Automotive Industry

PlanetGreen.Discovery.com Lists Green Earth Technologies’ G-OIL(TM) as a Top Thing to Look For in 2009 Green Cars

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

STAMFORD, Conn., Jan. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Green Earth Technologies (Pink Sheets: GETG), a leading manufacturer and marketer of “green” environmentally safe consumer packaged goods products, is pleased to announce that their G-OIL(TM) has been chosen as one of Eric Leech’s “7 Things to Look for in 2009 Green Cars” on PlanetGreen.Discovery.com. G-OIL is the world’s lowest petroleum, “eco-friendly,” ultimate biodegradable motor oil; and recently met and passed all the engine test criteria for The American Petroleum Institute (API) SM Certification. Tests were conducted by a nationally recognized independent third party testing facility.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090107/NY56298 )

G-OIL is the only sustainable motor oil chosen for the prestigious list and was selected as it is non-toxic to both humans and the environment.

“Being selected by Mr. Leech as one of the top green car products for 2009 is a true sign of the quality of our product and is only the beginning of great things to come for Green Earth Technologies,” said Dr. Mat Zuckerman, President and COO of Green Earth Technologies. “2009 will surely be an exciting time for our company as we will begin to ship G-OIL to retailers and become a ‘green’ solution in the motor oil category,”

Unlike traditional petrochemical-based motor oils from leading manufacturers, Green Earth Technologies’ G-OIL is made with renewable animal fats. These saturated fats have no harsh effects on the environment. G-OIL is also ultimate biodegradable, and the production process is three times as energy efficient than that of synthetic and crude oil.

Eric Leech’s full list of Top Green Auto Products can be seen at: http://planetgreen.discovery.com/tech-transport/green-car-predictions.html

ABOUT GREEN EARTH TECHNOLOGIES

Green Earth Technologies produces G-branded superior performing totally green products made with American-grown base oils that utilize the power of nanotechnology to deliver environmentally friendly products with no compromise… meaning, consumers can now “do their part” without having to give up performance or value: Save the Earth – Sacrifice Nothing. The G-brand family of products include G-OIL(TM), G-LUBE(TM), G-WASH(TM), G-GLASS(TM), G-CLEAN(TM), G-SCENT(TM), G-WHEEL(TM), G-PROTECT(TM) and G-TIRE(TM), and are offered in a wide range of automotive categories including performance and appearance chemicals. GET products are now available at The Home Depot, Kroger, VIP, National Auto, Fred Meyer, participating ACE & True Value dealers, Redners, Trader Horns, The Andersons, Biggs, Bennett Auto, Frank’s Auto Supermarket and Amazon.com. Please visit www.getg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about GET and its brands.

Statements made in this release that relate to future plans, events, financial results or performance are forward-looking statements as defined under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon current information and expectations. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated as a result of certain risks and uncertainties. Investors should also be aware that while the Company from time to time does communicate with securities analysts, it is against the Company’s policy to disclose to them any material non-public information or other confidential commercial information. Investors should not assume that the Company agrees with any report issued by any analyst or with any statements, projections, forecasts or opinions contained in any such report.

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All-new HEMI(R) with Fuel-Saving MDS Technology Earns Ward’s 2009 ‘10 Best Engines’ Award

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

Refined 5.7-liter HEMI Delivers Improved Fuel Economy, Even More Power and Torque

- All-new 5.7-liter HEMI engine recognized by Ward’s for powertrain excellence

- Sixth “10 Best Engine Award” for 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine

- Expanded utilization of Chrysler’s fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS) operation

- More power: as much as 390 horsepower

- More torque: as much as 410 lb.-ft. of torque

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ —

Now in its second generation, the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine has once again earned a place in Ward’s distinguished “2009 10 Best Engines” list again. Relentlessly delivering powertrain excellence, Chrysler LLC has earned Ward’s “10 best” award six times in the last seven years with the iconic 5.7-liter HEMI engine.

“The HEMI earns the honor not on pure emotion or brute force but with advanced new technology such as variable valve timing, which allows cruising in four-cylinder mode about 40 percent of the time, which is twice as much as the previous-generation Multi-Displacement System cylinder-deactivation system,” said Tom Murphy – Executive Director of Ward’s AutoWorld magazine. “A number of Ward’s testers managed to top 19 mpg (12.3 L/100 km) with the HEMI, putting it in line with certain premium V-6s tested.”

With improved Multi-Displacement System (MDS) technology for increased fuel efficiency, added refinement and more power, the all-new 2009 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine delivers world-class performance and technology in nine Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles. The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with MDS technology is available on 2009 Chrysler 300C, Chrysler Aspen, Jeep(R) Grand Cherokee, Jeep Commander, Dodge Charger, Dodge Durango, Dodge Ram Heavy Duty series and the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 and Dodge Challenger.

“We are honored to have our iconic HEMI engine recognized by Ward’s for a sixth time,” said Bob Lee, Vice President – Powertrain Product Engineering Team, Chrysler LLC. “HEMI is synonymous with performance, and now — thanks to VVT, expanded four-cylinder mode in our MDS system, and a host of other technologies — Chrysler’s new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine delivers more fuel efficiency and refinement, along with even more power.”

While the new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine maintains the key architecture that makes “HEMI” synonymous with “performance,” Chrysler powertrain engineers improved engine breathing and added new technologies — including Variable Valve Timing (VVT) — that substantially improve fuel economy and refinement.

The HEMI’s new VVT improves fuel economy in two ways. First, it reduces the engine’s pumping work by closing the intake valve later. Second, it increases the expansion process of the combustion event. This allows more work to be transferred to the crankshaft instead of being rejected out of the exhaust port as heat. Essentially, VVT improves engine breathing, which improves engine efficiency and power.

Dodge’s fuel-saving MDS system seamlessly alternates between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and V-8 mode when more power from the new 5.7-liter HEMI engine is in demand. This optimizes fuel economy when V-8 power is not required, without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.

An expanded MDS operating range in the new-for-2009 HEMI will allow customers to realize an even-greater fuel economy benefit. Chrysler estimates that since its inception of MDS in 2005, more than 100 million gallons of gasoline have been saved, along with reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of close to one million

When MDS is operating, it is indicated by a “Fuel Saver” readout in the vehicles Electronic Vehicle Information Center.

In addition to VVT and expanded MDS operating range, the HEMI’s fuel economy and performance improvements result from an increased compression ratio, an active intake manifold with long runners for low-end torque and short runners for high-rpm power, improved cylinder head port flow efficiency, and reduced restriction exhaust and induction systems.

Numerous other hardware upgrades were implemented to build on the quality, reliability and durability reputation of the HEMI engine. These include crankshaft structural upgrades, a dual-mass crankshaft damper, new piston design, improved valve-spring design and oil pump capacity increase for VVT.

The new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine is manufactured at the Saltillo Engine Plant in Saltillo, Mexico.

About Chrysler LLC

Chrysler LLC, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., produces Chrysler, Jeep(R), Dodge and Mopar(R) brand vehicles and products. Total sales worldwide in 2007 were 2.7 million vehicles. Sales outside of North America were the highest ever with an increase of 8 percent over 2006. Its product lineup features some of the world’s most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300 and Town & Country, Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee and Dodge Challenger and Ram. In the fall of 2008, Chrysler introduced three advanced electric-drive vehicle prototypes — the Dodge EV, Jeep EV and Chrysler EV. One is targeted to be produced in 2010 for consumers in North American markets, and European markets after 2010.

The Chrysler Foundation, the company’s philanthropic arm, annually supports hundreds of charitable organizations in the United States and throughout the world. In 2007, the Foundation gave approximately $21 million in charitable donations.

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Michigan Economic Development Corporation and North American International Auto Show Showcase Green Vehicles

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

MEDC EcoXperience Ride and Drive Takes Over Cobo’s Michigan Hall

DETROIT, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ — A new ride and drive element highlighting the green future of the automotive industry has been added to the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). During the NAIAS press preview (Jan. 11-13) and Public Show (Jan. 17-25) attendees will be able to experience the latest in technology in a ride-and-drive format on a track built in Michigan Hall. NAIAS organizers have set aside 70,000 sq. ft. of floor space to feature this initiative in panoramic nature surroundings.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081110/CLM078LOGO )

“This year’s NAIAS is historic in its impact on the global economy,” said NAIAS Executive Director, Rod Alberts. “At no other time is more critical for the nearly 6,000 international journalists of the world to see the future and strategy of the automotive industry. The MEDC EcoXperience is the best way for automakers to bring to life the vehicles that have been on their drawing boards and could be in consumer garages very soon.”

This major NAIAS initiative sponsored by MEDC will put the spotlight on progress the global automotive industry is making in the realm of alternative propulsion technology.

“The MEDC is extremely pleased to lend its support to an event that can show the world the wealth of technology and foresight the automotive industry has at its heart – Michigan,” said Lisa Dansock, Vice President, MEDC. “To be able to prove to the world that research and development is thriving is a clear sign to the public, the legislature and the world that while the industry is being cost efficient, it is not willing to mortgage its future by being short-sighted. Alternative powers and innovation does exist and the MEDC EcoXperience is proof.”

Automakers will share current and future modes of alternative propulsion technology on the MEDC EcoXperience course with the vehicles available for press test drives, while visitors on public days will also be able to experience the ride and drive with rides chauffeured by either professional drivers or respective product specialists.

The course design will allow vehicles up to and including full-size SUV hybrids to be driven in the MEDC EcoXperience. In order to ensure the safety of participants, a 10 mph speed limit will be enforced and crash-barriers will be installed around the perimeter.

NAIAS 2009 Official Dates

January 11 – 25 at Cobo Center in Detroit

Press Preview will be held Sunday, Jan. 11 through Tuesday, Jan. 13

Industry Preview will be held Wednesday, Jan. 14 and Thursday, Jan. 15

The annual black-tie Charity Preview gala will be held Friday evening, Jan. 16

Public Days will be held Saturday, Jan. 17 through Sunday, Jan. 25

The North American International Auto Show

Rod Alberts – Executive Director

Entering its 21st year as an international event, the North American International Auto Show is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is one of the largest media events in North America. The NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world. The NAIAS Web site can be accessed at www.naias.com. Don’t miss it for the world!

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Inforum 2009 NAIAS Auto Show Breakfast

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

DETROIT, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ — The economic impact of the recession,
fluctuating gasoline prices, and changing consumer demand for more fuel
efficient, environmentally-friendly vehicles will be the focus of a panel
discussion among experts at the annual Inforum NAIAS Auto Show Breakfast on
Wednesday, January 14. In addition, R.L. Polk & Co. will release new data on
the loyalty of customers who purchase hybrid vehicles.

Titled “Recession Defense: Smart Vehicle Choices,” the breakfast is
presented by Inforum, one of the largest and most prestigious professional
organizations for women in the Midwest. Industry leaders will reflect on
factors that influence how consumers can balance making smart, safe and
sustainable automotive choices.

The panelists will discuss critical issues that impact Michigan
businesses. “Rebecca Lindland is from IHS Global Insight, one of the most
respected economic forecasting firms in the world. She’ll share an overall
economic outlook — such as when will the economy turn around and create a
more favorable environment for the automakers to sell vehicles, and which
manufacturers may be the survivors of the current crisis,” Barclay said.

Gary Allgeier is on the front lines of the auto financing scene for one of
the largest dealer groups in the country, the Suburban Collection. “He’ll talk
about whether given the credit crunch it is still possible to get loans or
lease a vehicle. People’s perceptions are that they can’t get financing, but
that isn’t true…he will give us his take on who the players are and will
be,” Barclay said.

The presenters also will highlight ‘must see’ vehicles with the latest
technologies for fuel efficiency and safety that are available in dealerships
today.

The members of Inforum represent the largest consumer market for
automobiles, since women are the financial decision-makers in most American
households.

“Women’s purchasing power dominates many products and services. Today
women purchase more than 80 percent of all vehicle purchases. It is estimated
that by 2012, women will buy nearly seven million new vehicles each year,”
according to Barclay.

“Consumers remain concerned about the environmental impact of a vehicle
and its manufacturer, but that concern has taken a backseat to the consumer’s
pocketbook. Value, affordability and the availability of financing have come
to the forefront for consumers in the past six months,” said Inforum President
and CEO Terry Barclay.

Panelist Beth Lowery, General Motors vice president, Environment, Energy
and Safety Policy, said, “Many people do not realize how many outstanding
vehicles GM makes right now that get over 30 miles per gallon on the highway.
And many of GM’s vehicles can help reduce petroleum use as they can use
biofuels, such as E85.”

Panelist Sue Cischke, Ford Motor Company group vice president,
Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering, said, “We remain committed
to ensuring that we will either be the best or among the best in fuel economy
in every new vehicle we introduce. That is how we will satisfy customers and
address the twin challenges of energy security and climate change.”

BASF is the presenting sponsor of the Inforum NAIAS Auto Show Breakfast.

Barclay noted, “We’re pleased that for the second year running, BASF has
chosen to be the signature sponsor of Inforum’s NAIAS Auto Show Breakfast.
BASF’s commitment to sustainable development and innovative technology is
illustrated by how they combine business success, environmental protection and
social responsibility. For example,” she said, “one of BASF’s sustainable
technologies, from its world class Catalysts Division, has eliminated a
billion tons of air pollution since the mid 1970s.”

BASF is the world’s largest chemical company, and one of the largest
suppliers to the automotive industry.

“Many BASF contributions to sustainability are found right here in
Detroit. BASF is a major supplier to the automotive industry in the areas of
automotive coatings; catalyst technologies; plastics and polyurethanes for
automotive seating, interiors, exteriors, drive chain and chassis; automotive
textiles; and fuel additives, to name a few.”

    Inforum 2009 NAIAS Auto Show Breakfast Summary

    Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2009

    Time: 7 a.m. Networking/Registration; 7:30 a.m. Hot Breakfast; 8 a.m.
          Presentation

    Location: Detroit Marriott - Renaissance Center, Columbus Ballroom,
              Detroit MI 48243

    Tickets: Member, $45; Non-Member, $60 (Add $10 after Jan. 11, 2009)
             Tables of 10 may be purchased for $525, which includes special
             recognition and reserved seating at the event.

    Register at www.inforummichigan.org or 877.633.3500.

    PANELISTS:

    * Gary Allgeier, Director of Financial Services, Suburban Collection

    * Sue Cischke, Group Vice President, Sustainability, Environment & Safety
      Engineering, Ford Motor Company

    * Rebecca Lindland, Director of Industry Research, IHS Global Insight

    * Lonnie Miller, Director of Industry Analysis, R.L. Polk & Co.

    * Beth Lowery, Vice President, Environment, Energy and Safety Policy,
      General Motors

    * Matt Roush, Technology Editor, Great Lakes IT Report, WWJ

    Moderator: Michelle Krebs, Senior Editor, Edmunds.com.

The Inforum NAIAS Auto Show Breakfast is presented by Inforum, a
professional organization with the mission to strengthen the business
environment by creating opportunities for women to lead and succeed. Founded
as the Women’s Economic Club in 1962 in Detroit, Inforum now has more than
2,000 members and offices in Detroit, Grand Rapids and Lansing, Mich. For
more information, visit www.inforummichigan.org or call 877.633.3500.

    Exclusive radio sponsor: WWJ 950 Newsradio.

    Promotional partners for this event:

    * Automation Alley

    * International Association of Business Communicators-Detroit Chapter

    * Public Relations Society of America-Detroit Chapter

    * SAE - Detroit Section

    * Society of Women Engineers

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HUGHES Telematics Becomes First in Industry to Implement Next Generation Telematics Architecture

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ — CES — HUGHES Telematics announced today
that it has implemented the world’s first technology-neutral telematics
framework that allows virtually any supplier’s technology to be integrated
into the system. This Next Generation Telematics Architecture establishes an
open telematics platform structure that allows for interconnectivity between
multiple content providers, call centers and in-vehicle hardware platforms.

HUGHES Telematics has developed their architecture around the vision and
standards as established by the Next Generation Telematics Protocol (NGTP)
working committee (www.ngtp.org). The solution exemplifies NGTP’s commitment
to scalability and flexibility within the telematics industry. Following the
proposed architecture, HUGHES Telematics created an industry platform that
allows automotive OEMs to custom-tailor content and features while maintaining
maximum flexibility in hardware selection and the addition of future services.
This includes improving the driver experience by allowing for new content,
Internet applications and service updates to be downloaded remotely via the
HUGHES Telematics platform.

“The NGTP working committee set a high benchmark for the industry. Given
the roll out timeframe in the automotive industry, we viewed that benchmark as
a necessary starting point for our solution,” said Erik Goldman, president,
HUGHES Telematics. “Scalability and flexibility have always been critical
considerations in the development of our technology. The implementation of our
solutions for our OEM partners will demonstrate the value of this open
technology.”

The protocol implemented by HUGHES Telematics supports multiple call
centers, content providers and hardware suppliers. The Next Generation
Telematics Architecture solution implemented by HUGHES Telematics also
supports various vehicle interfaces and data formats, thus it can be
configured to any vehicle. These developments liberate the supply chain and
ensure the ability to offer new services without reconfiguring the vehicle.

“Through our partnership with HUGHES Telematics, we are looking at ways to
create a shared vision of how technology can shape the future of the vehicle
and revolutionize the driving experience,” said Marios Zenios, vice president,
Connectivity and Infotainment, Chrysler LLC.

“The telematics industry continues to evolve as technology offerings
mature and consumer expectations for the connected car grow,” says Thilo
Koslowski, vice president and lead automotive analyst, Gartner, Inc. “Next
generation telematics offerings will leverage an open system approach to
enable service differentiation, flexible content management and the creation
of unique driver experiences.”

About Hughes Telematics

HUGHES Telematics ( www.HUGHEStelematics.com ) is a leader in implementing
the next generation of connected services for the automobile. Centered on a
core platform of safety and security offerings, the company develops and
manages vehicle- and driver-centric solutions to enhance the driving and
ownership experience. Headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., HUGHES Telematics offers
a portfolio of consumer, manufacturer, fleet and dealer services provided
through two-way broadband connectivity to the vehicle. HUGHES Telematics and
Polaris Acquisition Corp (Amex: TKP.U) have agreed to an all stock merger
which, upon satisfaction of certain closing conditions, will result in HUGHES
Telematics stockholders and management becoming the controlling stockholders
and management of Polaris.

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Video: US Residents Can Lower Auto Insurance Rates in 2009

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ — United States residents can cut down auto insurance costs this year by completing a rate comparison from over a dozen top companies such as Progressive, GMAC, Infinity, Bristol West and more, all at the same time. Completing quote comparisons helps narrow down the insurer offering the lowest prices for the needed coverage without compromising quality.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080311/CLTU015LOGO )

To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/onlineautoinsurance/36512/

Here is how to lower auto insurance rates with a few steps:

1. Get quotes – By entering basic information about drivers and vehicles, instantly get multiple auto insurance quotes from top companies all at the same time. No need to repeatedly answer the same set of questions to get a quote from different insurers.

2. Complete a comparison – Compare auto insurance on multiple factors such as price, financial stability, brand, customer service and more. Comparisons are encouraged by most government consumer guides because it increases the options and levels out the competition.

3. Find cheap rates – The cheapest rates may be offered by a different carrier for each driver because of the many unique rating factors used to determine premiums. In order to locate cheap auto insurance, one must obtain the prices of multiple companies to see which one in particular will offer the lowest.

4. Buy a policy online – Purchase auto insurance online with an electronic signature and application speeding up the entire process. Buying policies online adds many convenient Web-based management features and also reduces the use of paper; therefore, helping the environment with a “green” policy purchase.

There are multiple ways of lowering car insurance costs demonstrated in the attached video. In summary:

  • Take advantage of discounts:
    • short commute to work or school
    • good student grades (above “B” average)
    • multiple-car discount (2 or more vehicles on the same policy)
    • prior coverage (having another policy in effect within the last 30 days)
  • Be knowledgeable
    • avoid unnecessary protection such as “full coverage” on a low value vehicle
    • consider high deductibles on comprehensive and collision coverage
    • avoid duplicate coverage such as “medical” when a health policy is in effect
  • Compare multiple company quotes
    • rates vary within companies
    • comparing insurers provides a level playing field
    • keep in mind that the cheapest company for one person will not always be cheap for another

For an instant quotes comparison, visit OnlineAutoInsurance.com

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Brilliance China Automotive Holdings Limited (OTC Bulletin Board: BCAHY; HKEx: 1114) Announces Unusual Share Price and Trading Volume Movement

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

    HONG KONG, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ --

                 BRILLIANCE CHINA AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS LIMITED
               (Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability)
                              (Stock Code: 1114)

               UNUSUAL SHARE PRICE AND TRADING VOLUME MOVEMENT

This statement is made at the request of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong
Limited.

The board of directors (the ”Board”) of Brilliance China Automotive
Holdings Limited (the ”Company”) has noted the increase in share price and
trading volume of the shares of the Company today and wishes to state that the
Board is not aware of any reasons for such increase in share price and trading
volume.

The Board confirms that there are no negotiations or agreements relating
to intended acquisitions or realisations which are discloseable under Rule
13.23 of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange
of Hong Kong Limited (the ”Listing Rules”), nor is the Board aware of any
matter discloseable under the general obligation imposed by Rule 13.09 of the
Listing Rules, which is or may be of a price-sensitive nature.

This statement is made by the order of the Board, the directors of which
individually and jointly accept responsibility for the accuracy of this
statement.

As at the date of this announcement, the Board comprises four executive
directors, Mr. Wu Xiao An (also known as Mr. Ng Siu On) (Chairman), Mr. Qi
Yumin (Chief Executive Officer), Mr. He Guohua and Mr. Wang Shiping; one non-
executive director, Mr. Lei Xiaoyang; and three independent non-executive
directors, Mr. Xu Bingjin, Mr. Song Jian and Mr. Jiang Bo.

                                     By order of the Board
                          Brilliance China Automotive Holdings Limited
                                           Wu Xiao An
                                   (also known as Ng Siu On)
                                            Chairman

    Hong Kong, 7th January, 2009

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and The Stock Exchange of Hong
Kong Limited take no responsibility for the contents of this document, make no
representation as to its accuracy or completeness and expressly disclaim any
liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from or in reliance upon
the whole or any part of the contents of this document.

    For further information, please contact:

     Lisa Ng
     Brilliance China Automotive Holdings Limited
     Tel: +852-2523-7227

     Carol Lau
     Weber Shandwick in Hong Kong
     Tel: +852-2533-9981

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Campagna: Open for business – The T-REX is alive and kicking

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

MONTREAL, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ – With over a dozen employees, Campagna Motors is now settled into its new 24,000-ft2 facilities, set up to meet the demand that just keeps coming despite rough economic times. Indeed, since September 2008, the company has produced more than 30 T-REX units. Campagna now has seven new dealers in the United States and has just signed a deal in Japan with a network of 16 dealers. Negotiations are also underway for the European and Middle Eastern markets.

“Our production is on the right track. Since we announced our purchase of the company, the orders just keep coming,” says David Neault.

Indeed, since Cirbin’s acquisition of the T-REX assets in 2008, Andre Morissette, CEO, and David Neault, COO, have overhauled the company, newly baptized Campagna Motors, and built a solid and effective team. Expertly recruiting the best of players, they have re-launched Campagna and revved that T-REX sound.

“We’ve worked hard over the past year to give the company a new start. We’ve been careful to do things the way they should be done and never make a promise we can’t keep. So much so that in restructuring, we chose to be totally operational before even letting people know. As planned, we’re ready to get 2009 off to a great start and T-REX fans can finally rest assured they’ll get the service they deserve,” says Andre Morissette.

To learn more or to see the T-REX and the V13R, go to www.campagnamotors.com.

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AutoPacific Releases The Generation Y Opportunity

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

Gen Y’s Shifting Brand Consideration Sets Tone for the Future

TUSTIN, Calif., Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ — A study released by automotive consulting firm AutoPacific, Inc. captures the key opportunities with Generation Y in the future of the automotive market. As this generation of new vehicle buyers is predicted to grow from 9% of the current market to 19% of the market by 2013, understanding Generation Y is becoming even more important.

A highly social generation through the use of the Internet and cell phones, Gen Y desires a vehicle that is a means of self-expression and has the latest technology, yet often succumb to economic pressures, choosing the domestic compact car rather than the import crossover SUV that they really want. Though Chevrolet brand vehicles enjoy the highest percentage of first-time owners due to the compact car offerings, as Gen Y begins earning more money, they tend to gravitate towards Japanese import brands like Toyota, Nissan and Honda.

Although 51% of Gen Y consumers would consider a Toyota brand vehicle for their future purchase the real story lies in the differences between Gen Y and the Baby Boomer Generation. The generational shift in preference is highlighted by AutoPacific data showing 15% points more Gen Y buyers would consider a BMW, 14% points more would consider a Nissan, as well as 13% points more who would consider a Honda. In fact, the top ten gains made in terms of brand consideration when comparing Gen Y to the Baby Boomer Generation are made by either German or Japanese brands.

Gen Y is currently a compact car generation, due to the strong role of economics in the purchase decision. As Gen Y continues to mature, start families and earn more income, AutoPacific predicts a shift in their future buying preference to a larger, more accommodating vehicle. Yet in order for automakers to win with this generation, bigger must mean better: the latest technology, unique style and image, advanced communications capability, and improved fuel economy (Gen Y is more open to hybrid and other alternative powertrains: 61% would prefer something other than a pure gasoline-powered engine).

Each year AutoPacific conducts its New Vehicle Satisfaction Survey of new vehicle acquirers. Of the 35,000 responses collected in 2008, over 3,000 were from Generation Y consumers.

AutoPacific is a future-oriented automotive marketing and product-consulting firm. Every year AutoPacific publishes a wide variety of syndicated studies on the automotive industry. The firm also conducts extensive proprietary research and consulting for auto manufacturers, distributors, marketers and suppliers worldwide. Company headquarters and its state-of-the-art automotive research facility are in Tustin, California, with an affiliate office in the Detroit area.

Additional information can be found on AutoPacific’s websites: www.autopacific.com and www.vehiclevoice.com

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Frost & Sullivan Award Underscores Minorplanet Systems’ Market Leadership

January 7, 2009 · Leave a Comment

LONDON, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ — The 2008 European Light Commercial Vehicle Telematics Leadership Award is presented to Minorplanet Systems PLC. The company is the number one supplier in the European light commercial vehicle telematics market, having the largest market share based on installed units. It shows growth in profits as well as increasing investment in R&D to enhance its service for new and existing customers.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081117/FSLOGO)

“Minorplanet has a very strong domestic market in the United Kingdom, but is continuously expanding business in Germany, the Netherlands, France as well as other European countries through strategic partnerships and distribution agreements,” notes Frost & Sullivan Consultant Michael Minich. “It has a well-established brand in the European market, which customers associate with innovative products and high-quality service.”

The European market for light commercial vehicle telematics systems has the potential for strong growth. However, the big challenge telematics suppliers face is the lack of a unified customer market. The ’service’ cluster consists of various industries, all of which have their own unique needs and requirements when it comes to telematics solutions. Minorplanet has successfully addressed this issue by targeting varied customer segments.

“Through a clear focus on the diverse customer groups in this market, and continuous investment in R&D, Minorplanet has ensured its products remain essential tools for any business running a vehicle fleet,” remarks Minich. “Through its Vehicle Management Information (VMI(TM)) system, Minorplanet has found a very effective approach catering to different customer segments.”

Minorplanet uses a basic VMI(TM) platform with additional features and applications to fulfil various individual customers’ needs. Minorplanet’s VMIgreenlight(TM) offers performance manager, task manager, panic alarm, door sensor, motion sensor and driver ID applications together with a suite of reports that improve fleet management.

“Exceptional solutions have been backed by Minorplanet’s focused marketing strategies,” states Minich. “For instance, Minorplanet clearly communicates on its Web site, how its products can help each customer, no matter which segment, to become more efficient, while decreasing operational costs such as communication or fuel costs and enhancing customer service.”

The European market for light commercial vehicle telematics is still untapped with a current penetration rate of only 3 per cent. It is set to grow by more than 32 per cent per year until 2012. Minorplanet, which has the largest share of the market at present, is in a strong position to consolidate its gains and remain the market leader.

The Frost & Sullivan Award for Market Leadership is given to the company that has exhibited market share leadership through the implementation of market strategy. The recipient has displayed excellence in all areas of the market leadership process, including the identification of market challenges, drivers and restraints, as well as strategy development and methods of addressing these market dynamics. Furthermore, the Award recipient has continually demonstrated solutions for monitoring market changes and for implementing superior market strategies. By utilising these strategies for success, the company has established itself as the market share leader in its respective industry.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognise companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research in order to identify best practices in the industry.

About Minorplanet Systems PLC

  • Minorplanet Systems has its HQ based in Leeds and operates throughout Europe and in Australia as well as in the UK.

  • Founded in 1996, Minorplanet Systems is the world leading Telematics solutions consultant and the company who designed, developed and trade marked ‘vehicle management information’ (VMITM).

  • For further information on Minorplanet or the current VMITM system, visit www.minorplanet.com

    Minorplanet Systems PLC Contact:

    Christian Payne - Head of Marketing
    Phone: 0044 113 251 1600
    E-Mail: Christian.payne@minorplanet.com

About Frost & Sullivan

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