NHTSA Fines Auto Firms $10.2 Million
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration collected $10.2 million in civil penalties from automakers and other companies in 2004, the bulk of which was paid by two carmakers for exceeding federal fuel-economy limits. The two car manufacturers, Porsche Cars North America and Ferrari Maserati North America, paid penalties totaling $9 million for failing to meet the government’s corporate average fuel economy, or CAFE, standards, NHTSA said Wednesday. Porsche’s share was roughly $7.9 million. Ferrari’s was $1.1 million.
AOCA to Hold Annual Convention and Fast Lube Expo in April
The Automotive Oil Change Association (AOCA) will hold its annual convention and fast lube expo — AOCA & All That Jazz — from April 23-26, 2005, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. “Finishing touches are being put on what could be the greatest AOCA convention ever,” said Sue Ackley, president of AOCA. “We’ve added new topics, new speakers, more vendors and more to do on the exhibit floor. New educational offerings include sessions on working with the media and on knowing when to expand or sell your business. A special ‘Day in the Life of a Quick Lube’ video presentation is being compiled to share industry best practices in the realm of customer service.”
Visteon Adds New Distributor in Asia Pacific and Africa
Visteon has established a new distributor relationship in the Asia-Pacific region and Africa. Digital Video Systems, Inc. has become the first aftermarket distributor of Visteon’s Dockable Family Entertainment System, covering Asia Pacific and Africa
MEMA 100th Anniversary Materials Win 2004 International Automotive Media Awards
The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) was presented with four award by the International Society for Vehicle Preservation for its 100th anniversary materials – including “Best in Show” in the graphics category for its commemorative anniversary poster. The awards were presented Nov. 16 in New York.
Executive Interview with Greg Gyllstrom, Vice President and General Manager for Visteon’s North American and Asian Aftermarket Operations
Our latest edition of “Executive Interview” features Greg Gyllstrom, Vice President and General Manager for Visteon’s North American and Asian aftermarket operations. In this role, Gyllstrom is responsible for expanding the organization’s North American and Asian aftermarket business by coordinating and directing the company’s sales, product development and marketing activities. Gyllstrom recently talked with aftermarketNews.com about his first two years at Visteon, the company’s motor sports initiatives and its presence in Asia.
Car Care Council Women’s Board Announces Winners of the Automotive Communications Awards
The Car Care Council Women’s Board (WB) has announced the winners of the new Automotive Communications Awards (ACA). The awards were presented during the Women’s Board reception on Tuesday, Nov. 2 in Las Vegas, during AAPEX. The Automotive Communications Awards recognize companies/agencies that provide automotive information through outstanding advertising, marketing and PR efforts. The business-to-consumer awards have 14 categories for entry targeted to women, including car care clinics and direct mail piece or campaign/newsletter. The business-to-business awards consist of 21 categories with such options as logo design and special promotions and promotional events/trade show.
Lowe’s Knows!
As a homeowner, I spend a fair amount of time and money at my local Lowe’s store. I go there for just about all of my house-fixing projects: paint, light bulbs, tools, etc. I choose Lowe’s because I find their employees to be knowledgeable, and they have what I need (sound familiar?).
How To Inspire Managers & Sales People To Do Their Best And Win (Lessons From Racing)
This year at University Forum, popular motorsports anchor Rick Benjamin and Tom Easton, AAP, a senior partner with Essential Action Design Group, will use lessons from racing to show you how to inspire managers and sales people to do their best.The University of the Aftermarket’s annual University Forum can help you stay competitive, and keep pace with our ever-changing market. The event takes place on Sunday, Oct. 31 prior to the kickoff of AAPEX 2004.
Motor Vehicle Lighting Council Launches Redesigned Web Site Focusing on Public Safety
As part of its commitment to improve driver and pedestrian safety, the Motor Vehicle Lighting Council (MVLC) recently redesigned its Web site to better inform the motoring public about the benefits and proper use of advanced lighting technologies.
Anti-Counterfeiting Initiative Launched
Four U.S. agencies yesterday announced a coordinated attack to stem the global trade in counterfeit merchandise and pirated music and movies, an underground industry that law-enforcement officials estimate to be worth $500 billion each year. The effort, known as the Strategy Targeting Organized Piracy (STOP), includes stepping-up border enforcement to intercept fake goods as they are entering the United States, targeting the earnings of traders of counterfeit goods and publicizing the names of overseas companies that traffic in counterfeit products.