Tiger Woods signs a series of pin flags using PenCam, the Upper Deck Company's
revolutionary authentication device. Software inside the pen captures an electronic
video image of each signature and wirelessly transmits it to a computer hard drive.
HI-TECH PEN AUTHENTICATES AUTOGRAPHS: The Upper Deck Company, a firm well known to collectors of autographed sports memorabilia, has turned an everyday Sharpie marker into an anti-fraud device. They've combined this otherwise ordinary writing instrument with a tiny video camera to create "PenCamTM", an autograph authentication device to protect fans, and rid the collectibles industry of forgeries. ("Wow, Batman, and we thought the technology under the hood of our Batmobile was slick.")
Upper Deck's innovation digitally records an autograph as it is being signed on a piece of memorabilia. The result is a permanent, airtight record intended to protect both athletes and fans from counterfeit signatures. PenCam is "the next best thing to sports fans actually witnessing an autograph themselves" claims Richard McWilliam, the company's founder and CEO.
PenCam has received testimonials from many high profile athletes including Tiger Woods. The golfing superstar, whose signature is one of the most highly coveted by collectors, did his initial autograph signing with Upper Deck and PenCam this summer.
"I really don't appreciate people using forgeries to sell a product and make money off that product. I feel that's immoral," said Woods. "By having PenCam, I think it further authenticates the product - and I think that's the cool thing about it."
Richard McWilliam likens Upper Deck's purpose in developing PenCam to the needs of those who collect fine art: "When fine art collectors invest in a painting they want to know its provenance or, in other words, the chain of ownership and origin of the item. Upper Deck's endeavor is to provide sports fans with a similar record of each piece of our fine memorabilia, including now a PenCam time and date stamped video file of the autograph at the time it originated," he explained. Posted Sept. 14/01
DRIVERS' USE OF CELLULAR PHONES should be restricted, said 76 percent of people recently surveyed on the controversial topic.
The poll commissioned by the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety (AHAS), an alliance of consumer, health, safety and insurance groups, was conducted between July 1st and 19th, and involved 1001 adult respondents. The fact that 76 percent favour restrictions is a "lopsided" and particularly significant finding given that two out of every three persons polled said they own a cellular phone, the organization contends.
The alleged connection between wireless phone use and traffic accidents is a hotly debated issue. The controversy is unlikely to abate anytime soon. The number of users of cell phones has escalated from a few hundred thousand in 1985 to an estimated 121 million today.
On one hand (no pun intended) we have the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association: They say wireless phones, provided they are used judiciously, are the greatest safety tool to hit the highways since the emergency 911 telephone number was introduced.
On the other hand we find groups like AHAS and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) speculating that cellular phones cause driver distraction and lead to accidents. The latter mentioned organization has been busy gathering data on an entire range of hi-tech distractions in automobiles. Their investigations also include driver use of vehicle navigation systems and on-board computers that deliver e-mail.
AHAS president Judith Lee Stone feels their survey results clearly show that the public senses a potential problem with cell phone use while driving. She agrees, however, that anecdotal evidence arising from sporadic statistics is insufficient grounds for legislation that would prohibit drivers from using the devices.
"We need more information on this issue," Stone conceded. Posted Sept. 12/01
THE "DO-IT-FOR-ME" DECADES HAVE BEGUN says Pep Boys, a leading full service automotive aftermarket retail and service chain in the United States. The company with 629 stores and 6,500 service bays has for 80 years been involved in both the "do-it-yourself" (DIY) and the "do-it-for-me" (DIFM) market segments. With a strong market presence like that, they should know what they're talking about.
Pep Boys predicts that recent growth in the repair and maintenance service labour category (nearly $112 billion annually) will continue to outpace growth in DIY, which amounted to $36 billion last year. They cite the increased technological complexity of vehicles, and growing constraints on consumers' "time" as the reasons for this.
"Consumers, now more than ever, are concerned about two things - safety and the ability to get on with their busy lives," said Mitchell G. Leibovitz, chairman, CEO and president of Pep Boys. "That's why we see this do-it-for-me trend continuing," he added. Posted Sept. 12/01
CANADIAN R&D FIRM, MICRO HYDRAULICS has sold-off its cutting edge technology in the field of energy management and motion control. The innovative company had spent several years developing an advanced design of electrohydraulic systems for mobile applications. However, all of its patents and other assets have now been purchased by Haldex Hydraulic Systems of Stockholm, Sweden.
Haldex expects that the advanced "base technology" purchased from Micro Hydraulics Inc. will enhance a wide variety of their products. They predict it will remove many of the obstacles vehicle manufacturers encounter with current electrohydraulic systems relative to efficiency and noise. Further, they anticipate their products and integrated systems incorporating the Canadian-made technology will enable automakers to design better and more reliable vehicles. There is a likelihood of increased productivity, reduced energy consumption, reduced operator fatigue, improved operator safety and a reduction in costs over the life of a vehicle, they explain.
Haldex Hydraulic Systems is a self-described innovator in vehicle technology supplying proprietary products for trucks, cars and industrial vehicles on a global basis. The parent, Haldex (OMX:HLDX.) Group, has annual sales exceeding 6 billion Swedish Krona, employs some 4,100 people and is listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange. Posted Sept. 11/01
FORD TEMPORARILY SHUT ITS PLANTS in light of the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. A total of 120,000 hourly and salaried workers are affected.
The shutdowns announced earlier today are for one full shift of work at the automaker's 45 North American assembly and parts plants, including its eight Canadian facilities. Employees are expected to return to work on Wednesday morning.
The plant closures were primarily out of concern for its employees' peace of mind, but also due to the possibility of a disruption in supplier parts according to Todd Nissen, a Ford spokesman.
Editor's Note: The sheer magnitude of the depraved terrorist attacks make this related news item seem trivial. Posted Sept. 11/01
THE FORCED SALE OF A FLEET SERVICES COMPANY was necessary due to Canadian banking regulations. Associates Fleet Services will be sold by its U.S. parent CitiCapital - the commercial leasing arm of CitiGroup Inc. of New York - in a deal expected to close later this month. The buyer is GE Capital Fleet Services which is headquartered in Minnesota, but anxious to expand its Canadian operations.
Mississauga-based Associates Fleet Services has branches in Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal and Vancouver, and $490 million in assets. They manage more than 50,000 vehicles- cars, vans and trucks that are bought, and then leased to companies they provide registration, maintenance and claims services to.
Got a scorecard handy? Associates Fleet Services was adopted by CitiGroup Inc.'s CitiCapital division last year when CitiGroup bought its former parent, the consumer and commercial finance company Associates First Capital. Did you follow that? Anyway, apparently CitiGroup was unaware of Canadian laws that bar banks from owning more than 25 percent of companies that are engaged in automobile leasing. That regulation forced them to seek a buyer for Associates Fleet Services.
GE Capital Fleet Services, General Electric Co.'s financing arm is delighted about its pending purchase of Associates Fleet Services. "This acquisition strengthens our business commitment to grow in Canada," said the division's president and CEO Dan Henson.
Editor's Note: A classic case of "the big getting bigger". GE Capital Fleet Services already has some 1.2 million vehicles under lease and service contracts globally. Posted Sept. 1/01
Fast-Breaking News
DRIVE CLEAN PROGRAM EXPANDS: It's official. Drive Clean is coming to Ottawa and
other eastern Ontario urban centres such as Kingston effective
July 1, 2002. "Phase III" of the emissions IM program
will also include the previously exempted gap areas in southwestern
Ontario.
Areas that will be subject to the mandatory emissions testing are Ottawa, Kawartha Lakes and Chatham-Kent, and the counties of Hastings, Prince Edward, Lennox and Addington, Frontenac, Lanark, Wellington, the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, the United Counties of Prescott and Russell and the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.
The previously exempted parts of the following counties will also be included in Phase III of the program: Haldimand, Norfolk, Dufferin, Elgin, Lambton, Middlesex, Northumberland, Perth, Peterborough and Simcoe.
With the expansion, Drive Clean now covers all of Ontario's smog zone, that is, the "smog corridor" originally defined by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) in 1990. That original smog corridor has, in fact, been expanded - particularly north of Toronto - as a result of increasing urbanization, vehicle use and commuting patterns.
A $200 repair cost limit will be in effect in Phase III areas during the first two years of mandatory emissions testing. On July 1, 2004 the cap on repair costs will be increased to $450, the level already in place in Phase I areas (Toronto and Hamilton). Phase II areas - urban centres and commuting zones from Peterborough to Windsor - increase to a $450 cap effective January 1, 2003.
Ontario Environment Minister, Honourable Elizabeth Witmer is also announcing additional improvements to the Drive Clean program:
- In partnership with municipalities, the implementation of annual testing for taxis
- Empowerment of the Drive Clean Director to suspend or decertify emissions inspectors and repair technicians for improper activities
- Provisions to test vehicles using on-board diagnostic systems
- Extending the Drive Clean pass from the current 6 months to twelve months to avoid "double-testing" in same year
- Allowing light-duty diesel vehicles to be tested at heavy-duty diesel testing facilities
- Exemption of Ontario's 500 or so registered "kit" cars from mandatory testing
- Clarification of certain wording and definitions in Drive Clean regulations
The Minister will be informing the news media that "protecting the quality of the air we breathe is a concern in every Ontario community, urban or rural. A significant portion of the smog-causing pollution created right here in Ontario comes from our cars, trucks and buses. So, we need to enforce tough standards on vehicles to protect our environment and human health."
When Ontario Premier Mike Harris made Elizabeth Witmer environment minister in the February 8, 2001 cabinet shuffle, AARO speculated that time would prove he'd made a good choice. (Reference: Feb. 9/01 article "Witmer to Champion Drive Clean" >>> scroll to bottom for News Archives) The association's board members feel that prognostication was right on the money.
"Ms. Witmer established herself as one of the Harris government's shining lights during her previous tenure as health minister, and she has certainly lived up to her advance billing at MOE," said AARO's executive director Bill Burkimsher. "She saw through the misguided rhetoric from the CAA- they lobbied intensely to have Drive Clean watered down, but she refused to capitulate. She also cut through the wrangling that was going on in cabinet. What can I say? We're impressed!"
AARO President Jim Angier shares Burkimsher's high regard for Witmer.
"There's no surprises here," observed Angier as he reviewed the changes to Drive Clean that will soon be announced. "They're doing virtually everything that was discussed when we met with the minister and her key staff in June. I think she is to be congratulated, the expansion and revisions being made are all very positive," he enthused.
AARO director Rex Sarson who was part of the delegation that met with the minister agrees.
"During the meeting it was obvious to me that Ms. Witmer was determined to get things right. I could tell that by her questions, and the interest she showed in our answers," recalls Sarson. "Our answer to one question often led to another question, and that 'probing' indicated she was truly interested in what we had to say. Looking at the changes they're making (to the Drive Clean program) tells me she was really listening," he added, his head nodding in approval.
The association's Advocacy Committee chair Gino Paccione, who also met with the minister, said he is pleased that Drive Clean has been expanded to include Ottawa and other densely populated parts of the province. He feels all of this additional testing will help MOE achieve its stated target of a 22 percent reduction, by volume, of pollution from vehicle emissions.
"We facility operators in the Phase I and II areas can assist our fellow AARO members located in the Phase III regions. Many will be interested in becoming accredited Drive Clean facilities, and they will have questions, lots of questions. They can benefit from our experience, and I feel sure I'm speaking for the other association directors when I say we'll welcome their inquiries," said Paccione.
Gino Paccione invites members with questions about Drive Clean to contact the association office for a referral to an AARO board member with Drive Clean experience. He suggests the AARO staff should then spread-out the inquiries among the appropriate directors. "Rotating the referrals will ensure the process doesn't become a burden for any one of us, and we'll be happy to help," said Paccione.
The Ministry of Environment's Drive Clean office will start signing-up garages wanting to become accredited Phase III "test", "test and repair", or "repair only" facilities in late 2001 and early 2002.
Testing will begin in the expansion areas on April 1, 2002, three months before the emissions tests become mandatory on July 1, 2002. (License plate renewal notices are mailed to vehicle owners up to 3 months prior to the registration renewal date, hence the April 1st start for Drive Clean tests.)
In 2002, Drive Clean tests will be required on all 1999 model-year vehicles, and odd model-years (1997, 1995, etc.) back to 1983. In 2003, testing will be required for even model-year vehicles between 2000 and 1984 (2000, 1998, 1996, etc.).
The program will also require resale vehicles older than the current year (i.e., model-year 2001 and older in the year 2002) to pass an emissions test for ownership transfer and to licence the vehicle for the road, if a safety standards certificate is required. As a consumer protection measure, a conditional pass - which means a vehicle's emissions system could not be fully repaired for $200 - cannot be used to transfer ownership of a vehicle and licence it for the road.
Note of interest to your customers: While the areas within Drive Clean are listed according to municipalities, the actual program area is based on postal codes. That means that if a majority of a postal code area is within one of the named municipalities, all vehicles registered to that postal code area will be subject to the emissions testing even if the owners do not reside in the named municipality. Vehicle owners will be able to check their postal codes to determine if they are in the Phase III area beginning early next year.
All auto service facilities interested in becoming an accredited Drive Clean facility can call the Drive Clean Call Centre at 1-888-758-2999 (toll free) for further information on Drive Clean requirements. The requirements information covers the installation of approved testing equipment, training for emissions inspectors and repair technicians, and linkages to the central computer that contains emissions test data and is also linked to the MTO registration data base.
AARO facilitated much of the Drive Clean-related training in the Phase I and Phase II areas, and we anticipate doing likewise in Phase III locales. Several of the association's board members are closely involved with the program - members can therefore rest assured they will be kept fully informed on Phase III developments, and virtually all aspects of Ontario's emissions IM program.
Editor's Note: Association members located within Phase III areas: If you have questions about the Drive Clean opportunity, and would like to discuss them with an AARO board member/Drive Clean facility operator, send your request via e-mail >>> CLICK HERE! Posted Aug. 30/01
The Economy:
IS THAT LIGHT AT END OF SLOWDOWN TUNNEL? In the U.S., drastically reduced inventories
- the steepest reductions in 18 years - almost halted economic
growth during the last quarter. Companies there stockpiled $50
billion worth of inventories during 2000, but have slashed nearly
$40 billion worth through the middle of this year. Some economists
feel this has set the stage for a rebound.
The rationale goes like this:
The number crunchers think U.S. firms have now scaled back inventories to proper levels; this should enable them to begin filling new orders by raising production, as opposed to drawing down their stockpiles. In the auto industry, production cuts by the carmakers have reverberated all down the supply chain, but analysts are now saying new-vehicle inventories are manageable at current sales levels. A rise in production can be anticipated, and that will provide a much-needed shot in the arm for the economy, some economists are saying.
Paul Kasriel, the chief economist at Chicago's Northern Trust for one, is certainly optimistic. "The decks are clear. The economy is in direct drive," he enthused.
"Future new orders are going to be filled more from current production and less from past production or taking inventories off the shelf, because, in some industries, the shelves are pretty bare. That's a very positive implication," exclaimed Kasriel. Posted Aug. 30/01
CIVICS AND WINDSTARS INVOLVED IN RECALLS: Auto safety regulators announced yesterday that 120,649 model year 2001 Honda Civic sedans and coupes, and nearly 200,000 1997-98 vintage Ford Windstar minivans have been recalled for safety-related problems.
The Civics are being checked for fuel hose clamps that could lead to a fuel leak in an accident, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
In a collision, without enough clamping force, the tube between the gas cap and the tank could disconnect allowing fuel to spill and burn in the presence of an ignition source. Honda dealerships have been instructed to check the hose clamps for proper torque and tighten them correctly if needed, the agency said.
The Windstar recalls concern a corrosion problem with the vans' front springs in certain snow-belt areas. NHTSA said the coil springs could break and contact the front tire - "some tires have deflated due to contact with a broken spring," they advised.
Ford dealerships are apparently notifying owners, and installing protective shields around the springs. Posted Aug. 30/01
THERE'S A BOOM IN ELECTRIC STEERING TECHNOLOGY says the automotive division of TRW Inc. Flushed with $900 million in recent contract awards from Fiat and Renault, the auto parts giant is optimistic about the future prospects for its Electrically Assisted Steering (EAS) products. "Euphoric" may be a better word. They are predicting that demand for the technology will continue to increase to an estimated "one out of every two cars" built by the year 2010.
"These contracts demonstrate our technology leadership in chassis systems and further strengthen our number one position within steering," said John Plant, president and CEO, TRW Chassis Systems. "We expect more than $1 billion in annual sales for our EAS steering systems by 2006." Additionally, the company is continuing to advance their development status of Steer-by Wire technologies, they say.
The contracts awarded by Fiat for its Stilo vehicle, and by Renault for its Megane model were both for TRW's column-drive Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems. TRW had previous EAS contract wins for its Electrically Powered Hydraulic Steering (EPHS) product from Volkswagen and Opel. Posted Aug. 29/01
THE OLD AARO PHILOSOPHER SAYS...
"I didn't fight my way to the top of the food chain
to be a vegetarian; likewise, people who worked
hard learning to fix cars should think of themselves
as technicians, not mechanics."
Editor's Note: Read it a few times... sometimes his point gets obscured in a politically incorrect analogy. He means no harm - our apologies to you vegetarians out there. Posted Aug. 29/01
FORD TO TRUMPET NEW T-BIRD AT SAE DINNER: Described as "an informal evening of interaction", on September 24, 2001 in Detroit, Thunderbird program team members will share stories about the rebirth of the legendary car with members of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
For the newest incarnation of the Thunderbird, it is apparent Ford designers have borrowed heavily from the past. "Motoring excitement returns," is a tagline we can expect to see as the automaker's marketing department gets into the act.
"The new T-Bird expresses a bold, confident and free-feeling look that is delivered in the form of a dramatically designed, two-seat, rear wheel drive V-8 powered, convertible roadster," said Jim O'Connor, president of Ford Division, Ford Motor Company. (That's a mouthful.)
"When Ford decided to revive the Thunderbird nameplate, designers went to work studying the original cars of the 1950s," explains O'Connor. "The designers of the new T-Bird took great care to borrow classic styling clues, but to never lose the modern look. The car's two-seat configuration, hood scoop, round headlamps, egg-crate grill and portholes all pay homage to the past while employing 21st century materials, technology and design innovations. (An even bigger mouthful.) It's a modern throwback to an optimistic American era," he concluded.
Editor's Note: Hmmm, the sticker price seems to have been overlooked
in their press release.
Posted Aug. 29/01
THE FAMILY CAR: NEXT MOBILE PORTAL? "Yes", says a report from Meridian Research, a firm that provides analytical research to the users of technology in the financial service industry. In just two years, millions of North Americans could trade stocks and do their banking while driving, they say. According to their forecast, the combining of wireless GPS and voice-recognition technologies will lead to the installation of telematics in approximately 9 million vehicles by 2003.
Initially developed to provide driver assistance and emergency service, telematics is already used in financial services. Fidelity Investments teamed up with General Motors subsidiary OnStar; the result is that owners of certain GM luxury cars can already place trades, get balances and receive stock quotes with the push of a button and a few verbal commands.
"Financial institutions have much to gain by partnering with telematics providers," says Christine Barry of Meridian. Those who fail to recognize the trend could soon find themselves at a competitive disadvantage, she cautions. The research disclosed that North Americans spend an average of 540 hours a year in their cars.
The Meridian report also mentions that since telematics are voice-activated and hands-free, they aren't affected by new laws restricting the use of cell phones while driving. Posted Aug. 28/01
OUR OnSTAR SERVICE IS SAFE, SAYS GM: A University of Utah study released a couple of weeks ago has prompted a rebuttal from General Motors. Scientists involved in the Utah study suggested that drivers simply carrying on a conversation - regardless as to whether a "hand-held" or a "hands-free" cell phone is in use - are subject to distraction, and therefore at greater risk of an accident. Not so, says GM whose OnStar subsidiary boasts 1.4 million subscribers.
The OnStar system allows drivers to contact an advisor and get directions, or emergency assistance if required, without having to remove their hands from the steering wheel. The automaker said that of 8.1 million calls placed via OnStar between October 1996 and May 2000, in only two instances was a driver in a crash severe enough to deploy an airbag. And there was no evidence that the use of OnStar contributed to those two crashes, GM contends.
In the study conducted at the university, response times of 64 people were measured as they reacted to simulated traffic signals while either talking on a cell phone, or listening to the radio or an audio book. GM is critical that the Utah scientists derived their statistics from such small sample sizes, and points out that its own OnStar study is based on "real data".
OnStar is adding voice-activated personal calling,
news, entertainment, weather and traffic reports to its bundle
of services later this year.
Posted Aug. 28/01
FACTOID:
MICHELIN REPLACEMENT TIRES RATED BEST in an "independently funded" customer satisfaction study by J.D. Power and Associates, a global marketing information services firm. The 2001 survey results were based on the responses from 9,500 passenger-vehicle and light-truck owners who had recently replaced their tires.
Michelin brand tires have ranked highest in customer satisfaction among light-truck owners for seven consecutive years, and among passenger-vehicle owners for the past three years. Now in its tenth year, the annual study found that Michelin demonstrated strong performance across virtually all of the customer-driven measures comprising the Replacement Tire Satisfaction Index: situational performance (e.g., fast-start traction, handling responsiveness, etc.,) long-term performance (e.g., reliability/dependability, wearability, etc.) and design and product quality.
"Michelin maintains its market-leading replacement tire satisfaction position by best meeting the needs and expectations of its customers," said Jeff Zupancic, director of tire practice at J.D. Power. While buyers of other brands are more sensitive to tire price, Michelin buyers are more likely to mention "reliability, durability, and tire handling and performance" as key reasons for their purchase, with less emphasis on price, according to Zupancic.
Following Michelin in the passenger-vehicle category were Toyo; Pirelli and Uniroyal (in a tie); Cooper; and Goodyear respectively. Tire brands performing "at or below" industry average, in alphabetical order, included BFGoodrich, Bridgestone, Douglas, Dunlop, Firestone, General, Kelly and Sears.
Among light-truck owners, BFGoodrich followed
Michelin, with Cooper and Goodyear ranking third in a tie. Performing
at or below industry average were (alphabetically) Firestone,
General and Uniroyal.
Posted Aug.
27/01
A SPACE-AGE FUEL CELL VEHICLE showcased at the Toyota Technical Centre last week marked the first time there has been a real-world demonstration of a fuel cell hybrid on North American roads.
The zero emissions FCHV-4 is based on the company's new five-passenger Highlander SUV. (FCHV is short for "fuel cell hybrid vehicle.) It generates its own on-board electricity with compressed hydrogen, has a top speed of nearly 95 mph and a cruising range of more than 155 miles. Mass production of such vehicles won't be happening anytime soon, however.
Norihiko Nakamura, an executive advisory engineer responsible for Toyota's fuel cell development, cautioned that it will be ten years before any manufacturer has a fuel cell ready for mass marketing to consumers. A number of problems with the new technology have to be worked out first, he explained. Energy efficiency levels must be improved, and on-board hydrogen storage perfected. Other technological challenges must also be overcome. He cited by example the development of systems that can adapt to a variety of fuels, and the establishment of the necessary infrastructure to distribute them.
In addition to hydrogen, Toyota plans to test several other fuel sources. The company is looking into the viability of natural gas, methanol and a more recent concept called CHF, which stands for "clean hydrocarbon fuel". CHF can be derived from petroleum and other resources such as natural gas and coal, and can work in current gasoline-powered vehicles.
"It's not a matter of one fuel winning and the other losing," explained Nakamura, "it's a matter of co-existence." He concedes that much research still has to be done, but predicts that as petroleum resources become increasingly scarce it is just a matter of time before "fuel cell vehicles will be the majority of automobiles in use". Posted Aug. 27/01
AARO GOLFERS "HOOK" BIG BUCKS FOR KIDS: Okay, they also "sliced" some of their shots. No matter, the sky was blue, the sun was shining and everyone had a good time at this year's Charity Golf Tournament. More importantly, our generous sponsors followed through on their commitments and the tally indicates a record $21,990 has been raised. Proceeds from the event benefit the physically challenged kids at Ontario's Bloorview MacMillan Centre located in Toronto.
Tournament organizer Wally Clayson is ecstatic. "Our members and sponsors can take pride in the knowledge we doubled the amount raised in 2000," he enthused.
The annual event has become known as the "Independents' Tourney", an opportunity for garage owners and their suppliers to "enjoy a day on the links for a deserving cause". This year's tournament was held June 6th at the Cardinal Golf Club. AARO will return to the beautiful course near Newmarket again next year. Clayson advises that the 2002 date has already been set for June 5th, and he asks that we remind you to make note of it.
Thank-you letters have been mailed to all concerned, and a listing of our 2001 Tournament Sponsors will be circulated to the entire association membership with the September mailing of the AAROlines newsletter. Wally Clayson has a favour to ask of you when you receive it:
"Even were you unable to participate in our tournament personally, please check the names of the companies that supported us. If you see the name of a supplier you deal with on the listing, kindly let them know that we Independents, and 'the kids', too, appreciate their support," requests Clayson. Posted Aug. 24/01
007 AND ASTON MARTIN RECONCILE: Everyone's favourite British agent, debonair James Bond has told the Germans he's had enough of their automobiles. In his next action film, the 20th in the long-running series, he'll be behind the wheel of a powerful V12 Vanquish from the motherland's luxury carmaker, Aston Martin.
In his last three spy thrillers, James had driven vehicles made by Germany's BMW AG. However, Ford Motor Company, who own and operate Aston Martin as part of their Premier Automotive Group, say that's about to change. On Thursday they announced that he'll be in a specially outfitted Vanquish for his next film, which is scheduled to go into production in January.
Ford says the new Vanquish - minus the ejector seats and rocket launchers - will be available to North American customers in September. If you decide to take one out for a test run, we suggest you wear a tight-fitting cap.
The slick new Aston vehicle is peppy, you see. It delivers 460 horsepower from its all-aluminum-alloy, 6.0 litre, 48 valve V12. Its Formula One-style six-speed manual transmission, aided by an electric clutch, permits gear shifts in mere hundredths of a second. And to facilitate those quick escapes so often required when on assignment for "Her Majesty's Secret Service", the Vanquish is capable of reaching 100km/hr in less than 5 seconds. Not too shabby.
The cost for all you "James Bond wannabees", a modest $330,000 Cdn.
Editor's Note: Good grief! At that price it should come bundled with a lifetime supply of martinis and a couple of willowy beauties "to shake, not stir them". Posted Aug. 24/01
PICKUP TRUCKS AND BASKETBALL - at first blush they would seem to be strange bedfellows, but two Detroit men view the combination as "a revolution in motion". Independent inventors Jason Parr and Jon VarnHagen are looking to market their patent rights for something they call "Pickup Hoops". They'd like to partner up with a sporting goods, an automotive, or an aftermarket manufacturer, and they wish to remind potential investors that throughout time, inventions have come out of nowhere and caused a revolution.
Hool-a-hoops, frisbees, rollorblades... and now Pickup Hoops, an ingenious way of combining the convenience of a pickup truck with the game of basketball. "You never know when and where you'll find the next 'big thing', and we have found it," they say.
Well, okay guys, you've got our attention. Now, what's the scoop?
Pickup Hoops is a patented basketball goal assembly that mounts in the bed of a pickup truck. It sets up and folds down in under 30 seconds by one person without the need of a single tool. The assembly is similar to a convertible top in the sense the apparatus will neatly and compactly fold down into the pickup's bed when not in use.
When set up for play, the height is adjustable from regulation down to 6 feet. Substantial overhang from the rear of the truck is achieved by the innovative design, supplying ample room for baseline play. A pad attaches to the tailgate protecting both players and truck. When the truck is needed for other purposes, Pickup Hoops is easily removable.
Parr and VarnHagen say their invention is unique as it's the only truly portable Basketball goal because the base is actually a pickup truck. It allows you to determine when and where to play some hoops because you don't have to rely on the availability of a court, they point out.
Still unconvinced? Need these two remind you that recreational basketball is being played like never before, that it's almost a passion? Or that pickup trucks are the best selling vehicles in North America, and that the manufacturers like to advertise them as "an enhancement of a lifestyle"?
A pickup truck is a vehicle to go camping with, to haul dirtbikes and mountainbikes, to tow jetskis and snowmobiles... and, and... well, basketball and pickup trucks have both been around for over 100 years, but until their invention no one has ever combined the two together.
Pickup Hoops promises to be a "revolutionary lifestyle enhancement", they predict, and ask you to just imagine this... "the Michael Jordan edition pickup truck", fully equipped with Pickup Hoops. "It's just obvious!" they enthuse.
Editor's Note: Our first notion was that these guys might be related to the Old AARO Philosopher. We found it hard to imagine trucks lined-up outside CTC service bays waiting to have their Pickup Hoops installed. Then again, how many of us would have mortgaged the farm to invest in Pet Rocks? If you are interested in Parr and VarnHagen's invention, they can be contacted at: pickuphoops@hotmail.com, or by phone at (313) 534-8734. To visit their Web site, click-on to >>> http://www.pickup-hoops.net Posted Aug. 23/01
R-12 SOON TO BE KAPUT FOR AUTOMOTIVE USE: Members are reminded that CFC-based freon, the refrigerant commonly known as R-12, can not be legally sold for automotive application after January 1, 2002.
The position of the Ontario Ministry of Environment (MOE) on this is clear: If a vehicle's air conditioning system isn't leaking, the continued use of its contained R-12 is okay. However, if it is leaking, the owner's only option (other than winding down his windows) will be a retrofit to an ozone-friendly refrigerant, typically 134-A.
Stockpiled virgin R-12 can be sold to stationary refrigeration dealers, where its use will still be permitted. Recovered (contaminated) R-12 must be removed from your premises and disposed of responsibly. MOE suggests you contact your original refrigerant supplier concerning the proper disposal of recovered R-12.
The government estimates that over one third of all CFCs in Canada are used to service air conditioning units in cars, trucks and buses. Studies have shown that collectively, old-technology mobile air conditioners have been losing about 10 percent of their charge every year. Without the refill ban, these units would eventually use up and release all of the remaining stockpile of ozone-depleting R-12 into the atmosphere, they say.
Given the importance of Earth's protective ozone layer to our well-being, it is hard to find fault with the amendments that have been made to Ontario's existing Refrigerants Regulation. Posted Aug. 23/01
ABOUT 800 WEB SITES LATER ... WHEW! The seasonal slowdown bypassed 10-5100 South Service Road, Burlington this year. That's the address of the building housing your association's offices. Within those hallowed walls, the "dog days of summer" have been anything but lazy. Don't take our word for it, just ask any of the AARO staffers.
"All I can say is, thank goodness we're air conditioned in here," quipped office administrator and accounts manager, Debbie Grimes. "We've all been going flat-out, that's for sure."
The free business Web sites the association set-up for its members stand alone as a major undertaking, but they comprise only one part of a busy summertime story:
This year the annual renewal of the Auto Pac group health and life insurance program included the introduction of a new, optional 'enhanced plan'. Dozens of participating firms opted to upgrade their benefits. And then there was the new credit card program. Members were offered 1.65% VISA, and 1.40% MasterCard discount rates. The collective response was overwhelming. Hundreds were keenly interested, and quite naturally they all wanted to get started at once. Whew, indeed.
AARO President Jim Angier says a debt of gratitude is owed the AARO staff members. "Most organizations' employees have a chance to catch their breath over the summer, but it hasn't worked out that way for ours," he observed.
Angier said Debbie Grimes and Diane Freeman looked after the Auto Pac renewal and enrollments, while Bonnie Black and Bill Burkimsher tended to the Web sites, and Luanne Ingram got members up-and-running on the new credit card program. Frances Ricci was a utility player, helping wherever her assistance was most required, he explained.
"There's no idyllic 'Indian summer' in the cards for our staffers, either," said Angier. "We'll soon be introducing AARO's new pre-paid legal plan, and we've got big plans for the 2001-02 training season. I'm guessing that things will not be slowing down measurably for them," he predicted. Posted Aug. 22/01
BUMPER STICKER WATCH:
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Editor's Note: Have YOU seen a bumper sticker recently that made you chuckle? If so, to share a smile with the rest of us, send it to >>> aaro@aaro.ca Posted Aug. 22/01
HI-TECH SOLUTION TO HI-TECH PROBLEM ? The advantages bestowed by new technology sometimes come bundled with problems. In the automotive industry, there is growing concern about the use of cell phones and other electronic devices in cars and trucks. Driver distraction is the problem, and Ford Motor Company is using an advanced, moving-base driving simulator to gather information they hope might resolve it.
Their new VIRTTEX (VIRtual Test Track Experiment) simulator is one of the most advanced laboratories of its kind in the world, they say. Using a controlled laboratory setting, Ford engineers are studying everyday driving tasks, such as changing the radio or inserting an audio CD, and how they affect driver performance during a variety of simulated driving experiences.
While seated in the 24-foot domed laboratory, drivers are asked to perform such tasks as retrieving voice mail, accessing an electronic address book, making a phone call or settling a fictitious business matter. Throughout the experiment, virtual traffic competes for the driver's attention. In one simulated situation, a "car" in front suddenly flashes its brake lights; in another, the vehicle behind suddenly surges forward.
The VIRTTEX lab goes far beyond anything one is apt to find in an arcade. It sits atop six angled hydraulic pistons. When at rest it is positioned a full 11 feet off the floor. In operation, the dome is raised and can move up to 10 feet to any side and tilt up to 20 degrees. According to company spokespersons, this broad range of motion helps duplicate forces that are experienced while driving.
A Ford Taurus is being utilized as the first "test bed" in the driver distraction study. With the vehicle bolted inside the dome, study participants sit in the driver's seat while a series of colour projectors create the illusion of roads and terrain around it. Because the tasks required of "the drivers", and the virtual environment surrounding them can be repeated indefinitely - as opposed to the real world - data obtained by VIRTTEX can be the basis for scientific conclusions, Ford claims. These conclusions will be shared throughout the industry as early as this fall, they say.
Editor's Note: For more information on VIRTTEX, Ford Motor Company invites you to browse their Web site >>> www.media.ford.com Posted Aug. 22/01
NOW THAT'S AN ARDENT MARINERS FAN! Enumclaw, Washington-based GM Dealer Art Gamblin Motors will rebate its customers up to $250,000 if the Seattle Mariners baseball team wins the 2001 World Series.
"We really want the Mariners to win," says Alan Gamblin, dealership president. "We've purchased insurance and for me, giving away a quarter million dollars would be a pleasure. For our customers, it's every gambler's dream: being eligible for the winnings without placing a bet."
Customers purchasing a vehicle from Gamblin after August 1st during the 2001 baseball season are eligible to receive rebates of up to $2,000 of their down payments if the high-flying Mariners go all the way. He says that like himself, there are probably a few hundred of his customers who really want the Mariners to win. Some believe the Series title is a sure thing, but others feel the win would just be a nice bonus for a car they already intended to buy.
Alan Gamblin estimates approximately 230 customers will be eligible for a refund should the Mariners win the World Series. Posted Aug. 21/01
THE PRICE POINT FOR LUXURY CARS IS DROPPING: Automakers - anxious to improve sluggish sales volumes - have been lowering prices on their "entry-level" high-end vehicles. The intent is to attract younger buyers for the top of the line models, vehicles the 30ish crowd has historically shunned due to their smaller pocketbooks.
Earlier this month DaimlerChrysler introduced its most affordable luxury car in years- the Mercedes C-Coupe hit U.S. showrooms carrying a starting price of just $25,595. Another August launch was Ford Motor Company's Jaguar X-Type sedan. Dubbed the "babyJag", its U.S. price tag of approximately $30,000 nearly halves the cost for the least expensive Jaguar a couple of years ago.
BMW is planning to bring back the Mini next year, priced under $20,000. The German automaker also has plans to introduce a 1-series small car in the near-future. Not to be outdone, Mercedes is considering bringing its A-Class compact car to North America within a few years.
The domestic luxury brands, GM's Cadillac and Ford's Lincoln, also seem to be setting their sights on younger buyers. GM for sure. Next January it hopes to take a share of the entry-level market with its Cadillac CTS sedan to be offered at a starting price of about $30,000 U.S.
Industry analysts have mixed feelings about the automakers' quest to expand their luxury car segments through lower-priced offerings.
"By bringing in somebody in their 30s rather than 50, (years of age,) there's many more vehicles that they're going to be buying over their life," with the luxury brand, said independent analyst Susan Jacobs who specializes in the luxury vehicle market.
However, the trend toward lower-priced luxury models has other industry watchers speculating that these vehicles are destined to lose some of their cache. Case in point: Tom Libby, an automotive analyst with industry research firm J.D. Power and Associates, who seems convinced the strategy is not a sound one.
"Is part of luxury exclusivity?" he asks. "I think long term it hurts the image of the brand." Posted Aug. 21/01
BUMPER CARS THEY'RE NOT: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) says
six out of seven new midsize SUVs failed some slow-speed crash
tests they recently conducted. And they failed miserably.
Four different front- and rear-end mishaps were staged - the kind that take place outside of grocery stores - at a speed of only 8 km per hour. The damage sustained by the vehicles ranged between $1,800 (Honda's 2001 Acura MDX) and nearly $6,000 (Suzuki 2001 Grand Vitara XL-7).
Given that it required only $1,800 (hell, that's pocket-change) in necessary repairs, the Institute awarded the Acura high marks (GASP). The other six midsize SUVs all received low scores.
At nearly $5,600 in damages, the runner-up in the worst performing category was Tiger Woods' favourite, the 2002 Buick Rendezvous. Woods has been touting the Rendezvous in a recent media blitz on television. (Shame on you, Tiger.) GM also bogeyed the IIHS test course with its 2001 Pontiac Aztek, and the all-new 2002 Chevy Trailblazer.
The other two vehicles that didn't "bump" so good were Toyota's 2001 Highlander and Isuzu's 2002 Axiom.
"Automakers are marketing new midsize SUV models for 2001 and 2002, but most of these vehicles aren't being equipped with bumpers that resist damage in the kinds of impacts that routinely occur in commuter traffic and parking lots," an Institute spokesperson said.
Editor's Note: What do people expect for a mere 35 to 40 grand? Posted Aug. 1/01
LEFTIST WING NUTS ATTACK CAR DEALERSHIPS: Unknown assailants believed to be leftist or anarchist groups protesting a G8 summit held in Genoa, Italy late last month, vented their wrath at a Fiat dealership and an Alfa Romeo shop in the northern Athens suburb of Agia Paraskevi. Home-made incendiary devices made of small gas canisters and flammable material were used in the attack.
Police said there had been no claim of responsibility for the damage, but felt it was likely inflicted by disgruntled Greek anti-globalization protesters. Three buses containing about 150 demonstrators headed for Genoa had been turned back by Italian authorities at the port of Ancona prior to the summit.
Editor's Note: Hmmm... strange, but the lyrics of that old doo wop song, "Get A Job" just popped into my head. Posted Aug. 1/01
SCAM ALERT: BOGUS BILLINGS for an "Internet Business Guide" are being circulated by hucksters using a Sulgen, Switzerland P.O. Box. The Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA) says the phony invoices are being mailed to holders of dot-ca domain names, and are postmarked in the Czech Republic. The name they're using is "UTP Digital Directories". We know this to be true - AARO received an invoice for US $960.
"We believe the organization has obtained the names and mailing addresses of dot-ca domain name holders through improper use of CIRA's WHOIS tool," said Bernard Turcotte, CIRA President and CEO.
The WHOIS tool is similar to an electronic phone book. It is an Online function enabling anyone to obtain the name, phone number and address of a dot-ca domain name holder by entering a dot-ca domain name - "www.aaro.ca", for example.
"In light of such activities, we are in the process of reviewing the depth of information provided through our WHOIS tool," Turcotte said.
CIRA urges those who have received one of these invoices to report them to their local law enforcement authorities. AARO had already advised provincial and federal agencies - including the RCMP - about the one we received.
Information/links relating to Online consumer protection can be found at the RCMP's Web site >>> http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca Posted Aug. 1/01
DON'T SWEAT THOSE JUNE 30th ODP CARD EXPIRY DATES: An amendment to the Refrigerants Regulation that governs the certification of technicians who test and/or service air conditioning systems has extended the validity of existing ODP cards until at least December 31, 2002. That's the good news. The bad news is that all ODP cardholders will be required to take another course, and write a new exam in order to get recertified.
More bad news: Tuition cost for the renewal course has been increased to $150 per student. Hey, back-off! (Sheesh, don't shoot the messenger.)
Due to the huge number of people requiring recertification, expiry date extensions for existing ODP cardholders have been staggered. If your surname begins with a letter from "A to G", inclusive, your card is valid until the aforementioned December 31, 2002; if it begins with a letter from "H to P", inclusive, it's valid until December 31, 2003; and if it begins with a letter from "Q to Z", inclusive, you're scot-free until December 31, 2004.
As the current inventory of ODP cards bear the outdated June 30, 2001 expiry date, course delivery for new people has been put on hold until this and many other unresolved issues are worked-out.
AARO became an accredited delivery agent of the mandatory CFC certification courses to ensure automotive industry-specific training is available to our members. When we're given the green light to proceed, CFC Certification Course dates and locations will be posted to the Training Courses section of our Web site, "www.aaro.ca". Posted Aug. 1/01
