NAFA Connection
NAFA Fleet Management Association
SAVE on the 2009 I&E
April 25-28 at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center
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!
"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."
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 I&E 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.
From the I&E site, you can easily:
- Register online or download the registration form
- Locate information whether you're an attendee, exhibitor, or sponsor
- Discover what's new and exciting at I&E this year (visit our "What's New" page to keep you updated on the latest I&E information)
- Find out how you can participate in NAFA's Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Project
- Reserve your hotel room and learn more about New Orleans
- 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
On Friday, April 24, NAFA's Masters' Seminar; Carbon Footprint Calculation and Management, will provide an explanation of the contribution of vehicle emissions to greenhouse gases, as well as an examination of GHG emissions reduction strategies including fuel conservation and the impact of alternative fuel substitutions.
The Seminar's expert panel – all with invaluable environmental and fleet management experience – will provide a demonstration of the EDF-NAFA carbon emission calculator, and provide an explanation of U.S. EPA fleet mandates.
Don't miss this must-attend event - register now! The seminar takes place the day before NAFA's 2008 Institute & Expo begins and requires a separate fee for materials. Seminar attendees also receive breakfast and lunch. To register, use the Institute & Expo registration form at www.nafaiande.org. You do not have to register for the expo to attend the seminar; however, space is limited, so interested fleet managers should sign up in advance.
Straight Talk from Fleet Leasing Executives is Back!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
One of NAFA's most talked about I&E panel sessions, Straight Talk from Fleet Leasing Executives, will be presented on Sunday, April 26, 2009, at 10 a.m. This session is an interactive, up-close exchange among the executives of the top fleet management companies. Discussions will cover purchasing, funding and accounting, legislative changes, risk, driver and vehicle safety, new technologies, and more. Scheduled to participate are executives from Donlen Corporation, Emkay, Inc., GE Capital Solutions, LeasePlan USA, PHH Arval, American Automotive Leasing Association, Automotive Resources International and Wheels, Inc. To learn more about NAFA's most popular seminar, click here.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Panel
Monday, April 27, 2009
Last year, NAFA's Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Panel was standing room only, capturing the interest of fleet managers who wanted to learn the latest fleet initatives and programs from OEMs.
This year's OEM panel will be offered from 9:45 - 11:15 a.m. on Monday, April 27. An interactive exchange among top executives from major auto manufacturers such as Audi, Chrysler, Ford, Honda, GM, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Subaru, Toyota, and Volvo, this panel discussion will focus on a number of fleet topics, including:
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The latest fleet initiatives and programs from OEMs
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Current status of development of hybrid technology, alternative engines, telematics, and safety-related products
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Future direction of product mix and engine options
Click here for more information.
Greening Your Fleet: Learn from the Winners
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Learn the secrets of creating an environmentally friendly fleet from the 2009 NAFA Green Fleet Award Winners. In this session, you will learn how to develop a winning strategy to "green" your fleet, how new technologies helped these companies reduce their carbon footprint, and how to create a sustainable "green" policy for your fleet organization.
Winning fleet managers will share their strategies on how to move forward in a world where energy security, sustainability, and global warming are critical issues. Learn proven, successful business practices and technology applications that will help your fleet rank with the "greenest" in the nation. Click here for more information.
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. For full course descriptions, visit our Detailed Program page, or click here.
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.
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.
Make Your Hotel Reservations A.S.A.P!
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 Affiliates 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 Deadlines Approaching!
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! Platinum sponsors have a deadline of Dec. 31 to send in applications, and all other sponsors have a deadline of March 31. Contact Mark Miller at (703) 934-4700, ext. 1107, or exhibits@nafa.org.
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 a.m.
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!
Highly successful and sold out weeks in advance, NAFA's Fleet Management Seminar will be held Feb. 4 - 6, 2009, in Orlando, Fla. 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?
Attention CAFM Participants: 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 that a separate registration for the exams is required to gain access to the testing area. Register today!
Attention: Hotel Cut-Off for Group Rate - Friday, Jan. 9, 2009
Sign up by Jan. 15 for the Feb. 4 - 6 FMS at the Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel in Orlando, Fla., and save $25! 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.
NAFA's New Jersey Chapter held its annual holiday meeting and fleet fair at the Birchwood Manor in Whippany, N.J., on Dec. 9. Joe Hemberger, a national consultant for Automotive Training Institute (ATI), was the keynote speaker.
Hemberger kicked off the meeting with a look at the importance of vehicle maintenance. While his background includes media work with Fox TV in Florida, Virginia, and Philadelphia as "Auto Joe Hemberger," he originally started out as an automotive technician and has been certified as a Master ASE, Master VW, Master Audi, and Porsche technician. He's also held many positions ranging from a new car dealer service advisor, warranty clerk, tire and service center manager, and District Manager to a Regional Vice President for the largest tire and service center company in the United States.
One of the main things Hemberger stressed was the need to get your drivers to be proactive with vehicle maintenance. Many expensive repair costs could be reduced with simple, regular maintenance, such as having drivers make sure their tires are properly inflated. He also pointed out that punishing bad drivers doesn't really fix the problem and suggested going the route of rewarding good drivers. Cash rewards, he said, are a great motivator.
Afterwards, everyone went upstairs to where the fleet fair was held. Exhibitors included Corporate Claims Management, TPC (The Promotion Company), Auto Driveway NY/NJ, Mobile Office, Subaru, ARI, PARS, Ford, Driving Dynamics, Prestige Motors, ADTS, General Motors, Englewood Auto Group, Pep-Boys, Toyota, GE Capital Fleet, CEI, PHH, Aamco Transmissions, Mercedes Benz, and Audi.
The night concluded over dinner where Members and Affiliates eagerly awaited their numbers called for raffle prizes ranging from gift cards for retail stores like Best Buy to a DVD player. People were given an extra raffle ticket for each fleece blanket brought to the meeting. The blankets were collected for Holiday Express, which will distribute them to the homeless and wheelchair bound individuals over the holidays. Overall, the evening was a great night and a fine way to start the holiday season.
General Motors announced a significant reduction of planned production for the first quarter of 2009 due to the ongoing and severe drop in industry sales, which were down 36 percent in November overall and 41 percent for the year (2007 vs. 2008). The impact of these and recently announced actions to adjust production with market demand will result in the temporary idling of approximately 30 percent of GM's North American assembly plant volume during the first quarter of 2009 and will remove approximately 250,000 units from production.
The speed and severity of the U.S. auto market's decline has been unprecedented in recent weeks as consumers reel from the collapse of the financial markets and the resulting lack of credit for vehicle financing.
As a result of these assembly plant actions, GM will also continue to assess its powertrain and stamping capacity needs and make adjustments as appropriate.
Attorney General Edmund G. Brown Jr. sent Congressional leaders a letter urging them to include language in any automaker bailout legislation that would authorize California and other states to implement and enforce California's greenhouse gas emissions standards.
California's greenhouse gas standards require a 30 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles by 2016. More than a dozen states have adopted similar standards, which the auto industry has fought to prevent from taking effect. Click here for more information.
Hawaii plans to be first in the nation to provide electric car stations statewide in an effort to decrease foreign oil dependency by 2030.
The plan is only the second of its kind in the nation and will help fuel Hawaii's drive to lead the nation in renewable energy use, and create jobs locally, while also helping secure their energy future.
"Hawaii, with its ready access to renewable energy resources like solar, wind, wave, and geothermal, is the ideal location to serve as a blueprint for the rest of the U.S. in terms of reducing our dependence on foreign oil, growing our renewable energy portfolio and creating an infrastructure that will stabilize our economy," said Shai Agassi, Founder and CEO of Better Place.
Currently, Hawaii imports foreign oil for almost 90 percent of its energy needs but this new plan could help the state meet its Clean Energy Initiative by 2030.
Aiding in this effort is Better Place, a California-based company, that will build the car recharging stations and provide recharged batteries for electric cars. Hawaii will join Israel, Denmark, Australia, and California since Better Place was founded in 2007, committed to deploying the world's first electric car networks.
Hawaiian Electric Companies and Better Place Hawaii also signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on the infrastructure and energy needs to power Better Place's unique network of public charging spots and battery swapping stations with renewable energy.
General Motors
General Motors dealers in the United States delivered 154,877 vehicles in November, down 41 percent compared with a year ago. GM car sales of 58,786 were off 44 percent, and truck sales of 96,091 were down 39 percent. The steep decline in vehicle sales was largely due to a significant drop in the market's retail demand compared with last year, and continuing economic uncertainty that has negatively impacted consumer confidence.
GM hybrids continue to build sales momentum. A total of 1,335 hybrid vehicles were delivered in the month. Hybrid sales included: 404 hybrid Chevrolet Tahoe, 190 GMC Yukon, and 173 Cadillac Escalade 2-mode SUVs delivered. There were 195 Chevrolet Malibu, 45 Saturn Aura, and 328 Vue hybrids sold in November. Hybrids comprised 10 percent of combined Yukon/Tahoe retail sales and 12 percent of Escalade retail sales in the month. So far in 2008, GM has sold a total of 11,884 hybrids.
GM inventories dropped compared with a year ago. In November, only about 862,000 vehicles were in stock, down about 130,000 vehicles (or about 13 percent) compared with last year. There were about 379,000 cars and 483,000 trucks (including crossovers) in inventory at the end of November.
November 2008 sales for all certified GM brands, including GM Certified Used Vehicles, Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, and HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, were 33,731 vehicles, down 10 percent from November 2007. Year-to-date sales are 442,182 vehicles, down 7 percent from the same period last year.
GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling certified brand, posted November sales of 28,607 vehicles, down more than 12 percent from November 2007. Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 863 vehicles, down 16 percent. Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 3,453 vehicles, up 7 percent. Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 552 vehicles, up 18 percent, and HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 256 vehicles, up 95 percent.
GM North America
GM North America Reports November, 2008 Production; Fourth Quarter Forecast at 835,000 Vehicles; Initial Q1 2009 Production Forecast at 600,000 Vehicles
In November, GM North America produced 249,000 vehicles (109,000 cars and 140,000 trucks). This is down 117,000 vehicles, or 32 percent, compared with November 2007 when the region produced 366,000 vehicles (134,000 cars and 232,000 trucks). (Production totals include joint venture production of 8,000 vehicles in November 2008 and 22,000 vehicles in November 2007.)
Ford Motor Co.
Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury outpaced industry-wide November sales, thanks largely to F-Series truck sales, and grew its retail and total market share for the second straight month.
Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury dealers reported total sales of 118,818 in November, down 30 percent versus a year ago, while industry-wide auto sales in November were down an estimated 35 percent as the weakening economy continues to take a toll on consumer confidence and spending.
November marked the official introduction of the all-new F-150. F-Series sales totaled 37,911 including nearly 5,000 all-new 2009 model F-150s. Ford's F-Series has been America's No. 1-selling truck for 31 years in a row, and the new F-150 is designed and engineered to further raise the bar in the light-duty pickup market.
North American Production
The company plans to produce 430,000 vehicles in the first quarter of 2009. During the first quarter of 2008, the company produced 692,000 vehicles. The fourth quarter 2008 production plan is unchanged from the previously announced plan of 430,000 vehicles.
Chrysler LLC
Chrysler LLC reported total November 2008 U.S. sales of 85,260 units, down 10 percent versus October 2008 (94,530 units), and down 47 percent from the same month last year. Inside these total numbers, fleet sales decreased 63 percent versus last November, as planned, and retail sales were in line with the retail industry (down 36 percent). The company's U.S. retail market share increased 0.6 percentage points in November.
Chrysler Canada
Chrysler Canada announced sales of 15,560 for the month of November, with calendar year-to-date sales of 210,702 compared to 213,729 in the same period last year.
The Toyota Division posted November sales of 114,084 units, a decrease of 33.8 percent from last November. The Lexus Division reported November sales of 16,223 units, a decrease of 34.7 percent from the year-ago month.
Toyota Division
Toyota Division passenger cars recorded November sales of 68,013 units, down 31.1 percent from the same period last year. Passenger car sales were led by Camry and Camry Hybrid, which posted combined sales of 25,224 units. Camry Hybrid reported November sales of 2,174 units. Corolla recorded sales of 21,807 units. Yaris reported sales of 4,545 units for the month. The Prius mid-size gas-electric hybrid posted November sales of 8,660 units.
Toyota Division light trucks posted November sales of 46,071 units, down 37.4 percent from November 2007. Light truck sales were led by the RAV4 compact SUV with November sales of 9,260 units. The Tacoma mid-size pickup reported sales of 8,648 units for the month. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined sales of 7,887 units. The Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported sales of 907 units. Sequoia posted sales of 1,873 units for the month, up 51.9 percent over the same period last year.
Scion posted November sales of 5,275 units. The xB urban utility vehicle led the way with sales of 2,161 units. The tC sports coupe recorded sales of 1,728 units. The xD reported sales of 1,386 units for the month.
Lexus Division
Lexus passenger cars reported November sales of 8,941 units, a decrease of 40.0 percent from November 2007. Passenger car sales were led by the ES entry luxury sedan with November sales of 4,116 units. The IS entry luxury sport sedan reported combined sales of 2,749 units. The LS flagship luxury sedan reported combined sales of 1,272 units. The GS luxury sport sedan reported combined November sales of 721 units.
Lexus Division light trucks recorded November sales of 7,282 units, down 26.9 percent from the year-ago month. Lexus sales were led by the RX luxury utility vehicle, which posted combined November sales of 5,850 units. The RX 400h hybrid luxury utility vehicle reported sales of 624 units for the month.
Volvo Cars of North America and Subaru have joined the Carfax Service Link program; service and maintenance information for vehicles serviced by Volvo dealers will be reported to Carfax and appear in Carfax Vehicle History Reports. The free program creates a virtual directory of trusted dealerships at which new owners can have service and maintenance performed.
"The Carfax Service Link program benefits both our retailers and potential customers," said Susan Heusser, VCNA Service Support Manager. "It benefits our retailers by providing not only free advertising, but also the ability to retain service business and even add a premium to the selling price of the used vehicles on their lot. In addition, the customer gains confidence knowing the vehicle was serviced and maintained at a Volvo retailer."
GE Capital Solutions Fleet Services has processed more than $5.7 million in rebates for its customers who lease hybrid or alternative fuel motor vehicles since implementing a rebate program. The rebate program is designed for customers who make significant investments in new technology to improve their environmental performance.
Since the Energy Tax Incentives Act of 2005 became law, there has been confusion about how it relates to commercial vehicle fleets. Nearly $875 million of the Act's $14.5 billion is reserved for advanced vehicular technology projects such as hybrid or alternative fuel tax credits. GE Capital Solutions Fleet Services was the first in the fleet industry to put together a program that recognizes those customers who are taking the initiative now to green their company vehicles.
The program processes a rebate back to hybrid or alternative fuel lease customers in a simple, straightforward manner. The IRS sets the vehicle specific credit amounts and OEM specific phase-out requirements. Based on IRS regulations, GE Capital Solutions Fleet Services tracks eligible vehicles for its customers by utilizing PricewaterhouseCooper's Like Kind Exchange Services group to calculate the hybrid or alternative fuel credit based on eligible vehicles as reported by Polk's VIN validation service. Based on this program, GE Capital Solutions Fleet Services approved more than $5.7 million in rebates for its customers since instituting the program.
"Our customers who made the decision to lease hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles are now realizing the value of these vehicles," said Karin Overstreet, environmental performance solutions product manager at GE Capital Solutions Fleet Services. "The higher upfront cost is far outweighed by lower fuel costs, lower CO2 emissions and now the opportunity to take advantage of these tax credits. GE is working hard to develop additional programs that will continue to help our customers meet their environmental and business goals."
DOT Issues HOS Rule
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 issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The new federal rule requires all truck drivers to spend at least 10 hours resting between shifts before being allowed back on the road. 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 is available at:
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/rulemakings/final/E8-27437-HOS-Final-Rule-11-19-08.pdf.
OSHA Extends Comment Period for Proposed Rule on Cranes and Derricks
OSHA is extending the public comment period for 45 days on the agency's proposed rule on cranes and derricks which was published in the Oct. 9, 2008, Federal Register. The reasons include the comprehensive nature of the proposal and the number of requests for public comment. Details are available in the Dec. 2 Federal Register. The agency will be scheduling a public hearing soon.
Administration Working on Aid to Auto Industry
The Bush administration is still negotiating the terms of an auto-industry financial assistance package, but has no plans for an immediate announcement, White House Press Secretary Dana Perino said on December 16, "We are not going to be rushed into it," Perino said, adding that any deal would require major concessions from the industry. "If we're going to use taxpayer financing to assist the automakers, all stakeholders are going to have to come to the table and be willing to show that they are capable and willing to make really tough decisions about the way forward," Perino said. President Bush signaled Monday that a bailout could be coming soon, saying bankruptcy by any of the Big Three automakers would be devastating for the economy.
California Adopts Diesel Measure
The California Air Resources Board has adopted two regulations intended to reduce emissions from the estimated one million heavy-duty diesel trucks that operate in California. Beginning January 1, 2011, the Statewide Truck and Bus rule will require truck owners to install diesel exhaust filters on their rigs, with nearly all vehicles upgraded by 2014. Owners must also replace engines older than the 2010 model year according to a staggered implementation schedule that extends from 2012 to 2022. Also adopted was the the Heavy Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction measure which requires long-haul truckers to install fuel efficient tires and aerodynamic devices on their trailers that lower greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel economy.
For more information on the Statewide Bus and Truck Regulation, go here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2008/truckbus08/truckbus08.htm.
For more information on the Heavy Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Reduction Measure go here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2008/ghghdv08/ghghdv08.htm.
Canadian Legislative Updates
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation has announced that it is ready to develop safety standards that could help speed up the process for the arrival of low-speed electric cars in the province.
The Zenn (short for Zero Emissions No Noise) Motor Company has been producing low-speed vehicles (LSVs) for nearly 10 years, even though they are not permitted on the roads in Canada's biggest auto sales market. This is the case because the province has said that the electric cars are not up to par when it comes to federal passenger car safety standards.
The province will now set new standards for LSVs and is prepared to allow the less powerful cars on public roads, providing that they include a number of additional safety requirements and follow the proper road restrictions.
Thus far, the only provinces in Canada that allow LSVs on the roads are British Columbia and Quebec.
Transportation Minister Jim Bradley announced that the government plans to reveal the new safety standards and the rules of the road for LSVs this winter.
The National Biodiesel Board praised the opening of the first retail biodiesel pump in the state of New Jersey. Located at 12 Burnett Avenue in Maplewood, the retail pump is operated by Woolley Fuel Company and the biodiesel is supplied by Sprague Energy Corp.
"While a number of fleets in New Jersey, including the Department of Transportation, have used biodiesel blends for many years, this pump opening marks the first time biodiesel will be sold directly to consumers in the state," said Joe Jobe, NBB CEO. "We commend Woolley Fuel and Sprague Energy for their leadership in making this retail pump a reality and fully expect it to be well-received by the community."
In October 2008, New Jersey's Medford Township School District celebrated 10 years of using B20, a 20 percent blend of biodiesel, in school buses. The retail pump will sell B5, a 5 percent blend of biodiesel. The company has plans to increase the blend to B20. Nationwide, there are more than 1,200 retail pumps.
"Woolley is currently pumping B5, a 5 percent bio blend; they look forward to expanding to B20, a 20 percent bio/80 percent diesel blend in the near future. Hopefully this will be the first of hundreds of stations carrying biodiesel throughout the state of New Jersey, joining the 1268 biodiesel retail sites already existing throughout the United States," said Steven J. Levy, Managing Director at Sprague Energy.
Through ongoing evaluation and tests at its Pomona, Calif.-based Electric Vehicle Technical Center, Southern California Edison (SCE) has demonstrated battery life performance equivalent to more than 180,000 miles in a commercial delivery van with minimal battery deterioration. The battery test, conducted in a laboratory setting, uses a Johnson Control-Saft lithium-ion battery subpack that is one-sixth of the actual battery size used in a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. The subpack has been tested continuously for two and a half years, and testing continues to monitor the battery's remarkable performance.
Based on the results achieved with the battery pack, the U.S. Department of Energy has provided SCE with a full-size lithium ion battery and has asked SCE to test and evaluate the battery's viability for passenger car application.
At its Electric Vehicle Technical Center, through partnerships with EPRI, Ford, and other groups interested in the technology, SCE is evaluating the nation's first plug-in hybrid Ford sport utility vehicle. The center evaluates all forms of electrodrive technologies for energy use, operating costs, efficiency, reliability, power quality, battery life, system impacts, and safety.
Recaptured Energy Technologies new Web site, www.recapenergy.com, features in-depth information about the company's new hydraulic braking and propulsion system for fleet, commercial, and transit vehicles that can be retrofit to existing vehicles. Detailed charts and diagrams explain clearly and succinctly how Recaptured Energy Technologies can help municipalities and organizations save money by providing energy solutions.
"Our Web site is designed to convey our dedication to increasing energy efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint of fleet and transit vehicles," said Sam Jones, president of Recaptured Energy Technologies. "During these challenging economic times, the site provides decision makers with a resource when considering options to reduce fuel consumption and save money."
ZAP's new Xebra Xero Electric Truck was recently featured on "The Today Show" with host/weatherman Al Roker and Green Gadget expert Cat Schwartz showing off the best of green gadgets.
Electric trucks like ZAP's new XL and Xebra Xero fill a growing niche for fleets and small businesses that demand more flexibility and economy in their vehicle mix.
The ZAP Xebra Electric Truck seats up to two people and can travel up to 40 mph. The truck can also be equipped with an optional solar panel to help supplement your daily range per charge and keep your batteries energized in the sun.
The XL is able to drive up to 30 miles on a charge. From a standard 110 volt outlet, the ZAP Truck XL recharges in about six hours and an 80 percent charge in just four hours. ZAP offers optional upgrades to 220 volt charging for faster charging.
This larger truck presents an opportunity for ZAP dealers to reach out to local fleets looking for larger payload electric vehicles that will help them save capital costs while helping protect the environment.
The Air Resources Board recently adopted two critical regulations directly aimed at cleaning up harmful emissions from the estimated one million heavy-duty diesel trucks that operate in California.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2011, the Statewide Truck and Bus rule will require truck owners to install diesel exhaust filters on their rigs, with nearly all vehicles upgraded by 2014. Owners must also replace engines older than the 2010 model year according to a staggered implementation schedule that extends from 2012 to 2022.
Also adopted, the Heavy Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction measure requires long-haul truckers to install fuel efficient tires and aerodynamic devices on their trailers that lower greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel economy.
To help truck owners upgrade their vehicles, the state is offering more than a billion dollars in funding opportunities. With the new State Bus and Truck rule in place, by 2014, diesel emissions will be 68 percent lower than they would be without the regulation, while emissions of the smog-forming pollutant NOx (oxides of nitrogen) will be 25 percent lower.
Commissioner of Energy Resources, Phil Giudice, took possession of the first state-owned plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in Massachusetts, a Toyota Prius retrofitted with a high-capacity battery that recharges from a standard electric outlet to achieve a two-thirds reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and is capable of fuel efficiency of more than 100 miles per gallon.
The car is the first of up to 20 current state-owned gasoline hybrid cars to be retrofitted by advanced battery maker A123Systems of Watertown on a demonstration basis in the coming months. The Green Communities Act, the comprehensive energy reform act signed by Governor Deval Patrick in July, requires the Commonwealth to purchase "hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles...to the maximum extent feasible" as it buys new cars, with such vehicles making up 50 percent of the state fleet by 2018.
As part of its Leading By Example program, the Commonwealth will retrofit up to 20 gasoline hybrid vehicles currently owned by state agencies to plug-in operation, in order to demonstrate new technology that achieves unprecedented fuel efficiency.
In addition, the plug-in hybrid pilot program will be extended to the private sector through the Department of Energy Resources (DOER), which will launch a program to subsidize plug-in hybrids for company fleet or employee use to demonstrate commuter use of these high-mileage, low-emission vehicles. According to the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), half of the cars in the U.S. are driven just 25 miles a day or less. Funding for 50 percent of the purchase and retrofit cost for up to 20 PHEVs, or $400,000 overall, comes from nitrogen oxide (NOx) allowance funds managed by DOER.
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:
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Driver Transportation Options
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Fleet Acquisition and Disposal Guide
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Fleet Information Management Guide
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Personal Use for Fleets
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Requests for Proposals 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.
NAFA has provided space in each issue of the FleetFOCUS for companies and organizations to advertise career opportunities in the fleet industry. Members can also market themselves to potential employers. If you're interested in this oppertunity, make your listings 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.
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 an 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.
Recent Job Postings
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
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 e-mail 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 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
Upcoming January Events
January 14, 2009
Old Dominion Chapter – Annual Business Meeting and Introduction of NFPA Standards
Location: Singer Associates Registration & Networking, Chester, Virginia
Contact: Ken Bernard, 540.853.2108 or 540.400.9894, ken.bernard@roanokeva.gov
RSVP by noon on Friday, January 9, 2009
January 21, 2009
New England Chapter - Annual Business Mtg. and T rustee Presentation
Location: Holiday Inn, Mansfield, MA
January 23, 2009
Michigan Chapter - International Auto Show & Business Meeting
Location: Compuware Headquarters, Detroit, MI
Contact: Joel Neumeyer, joel.neumeyer@vpsiinc.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.
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.