IndyCar Series Forms Promotional Partnership with Mac Tools
INDIANAPOLIS — IndyCar Series officials have announced a new one-year partnership with Mac Tools. The agreement will give Mac Tools a big presence at IndyCar Series races around the country in 2008. A key aspect of the partnership will be the Mac Tools “Lap Leader Award.” The award program will track laps led by all
Deadline Approaching for SEMA Scholarships
The deadline for the 2008 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund (SMSF) is fast approaching. All applications must be postmarked by April 20. For nearly a quarter of a century, the SMSF has been providing financial assistance to students attending colleges, universities and technical programs. Last year, more than 100 scholarships were awarded and resulted in a miletsone $1 million awarded through the program. Individual awards range from $1,000 to $4,000. In addition to scholarships for students currently enrolled in qualified programs, the SMSF provides financial assistance to help qualified professionals pay off existing student loans.
Carl’s Collision Appointed “Ecological Ambassador” for Akzo Nobel
From aftermarketNews Staff & Wire Reports NORCROSS, Ga. — Carl’s Collision of Fall River, Mass., has teamed up with Akzo Nobel to become an environmental champion for the collision repair industry in the New England area. “Some things you do, not because you have to, you do them because it is the right thing,” said
CARB Passes Amendment Increasing Zero-Emissions Vehicles
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) voted March 27 to triple the number of zero-emissions vehicles (ZEVs) proposed for production by automakers from 2012 through 2014. CARB staff members originally proposed a requirement of 2,500 vehicles but the board increased this to 7,500.
Midas Acquires Franchisor of 181 SpeeDee Auto Service Centers
Midas has acquired the assets of G.C. & K.B. Investments, Inc., and its affiliated entities that franchise or sub-franchise 181 SpeeDee quick-lube and automotive maintenance shops in the United States and Mexico. G.C. & K.B. Investments, Inc., is owned by Gary Copp and Kevin Bennett, who founded the company in 1980. SpeeDee, which is based in New Orleans, generated U.S. system-wide retail sales of approximately $78 million in 2007 through its network of 116 U.S. shops. The SpeeDee system also includes 65 shops in Mexico that are licensed to a master franchisee.
New Version of Car Care Guide Shows How to Save Gas and Drive Green
Bethesda, MD – New sections on Fuel Economy and Environmental Awareness have been added to the Car Care Guide to show consumers how to get better gas mileage and make their vehicles environmentally friendly. Published by the Car Care Council, the guide is a popular consumer give-away at repair shops and retail stores. The Fuel
ASA Launches Web Page to Assist with Insurance Complaints
WASHINGTON, DC – The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has launched a new section of its legislative Web site that allows consumers and shop owners to easily access their state insurance regulatory agency Web sites. Also included on the new Web page is the specific name of the agency, contact information, the Web site address for
PPG Launches Online Source for Auto Glass Replacement Information
PPG Industries recently launched the newest release of its Web site, PROSTARSAutoCare.com, a “one-stop-shop” designed to help car owners obtain price quotes and service for damaged auto glass without making any phone calls or searching multiple Web sites. The site allows consumers to search among glass shop retailers in their areas based on safety, cost, qualifications, satisfaction ratings and more.
Pep Boys Reports Fourth Quarter Results
Pep Boys has announced the following results for the 13 weeks (fourth quarter) and 52 weeks (fiscal year) ended Feb. 2. Sales for the 13 weeks ended Feb. 2 were $517,639,000, as compared to the $578,951,000 recorded for the 14 weeks ended Feb. 3, 2007.Sales for the fiscal year ended Feb. 2 were $2,138,075,000, as compared to the $2,243,855,000 recorded last year.
Early-Bird Discount for ASA Convention Ends March 27
BEDFORD, Texas – The early-bird registration deadline is March 27 for the Automotive Service Association’s (ASA) 2008 Annual Convention to be held May 1-3 at the Hyatt Regency in Santa Clara, Calif. Members who register before the early-bird deadline will enjoy significant savings – up to $270. In addition, members are encouraged to register promptly
New Web Site Option Available to Dealers
ROSEVILLE, Calif. — CustomerLink has launched its new Web site design and hosting service for tire dealers and auto service shops. The company said its Web sites are “highly customized with personalized, shop-specific domain names, extensive information about the shop including services offered, car care tips, online appointment scheduling and personalized email addresses for the
ASA Testifies at Florida Super Warranty Workshop
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) held a third workshop March 18 in Tallahassee, Fla., to discuss potential adoption of California motor vehicle emissions standards – the so-called “super warranty” program. Charlie Elder, owner of Ray Gordon Brake Service in Tallahassee and immediate-past chairman of the Automotive Service Association (ASA) board of directors, testified during the hearing.