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August 31, 2010
2011 Buick Regal.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named Buick Regal Top Safety Pick with a rating of ‘good’ in front, side, rear and rollover, crash protection tests. “The IIHS Top Safety Pick award acknowledges our commitment to offering our customers great safety systems that enhance their driving experience,” said John Schwegman, Vice-President Marketing, Buick. Regal standard safety features include: electronic stability control, traction control, dual-stage front air bags, side-curtain airbags, pedal-release system, OnStar, driver and front passenger belt pretensioners and load limiters.
August 27, 2010
2011 Ford Fiesta.
Ford 2011 Fiesta was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), becoming the first mini-car to be so recognized since the introduction of new roof strength testing. Fiesta is built using high-strength steel, Trinity front crash structure, advanced airbags (most in class), standard stability control (required to qualify as a top safety pick) and side protection and cabin enhancement (SPACE) architecture. “Fiesta is proof that a small car can deliver big safety, and earning a Top Safety Pick further demonstrates Ford’s commitment to providing all of our customers with world-class crash protection,” said Sue Cischke, Vice-President Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering, Ford.
August 27, 2010
STUDY SHOWS ANNUAL VEHICLE REPAIR SPENDING DOWN
Canadians spent $1.4 billion less on vehicle maintenance and repair services in 2010, down to $9.8 billion, from $11.2 billion, according to J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Canadian Customer Commitment Index Study. Average spending per visit dropped $62 from $352 (2009) to $287 (2010). Average annual spending totals varied by province; Atlantic Canada, $681; British Columbia, $589; Ontario, $730; Quebec, $499; and Prairies, $665. ”Stagnant economic conditions may be one reason owners might postpone expenditures, including routine vehicle maintenance,” said Ryan Robinson, Director of the Canadian Automotive Practice, J.D.Power. “There are also other factors contributing to this decline, including longer manufacturer-recommended service intervals, improved vehicle reliability and a slight decline in the average age of the three to 12-year-old vehicle fleet, due to strong new-vehicle sales during the 2006 and 2007 calendar years.” Top performing service centres were: Certigard (Petro- Canada) with a score of 869 out of 1,000; Goodyear Auto Centers (838), Jiffy Lube (835), OK Tire (832) and NAPA Autopro (831).
August 27, 2010
GM FILES FOR INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING
General Motors announced a filing of registration statement with U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for an initial public offering (IPO) of common stock. Morgan Stanley and J.P. Morgan (representatives of the underwriters), Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, Citi, Goldman, Sachs & Co., Barclays Capital, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank Securities, RBC Capital Markets, and UBS Investment Bank will be the joint book-running managers for the offering.
August 20, 2010
2010 Buick Enclave.
General Motors is recalling nearly a quarter million crossover vehicles worldwide (including Canada). All 2009-10 Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook vehicles are recalled. “Because of the potential for a false-latch condition, we want customers to return their vehicles to have the recall repair performed as soon as possible,” said Jeff Boyer, Executive Director for Safety, GM. Rare cases may occur in which occupants may think the belt is latched when it is not. No cases of second-row seat belts failing in a crash have been reported.
August 17, 2010
GAS GUZZLER TAX ELIMINATED
According to Transportaction Newsletter, with the introduction of the harmonized sales tax (HST), Ontario’s tax for fuel conservation (TFFC), known as the ‘gas guzzler tax,’ and tax credit for fuel conservation (TCFFC) no longer apply to vehicle bought after July 1, 2010. TFFC applied to any vehicle consuming over 6.0L/100km in combined city/highway driving, ranging from $75 to $4,400 depending on vehicle.
August 17, 2010
Dan Akerson, New GM CEO.
Dan Akerson’s appointment as GM CEO takes effect September 1. Akerson will become chairman of the Board of Directors effective at the end of 2010. He succeeds Ed Whitacre, who has held the position since December 1, 2009. “Dan Akerson has been actively engaged in and supportive of the key decisions and changes made at the new GM. He brings broad business experience, decisive leadership, and continuity to this role,” said Pat Russo, GM board Director.
August 10, 2010
2011 General Motors Heavy Duty Pick-up Trucks.
General Motors Canada’s launch for its 2011 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Heavy Duty (HD) pick-up trucks was in Calgary, Alberta. Through the Kananaskis region, the HD trucks were set-up with trailers and varying loads to demonstrate ranges and capabilities. GM’s 2011 HD trucks offer new chassis and diesel engine outputting 397 horsepower and 765 foot-pounds of torque. “We reached out to our customers during the development of the 2011 Silverado HD and considered their input to produce a truck that offers class-leading strength and capability with more power, quicker acceleration and lower emissions,” said GM’s Jim Campbell, General Manager, Chevrolet.
August 10, 2010
ARI’s UTILITY AND RAIL FLEET FOCUS GROUP
Automotive Resources International (ARI) convened a Fleet Focus Group for utility and rail companies. Topics included: bulk fuel capabilities, greening case studies, replacement cycling, benchmarking, and supply chain management. “Bringing together a group of people with such experience and significant expertise, ultimately helps ARI better serve this important fleet segment,” said Chris Conroy, Senior Vice-President of Sales and Service, ARI. “At the same time, participants learn strategies from each other on how to better support their core businesses.” Fleet managers from Nova Scotia Power, New Brunswick Power, Hydro One, BC Hydro, Telus, Teresan Gas, CP Rail and Capital Regional District participated in the focus group.
August 10, 2010
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CONFERENCE; SEPTEMBER 13 TO 16 IN VANCOUVER
EV 2010 Conference and Trade Show will be at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Center Vancouver. Some sessions are: OEM perspective’s on electric vehicles, timing and availability; the role of utilities in use of EVs; requisite infrastructure planning for municipalities and more. An OEM ride and drive will take place. For more information, visit: www.emc-mec.ca/ev2010ve/en/home.html.
August 3, 2010
2011 Ford Explorer.
Ford Motor Company introduced 2011 Explorer on FaceBook and at locations across North America, including Toronto. The 2011 Explorer’s 3.5 litre V-6 engine offers 290 horsepower and 255 ft-lbs of torque achieving 20 per cent better fuel economy. A 2.0L EcoBoost inline-four engine improves fuel efficiency by 30 per cent. Both engines are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions. Four-wheel drive system is available on V-6 models, which have 5,000 pound towing limit. Standard safety features include: front, side and curtain airbags, AdvanceTrac with Curve Control, SOS Post-Crash Alert System, tire pressure monitoring system and more. Available features are adaptive cruise control, and blind spot information system. “The all-new Explorer will change market perceptions about SUV style, fuel efficiency, technology and user-friendliness,” said Jim Holland, Chief Nameplate Engineer, Ford.
August 3, 2010
FORD COMPLETES SALE OF VOLVO
Ford Motor Company announced the finalized sale of Volvo Car Corporation to Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Company Limited. ”We are confident Volvo has a solid future under Geely’s ownership,” said Alan Mulally, President and CEO, Ford. “At the same time, the sale of Volvo will allow us to sharpen our focus on the Ford brand around the world and continue to deliver on our One Ford plan serving our customers with the very best cars and trucks in the world.” Geely issued a $200 million note and paid $1.3 billion in cash to complete the sale.
August 3, 2010
NAFA ONTARIO CHAPTER’S ANNUAL FLEET OEM RIDE’N DRIVE TO BE HELD SEPTEMBER 21
The National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA) Ontario chapter in conjunction with 15 fleet OEMs will host its annual ride ’n drive on September 21 at Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan, Ontario. Fleet representatives will have an opportunity to choose from over 100 vehicles for comparison on a closed course. A valid drivers license is required to participate.
July 23, 2010
GM ACQUIRES AMERICREDIT AUTO FINANCE
General Motors has entered into an agreement to acquire AmeriCredit Corp. an independent auto finance company, for $3.5 billion. The acquisition will allow GM to provide a wider range of finance options for customers. “With AmeriCredit providing us niche capabilities in leasing and non-prime financing, along with the continued strong support of Ally Financial and others for prime retail and dealer financing, we’ve set up a very competitive solution for our financial needs, which will be resilient through credit and business cycles,” said Chris Liddell, Vice-Chairman and CFO, GM. The sale will be completed by end of the fourth quarter 2010.
July 20, 2010
ARI RECOGNIZED BY INFOSOL
Infosol Inc., a business intelligence software service and support company recently recognized Automotive Resources International (ARI) with it's annual Most Xcellent Dashboard award for the redesign of ARI’s Insights Dashboard. The award was announced at INFOSOL'S recent Business Intelligence Seminar. “We’re proud to have been chosen over so many innovative submissions,” said Tony Candeloro, Director Systems and Programming, ARI, “Our initial intention was to provide more value to our customers. So, the redesign project focus was on making the dashboard more user-friendly, dynamic and contemporary.” ARI Insights Dashboard fleet management system offers clients one click navigation, performance benchmarking, vehicle status, and report capabilities.
July 19, 2010
CALGARY’S LONE STAR SPRINTER FLEET WEB SITE
Lone Star Mercedes-Benz has launched a web site for its fleet clients. Plans include a Sprinter library featuring in-stock units and more. Lone Star’s web site can be accessed at: www.lonestarsprinter.com.
July 12, 2010
MITSUBISHI’S NEW RVR
Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada’s (MMSC) new crossover utility is named the RVR in Canada it measures a foot less than Outlander, and will be named Outlander Sport in the U.S. An available all-wheel control system is mated to a four-cylinder engine with choice of five-speed manual or six-speed automatic CVT with paddle shifters. RVR will be available in October. “The RVR opens up an all-new segment for MMSC and answers the specific needs that many of our customers have underscored,” said Kogi Soga, President and CEO, MMSC.
July 12, 2010
NEW WEBSITE AT JIM PATTISON LEASE
Jim Pattison Lease has launched a new web site; Jplease.com. The site offers an educational fleet leasing lessons component, an industry resource section and an interactive contact page. In addition, a new customer reporting system is being integrated and website updates are ongoing.
July 6, 2010
BMW LAUNCHES FLEET PROGRAM
BMW Canada’s National Fleet program was launched with an industry-first percentage incentive discount structure. Discounts will apply as a percentage reduction to MSRP with additional packages and options. As one example, a 2011 5-series vehicle carries a discount of five per cent on the MSRP of $62,300 producing an initial discount of $3,115. An added technology package ($3,500) and an executive package ($5,400) will produce a further five per cent discount. The National Fleet program includes MINI vehicles.” Our BMW National Fleet program will serve existing and future BMW fleet customers needs well and make dealing with BMW easier.” said Allison Scarangella, National Fleet Manager, BMW Group Canada.
June 22, 2010
2010 Ford Taurus won Large Car Segment Award.
J.D. Power and Associates 2010 U.S. Initial Quality Study shows domestic brands with 108 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) compared to 109 PP100 for import brands. The overall industry average is 109 PP100. Top 10 brands: Porsche (83 PP100), Acura (86), Mercedes-Benz (87), Lexus (88), Ford (93), Honda (95), Hyundai (102), Lincoln (106), Infiniti (107) and Volvo (109).
“Domestic automakers have made impressive strides in steadily improving vehicle quality, particularly since 2007,” said David Sargent, Vice-President of Global Vehicle Research, J.D. Power.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class won Entry Premium Car Segment Award.
Toyota Motor Corporation’s Cambridge South plant in Cambridge, Ontario received a Gold Plant Quality Award.
June 22, 2010
Nissan Leaf cutaway displaying battery packs and electric system.
New plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles leased or purchased on or after July 1, 2010 are eligible for rebates under Ontario’s Electric Vehicle Program. Vehicles with a four kWh battery are eligible for a $5,000 rebate, 17 kWh or more battery vehicles qualify for an $8,500 rebate. Rebates will be available to the first 10,000 individuals, businesses or organizations that qualify. Currently the single eligible full BEV is Tesla Motors Roadster. GM’s Volt, Nissan’s Leaf and Ford’s Transit Connect electric will soon be released. Details on the rebate, application forms, and an updated list of eligible vehicles will be available July 1 at www.ontario.ca/transportation. “We’ve made and will continue to make steady progress building the groundwork for Ontario’s electric vehicle market,” said Ontario’s Transportation Minister. Conventional hybrids, low-speed electric, off-road, plug-in electric conversions, electric motorcycles and bikes, as well as vehicles with fewer than four wheels are not eligible for rebates.
June 16, 2010
(From left) Stephane Martel, Metro Plus Famille Martel; Pierre Charron, Mayor Saint Eustache; Yvan St-Jean and Michel Perras, Manheim Montreal; and Pierre-Andre Martel, Metro Plus Famille Martel.
St-Eustache, Deux-Montagnes and St Marthe on the Lake Chamber of Commerce presented Manheim Montreal with the Business of the Year award. As well, Manheim was named Large Business of the Year. Yvan St-Jean, General Manager, Manheim Montreal, was named Best Manager of the Year. “I’m proud of what Manheim Montreal has accomplished,” said Brad Hart, Vice-President of Operations, Manheim Canada. “These awards would not have been possible without dedication from each and every team member.”
June 16, 2010
COST: TOP PRIORITY FOR FLEET MANAGERS
For 36 per cent of fleet managers, cost savings are top priority, a recent poll by GE Capital Fleet Services at the recently concluded National Association of Fleet Managers (NAFA) Institute and Expo. Driver Safety was second priority for 21 per cent of respondents. “As we emerge from the downturn, companies continue to be strategic about their fleets while remaining attentive to costs and working to improve overall fleet efficiency,” said Clarence Nunn, CEO, GE.
June 16, 2010
WHEELS AND ADESA SALES EVENT
Wheels, Inc., recently held a remarketing sales event at ADESA’s Toronto Auto Auction in Brampton, Ontario. Over 60 Wheels’ clients vehicles were sold.
June 16, 2010
WHEELS INC. EXPANDS ONLINE MANAGEMENT TOOL FLEETVIEW
Wheels, Inc., expanded the amount of violation data as well as adding some features to FleetView. New real-time views, transaction details and an exception-based violation alert are enhanced. “Violations have become a “pain-point” for many of our clients as jurisdictions have adopted new technology to issue violations and have stepped up enforcement of existing laws, causing an increase in the number of violations received,” said Jane McMonagle, Wheels Assistant Vice-President of Operations.
June 8, 2010
FORD CREDIT APPLIES TO OPERATE AS A BANK
Ford Credit applied for a license to operate as a bank in Canada. If the application is approved, customer’s deposits would be covered by Canada Deposit Insurance Corp. In addition Ford Credit Canada could also offer clients guaranteed investment certificates (GICs). Not withstanding such developments, Ford Credit Canada does not expect to alter its core business of dealer and customer financing.
May 25, 2010
2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Chrysler Canada unveiled the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee at a Fleet Operations Sprint Event in Toronto. The Rise Above 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Launch Tour allowed participants to ride n’ drive a pre-production Grand Cherokee. Chrysler also demonstrated Cherokee’s off-road strength on an off-road ramp. Pricing was announced; Laredo E (base) model starts at $37,995; Laredo X, $42,995; Limited, $46,995; and Overland $49,995. Grand Cherokee gets an 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres fuel efficiency rating from Transport Canada for the 3.6L Pentastar V-6 engine.
May 19, 2010
GM’s ENCOURAGING FIRST QUARTER RESULTS
General Motors (GM) announced first quarter net income of $900 million USD on revenue of $31.5 billion. “We’re pleased with our first quarter performance, in particular achieving profitability,” said Chris Liddell, Vice-Chairman and Chief Financial Officer. “In North America we are adding production to keep up with strong demand for new products in our four brands. We’re also steadily growing in emerging markets, keeping our costs under control, generating positive cash flow and maintaining a strong balance sheet.”
May 18, 2010
Chevrolet Caprice PPV.
Chevrolet will offer three police vehicles for the 2011 model year. It will add a Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV) full-size sedan in 2011, with option of V-6 or V-8 engines. Vehicle specifications can be found at: www.chevroletcapriceppv.com. Tahoe PPV is also available, with 2WD vehicle being determined to have lowest lifecycle costs by Vincentric an auto industry analysis firm. “Our intent with any of our fleet lifecycle cost analyses is to provide guidance to all type of fleet buyers, including small businesses, large commercial fleets and police and other government organizations,” said David Wurster, President, Vincentric. Impala will also be offered with Chevrolet’s claim as the lowest MSRP in police segment.
May 18, 2010
2011 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE PRICING
Chrysler 2011 Grand Cherokee Laredo E (base) model starts at $37,995, $3,650 under the 2010 model. Pricing for others: Laredo X, $42,995, Limited, $46,995 and Overland $49,995. Grand Cherokee offers: Quadra-Lift Air Suspension, Selec-Terrain Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system, duel-pane panoramic sunroof and Garmin navigation.
May 18, 2010
ONLINE ALTERNATIVE FUEL WORKSHOPS
Members of the Alternative Fuel Trade Alliance including Propane Education and Research Council (PERC) announced a workshop to be broadcast online for fleet managers. The workshops will cover infrastructure, available vehicles, alternative fuel quality, safety and environment impact. “Interest in alternative fuel vehicles is at an all-time high among fleet managers,” said Brian Feehan, Vice-President, PERC. “We’re excited that we can broadcast this training program online to allow for greater participation.” Those interested in the workshop can register at: www.altfuelsalliance.org.
May 18, 2010
MORE BANKS AND CREDIT UNIONS IN FINANCING
More banks and credit unions are involved in automotive dealer-financing in 2010 according to J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Canadian Deal Financing Satisfaction Study. Ninety-four per cent of dealerships used a bank/credit union in 2010, up two percent from 2009 mainly in the prime retail credit segment (91 per cent, up four per cent) and the subprime retail segment (17 per cent, up nine per cent). “Banks and credit unions are increasing their footprint in the auto financing market to fill in the void left by the exit or reduced presence of some traditional lenders,” said Lubo Li, senior director and leader of the financial services practice at J.D. Power and Associates, Toronto. “This shift will increase the level of competition between banks, credit unions and captive lenders, as each attempts to capitalize on the slow but steady improvement in auto sales in Canada.” The study looked at dealer satisfaction in: prime retail credit, retail leasing, floor planning and subprime retail credit segments.
May 18, 2010
STUDY SUGGESTS NEGATIVE BENEFITS TO BIODIESEL MANDATE
A study by EcoRessources Consultants (ERC) for Environment Canada found the costs of the Federal Government’s two per cent biodiesel mandate outweighs projected benefits. The mandate calls for a two per cent renewable diesel fuel content before 2012. Total incremental costs for onroad use would be $4.5 billion between 2011 and 2035, but benefits through reduction of GHG emissions is valued at only $860 million. Those in the trucking industry and those buying diesel light-duty vehicles would be burdened with the costs associated with the biodiesel mandate, according to the study. In addition, the study advised that higher fuel prices can be expected after implementation of the mandate.
May 18, 2010
TRUCKING ASSOCIATION OPTIMISTIC
Ontario Trucking Association’s 2010 second-quarter Business e-Pulse survey found 72 per cent of carriers are optimistic about prospects for the trucking industry in the next quarter, 10 per cent though are pessimistic. Respondents thought intra-Ontario (58 per cent) and inter-provincial (65 per cent) freight volumes to be on the rise. Forty per cent of carriers expect to hire drivers in the next quarter.
May 13, 2010
Saab Logo.
Saab Cars North America (SCNA) and International Fleet Sales (IFS) an export distributor for GM and Volvo Trucks will bring Saab vehicles into Canada for the 2011 model year. Some 20 dealers have expressed interest in selling Saabs. “SCNA is proud to have successfully reached a memorandum of understanding with IFS to begin providing Saab vehicles into the Canadian marketplace,” said Mike Colleran, President and COO, SCNA.
May 11, 2010
GREEN FLEET EXPO EXPANDS FOR 2010
Green Fleet Expo 2010 (GFX) designed for fleet managers wishing to green the fleet, will take place June 9 and 10 at Centennial College Ashtonbee Campus in Toronto. GFX is hosted by the cities of Toronto and Hamilton, Fleet Challenge Ontario, Centennial College and the Ontario Ministry of Transportation. Green Fleet Expo expands to two days this year and will feature keynote speeches from the Ontario Deputy Minister of Transportation and Environmental Commission of Ontario; a discussion involving Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, GM, Ford and Honda panelists, a truck panel discussion, a ride ‘n drive, the fleet challenge awards presentation, seminars, product displays and more. Exhibitors will include: Automotive Resources International (ARI), Autovision Wireless, Transport Canada and others. More information can be found at: http://www.toronto.ca/fleet/expo.htm.
May 11, 2010
FORD EXPANDS RECYCLE YOUR RIDE PROGRAM
Ford of Canada will now accept 1996 to 2003 model year vehicles (in addition to 1995 and older) as part of the Recycle Your Ride program. Ford offers: $1,000 towards a Ford car or compact truck, $2,000 for Ford full-size sedan, crossover or SUV, and $3,000 for Ford truck or Lincoln vehicles. Vehicles 15 years or older are eligible. “Through our exclusive agreement with Summerhill Impact, Ford is the only manufacturer that is retiring 1996 to 2003 model year vehicles,” said David Mondragon, President and CEO, Ford Canada. “The Ford program makes it more affordable for consumers to purchased a new vehicle.”
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