NAFA Connection
NAFA Fleet Management Association
The NAFA Board of Trustees has contacted U.S. government leaders requesting swift financial stimuli for the automobile industry. Letters were recently delivered to the Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate, the Minority Leader of the U.S. Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, and the leaders of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers.
To read the letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Minority Leader John Boehner, click here.
To read the letter to Senators Harry Reid and Mitch McConnell, click here.
Brownson became a Member of NAFA in 1978. Brand-new and unfamiliar to the fleet industry, Brownson turned to the help of several fleet colleagues who uttered one word that would help her run a fleet: NAFA. "They mentioned that NAFA would help me learn to handle a fleet and answer any questions I would have," stated Brownson.
Without hesitation, Brownson joined NAFA and within two years, she was already taking her first position in NAFA -- a first of many to come -- as Secretary of her local chapter, the Southwest chapter. There, she realized the true value of NAFA and became more involved on the grassroots level.
As Brownson became more involved with NAFA, she was promoted to Fleet Director of Cox Enterprises and held that position for 10 years. During this time, she also held a steady stream of positions in NAFA, including several Board of Trustee titles, and she was President of NAFA from 1993-1995. Brownson remembers having a number of specific goals that she wanted to accomplish in her term.
"The biggest change was taking the annual NAFA Conference to the next level and shaping it as the Fleet Management Institute, " said Brownson. "The conference was more of an educational experience. I thought it was important to really promote the educational aspect of NAFA, including the Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) program." Brownson prides in the fact that, not only was she one of the first NAFA female Presidents, she was also the first President to receive her CAFM designation.
With an abundance of fleet knowledge under her belt, Brownson moved to the fleet relations aspect of Cox Enterprises, Inc. and became Manager, Fleet Relations, a position she holds to this day. She was able to use her fleet experience in the many positions she held at NAFA, more than 40 total! Her recent commitment to NAFA's Branding Oversight Committee has proven successful with NAFA's re-branding effort in the past two years.
"It was exciting to be a part of the re-branding effort and to see the overall changing of the name and logo," noted Brownson. "It was perfect timing, a time when the industry was changing and we needed to take this Association to the next level. We wanted to make it hit home: this is the place for fleet! NAFA is constantly changing and moving forward in the fleet industry."
Brownson's 30 year dedication to both the industry and NAFA is priceless and has truly changed the future of the Association. "NAFA is family," said Brownson. "Once you get in this business, it gets in your blood and it's more than a career. NAFA has helped make me the fleet manager I am today and taught me the value of giving back as much as I take in."
From your whole NAFA family, warmest congratulations on your upcoming retirement, Patsy!
Rebranding our Association and creating a new NAFA look to encapsulate our brand personality takes time and the good work of many people. Our sincerest appreciation and thanks goes out to NAFA Trustee Tom Lubas and his award-winning design staff at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for their work in creating the new NAFA logo and the accompanying guidelines. The logo, which made its debut in January, promotes our brand promise confidently: the "swoosh" logo (as it is sometimes affectionately referred to) embodies some of our Association's best characteristics including confidence, optimism, forward-thinking, and dynamism.
In a recent trip to PANY& NJ offices, NAFA Executive Director Phil Russo, CAE, presented Tom, Flory Danish, and Candace Bexell with our gratitude and awards of appreciation and thanks. Flory and Candace, key players on the design team, were so instrumental in making the logo happen. Thank you for the great work and helping NAFA move forward!
SAVE on the 2009 I&E
April 25-28 at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center
I&E registraion is now open! NAFA is giving attendees the chance to not only register early, but also SAVE while doing so! If you register by Dec. 31, 2008, you can save $100 with our limited-time discount offer.
To register online, click here.
To download a registration form, click here.
NAFA's I&E is the one conference that has it all for you! And there's so much happening at I&E in 2009 that we've created a special Web site. www.nafaiande.org is a user-friendly, cutting-edge Web site featuring all the information you need for this year's I&E! Browse effortlessly through pages of vital I&E information while experiencing a touch of that "N'awlins" feeling.
"NAFA's Institute & Expo is the fleet conference that offers premier training and educational programs for all fleet managers, whether your fleet is small or large, government or commercial, owned or leased, domestic or international," said Patti Earley, CAFM, chair of NAFA's I&E Curriculum Committee. "No matter if you are just starting out as a fleet manager or have been in the industry for decades, NAFA's I&E has something for you. With 50 courses to choose from offering 65 hours of training and professional development and the largest expo in the fleet industry, the I&E is a 'must attend' event for fleet professionals."
From the I&E site, you can easily:
- Register online or download the registratin form
- Locate information whether you're an attendee, exhibitor, or sponsor
- Discover what's new and exciting at I&E this year (our "What's New" page will keep you updated on the latest I&E information, news, and events)
- Reserve your hotel room and learn about accommodations and travel logistics
- Read up on essential "inside" New Orleans tips including how to buy tickets for Jazz Fest, review local restaurants and things to do, traveling around the city, coupons, and maps
- Find out how you can participate in NAFA's Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Project
- Plus so much more!
Be Proactive: Book Your Hotel Now!
The New Orleans Hilton Riverside will serve as the headquarters hotel, and registrants are encouraged to make their hotel reservations early, as the I&E takes place the same time as New Orleans' famous Jazz Fest! Make sure to book early, just in case! Early hotel reservations can be made through NAFA's I&E Web site at www.NAFAIandE.org. For hotel information, online reservations and forms, visit the
Hotel and Travel page.
If your work is fleet management, then I&E has it all for you! And our "Workshop Saturday" will be a key reason to attend, as the conference gets started by networking with colleagues in your industry! This year's workshops will offer hours of valuable information that should not be missed by any fleet professional attending the I&E.
Workshops on Saturday, April 25, include:
- Public Safety Group (PSG) Workshop
- University Workshop
- Canadian Workshop
- Corporate Workshop
- Pharmaceutical Workshop
- Small Fleet Workshop
- Utility/Construction/Mining/Petroleum Workshop
- Public Service Workshop
If you want to join your peers, partake in open forums, discuss important issues, and learn how to solve problems – then these workshops will be valuable to you! Educational and fun, these sessions offer you a chance to share your issues and your solutions! Come join your peers at one of these workshops. To learn more, log on to www.nafaIandE.org.
NAFA's CAFM Boot Camp provides a valuable opportunity for those enrolled in the Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) program. Throughout the I&E program, Boot Camp sessions are labeled and targeted to help you increase your study power for the CAFM program, while making you a well-rounded and highly knowledgeable fleet professional.
CAFM program participants can use this opportunity to reinforce their existing expertise and obtain assistance for concepts that might be problematic. These CAFM Boot Camp courses include Asset Management, Vehicle Fuel Management, Maintenance Management, Fleet Information Management, Professional Development, Business Management, Risk Management, and Financial Management. These sessions are intended as a review; they are not a replacement for personal study. For full course descriptions, visit our Detailed Program page.
You can also take the CAFM exam and receive next day results! This opportunity was so popular
last year, NAFA has decided to bring it back. The CAFM exam is scheduled for Friday, April 24, 2009, just prior to the start of I&E. Those who have passed all necessary exams will graduate at the Institute & Expo in New Orleans; those who have not will be able to take a class in each of the eight disciplines and re-test immediately following the I&E on Wednesday, April 29.
To secure your seat for the exam, please take your independent preparation seriously and complete all Study Guide questions prior to the Boot Camp. Register online at www.nafa.org/exams. Deadline for forms is March 27, 2009.
In 2009, make your mark by lending a hand with NAFA's I&E Habitat for Humanity project. With the help of many different groups and communities, New Orleans is coming back stronger than ever, and now NAFA has a chance to help in that transformation!
How can you help? Plan to arrive a day early and join with other NAFA community 
volunteers to assist in a New Orleans Habitat for Humanity community project. On Friday April 24, 2009, Team NAFA will partner and work with Habitat for Humanity on a local project. The work day schedule is from 7:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., and buses will depart from the Hilton New Orleans Riverside and Doubletree New Orleans Hotels at 7:00 am.
If you would like to be part of the Habitat for Humanity team, just fill-out your I&E Registration Form or register online and check the "Habitat For Humanity" box to participate. Exhibitors may consult their service kit for more information. For additional information on New Orleans Habitat for Humanity, visit www.habitat-nola.org.
In addition to the team of NAFA volunteers and their contribution, NAFA Fleet Management Association is making a contribution to help continue Habitat for Humanity projects after I&E leaves the crescent city.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to give not only to the fleet management community, but also to the New Orleans community. We are grateful for your support!
New Orleans Jazz Festival & Heritage Festival
April 24 – 26 (Friday to Sunday) and
April 30 – May 3 (Thursday to Sunday)
Jam-packed with song, soul, sun, food, and fun, the world-renowned Jazz Festival is an event worthy of the birthplace of jazz. Music is one of New Orleans' proudest and fondest pastimes, and it's a must-attend event!
Musical guests for 2008 included the Neville Brothers, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Jimmy Buffett, Tim McGraw, Santana, Maze feat. Frankie Beverly, Sheryl Crow, Widespread Panic, Dr. John, Al Green, Diana Krall, Keyshia Cole, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, The Raconteurs, Irma Thomas, and plenty more. Luckily for those attending NAFA's I&E, this is the perfect time to see what all the hype is about! For tickets and more information on New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, visit http://www.nojazzfest.com.
Make Your Hotel Reservations A.S.A.P!
Due to the volume of visitors during Jazz Fest, make sure to reserve a hotel room.
NAFA has blocked rooms at two hotels. The Hilton New Orleans Riverside, which is next to the New Orleans Morial Convention Center, offers group rates of $226 - $276. Online reservations can be made at http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/MSYNHHH-AFA-20090418/index.jhtml .
The DoubleTree New Orleans is four blocks from the New Orleans Morial Convention Center and offers a group rate of $226. Online reservations can be made at http://www.hilton.com/en/dt/groups/personalized/MSYTCDT-AFA-20090419/index.jhtml .
The first night's room rate is required as an advance deposit for all reservations. Credit cards will be charged at the same time that the reservation is made.
The cutoff date for reservations is April 1, 2009. NAFA will be providing shuttle service between the hotels and convention center.
NAFA Afiliates and Exhibitors: you still have time to secure a prime location at the largest fleet management event under one roof anywhere! To connect with fleet management buyers at all levels – from corporate and public service fleet managers to fleet maintenance managers – exhibit at NAFA 2009 Institute & Expo.
Here are the forms you will need to reserve your booth space today:
2009 NAFA Institute & Expo Floor Plan
2009 NAFA I & E Exhibit Space Application
Look at the vendors already signed up!
To reserve your booth or request more information, contact
Mark Miller at 703-934-4700, ext. 1107, or exhibits@nafa.org.
NAFA INSTITUTE & EXPO IS THE MARKETPLACE THAT MATTERS MOST!
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Access to the best prospects for your products in all industry segments.
- Networking opportunities with your current customers, potential buyers and industry leaders. Conference programming that draws buyers.
- Complimentary registrations (one conference and three exhibitors per every 100 square feet).
- Listings in the Official Show Guide - which acts as a year-long buyers guide for attendees - as well as online.
- Join the Green Zone to showcase your "green" product or service, at no extra cost!
Sponsorship Opportunities Available!
The NAFA Affiliate Committee seeks Grand Celebration & Keynote Speaker support. With Affiliate Committee Seeks Grand Celebration & Keynote Speaker Support. The Grand Celebration at I&E is put on by the Manufacturers and Affiliates at each NAFA I&E. This year, this fantastic networking opportunity will take place on Sunday April 26, 2009.
Plus, 
Graeme Maxton was chosen to deliver this year's keynote address earlier that day, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. If you've watched CNN or CNBC, you may be familiar with Maxton, a writer and presenter who specializes in Asian business and economics as well as the world's auto industry. Neither event would be possible without generous affiliate sponsorships. The Affiliates Committee, in conjunction with Naylor, LLC, will be contacting Affiliates for contributions, which can translate into a valuable benefit for your company's via exposure to both NAFA Members and to your customers who attend the conference. The Affiliates Committee looks forward to your participation!
If you have questions after being contacted, please reach out to John Helman, chair of the Affiliates Committee, at jhelman@nagyfleetnet.com. For more detailed information on the Grand Celebration, keynote speaker and sponsoring, please see this month's Affiliate News Bulletin by clicking here.
Become an I&E Sponsor Today! I&E sponsorship packages are designed with maximum return on investment in mind. We have designed valuable sponsorship packages that consider budgets of all sizes. From pre-event marketing exposure to extensive on-site visibility to post-event press coverage and extensive online visibility, sponsoring NAFA's 2009 Institute & Expo is the ideal way to reach the largest gathering of fleet managers this year. Take advantage of the networking opportunities – the I&E is a great place to not only find new customers, but also build long-standing relationships.
Become a sponsor! Contact Mark Miller at (703) 934-4700, ext. 1107, or exhibits@nafa.org.
Act now to attend our next FMS! Highly successful and sold out weeks in advance, NAFA's Fleet Management Seminar will be held February 4 - 6, 2009, in Orlando, Florida. February may seem a long way off during the first week of December, but by registering now, you'll receive bonus savings with our Early Bird registration prices.
NAFA's Fleet Management Seminar is designed to provide comprehensive education to fleet managers and professionals who seek the fundamental principles and practices of successful fleet management. This seminar is the most comprehensive course of its kind, and what better way to learn about your field than from your peers and associates!
If you are enrolled in the CAFM program, you will be able to test upon the conclusion of the Seminar. An exam application is available at www.nafa.org/exams. Please note, a separate registration for the exams is required to gain access to the testing area.
Sign up by January 15 for the February 4 - 6 FMS at the Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel in Orlando, Florida, and save $75! Don't wait too long, because all of our past seminars have sold out! If you have any questions regarding the Fleet Management Seminar, please contact Gladys Reyes at 609.986.1051 or greyes@nafa.org. Click here to register.
General Motors Corp. announced it would sell its remaining equity stake in Suzuki Motor Corp., but based on a mutual agreement would continue the implementation and expansion of its business relationships with the company.
GM plans to sell 16,413,000 Suzuki shares, which is equal to 3 percent of Suzuki's total issued common stock, on the open market. Based on today's market price, the shares are worth approximately $230 million.
GM has held an equity stake in Suzuki since 1981, when it purchased approximately 5.3 percent of the Suzuki shares outstanding. GM's stake was diluted to 3.5 percent in subsequent years, but in 1998 GM increased its holding in Suzuki to 10 percent, and to slightly over 20 percent in 2001. In 2006, GM sold a 17.4 percent stake in Suzuki.
Suzuki and GM will continue promoting and implementing their existing projects, including development and collaboration on advanced technologies such as hybrids and fuel cells; joint operation of their CAMI vehicle manufacturing joint venture in Canada; collaboration on the development of powertrains; the cross-supply of OEM vehicles; joint global purchasing activities; and collaboration on entries in new emerging markets.
"We highly value our strategic relationship with Suzuki," said Rick Wagoner, GM chairman and chief executive officer. "Despite the sale of our remaining Suzuki shares, this action will have no impact on our existing bilateral business relationships. We look forward to continue building on our success to date with our long-term partner."
Suzuki and GM also agreed that they would discuss the repurchase of Suzuki shares by GM, should GM express its desire to do so at a future date.
Chrysler LLC and ZF Friedrichshafen AG announced the formation of a new axle manufacturing alliance. The partnership will utilize Chrysler's new Marysville (Mich.) Axle Plant to build three families of state-of-the-art axles for improved fuel efficiency.
"Advanced axle technologies are key to our powertrain offensive, aimed at improving the fuel efficiency of our products. And working with a partner allows us to reduce development costs and capital investment requirements. In the end, it's the customer who wins. These axles promise better mileage, better quality, and better refinement," Chrysler LLC President and Vice Chairman Tom LaSorda.
This program will consolidate the number of axles used on the company's vehicles for greater economies of scale. Included in the program is a family of front-wheel-drive axles and a family of rear-wheel-drive axles based on proprietary ZF designs and a Chrysler-designed rear-wheel-drive axle.
The Chrysler / ZF axle-making partnership, contingent on state and local incentives, ensures the retention of Chrysler employees, and anticipates a phased changeover from current Detroit Axle-centered operations.
As outlined in the company's Recovery and Transformation Plan, partnership opportunities are critical to Chrysler's future success. These opportunities involve new markets, new segments, new potential alliance partners and new sources for components. Chrysler's global strategy builds on the company's historic strengths, including the ability to respond rapidly and creatively to emerging opportunities. Forging strategic alliances is a cornerstone of the strategy.
Public transit agencies in San Diego, Calif., Las Vegas, Nev., and Phoenix, Ariz., have undertaken major expansions of their compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered bus fleets. Clean Energy Fuels Corp. currently contracts for CNG fueling services with the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, the Phoenix Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) and the Regional Transportation Commission of the Southern Nevada (RTC). With the addition of new CNG buses to these three transit agency fleets, the combined fuel requirement is anticipated to lead to an incremental increase of approximately 2.5 million gallons per year.
The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), operating 82 fixed bus routes throughout San Diego County, is scheduled to deploy 26 new 60-foot articulated CNG buses as well as 50 new 40-foot CNG buses by the end of November, bringing the agency's total CNG fleet to well over 400 buses. Clean Energy operates and maintains three fuel stations for San Diego MTS. When the new buses are fully deployed, total annual CNG fuel consumption is expected to top 6.5 million gallons.
The Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) in Phoenix is adding 51 new CNG buses to itscurrent contingent, bringing to 132 the total number of CNG buses deployed by RPTA. Clean Energy provides station operation and fueling service to the CNG bus fleet, which is now projected to use more than 900,000 gallons of fuel annually.
Serving the Greater Las Vegas area, the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) contracts with Clean Energy to operate and maintain two RTC transit fueling stations. These stations currently fuel more than 50 CNG buses and paratransit vehicles. A total of 45 new CNG buses are on order for delivery in early 2009. When fully deployed, the fleet of 95 CNG buses will consume up to 1.5 million gallons annually.
The nation's 3.5 million truck drivers will be limited to driving for only 11 hours and working for no more than 14 hours each day under a new rule recently issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The final rule is based on an exhaustive scientific review and designed to ensure truck drivers get the necessary rest to perform safe operations and the quality of life they deserve, the agency's Administrator, John Hill, noted.
The agency consulted with scientific and medical researchers, reviewed existing fatigue research and worked with organizations like the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies and the National Institute for Occupational Safety in setting the final "Hours of Service" rules, Administrator Hill noted.
Drivers also cannot operate a truck if they have worked more than 60 hours in a given week. Under the new rules, drivers who rest for at least 34 hours can also reset their weekly work schedule. The final rule for EOBRs is pending.
Government of Manitoba Introduces New Cell Phone Legislation
The Government of Manitoba has proposed amendments to the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) that would ban text messaging and talking on hand-held cell phones while driving, as well as smoking in cars when children under the age of 16 are present.
Announced in November, Infrastructure and Transportation Minister Ron Lemieux highlighted that this legislation renews the government's commitment to increasing safety on the province's roads.
In addition, Healthy Living Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross announced that the new legislation would help to protect Manitoba children from exposure to the harmful effects of second-hand tobacco smoke.
The proposed legislation would permit the use of hands-free communication devices when used in a hands-free manner. To date, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and Quebec all have comparable bans on hand-held cell phones, and Ontario has recently introduced proposals banning the use of hand-held cell phones while driving.
Bans on smoking in vehicles when children are present have also been introduced elsewhere in Canada, including British Columbia, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and the Yukon.
Minister Lemieux has informed the public that an extensive public education campaign will be launched in order to keep individuals informed and provide motorists with access to the information they need prior to the proposed amendments becoming law.
EPA Sets Renewable Fuel Standard for 2009
The 2009 renewable fuel standard (RFS) will be 10.21 percent to ensure that at least 11.1 billion gallons of renewable fuels will be blended into transportation gasoline and diesel fuels. The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 established the annual overall renewable fuel volume targets, reaching a level of 36 billion gallons in 2022. To achieve these volumes, EPA calculates a percentage-based standard by Nov. 30 for the following year. Based on the standard, each refiner, importer and non-oxygenate blender of gasoline determines the minimum volume of renewable fuel that it must ensure is used in motor vehicle fuel. The 2008 standard was 7.76 percent, equating to roughly 9 billion gallons.
Waxman Claims Energy Chairmanship
Representative Henry Waxman (D-CA) will replace Representative John Dingell (D-MI) as chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, announced on Nov. 20. The House Democratic Caucus ousted Dingell on a secret-ballot vote. The result gives Waxman, an environmentalist, a key role in shaping legislation on climate change, energy, healthcare, and other priorities of President-elect Obama.
EPA Announces Changes to SPCC Requirements
On Nov. 21, 2008, the Environmental Protection Agency amended the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure rule for aboveground oil storage tank systems. EPA amended the SPCC rule to provide clarity, tailor requirements to particular industry sectors, and streamline certain requirements while maintaining protection of human health and the environment. As part of the Oil Pollution Prevention regulation (40 CFR part 112), the SPCC rule outlines requirements for prevention of, preparedness for, and response to oil discharges. Regulated facilities must develop and implement SPCC plans that establish procedures and equipment requirements to help prevent oil discharges from reaching navigable waters or adjoining shorelines.
Among the changes, the revised rule provides a template for certain qualified facilities to complete and self-certify; amends the general secondary containment requirements; and amends the definition of "facility" to clarify the flexibility associated with describing a facility's boundaries.
For further information on the Amendments and all of the other requirements, go to the EPA website.
Federal Court Rules on Carbon Dioxide Emissions
A federal judge has ruled that the auto industry may not sue to prohibit Rhode Island from adopting California standards for limiting carbon dioxide emissions from vehicle tailpipes, the third time the industry has lost such an effort. The Rhode Island decision follows similar suits in California and Vermont where the courts ruled against the auto companies. Eleven states have already adopted the California rules and the governors of four states have said they will adopt the California rules.
IRS Sets Mileage Rate for 2009
Beginning on Jan. 1, 2009, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups, or panel trucks) will be:
• 55 cents per mile for business miles driven;
• 24 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes; and
• 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations.
The new rates for business, medical, and moving purposes are slightly lower than rates for the second half of 2008 that were raised by a special adjustment mid-year in response to a spike in gasoline prices.
The business mileage rate was 50.5 cents in the first half of 2008 and 58.5 cents in the second half. The medical and moving rate was 19 cents in the first half and 27 cents in the second half. The mileage rates for 2009 reflect generally higher transportation costs compared to a year ago, but the rates also factor in the recent reversal of rising gasoline prices. While gasoline is a significant factor in the mileage rate, other fixed and variable costs, such as depreciation, enter the calculation.
The Renault-Nissan Alliance announced Nissan North America, Inc. is committing to working with the Sonoma County community of governments to develop solutions for zero-emissions mobility through the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) and the development of an EV charging network throughout Sonoma County, in northern California.
As part of the agreement, Nissan has committed to make available a supply of EVs to Sonoma County community of governments, as well as to work with the parties to develop plans for the creation of an EV battery-charging network in the county. The Sonoma County group will work with Nissan towards realizing these objectives, particularly through the development of methods that encourage the purchase or lease of EVs as well as the establishment of an EV charging network.
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has committed the Alliance to be a global leader in zero-emision vehicles (ZEVs). Nissan will introduce ZEVs in the United States and Japan in 2010 and will make them available to the mass market, globally, two years later. The Sonoma County community of governments has committed to a greenhouse gas reduction target of 25 percent, with the goal of bringing greenhouse gas levels to below those of 1990, by 2015. The encouragement of a transportation shift to smart transit, including EVs, is key to the plan's execution.
The Renault-Nissan Alliance has begun ZEV initiatives in Israel, Denmark, Portugal, Kanagawa Prefecture (Japan), and with French electric utility company EDF. In the United States, the Alliance also has agreed to a ZEV partnership with the State of Tennessee the Tennessee Valley Authority and other partners, to explore ways to promote zero-emission mobility in Middle Tennessee. Earlier this week, Nissan entered into a partnership with the State of Oregon in conjunction with utility company Portland General Electric.
Johnson Controls, the global multi-industrial leader in energy efficiency and sustainability, has teamed up with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to launch greenprint (http://www.mygreenprint.org/). Greenprint is an interactive online tool that helps individuals understand and improve their ecological footprint, educates participants about the benefits of sustainable living, and allows them to score their current level of personal sustainability. It also challenges individuals to commit to taking three actions that would have a significant environmental impact 
with modest additional effort.
The greenprint tool sets itself apart by helping individuals identify and prioritize practical options for improving sustainability at home, work and in their vehicles. Upon completion, greenprint provides a score that reflects current behaviors -- and another score that reflects the benefit of intended changes. Users can compare their results with other users.
Greenprint challenges individuals to commit to new energy-efficient or sustainable behaviors immediately. The data collected will be tracked to observe trends over time and to better understand how to accelerate change. Johnson Controls anticipates working with other nonprofit organizations in the promotion of greenprint to support a variety of consumer and corporate sustainability initiatives.
Ruff & Tuff Electric Vehicles (RTEV) and Shuanghuan Automobile Company have formed a partnership to produce and market affordable all-electric cars for sale around the world. The first automobile will be a two-seat compact car that will be launched in the United States in May 2009. It will be marketed exclusively by RTEV under the Wheego Whip name in North America and by Shuanghuan Automobile as the Electric Noble (E-Noble) in the rest of the world.
While the car is capable of speeds of 95 kHz (60 mph) it will be sold to different countries specifically designed to meet the safety requirements of the particular country. In the United States, it will be launched as a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV- 25 mph max) or Medium Speed Vehicle (MSV- 35 mph max) depending on local state regulations, until it passes U.S. Department of Transportation safety crash requirements, which is expected sometime in early 2010.
The E-Noble will be manufactured by Shuanghuan at its factory in Shijiahuang. While the Wheego Whip will be based on the Noble platform, it will undergo final assembly, including the motor, drive train, controller, electronic components and be programmed in the United States. The car will travel 80 kilometers (50 miles) on a single charge-and plug in for a recharge on any standard household 110 or 220-volt electrical outlet.
From now until Dec. 31, GEM is offering savings of $500 or more per car. To receive the discount, GEM customers can download coupons worth $500 for GEM e2 and eS models and $1,000 off all other GEM models from the GEM Web site, www.gemcar.com , where they can also locate a dealer nearby. Then, just bring the coupon to their local GEM dealer and apply the savings to any 2008 GEM model available in dealer inventories.
Customers in California can enjoy extra savings by combining the discount coupon with a maximum $1,320 rebate offered through the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which aims to promote the use of alternative fuel vehicles.
GEM customers include college campuses, sports teams, governments, the military, medical centers, corporate campuses, master-planned communities, and resorts. Individual consumers also enjoy driving their GEM cars for short trips, including local errands and entertainment in their neighborhoods.
GEM manufactures and distributes neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) that are an environmentally-friendly transportation alternative, and travel at a maximum speed of 25 mph as determined by law on most streets posted 35 mph or less.
December Store Sale! Special holiday savings exclusively for Members and Affiliates! NAFA Members and NAFA Affiliates: Thank you for your membership support throughout the past year! Now through Dec. 31, save an additional 25 percent off the regular member prices on select NAFA products.
Products in this special month-long sale include:
Driver Transportation Options
Personal Use for Fleets
Requests for Proposals Guide
Fleet Information Management Guide
Fleet Acquisition and Disposal Guide
Items must be purchased using the online store. Sale price is reflected on price listed online -- no need for a discount code. Regular shipping and handling apply. Sale ends Dec. 31, 2008. Please allow four to six weeks for delivery.
Order Today!
To download a catalog of current products, click here.
Space is provided in each issue of FleetFOCUS for companies and organizations to advertise career opportunities in the fleet industry. This space also allows members to market themselves to potential employers. Listings must be 200 words or fewer. Links to complete job descriptions on the company's own Web site are suggested. Please note all of the materials a candidate must supply in order to be considered for the position (e.g., resume, salary history, municipal application, etc.). To take advantage of this service, e-mail your ad to Patrick McCarren at pmccarren@nafa.org.
New Job Postings This Issue
Fleet Services Superintendent - Gilbert, Arizona
Regional Fleet Sales Manager - Southeast - Pep Boys
Vice President - The Jim Pattison Group - Calgary, BC, Canada
Fleet Technician - City of Brampton, ON, Canada
Job Wanted Listings Provide New Networking Opportunities!
Are you looking for a new job or a motivated, hard-working employee? NAFA's Job Wanted Listings is a new and exclusive benefit for members and affiliates who are looking to make a career change. At the most recent board meeting, the trustees approved this new opportunity to assist both NAFA members and NAFA affiliates with career changes. PLEASE NOTE: This new and exclusive benefit is FREE! To take advantage of this service, e-mail your Job Wanted posting to Patrick McCarren at pmccarren@nafa.org.
Resume Bank
NAFA is going one more step to help those in the industry gain employment. For a small fee, NAFA will send resumes to any prospective employer who places an ad on the Career Network Section of the NAFA Web site. Employers will be provided with new, up-to-date resumes that fit the job for a small cost.
There is still no charge to submit a resume to the Resume Bank. To be included in the Resume Bank, please send a current version of your resume to Maureen Smith, NAFA, Inc., 125 Village Blvd., Suite 200, Princeton, NJ 08540, or fax it to 609-452-8004. Resumes can also be e-mailed to Maureen Smith at msmith@nafa.org. Also, if you would like to include a generic cover letter to be sent to potential employers, please include that as part of your resume. Make sure your home address, home phone or cell phone and personal email address are included on your resume. Potential employers will contact you directly. NAFA has a number of fleet-related job openings on the Jobs Wanted/Available page (click here).
Industry Calendar
Click here
December is a busy month for NAFA Chapters! Chapter meetings will take place, including:
December 3, 2008
St. Louis Gateway Chapter: Christmas Dinner
Location: TBD
Contact: Robert Hornsey, rhornsey@stlouisco.com, P 314.615.5333
December 3, 2008
Chicago Chapter - Holiday Luncheon
Location: Maggiano's Little Italy, Schaumburg, IL
Contact: Diane Lopez, P: 847.938.3886, F: 847.938.5826
RSVP by November 21, 2008
December 4, 2008
Michigan Chapter Holiday Party and Charity Event
Location: Hard Rock Cafe, Detroit, MI
Contact: Joel Neumeyer, P: 248.597.3514, or via email joel.neumeyer@vpsiinc.com
December 4, 2008
Southwest Chapter: Annual Christmas Social & Charity Raffle
Location: Hilton Palacio Del Rio, San Antonio, TX
Contact: Connie Qualls,connieq@kacals.com, P 713.747.8076
December 4, 2008
New England Chapter: Manufacturer Product Highlights Auto Show
Location: Philips old Colony House and Boston Convention Center
Contact: Karen Doyon, kdoyon@sperianprotection.com, P 401.757.2214.
RSVP by November 21, 2008
December 4, 2008
San Francisco Chapter: Holiday Luncheon
Location: Ruth's Chris, Walnut Creek, CA
December 5, 2008
Southwest Chapter: Annual Christmas Social & Charity Raffle
Location: Hilton Palacio Del Rio, San Antonio, TX
Contact: Connie Qualls, connieq@kacals.com, P 713.747.8076
December 9, 2008
Rocky Mountain Chapter: Holiday Meeting / Toy & Food Drive
Location: The Franciscan Event Center, Englewood, CO
Contact: Linda George, P: 720.286.2057, linda.george@ch2m.com
RSVP by December 5, 2008
December 9, 2008
New Jersey Chapter - Holiday Meeting and Fleet Fair
Location: Birchwood Manor, Whippany, NJ
Contact: Donna Bibbo, P: 609.987.5466, dbib@novonordisk.com
RSVP by December 5, 2008
December 10, 2008
New York Holiday Meeting
Location: Friars Club
December 10, 2008
Mid-America Chapter: Holiday Party and Charity
Location: Inter-Continental on the Country Club Plaza
Contact: Becky Hanna, bhanna1@hallmark.com
December 11, 2008
NAFA North Central - Holiday Event 2008
Location: Chanhassen Dinner Theater, Chanhassen, MN
Contact: Dave Schiller, P: 651.259.5497
RSVP: November 7, 2008
December 17, 2008
New England Chapter: Christmas Party and Toys for Tots Collection
Location: Stockyard, Boston, MA
Contact: Karen Doyon, kdoyon@sperianprotection.com, P 401.757.2214
Other December Events:
December 2 -4, 2008
EDTA Conference & Exposition: Powering Sustainable Transportation
Location: DC Convention Center, Washington, D.C.
Contact: www.edtaconference.com
Members Benefit You:
Welcome New Members and Affiliates Who Joined in November!
Which new colleagues and suppliers might you benefit from? Welcome new NAFA Members and new NAFA Affiliates. Click here to view.
e-Communities offers members the chance to reach colleagues and share ideas when they need to -- anytime, anywhere! These virtual neighborhoods allow members to easily e-mail others within that community with specific fleet questions. As a subscriber to e-Communities, you can:
- View real-time activity between other subscribed members within the group(s) you subscribe to.
- Share your knowledge and assist a fellow member in need, access lists of subscribers for each group and access a history of inquiries posted to e-Communities.
- Some of the topics include alternative fuels, disaster relief, fleet maintenance, global fleet, law enforcement, and many more! Come be a part of NAFA's community!
To visit e-Communities, please click here.
Free and open to all, NAFA's Fleet Technician Service Resource Web site is designed to assist fleet managers in identifying the educational resources needed by service technicians. Because NAFA recognizes, encourages and promotes the certification of automotive service professionals by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), the Web site is organized according to ASE's testing categories.
By clicking on each of the categories, you or your service technicians can see a selection of the most useful books, videos, CDs and other resources designed to prepare technicians for the ASE test in that category. ASE measures the skills of automotive service professionals through its national certification program, through which ASE-certified technicians prove their technical competence to themselves, to their employers, and to their customers.
Visit today at www.nafa.org/ase and www.asenafa.org.
Have you been promoted? Is your company moving? Did you get a new job? Are you retiring? Remember to notify NAFA about these and other changes.
If you are retiring, please contact NAFA, as you may be eligible to become a NAFA alumnus and stay in touch with your NAFA colleagues and friends.
There are two easy ways to both help your colleagues keep in touch and make changes to your membership record: 1) click on "My Profile" on the NAFA homepage and submit changes, or 2) e-mail info@nafa.org.