Goodyear Looks at Synthetic Rubber Developments
Goodyear Tire & Rubber said it currently has several new proprietary synthetic rubber products in development that could reduce the company’s dependence on natural rubber by as much as 15 percent over the next few years.
Snap-on Tools and NASCAR Driver Rusty Wallace Team-Up to Create Films on Fluid Maintenance
Snap-on Tools and NASCAR champion Rusty Wallace have joined forces to produce a series of films demonstrating to consumers the importance of regular maintenance of cooling, fuel, power steering and transmission fluid systems. One of NASCAR’s most successful and popular drivers, Rusty Wallace narrates each of the four episodes, explaining the function of cooling, fuel, power steering and transmission fluid systems and the benefits of properly maintaining those systems.
Thomson Delmar Learning Re-Launched ASE Test Prep Web Site
With technicians across the country preparing to take ASE exams, educational resource firm, Thomas Delmar Learning has re-launched www.ATCChallenge.com, its online automotive ASE test prep course. Delmar Learning has made improvements to the site, updating it with the latest ASE task lists.
Aisin Automotive Casting to Produce Aluminum Components at Tennessee Plant
Japanese automotive components maker Aisin Seiki has invested $30.9 million in a plant in Clinton, Tenn., that the company will use build aluminum die castings for engine components. The new facility, which will be called Aisin Automotive Casting Tennessee, is expected to begin operations in August 2005. The plant will also machine and assemble components for pumps and pistons.
Dana Debuts Centennial Web Site
Dana Corp. is kicking off a six-month celebration of the company’s 100th anniversary with the launch of its Centennial web site. The Web site launch precedes Dana’s official anniversary, April 1. Playing off of Dana’s people-oriented business philosophy, the site features “Your Dana Story,” on online forum which provides Dana employees, customers and friends with an opportunity to share memorable Dana experiences or anecdotes.
Dealers Turning to Independents for Service Contracts
Car dealers sell more optional service contracts (such as extended warranties and mechanical-breakdown protection) when they utilize independent providers as opposed to plans offered from their respective factories. According to a study released by J.D. Power and Associates, dealers that use independents have sales rates of 32 percent to new-car buyers and 40 percent to used-car buyers. In contrast, dealers who use factory plans report 28 percent and 33 percent respectively.
Lextron Files for Chapter 11
Delphi customer Lextron Corp. has filed for bankruptcy protection a year after the company ended its contract with the Jackson, Miss.-based manufacturer. The contract cancellation forced Lextron to shut down its automotive production line, according to the TheDeal.com.
Visteon Presents Summit Award to the GM of Its Shanghai Joint Venture
The general manager of Visteon’s automotive electronics joint venture in Shanghai, China, has been presented with company’s highest form of recognition — a Summit Award — for exceptional accomplishments in 2003. Alfeu Doria, general manager, YanFeng Visteon Electronics, was one of six individuals and teams recognized with Summit Awards by Visteon Chairman and CEO Peter Pestillo and President and COO Michael Johnston.
GKN Names New Driveline Global Director-Ford Sales
Jim Voeffray has been named global director for Ford Group accounts at GKN Driveline. He will be based out of GKN’s Auburn Hills, Mich., technical center and will report to Ted Rodewig, executive director of marketing.Voeffray has been with GKN for six years and held positions as account director for Ford Americas and Ford Europe. In his new position, Voeffray will oversee all GKN Driveline projects with Ford Motor Co. and its global affiliates.
Brake Parts Inc. Offers New Raybestos Brand RCD Catalog
Brake Parts Inc., manufacturer of Raybestos brand brakes, has announced the availability of its Raybestos brand RCD catalog, version 4.1. The catalog contains the entire Raybestos brand brake product line with coverage for all model years, including many 2004 models.
WIX Filtration Products Receives CARQUEST Vendor of the Year, Order Fill Awards
WIX Filtration Products was presented with the 2003 CARQUEST Vendor of the Year award and two Order Fill Awards in recognition of its impressive ship-and-fill rates, outstanding marketing programs and customer service. WIX is the exclusive manufacturer of CARQUEST’s Premium Blue and Red Filter lines.
Akebono Product Manager Named Chairman of APRA Brake Division
Robin Gedye, senior product manager – Aftermarket Caliper Products for Akebono Corp., has been named chairman of the Automotive Parts Rebuiders Association (APRA) Brake Division.