News Briefs
DaimlerChrysler Recognized for Funding Crash Research Center
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Rodney E. Slater applauded DaimlerChrysler for committing up to $2.5 million in funding for a Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) center at the University of Alabama - Birmingham. It will be the eighth such center in the country. To advance research on the causes of auto-related injuries and casualties, DaimlerChrysler has committed $1 million in funding for the new CIREN center during the next two years. It has also pledged $1.5 million a year in optional underwriting for an additional three years.
Known as "The Mercedes-Benz CIREN Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham," the new facility will focus on the analysis and prevention of car crashes in the rapidly increasing geriatric population. It is due to start operations later this year. The CIREN centers analyze real-world incidents to discover more about the specific causes of crashes.
U.S. Service Repair Sales to Reach $109.8 Billion for 1999
Service repair sales are forecast at $109.8 billion for 1999. A forecasting model produced for APAA by Washington University in St. Louis, Mo., projects increases between 4.5 percent and 5.5 percent in repair and maintenance service sales this year (2.5 percent - 3.5 percent inflation adjusted). A strong economy and full employment coupled with low gasoline prices have contributed to more vehicles on the road being driven longer distances in more congested traffic than ever.
These severe driving conditions are expected to translate into aftermarket sales especially through service outlets including dealers, service stations, independent garages, specialty repair, quick lubes, as well as auto parts store bays.
Source: APAA 1999 Factbook
Mitchell International Offers Easy, Secure E-commerce at Web Site
Mitchell International has announced that customers can purchase collision repair solutions 24 hours a day, seven days a week at the company's new, secure Web site at http://www.mitchell.com. More than 50 products are available for electronic purchase, including Mitchell collision estimating and reference guides, training and education series, Mitchell business systems software, glass replacement information and electronic books.
The new Web site is equipped with security features to guarantee that any personal or financial information that customers provide through the site will be fully protected.
One new feature is a "Products By Industry" directory that guides visitors to one of 11 different customer type categories. The customer type button allows individuals to access only the products that are appropriate for them. The Web site also includes a product map, which offers a complete listing of all Mitchell products. Visitors can also type a key word into the on-site search engine to find information on a specific topic.
PPG to Purchase Majority of ICI Autocolor
ICI has announced its intention to sell to PPG Industries its global ICI Autocolor business in automotive finishes for the collision repair industry.
The sale excludes businesses in India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The sale of the North American business is expected to be completed in mid-1999. ICI's North American operations are headquartered in Westlake, Ohio.
The transaction also includes Grow Automotive, a North American solvent and thinners business, and a variety of industrial coatings business across Asia and Latin America.
The businesses sold to PPG had 1998 revenues of approximately $459 million. About 2,850 ICI employees worldwide are expected to join PPG.
In related news, DuPont has completed its acquisition of Herberts, the coatings subsidiary of Hoechst AG.
Today's Cars Log More Miles Between Oil Changes
In 1969, oil changes occurred every 3,000 miles; in 1999, car makers say owners can drive 7,500 miles between oil and filter changes. Intervals between oil changes have lengthened as manufacturers have designed more trouble-free, lower-maintenance vehicles, according to Automotive Industry Status Report -a report produced by the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA).
I-CAR announces International Meeting
I-CAR will be celebrating its 20th Anniversary at the I-CAR International Annual Meeting. This event will be held July 22 - 24 at the Pheasant Run Resort & Convention Center, St. Charles, Ill.
The I-CAR International Annual Meeting is recommended for collision industry professionals who are interested in the future of the industry.
Attendees can hear about current trends and issues facing the collision industry, learn about new products, technologies, and services at the technology showcase and technical clinics, and share ideas with other leaders in the industry. The meeting will bring together hundreds of collision industry professionals from across the United States and Canada.
Auto Choice Could Impact Collision Industry || Repair Rebuild or Replace? || Working Together || Staying Informed: Part II || Guest Editorial || Tech to Tech || Tech Tips || News Briefs || Taking the Hill || Around ASA || Net Worth || Stat Corner || Shop Profile || Chairman's Message
AutoInc. Magazine ® Vol.XIVII, June 1999
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