other sources, such as regenerative braking systems, the new piezoelectric vibration harvesters to be presented at the event, thermoelectric devices that convert waste heat into electricity, or conformal solar panels to be discussed at the event. The power is then fed into the car's electrical system to reduce the amount of load on the alternator, future battery management systems also being a topic at "Future of Electric Vehicles".
Good damping is retained
As in a conventional shock absorber, the Levant technology uses a piston moving through oil to damp down movement. Levant has developed a modified piston head that includes parts that spin as it moves through the oil, turning a small generator housed within the shock absorber. To improve vehicle handling, the power controller processes information from accelerometers and other sensors to change the resistance from the generators, which stiffens or softens the suspension. Wireless sensors and actuators will be used in future and they are to be presented at "Future of Electric Vehicles". For example, if the sensors detect the car starting a turn, the power controller can increase the resistance from the shock absorbers on the outer wheels, improving cornering, says David Diamond, the vice president of business development at Levant.
The system performs best on heavy, off-road vehicles moving quickly over rough terrain, so the company is targeting military applications such as the vehicles of BAE Systems, that presents at the event. Levant has emphasized using off-the-shelf parts, where possible, to keep down costs. Diamond notes that active shock absorbers have failed commercially in the past because they were too expensive. What distinguishes the new system is its relatively low cost and ability to generate electricity. The shock absorbers and control electronics will cost slightly more than conventional shock absorbers, he says, but in applications such as commercial trucking, the fuel savings are expected to pay for the extra costs within 18 months. Levant does not plan to manufacture the technology itself, but rather to license it to a manufacturer or create a joint venture.
An alternative
On the other hand, Lei Zuo, a professor of mechanical engineering at Stony Brook University, is developing systems that use no fluids, only electromagnetic resistance but one of the biggest challenges in designing such systems is making them small enough to fit into existing vehicles, yet big enough to create a useful amount of electricity. A hollow coil assembly and magnets use vibrational energy from the vehicle's suspension to move up and down. Ring-shaped permanent magnets and high magnetically permeable spacers are stacked on a rod of high reluctance material. Like-poles of adjacent magnets face each other pushing the magnetic flux outward. This assembly in an outer cylinder of high permeability material to further increase magnetic flux density in the coils. The copper coils are wound on a Delrin tube and designed to align with the magnet stack and are connected to a rectifier set-up. The copper coils move inside the magnetic field and a voltage is generated. Energy density and efficiency are being improved in further work. If successful, this could also be an elegant part of the devolved and largely wireless vehicle concepts that Fiat Central Research will present at "Future of Electric Vehicles".
The Stony Brook idea
[Missing Image]
Source Stony Brook University
The researchers predict that, with the regenerative shock absorbers put on all four wheels, it should be possible to recover a total of around 256 watts under such driving conditions. This is not inconsistent with each MIT device being predicted to generate up to one kilowatt on a truck.
At the unique event, Future of Electric Vehicles USA 2010, printed electronics and electrics, next generation batteries, energy harvesting, wireless sensors, turbine range extenders, smart materials and new components of universal appeal will be presented. Best-in-class speakers from across North America, Europe and East Asia have been selected with space for a few more. This is attracting those needing the big picture and best practice from wherever it comes and on whatever vehicle it is used for the first time. The evolution of both hybrids and pure electric vehicles over the next ten years will be analysed, with scoping of global demand by types - land, water and air. The breakthroughs to come are the focus. For full details, visit www.IDTechEx.com/evUSA.
In the new age of the electric vehicle, almost everything has to be rethought. In one hundred years, people will laugh at today's hybrid and pure electric vehicles rather in the way we laugh at motor vehicles from 1880 that looked like something dragged along by a horse because that was the starting point. Inside and out, today's electric vehicles look almost the same as what went before. We have traction batteries and electrical and electronic controls in big lumps because that is what they had to look like in the past, together with masses of wiring. We have a big lump of noisy, dirty, shaking internal combustion engine in a hybrid because that is what an engine has looked like in the past. Bring in smart electronic surfaces, wireless links, laminar conformal batteries and mini turbine range extenders. Then we really will have moved on in cost, performance and passenger safety, comfort and space available.
However, until we figure out how to make elasticated vehicle bodies we shall need shock absorbers, so they might as well generate electricity. Only 10-16% of fuel energy is used to drive a car along. Hybrid vehicles recapture some of the energy usually lost in braking but the dissipation of vibration energy by shock absorbers in the vehicle suspension remains untapped.
A unique event, the IDTechEx "Future of Electric Vehicles" in San Jose California December 7-8, will look at these future breakthroughs, ignoring the "Surrey with the fringe on top" approach with today's electric vehicles. Unusually, it will look at all electric vehicles - land, water and air, military and non-military - because they are intimately related in nearly all respects. For example, T-Ink will show how they all have to adopt the new printed electronics and electrics.
Past work on harvester shock absorbers
There has been a lot of work on harvesting from shock absorbers. In an ongoing research project of over 24 years, Bose, the loudspeaker company, has created an electromagnetic suspension system intended to replace traditional dampers and springs with electronic actuators and linear motors to generate electricity. In 2005, David Oxenreider of Boiling Springs, PA, presented a design for an electricity generating shock absorber. Experimental Bosch suspension systems have generated electricity. More recently, Electric Truck, LLC has exclusively optioned commercial rights to a technology from Tufts University that uses regenerative shock absorbers to recharge the batteries of any hybrid electric and electric-powered vehicle while it is driven. You will find in tough to buy these products, however. Problems have included the devices being too large, too expensive, too inefficient in converting electricity or just poor shock absorbers because they dispensed with the spring or had the wrong damping characteristics.
Will the next generation be more successful?
More recently, shock absorbers that generate electricity are being developed by Cambridge, MA-based Levant Power, a spinout from MIT. The device can, they suggest, reduce fuel consumption by 1.5-6%, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions, and improve vehicle handling. A presentation on the work will be made at "Future of Electric Vehicles".
The Levant electricity generating shock absorber
[Missing Image]
Source : Levant Power
Levant has demonstrated the technology in road tests with a Humvee (work on the electric military Humvee drive train will be covered at the event) and will expand testing to trucks, buses and other vehicles this summer. The shock absorbers look like conventional ones from the outside, except for a power cord coming out of one end. They can be installed in regular vehicles by mechanics. They plug into a power management device that can also manage power from other sources, such as regenerative braking systems, the new piezoelectric vibration harvesters to be presented at the event, thermoelectric devices that convert waste heat into electricity, or conformal solar panels to be discussed at the event. The power is then fed into the car's electrical system to reduce the amount of load on the alternator, future battery management systems also being a topic at "Future of Electric Vehicles".
Good damping is retained
As in a conventional shock absorber, the Levant technology uses a piston moving through oil to damp down movement. Levant has developed a modified piston head that includes parts that spin as it moves through the oil, turning a small generator housed within the shock absorber. To improve vehicle handling, the power controller processes information from accelerometers and other sensors to change the resistance from the generators, which stiffens or softens the suspension. Wireless sensors and actuators will be used in future and they are to be presented at "Future of Electric Vehicles". For example, if the sensors detect the car starting a turn, the power controller can increase the resistance from the shock absorbers on the outer wheels, improving cornering, says David Diamond, the vice president of business development at Levant.
The system performs best on heavy, off-road vehicles moving quickly over rough terrain, so the company is targeting military applications such as the vehicles of BAE Systems, that presents at the event. Levant has emphasized using off-the-shelf parts, where possible, to keep down costs. Diamond notes that active shock absorbers have failed commercially in the past because they were too expensive. What distinguishes the new system is its relatively low cost and ability to generate electricity. The shock absorbers and control electronics will cost slightly more than conventional shock absorbers, he says, but in applications such as commercial trucking, the fuel savings are expected to pay for the extra costs within 18 months. Levant does not plan to manufacture the technology itself, but rather to license it to a manufacturer or create a joint venture.
An alternative
On the other hand, Lei Zuo, a professor of mechanical engineering at Stony Brook University, is developing systems that use no fluids, only electromagnetic resistance but one of the biggest challenges in designing such systems is making them small enough to fit into existing vehicles, yet big enough to create a useful amount of electricity. A hollow coil assembly and magnets use vibrational energy from the vehicle's suspension to move up and down. Ring-shaped permanent magnets and high magnetically permeable spacers are stacked on a rod of high reluctance material. Like-poles of adjacent magnets face each other pushing the magnetic flux outward. This assembly in an outer cylinder of high permeability material to further increase magnetic flux density in the coils. The copper coils are wound on a Delrin tube and designed to align with the magnet stack and are connected to a rectifier set-up. The copper coils move inside the magnetic field and a voltage is generated. Energy density and efficiency are being improved in further work. If successful, this could also be an elegant part of the devolved and largely wireless vehicle concepts that Fiat Central Research will present at "Future of Electric Vehicles".
The Stony Brook idea
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Source Stony Brook University
The researchers predict that, with the regenerative shock absorbers put on all four wheels, it should be possible to recover a total of around 256 watts under such driving conditions. This is not inconsistent with each MIT device being predicted to generate up to one kilowatt on a truck.
At the unique event, Future of Electric Vehicles USA 2010, printed electronics and electrics, next generation batteries, energy harvesting, wireless sensors, turbine range extenders, smart materials and new components of universal appeal will be presented. Best-in-class speakers from across North America, Europe and East Asia have been selected with space for a few more. This is attracting those needing the big picture and best practice from wherever it comes and on whatever vehicle it is used for the first time. The evolution of both hybrids and pure electric vehicles over the next ten years will be analysed, with scoping of global demand by types - land, water and air. The breakthroughs to come are the focus. For full details, visit www.IDTechEx.com/evUSA.
LeasePlan USA Selects Customer Service Visionary, Teri Ross, for Vice President, Client Services Position
ALPHARETTA, Ga. (September 23, 2010) – LeasePlan USA is very pleased to announce the promotion of Teri Ross to vice president, client services. Ross, an accomplished client service professional, has 16 years of experience in business development, strategic planning, sales and marketing, contract negotiations and project management within the fleet industry.
“Teri has the unique ability to establish a vision of client services from multiple viewpoints. Her high-touch, personal approach to servicing our clients’ needs has allowed the team to provide a premium level of support and consultation that makes it ‘easier to leaseplan,’” said Jon J. Toups, chief sales and marketing officer.
In this new role, she will be tasked with overseeing the account management team, client activation team, Business Intelligence Reporting group and FleetDesk, the company’s driver contact center. In addition, she will be responsible for Personal Mileage Reporting and ResponsePlan, the company’s closed-loop issue resolution software.
Ross joined LeasePlan in 2007 as director, account management. In just a short time, she has made a significant impact on LeasePlan’s approach to meeting and exceeding clients’ needs. By leveraging her many years of industry experience, she blended the account management team based on skill set, and more importantly, the needs and unique requirements of our clients. By doing so, the account managers are empowered to offer the expertise and consultation that allows our clients to cut costs and create efficiencies.
Also instrumental in the creation and introduction of an account management-specific certification program, Ross promotes the consistent training and development of her staff. As part of this training program, each account manager is required to obtain certification in 12 different areas, such as customer service, client management tools, vehicle acquisition, license & title, consultative skills and various computer programs. She also encourages account managers to obtain the Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) designation. Several account managers are currently going through the program with two of them graduating recently.
Ross’ combined efforts have resulted in all-time high client satisfaction and retention rates. Client satisfaction scores have increased by 19 percent since 2007 and client retention has jumped to more than 98 percent. In addition, the client loyalty rate – based on overall satisfaction, likelihood to repurchase from LeasePlan, likelihood to recommend LeasePlan and competitive advantage – grew by 17 percent.
“I have no doubt that LeasePlan will see our service delivery continue to evolve and improve. I fully expect to see our client retention, satisfaction and loyalty ratings soar under Teri’s capable leadership,” said Toups.
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.
“Teri has the unique ability to establish a vision of client services from multiple viewpoints. Her high-touch, personal approach to servicing our clients’ needs has allowed the team to provide a premium level of support and consultation that makes it ‘easier to leaseplan,’” said Jon J. Toups, chief sales and marketing officer.
In this new role, she will be tasked with overseeing the account management team, client activation team, Business Intelligence Reporting group and FleetDesk, the company’s driver contact center. In addition, she will be responsible for Personal Mileage Reporting and ResponsePlan, the company’s closed-loop issue resolution software.
Ross joined LeasePlan in 2007 as director, account management. In just a short time, she has made a significant impact on LeasePlan’s approach to meeting and exceeding clients’ needs. By leveraging her many years of industry experience, she blended the account management team based on skill set, and more importantly, the needs and unique requirements of our clients. By doing so, the account managers are empowered to offer the expertise and consultation that allows our clients to cut costs and create efficiencies.
Also instrumental in the creation and introduction of an account management-specific certification program, Ross promotes the consistent training and development of her staff. As part of this training program, each account manager is required to obtain certification in 12 different areas, such as customer service, client management tools, vehicle acquisition, license & title, consultative skills and various computer programs. She also encourages account managers to obtain the Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) designation. Several account managers are currently going through the program with two of them graduating recently.
Ross’ combined efforts have resulted in all-time high client satisfaction and retention rates. Client satisfaction scores have increased by 19 percent since 2007 and client retention has jumped to more than 98 percent. In addition, the client loyalty rate – based on overall satisfaction, likelihood to repurchase from LeasePlan, likelihood to recommend LeasePlan and competitive advantage – grew by 17 percent.
“I have no doubt that LeasePlan will see our service delivery continue to evolve and improve. I fully expect to see our client retention, satisfaction and loyalty ratings soar under Teri’s capable leadership,” said Toups.
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.
New AAPEX Education Sessions Geared for Parts Stores, Repair Shops
ORLAND PARK, IL – September 23, 2010 – Among the 30 education sessions scheduled for the Learning Forum at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), seven have been designed specifically for parts store and repair shop attendees.
All AAPEX education sessions are free-of-charge to everyone and will be held Tuesday, Nov. 2 through Thursday, Nov. 4 in Marco Polo Rooms 701-706 on the Venetian/Palazzo Congress Center Level 1 in the Venetian Hotel. The seven parts store/repair shop-focused sessions will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 2 and Thursday, Nov. 4. Topics include:
• Selling Parts for Imports: Did You Ever Consider Listening to Your Customer? The Installer’s View, Martin Gold, S-G Imported Auto Parts – presented by Auto International Association (AIA)
• New Vehicle Technologies and Their Impact on the Aftermarket, Ken Hamann, Link Engineering Co., former GM executive
• They Want What? Meeting the Expectations of Service Shop Owners and Technicians, Bill Haas, Automotive Service Association (ASA)
• Industry Standards – A Look Inside the Shop of Tomorrow, Scott Luckett, AAIA; Ben Johnson, ALLDATA
• Communicating with Confidence: Service Consultants and Technicians Working Together for Vehicle Owners (And Increasing Profit for Repair Shops), Chris Chesney, CARQUEST Technical Institute
• Adding Social Media to Your Marketing Toolbox, Tyler Olson, SMCpros – presented by the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers (AASP)
• Automotive Service Shops: Top Performer Benchmarks and How to Get There, John Watt, Petro-Canada, Certigard – presented by AIA Canada
All AAPEX education sessions are accredited for 0.1 continuing education units (CEUs) by the University of the Aftermarket toward the AAP and MAAP professional designations.
For more information on these sessions, as well as information on all education sessions, visit www.aapexshow.com or call Sue Kalish, AAIA, at 240-333-1047 or e-mail sue.kalish@aftermarket.org.
About AAPEX
AAPEX is the annual business-to-business trade show representing the global automotive aftermarket and features more than 2,000 exhibitors. AAPEX is jointly sponsored by the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), the aftermarket affiliate of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) and the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). For more information, visit www.aapexshow.com.
All AAPEX education sessions are free-of-charge to everyone and will be held Tuesday, Nov. 2 through Thursday, Nov. 4 in Marco Polo Rooms 701-706 on the Venetian/Palazzo Congress Center Level 1 in the Venetian Hotel. The seven parts store/repair shop-focused sessions will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 2 and Thursday, Nov. 4. Topics include:
• Selling Parts for Imports: Did You Ever Consider Listening to Your Customer? The Installer’s View, Martin Gold, S-G Imported Auto Parts – presented by Auto International Association (AIA)
• New Vehicle Technologies and Their Impact on the Aftermarket, Ken Hamann, Link Engineering Co., former GM executive
• They Want What? Meeting the Expectations of Service Shop Owners and Technicians, Bill Haas, Automotive Service Association (ASA)
• Industry Standards – A Look Inside the Shop of Tomorrow, Scott Luckett, AAIA; Ben Johnson, ALLDATA
• Communicating with Confidence: Service Consultants and Technicians Working Together for Vehicle Owners (And Increasing Profit for Repair Shops), Chris Chesney, CARQUEST Technical Institute
• Adding Social Media to Your Marketing Toolbox, Tyler Olson, SMCpros – presented by the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers (AASP)
• Automotive Service Shops: Top Performer Benchmarks and How to Get There, John Watt, Petro-Canada, Certigard – presented by AIA Canada
All AAPEX education sessions are accredited for 0.1 continuing education units (CEUs) by the University of the Aftermarket toward the AAP and MAAP professional designations.
For more information on these sessions, as well as information on all education sessions, visit www.aapexshow.com or call Sue Kalish, AAIA, at 240-333-1047 or e-mail sue.kalish@aftermarket.org.
About AAPEX
AAPEX is the annual business-to-business trade show representing the global automotive aftermarket and features more than 2,000 exhibitors. AAPEX is jointly sponsored by the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), the aftermarket affiliate of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) and the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). For more information, visit www.aapexshow.com.
FleetMatics and SageQuest Announce Merger Agreement
(DUBLIN, IRELAND and SOLON, OHIO ) – FleetMatics and SageQuest recently announced the completion of a merger agreement to create the fastest growing, global software-as-a-service (SaaS) company for vehicle management solutions. FleetMatics agreed to acquire 100 percent of the outstanding shares of SageQuest, creating a combined new entity. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
“With this acquisition of SageQuest, FleetMatics will extend our ability to deliver the best-in-class products and services to fleets of all sizes. It is the strength of our combined products and services, as well as our reputation as superior service providers that compelled this combination to happen,” explained Jim Travers, CEO of FleetMatics. “Together we possess an unmatched set of products and services. We are now in a stronger position to capture market share faster than our competitors and accomplish our goal of being the leading global software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider of vehicle management solutions.”
“We are excited about the prospects of growth through our combined efforts. While both organizations have had successful records of performance, this merger positions us as the clear market leader,” said Dennis Abrahams, President of SageQuest. “We now have the scale and financial stability to expand our reach into the commercial fleet market. We will be able to offer new customers the best solutions available anywhere, while providing our existing customers the exceptional products and support they have come to expect.” It is reported that Abrahams will continue as President of SageQuest and report directly to Jim Travers.
“The market for GPS tracking continues to evolve and mature at an intense pace and a number of market leaders are starting to emerge. The mobile resource management (MRM) market is still underpenetrated and the industry is going to experience serious growth over the next several years,” stated Clem Driscoll of C.J. Driscoll & Associates. Driscoll added, “These two companies have each established themselves as leading competitors in their respective market segments. The combined company possesses an impressive team, which has deployed solutions that have become well accepted by both large and small fleets.”
About FleetMatics
FleetMatics is a rapidly growing, privately-funded software-as-a-service (SaaS) company focused on GPS vehicle tracking. FleetMatics’ comprehensive software offerings are designed for businesses of all sizes that focus on improving customer service, real-time operations visibility and maximum performance from their vehicles and service representatives.
The FleetMatics fleet management system offerings include: GPS-based fleet tracking software, a command center dashboard for real-time fleet monitoring over the internet or on a mobile device, comprehensive and easy-to-use management reports and the industry’s only Panoramic Reporting that allows executives to see how they have improved their fleet performance over time.
FleetMatics handles all the technology issues so customers focus strictly on their business to realize a rapid and ongoing ROI that includes increased revenue, reduced costs, and ability to grow profitably. For more information, visit www.fleetmatics.com or call 866.844.2235.
About SageQuest
SageQuest LLC provides proven GPS vehicle management solutions that improve the efficiency and productivity of mobile workers for utility, cable and broadband companies throughout North America. SageQuest’s Mobile Control complements workforce management tools to provide real-time insight into technician and vehicle activity, providing actionable decision-making information for dispatchers, supervisors and executives. Mobile Control is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution which helps customers minimize their upfront capital investment. For more information about SageQuest, visit www.sage-quest.com or call 888.837.7243.
“With this acquisition of SageQuest, FleetMatics will extend our ability to deliver the best-in-class products and services to fleets of all sizes. It is the strength of our combined products and services, as well as our reputation as superior service providers that compelled this combination to happen,” explained Jim Travers, CEO of FleetMatics. “Together we possess an unmatched set of products and services. We are now in a stronger position to capture market share faster than our competitors and accomplish our goal of being the leading global software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider of vehicle management solutions.”
“We are excited about the prospects of growth through our combined efforts. While both organizations have had successful records of performance, this merger positions us as the clear market leader,” said Dennis Abrahams, President of SageQuest. “We now have the scale and financial stability to expand our reach into the commercial fleet market. We will be able to offer new customers the best solutions available anywhere, while providing our existing customers the exceptional products and support they have come to expect.” It is reported that Abrahams will continue as President of SageQuest and report directly to Jim Travers.
“The market for GPS tracking continues to evolve and mature at an intense pace and a number of market leaders are starting to emerge. The mobile resource management (MRM) market is still underpenetrated and the industry is going to experience serious growth over the next several years,” stated Clem Driscoll of C.J. Driscoll & Associates. Driscoll added, “These two companies have each established themselves as leading competitors in their respective market segments. The combined company possesses an impressive team, which has deployed solutions that have become well accepted by both large and small fleets.”
About FleetMatics
FleetMatics is a rapidly growing, privately-funded software-as-a-service (SaaS) company focused on GPS vehicle tracking. FleetMatics’ comprehensive software offerings are designed for businesses of all sizes that focus on improving customer service, real-time operations visibility and maximum performance from their vehicles and service representatives.
The FleetMatics fleet management system offerings include: GPS-based fleet tracking software, a command center dashboard for real-time fleet monitoring over the internet or on a mobile device, comprehensive and easy-to-use management reports and the industry’s only Panoramic Reporting that allows executives to see how they have improved their fleet performance over time.
FleetMatics handles all the technology issues so customers focus strictly on their business to realize a rapid and ongoing ROI that includes increased revenue, reduced costs, and ability to grow profitably. For more information, visit www.fleetmatics.com or call 866.844.2235.
About SageQuest
SageQuest LLC provides proven GPS vehicle management solutions that improve the efficiency and productivity of mobile workers for utility, cable and broadband companies throughout North America. SageQuest’s Mobile Control complements workforce management tools to provide real-time insight into technician and vehicle activity, providing actionable decision-making information for dispatchers, supervisors and executives. Mobile Control is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution which helps customers minimize their upfront capital investment. For more information about SageQuest, visit www.sage-quest.com or call 888.837.7243.
Kinedyne Appoints New National Accounts Manager
BRANCHBURG, NJ (September 22, 2010) – Kinedyne Corporation has appointed Terry O’Connor as National Accounts Manager, effective immediately. In this newly created position, O’Connor will partner with large, Heavy Duty Aftermarket Parts Distributors to increase sales of the company’s products, solidify marketing opportunities, and further develop the company’s business with these strategic accounts.
A veteran of more than 30 years in the commercial transport industry, O’Connor joined Kinedyne in 2005 as an Account Manager covering the southeastern region of the United States. Before joining Kinedyne – the world leader in cargo control products for the trucking and transport industry – O’Connor’s career path included positions of diverse and increasing responsibilities with Great Dane Trailer, Utility International, New Life Transport, and Hutchens Industries.
“I’m confident Terry’s extensive industry experience will help us in our efforts to increase Kinedyne’s visibility with large National Accounts,” says Mike Hauer, Kinedyne’s Director of Sales for the U.S. market. “He is a senior member of our Sales team and, as a result, brings a wealth of knowledge about our company, products, and the industry that will help strengthen our relationships with these strategic accounts.”
A graduate of St. Leo University, in Florida, O’Connor received a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, with a Marketing concentration.
A veteran of more than 30 years in the commercial transport industry, O’Connor joined Kinedyne in 2005 as an Account Manager covering the southeastern region of the United States. Before joining Kinedyne – the world leader in cargo control products for the trucking and transport industry – O’Connor’s career path included positions of diverse and increasing responsibilities with Great Dane Trailer, Utility International, New Life Transport, and Hutchens Industries.
“I’m confident Terry’s extensive industry experience will help us in our efforts to increase Kinedyne’s visibility with large National Accounts,” says Mike Hauer, Kinedyne’s Director of Sales for the U.S. market. “He is a senior member of our Sales team and, as a result, brings a wealth of knowledge about our company, products, and the industry that will help strengthen our relationships with these strategic accounts.”
A graduate of St. Leo University, in Florida, O’Connor received a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, with a Marketing concentration.
TRP Introduces Windshield Glass Products for All Makes of Trucks and Tractors
RENTON, Wash., Sept. 22, 2010 — TRP Aftermarket Parts recently announced availability of a new line of high quality glass for all makes of Class 6, 7 and 8 trucks and tractors. “TRP glass products are manufactured and tested to OEM specifications to ensure optimal optical quality, safety, surface contour and fit for each windshield,” said Everett Seymoure, global manager for TRP.
“Since TRP offers windshields for popular all-makes truck applications, TRP can cover any company’s diverse fleet requirements, including glass for Ford, Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Mack, Navistar, Sterling, Volvo and Western Star vehicles,” he added. “When the installation is done at a TRP authorized retailer, including Kenworth or Peterbilt dealerships, operators can expect the fit to be exact and the installation to be performed right the first time. This increases the life of the windshield, improves safety by ensuring protection from road debris and helps avoid frustrating and costly damage resulting from needless water leaks.”
Windshields can be purchased from TRP’s authorized retailers. “TRP has sought out the highest quality glass to bring truck operators the highest value replacement glass,” Seymoure added. TRP also offers operators high quality, competitively priced wiper blades and butyl installation tape.
TRP Aftermarket Parts
TRP Aftermarket Parts for commercial vehicles are available through a network of authorized retailers that include Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF dealerships around the world. From dump trucks to cement mixers, delivery vans to tractor trailers, school buses to transit buses, TRP offers reliable aftermarket products that are designed and tested to exceed customers’ expectations regardless of the vehicle make, model or age. For more information, visit www.TRPParts.com.
“Since TRP offers windshields for popular all-makes truck applications, TRP can cover any company’s diverse fleet requirements, including glass for Ford, Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Mack, Navistar, Sterling, Volvo and Western Star vehicles,” he added. “When the installation is done at a TRP authorized retailer, including Kenworth or Peterbilt dealerships, operators can expect the fit to be exact and the installation to be performed right the first time. This increases the life of the windshield, improves safety by ensuring protection from road debris and helps avoid frustrating and costly damage resulting from needless water leaks.”
Windshields can be purchased from TRP’s authorized retailers. “TRP has sought out the highest quality glass to bring truck operators the highest value replacement glass,” Seymoure added. TRP also offers operators high quality, competitively priced wiper blades and butyl installation tape.
TRP Aftermarket Parts
TRP Aftermarket Parts for commercial vehicles are available through a network of authorized retailers that include Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF dealerships around the world. From dump trucks to cement mixers, delivery vans to tractor trailers, school buses to transit buses, TRP offers reliable aftermarket products that are designed and tested to exceed customers’ expectations regardless of the vehicle make, model or age. For more information, visit www.TRPParts.com.
WHEEGO ELECTRIC CARS TO HOST DEALER RIDE AND DRIVE EVENT
ATLANTA (September 22, 2010) – WHEEGO ELECTRIC CARS, manufacturer of all-electric cars, today announced it will host a Dealer Ride & Drive Event in Ontario, California October 22-23, 2010.
“Our full-speed electric car, the Wheego LiFe, will begin shipping in October,” said Wheego President Jeff Boyd. “We are accepting dealer applications now to represent the Wheego brand, supplementing the 25 quality dealers we currently have across the U.S. We have had tremendous interest in our cars, from consumers, fleets and dealers. Our Dealer Ride & Drive event in California will give prospective dealers a first opportunity to drive the LiFe and meet with Wheego executives.”
The Dealer Ride & Drive event will be held at the Doubletree Ontario hotel beginning Friday evening, October 22 and will continue through Saturday morning, October 23. Jeff Boyd will provide an overview of Electric Vehicle market opportunities and offer a detailed look at the Wheego LiFe. Interested dealers will have an opportunity to test drive the highway-ready LiFe and get an up-close look at this exciting new technology.
The EV market (plug-in hybrids and fully electric) has been estimated at 1 million cars by 2020, according to Green Car Congress. “Many traditional car dealers are looking for an entrée into the EV market,” says Boyd. “They recognize the need to embrace this new technology and evolve in order to remain competitive. In the past year, we have been proud to have established, respected dealers join us in major markets, such as Jim Ellis Automotive in Atlanta and Ellis Brooks Auto in San Francisco. We still have room for additions to the team, and we welcome inquiries from dealers. We are making it easy to get started, with no franchise fees and large territories. In many markets, we’ll have orders from our reservation list ready to hand to a dealer.” Boyd will have dealer applications on hand at the Dealer Ride & Drive Event in October. To reserve a place at the event, email Susan Nicholson at susan@wheego.net.
The full-speed Wheego LiFe goes approximately 100 miles on a charge, and retails for $32,995. It qualifies for a $7,500 Federal tax credit, as well as many state tax credits. The Wheego LiFe comes fully-equipped with driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, air conditioning, and power windows and locks. The 115V lithium battery pack can be charged from a standard 120V outlet, a 240V outlet or any of the J1772 standard charging stations being installed in public locations throughout the US. It is available in red, white, blue, black, silver, and green. The Wheego LiFe is a two-seat subcompact car with fit, finish and features that compete with any other subcompact car on the market.
About Wheego Electric Cars
Wheego Electric Cars is an innovation-driven and environmentally-conscious manufacturer of Electric Vehicles (EVs). Under the leadership of Mike McQuary, CEO and former MindSpring entrepreneur, Wheego Electric Cars has become a leader in the integration of advanced technology components. Wheego Electric Cars is one of the first EV companies to deliver affordable fully capable, street legal all-electric cars for everyday consumer use. The Wheego line of electric vehicles is emission-free, making them an ideal choice for consumers and businesses who want to reduce their carbon footprint. Wheego is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The cars are assembled in Ontario, California.
“Our full-speed electric car, the Wheego LiFe, will begin shipping in October,” said Wheego President Jeff Boyd. “We are accepting dealer applications now to represent the Wheego brand, supplementing the 25 quality dealers we currently have across the U.S. We have had tremendous interest in our cars, from consumers, fleets and dealers. Our Dealer Ride & Drive event in California will give prospective dealers a first opportunity to drive the LiFe and meet with Wheego executives.”
The Dealer Ride & Drive event will be held at the Doubletree Ontario hotel beginning Friday evening, October 22 and will continue through Saturday morning, October 23. Jeff Boyd will provide an overview of Electric Vehicle market opportunities and offer a detailed look at the Wheego LiFe. Interested dealers will have an opportunity to test drive the highway-ready LiFe and get an up-close look at this exciting new technology.
The EV market (plug-in hybrids and fully electric) has been estimated at 1 million cars by 2020, according to Green Car Congress. “Many traditional car dealers are looking for an entrée into the EV market,” says Boyd. “They recognize the need to embrace this new technology and evolve in order to remain competitive. In the past year, we have been proud to have established, respected dealers join us in major markets, such as Jim Ellis Automotive in Atlanta and Ellis Brooks Auto in San Francisco. We still have room for additions to the team, and we welcome inquiries from dealers. We are making it easy to get started, with no franchise fees and large territories. In many markets, we’ll have orders from our reservation list ready to hand to a dealer.” Boyd will have dealer applications on hand at the Dealer Ride & Drive Event in October. To reserve a place at the event, email Susan Nicholson at susan@wheego.net.
The full-speed Wheego LiFe goes approximately 100 miles on a charge, and retails for $32,995. It qualifies for a $7,500 Federal tax credit, as well as many state tax credits. The Wheego LiFe comes fully-equipped with driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, air conditioning, and power windows and locks. The 115V lithium battery pack can be charged from a standard 120V outlet, a 240V outlet or any of the J1772 standard charging stations being installed in public locations throughout the US. It is available in red, white, blue, black, silver, and green. The Wheego LiFe is a two-seat subcompact car with fit, finish and features that compete with any other subcompact car on the market.
About Wheego Electric Cars
Wheego Electric Cars is an innovation-driven and environmentally-conscious manufacturer of Electric Vehicles (EVs). Under the leadership of Mike McQuary, CEO and former MindSpring entrepreneur, Wheego Electric Cars has become a leader in the integration of advanced technology components. Wheego Electric Cars is one of the first EV companies to deliver affordable fully capable, street legal all-electric cars for everyday consumer use. The Wheego line of electric vehicles is emission-free, making them an ideal choice for consumers and businesses who want to reduce their carbon footprint. Wheego is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The cars are assembled in Ontario, California.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Federated Launches New Web site For Car Care Center Members
STAUNTON, Virginia, September 21, 2010 – Federated Auto Parts has launched a new Web site for its Car Care Center members, www.FederatedCarCare.com.
“The launch of FederatedCarCare.com gives our Car Care Center members two Web sites in one,” said Phil Moore, senior vice president of Federated Auto Parts. “The main site provides general information including a Car Care Center locator. However, each member has the chance to have their own individual Web site where they can provide more in-depth information on the services and specialties they offer. These individual sites will serve as great business building tools for our Car Care Center members.”
Besides a detailed Car Care Center locator on the home page, the site also offers seasonal vehicle maintenance suggestions as well as a service interval schedule for when vehicle maintenance should be conducted. In addition, each Federated Car Care Center can be accessed through the www.FederatedCarCare.com site.
“Although this site is a great asset for our Car Care Center members, it also serves as a valuable resource for motorists,” said Moore. “Not only can they find their nearest Federated Car Care Center using the site, but they will also find useful information that will help them preserve the value of their vehicle. We plan to add more features in the future that will make FederatedCarCare.com even more of an indispensable tool for vehicle owners.”
About Federated
Federated Auto Parts, headquartered in Staunton, Virginia, is one of the largest auto parts distribution and marketing organizations in North America. Federated is dedicated to supporting its customers with quality name brand parts, programs designed to grow their businesses, and experienced counterpeople who are knowledgeable in today’s evolving automotive technology. For more information, visit www.federatedautoparts.com.
“The launch of FederatedCarCare.com gives our Car Care Center members two Web sites in one,” said Phil Moore, senior vice president of Federated Auto Parts. “The main site provides general information including a Car Care Center locator. However, each member has the chance to have their own individual Web site where they can provide more in-depth information on the services and specialties they offer. These individual sites will serve as great business building tools for our Car Care Center members.”
Besides a detailed Car Care Center locator on the home page, the site also offers seasonal vehicle maintenance suggestions as well as a service interval schedule for when vehicle maintenance should be conducted. In addition, each Federated Car Care Center can be accessed through the www.FederatedCarCare.com site.
“Although this site is a great asset for our Car Care Center members, it also serves as a valuable resource for motorists,” said Moore. “Not only can they find their nearest Federated Car Care Center using the site, but they will also find useful information that will help them preserve the value of their vehicle. We plan to add more features in the future that will make FederatedCarCare.com even more of an indispensable tool for vehicle owners.”
About Federated
Federated Auto Parts, headquartered in Staunton, Virginia, is one of the largest auto parts distribution and marketing organizations in North America. Federated is dedicated to supporting its customers with quality name brand parts, programs designed to grow their businesses, and experienced counterpeople who are knowledgeable in today’s evolving automotive technology. For more information, visit www.federatedautoparts.com.
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