Clevite Prepares for the Engine Builder Showdown’s Sixth Season
Clevite Engine Parts will once again shine the spotlight on NASCAR’s hidden heroes of racing by sponsoring the 2005 Clevite Engine Builder Showdown. This year, Clevite will be making one significant change to the Showdown program. This year marked the passing of one of the world’s greatest engine builders – Randy Dorton of Hendrick Motorsports. In memoriam, Clevite has commissioned a new perennial trophy named the Randy Dorton Memorial Trophy. Every year, the winner and his build partner will have their names engraved on the trophy, as well as receive a smaller version to add to their trophy cases.
2005 Omnibus Appropriations Bill to Help Strengthen Several Industry Initiatives
The fiscal 2005 Omnibus Appropriations Bill, recently approved by Congress on Nov. 20, will help strengthen the country’s stance against intellectual property rights (IPR) violations with the creation of a new federal post to coordinate federal anti-IPR theft efforts. Broad industry support for stronger intellectual property enforcement abroad resulted in the creation of a new Intellectual Property (IP) czar post, which will be appointed by the president. The new IP czar will serve as coordinator for international intellectual property enforcement and lead the National Intellectual Property Law Enforcement Coordination Council (NIPLECC).
Executive Interview with Chris Gardner, Director of MEMA’s MIS Council
Our latest Executive Interview features Chris Gardner, director of the MEMA (Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association) Information Services (MIS) Council. The MIS Council is a peer group of individuals from MEMA member companies who are responsible for their companies’ IS operations and serves as a forum for industry interaction, education and idea exchange. Gardner has his finger on the pulse on the latest advancements in technology and how they can best be implemented in the aftermarket. Here, Gardner talks about MEMA’s efforts in the technology sector through the MIS Council and group initiatives.
Raybestos to Launch New Marketing Programs in 2005
Brake Parts Inc. has planned a year full of new marketing programs for 2005 for its Raybestos brand brake line. Plans include a variety of new promotions designed for professional installers, a continued commitment to motorsports and participation in the new Aftermarket Rewards program.
AIA Honors Industry Award Winners
The Auto International Association (AIA) presented its 2004 Industry Awards in Las Vegas last Tuesday during AAPEX. Mike Brown, president of Olympus Imported Auto Parts Corp., and vice-chairman of AIA, announced the winners and made the award presentations. Now in its 16th year, the awards program recognizes manufacturers and marketers for excellence in developing high-quality products and innovative marketing programs for import cars or trucks – ranging from products that enhance performance, appearance or convenience, to the cataloging, merchandising and advertising that create awareness and fuel demand.
Live from AAPEX: MEMA Honors Long-time Members at AASA Executive Reception
The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) honored 11 companies for their longtime membership with the association during the AASA/MEMA Executive Reception held Monday night at AAPEX. Manufacturers with membership anniversaries from 25 to 70 years were recognized.
MPA Wins Industry Product Quality Leadership Award
Motorcar Parts of America (MPA) has been honored by Frost & Sullivan with the 2004 Product Quality Leadership Award, for the North American Automotive Starter and Alternator Aftermarket. Frost & Sullivan is a leading growth consulting firm.
Dupont Teflon Car Care Products Marks Strong First Year with Events at Key NASCAR Race
An automotive technician from Reading, Pa., will meet NASCAR Nextel Cup driver Jeff Gordon, and the DuPont Teflon Car Care brand will be featured on Gordon’s No. 24 Chevrolet as the new line of car care products celebrates its successful first year during Saturday’s UAW-GM Quality 500.
Executive Interview with Randy Mordue, Director, Aftermarket Division, Akebono Corp.
Our latest edition of “Executive Interview” features Randy Mordue, director, Aftermarket Division, Akebono Corp. Mordue joined Akebono North America in 1999. He has more than 20 years of sales, national account and new business development experience within the automotive aftermarket industry. Mordue recently took the time to talk with aftermarketNews.com and bring us up to speed on the latest developments at Akebono.
U.S. Keeping Crash Data Secret, Officials Backtrack on Safety Disclosure Amid Suit by Tire Makers
Federal auto safety officials are backtracking on a pledge to give consumers access to detailed data on which cars and trucks may be linked to deaths, injuries and property damage. The reason: Tire makers have sued to prevent its release.