American Collectors Insurance Unveils Updated Web Site
American Collectors Insurance (ACI), a national specialty provider of collector vehicle insurance, recently updated and re-designed its Web site. In addition to a new look, the site offers information on insuring collector cars, trucks and motorcycles. The site’s “Quote Wizard” feature allows users to “shop” before they buy. Current policyholders can now use the Web site to submit questions, request changes in coverage and report claims.
More Aftermarket Eye Candy at This Year’s North American International Auto Show
Although there’s no shortage of muscle on the main floor at this year’s North American International Auto Show — the 850-horsepower Chrysler ME412 concept is only the beginning — there’s also a subterranean performance theme that’s been missing from previous shows. Once the take-it-or-leave-it realm of marginal players like Daewoo and stillborns like the revival Cunningham sports car, Cobo Center’s downstairs Michigan Hall exhibit area is studded this year with an intriguing array of production vehicles enhanced by aftermarket bolt-on goodies: designer wheels, low-profile tires, oversize brakes, high-performance shock absorbers and more.
ASA Names New Vice President of Communications, New Manager of Web Operations
Angie Wilson has been named the Automotive Service Association’s (ASA) new vice president of communications. She replaces Ken Roberts, who has left the position to pursue opportunities in another industry, according to ASA. ASA has also promoted Colby Horton to manager of Web operations.
Power Steering Flaw Prompts GM Recall
General Motors Corp. is recalling more than 800,000 cars because of a power steering defect that may have led to eight injuries. About 750,000 cars in the U.S. and about 55,000 in Canada — all made between Jan. 1, 1996, and Oct. 31, 1997, — are affected, GM said. The models are the 1996 Buick Regal, 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, 1997-98 Oldsmobile Cutlass, Chevrolet Lumina, Monte Carlo, Malibu, and 1998 Oldsmobile Intrigue cars. Also, some 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, and 1997-98 Buick Regal cars are being recalled. Eight reported nonfatal injuries may be related to the defect.
Dana and GETRAG Sign Joint-Venture Agreement with Volvo
A recently formed joint venture company between Dana and GETRAG has signed an agreement with Volvo Car Corp. (VCC) to purchase a 60-percent interest in VCC’s operations in Koping, Sweden. The resulting joint venture with VCC will be known as GETRAG All Wheel Drive AB, a Dana/GETRAG Co. The company will produce all-wheel-drive (AWD) and chassis systems and components for passenger cars and sport-utility vehicles.
Lear Bases Rosy Outlook on Economy, New Sales
Auto-interiors supplier Lear Corp. said Thursday it would grow its profit in 2004 as the company reaps the benefits of new business and an improving economy. Lear, in a presentation with analysts in conjunction with the North American International Auto Show, said it expects to earn $5.85 to $6.25 per share this year, in line with the analyst consensus estimate of $6.11. The forecast also beats the 2003 earnings-per-share consensus estimate of $5.51.
Automakers Tailor Ads to Woo Minorities
The auto industry increasingly is targeting the black, Hispanic and Asian American communities with tailored advertising, as the buying power of minorities grows, according to a recent report in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer Reporter . Companies are now beginning to create ads that speak to specific audiences, placing them in targeted media outlets. According to Randi Payton, publisher of the magazines African Americans on Wheels and Latinos on Wheels, this increased attention to diversity is even making its way into the design of cars, as automakers tailor products to lifestyle choices.
Suppliers Use Show as Bridge to Buyers
Most people think of Detroit’s auto show as a glitzy showcase for the latest cars and trucks from automakers around the globe. But auto parts makers increasingly are using one of the most influential auto shows in the world to promote their wares to the vehicle manufacturers that buy them and the consumers who use them.
Car Capital Becomes Fat Capital
For decades, Detroit, Mich., has been the epicenter of the automotive industry. Now, the city will be known by another moniker as well. Detroit has been named the fattest city in the U.S., according to Men’s Fitness magazine. Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick said he blames cars — the city’s bread and butter — for the newfound round status.
Most Influential Women in Collision Repair for 2003 Honored
Akzo Nobel took time last month to honor five exceptional women from the collision repair industry. The five women were recognized as the 2003 Most Influential Women in the Collision Repair Industry, an award Akzo Nobel has been presenting for five years. The 2003 Most Influential Women are as follows: Bertha Bertrand, co-manager, Brian Cullen Body Shop, St. Catharines, Ontario; Teresa Bolton, collision repair/refinishing specialist, ASE, Leesburg, Va.; Georgina Carson, editor, BodyShop Business magazine, Akron, Ohio; Karen Fierst, president, KerenOr Consultants, Silver Spring, Md.; and Eileen Haberman, vice president and co-owner, Glen’s Auto Body, Waukesha, Wis.