NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas – Organizers of the CARS and NACE events have announced the return of the Technology & Telematics Forum (TTF). In its second year, the forum will provide a deep-dive into the future of shops and an overview of emerging technology for the industry. Sponsored by Auto Alliance and ASA, the 2015 program will feature an enhanced agenda with relevant topics for both CARS and NACE attendees.

The 2015 Technology & Telematics Forum will include five key discussion areas:

• Telematics Update – The latest information from across the industry on OE and aftermarket telematics, as well as connected car activity will be provided.
• Connected Car Panel Discussion – The panel, moderated by Bob Redding (Washington representative with ASA), will discuss technical policy related to Connected Car technology from ETI, SAE and OE representatives.
• Driver Assistance Communication and Electronic Stability Control – The functions and service requirements of cameras, GPS and other driver assistance technologies that are used in current models will be addressed.
• Here Come the Apps – “How Aftermarket Software will Help Drive Telematics Innovation,” a panel, moderated by Tony Molla (vice president with ASA), will discuss how third party companies plan to leverage connected cars.
• Future Technology – Serial Edge Nibble Transmission (SENT) – The advantages and challenges of SENT, a new unidirectional communications protocol that is replacing the analog voltage output of automotive sensors, will be discussed by Bernie Porter, an engineer with MAHLE. The implications and impact of SENT on the aftermarket repairer will be addressed.

The event will take place from 2-4 p.m. on July 23 and a reception will follow immediately after, concluding at 6 p.m. Everyone involved in the automotive industry is encouraged to attend.

Donny Seyfer, co-owner of Seyfer Automotive Inc. and chairman of ASA, said, “We are very excited about this year’s lineup. These topics are critical for our members, regardless of discipline, to stay current on emerging technologies, so I encourage our mechanical and collision attendees to add this program to their NACE | CARS schedule.”

More information about NACE | CARS 2015 can be found at NACEexpo.com or CARSevent.com.