NAFA Connection
NAFA Fleet Management Association
Jim Campbell, newly appointed General Manager of Fleet and Commercial Operations at General Motors, met recently with NAFA Executive Director Phil Russo at NAFA's office in Princeton, NJ. Campbell and his predecessor, Brian McVeigh, who announced his retirement last month, are on a month-long road trip visiting major GM clients and partners. Joining them at NAFA was GM's Director of Fleet and Commercial Sales, Bill Gibson.
"I was impressed with Jim," Russo said. "He is new to the fleet world, but his visit shows his willingness to learn about all the organizations and people he will be working with. In fact, he said to me that he plans on doing more listening than talking in his first few months. I took that opportunity to tell him about NAFA, our members, our strategic plan, our rebranding efforts, what happens at I&E, and our desire to get all affiliates involved in the association's education efforts. Jim responded very enthusiastically about everything I told him, and noted he is looking forward to meeting everyone at NAFA's I&E in New Orleans this April."
For CAFM or CAFS candidates who want instructor-led training, the best investment is NAFA's annual Institute & Expo, held in New Orleans, April 25-28, 2009. Attendees enrolled in the CAFM or CAFS programs are encouraged to study in advance; test on Friday, April 24; attend CAFM Boot Camp sessions on those disciplines they haven't yet passed; and stay to retest on Wednesday, April 29, if necessary.
CAFM Boot Camp sessions review those concepts in the curriculum with which most candidates have difficulty, based on test result analysis. The double test at this event is offered for a single testing fee and saves candidates $200.
When not attending CAFM Boot Camp sessions, candidates can take advantage of unique expositions, and educational and networking offerings. Be sure to attend the CAFM reception on Saturday afternoon to meet NAFA's Certification Board and hear useful tips over refreshments. There might even be time to unwind in the beautiful "Crescent City" of New Orleans, where Jazz Fest will be in full swing.
Take the CAFM Exam and Receive Results the Next Day!
Results of Friday's testing will be provided by Saturday morning. Those candidates who pass the remainder of their exams, and thereby complete the program, are encouraged to participate in the ceremony at the CAFM breakfast on Tuesday morning. Dress for the certification ceremony is business attire — coat and tie suggested for men.
Costs may be tax deductible as a professional expense, if not covered by an employer. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has recently approved the CAFM program for test fee reimbursement to eligible service members and their families.
NAFA's CAFM and CAFS Certification Programs
The CAFM program is divided into eight disciplines, covering the essential core competencies of fleet management. The eight disciplines are now grouped into two tiers. The lower-tier consists of Fleet Information Management, Maintenance Management, Professional Development, and Vehicle Fuel Management. The upper-tier consists of Asset Management, Business Management, Financial Management, and Risk Management.
Successfully testing in all eight disciplines while enrolled in the full CAFM program, earns the CAFM designation. Successfully testing in all four disciplines of the lower-tier during a full CAFM program or lower-tier enrollment period, earns the Certified Automotive Fleet Supervisor (CAFS) designation, which is new for 2009. Those who have earned the CAFS designation and keep it active through recertification, may subsequently enroll in the upper-tier and earn the CAFM designation by successfully testing in the remaining four disciplines during that enrollment period.
Those completing the CAFM program may apply to Ferris State University (FSU) in Big Rapids, Michigan, for 12 college credits at $85 per credit and use that toward a degree there or transfer credits to another school. Those completing the CAFS may apply for 6 college credits. The college credit is offered through the FSU Colleges of Business and Engineering Technology.
Contact NAFA at certification@nafa.org with questions or for more information.
Have you had a really good idea that saved your fleet money or made it unique? Now you can share those ideas with your peers by getting the recognition you deserve! You have 8 days left to submit your entry form for the 2009 Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Awards. Previous winning ideas have included: 
- Innovative use of Internet technology.
- Cost and efficiency savings realized by restructuring personnel.
- Streamlining tasks or eliminating marginal activities.
- Forming both internal and external strategic alliances.
- Designing unique vehicles to meet unique needs.
- Innovative lifecycle analysis and decision-making.
- Unique hiring and retention practices.
Submit your entry today for this year's Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Award, sponsored by NAFA and Bell Canada. This award honors individuals whose creative ideas improve fleet management by increasing productivity or creating bottom-line cost savings. Submit your idea and be in the category of these past recipients: Christopher Amos, CAFM; Jack Harris; David Carr, CAFM; J.J. Keig, CAFM; Oleg Cytowicz; Jon Crull, CAFM; Robert Stanton; John Alley, CAFM; and David Bragg. Click here to review a complete list of our past award recipients.
Applications may be submitted by any individual who is directly employed in a vehicle management role by any company, utility, government agency, or not-for-profit organization in the United States or Canada.
To be considered a candidate for the Quality Fleet Management Idea Awards, please complete the entry form located at www.nafa.org/goill or click here for an entry form. All entries must include a completed entry form and six (6) copies of any additional materials sent along with the entry to substantiate the entry (e.g., CD, video, reports, etc.). There is NO entry fee. You may submit up to three separate ideas for consideration; each idea, however, must be submitted on a separate entry form with its own corresponding documentation. Deadline for entries is Thursday, March 12, 2009.
It is recommended that you send your entry via a secure delivery method that provides evidence of delivery to NAFA. All entries must be sent to:
Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Awards
c/o NAFA
Suite 200, 125 Village Blvd.
Princeton, NJ 08540
On Saturday, April 25, NAFA's Institute and Expo will provide a variety of important and insightful sessions that you can't afford to miss. If you're interested in the Public Safety Group; are a CAFM participant, a Canadian fleet manager, or in the pharmaceutical or corporate field – then these sessions are for you! Click here for more information. Sessions include:
- CAFM Boot Camp: Introduction and Professional Development (8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.)
CAFM program participants can use this opportunity to reinforce their existing expertise in these modules and related competencies, and obtain assistance for concepts that might be problematic. - Public Safety Group Workshop (9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.)
Join your Public Safety peers in this open forum to actively discuss the unique issues, trends and challenges faced by fleet managers who manage public safety fleets. - CAFM Boot Camp: Maintenance Management (12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.)
This course will enhance the participant's understanding, as well as communicating essential maintenance principles to either in-house or outsourced maintenance personnel, drivers, and management. - CAFM Boot Camp: Financial Management (1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
This session provides information on the fleet acquisition process, the process of projecting and planning for future financial activities, and Lifecycle Cost Analysis. - University Workshop (1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
This workshop will be a roundtable discussion that covers critical topics university fleet managers face daily. - Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) Introduction and Application Process (2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.)
Attend this session to learn how the CAFM program is structured and how you can successfully earn your CAFM credentials. - Canadian Workshop (2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
This roundtable session provides Canadian-specific concerns on various aspects of fleet management business, while taking the opportunity to mingle with your peers. - Corporate Workshop (2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
This roundtable discussion pertains to the most current issues that are impacting your fleet. - Pharmaceutical Workshop (2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
This workshop will entail a review of the most recent NAFA Pharmaceutical benchmark results, and an open forum to ask questions of fleet administrators and managers in a closed door setting. - Small Fleet Workshop (2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
This roundtable forum addresses the issues challenging your small fleets. - Utility/Construction/Mining/Petroleum Workshop (2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
Join in this roundtable forum addressing the issues challenging our industry today. - Public Service Workshop (3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
In this session you will be able to compare areas of concern with your peers, learn solutions, share best practices, and how to operate your fleet with the high cost of fuel.
Have You Registered Yet? Register Today! For more information, visit www.nafaiande.org.
Last year, the topic of soaring gas prices was the drive behind the Green Fleet Ride-and-Drive. But the need to look into alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles, has become even more valuable to fleet managers, especially since the decline of the economy and the Detroit Big 3's plans to make smaller, more fuel efficient cars.
At NAFA's 2009 Institute & Expo in New Orleans, fleet managers will once again have the opportunity to see and ride some of the latest in green vehicles, during the "Green Fleet Ride-and-Drive."
NAFA's "Green Zone," featuring the "Green Fleet Ride-and-Drive," has been a hit two years in a row! The Ride-and-Drive will take place on Monday, April 27th, from 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. It's a chance for I&E attendees to see and drive the latest alt-fuel vehicles powered by natural gas, propane, ethanol and biodiesel.
The Ride-and-Drive is open to all registered Institute & Expo fleet managers showing a valid driver's license. If you've ever wondered what it's like to drive an electric car or are interested in seeing the latest green technology, don't miss the "Green Zone." For more information, visit www.nafaiande.org.
Public Safety Group (PSG) Roadeo
Join your fellow Public Safety Fleet Managers at the PSG Roadeo on April 25th, from 11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Test your prowess behind the wheel and try to beat your peers at timed events. Vehicles to be provided by: Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Company, and General Motors Corporation. Specialty vehicles available to drive will be supplied by American Chariot; T3 Motion, Inc.; and Pierce Manufacturing will provide a fire engine to test drive.
This event will provide information on how to skillfully maneuver your vehicle through different courses while being timed for speed and accuracy, highlight new accessories and equipment available from OEMs to best serve the public safety community, and show how each manufacturer's vehicle differs in the way it handles in various situations.
This special event is restricted to registrants with a Public Safety badge and OEM manufacturers who bring vehicles, equipment, and apparatuses to the Roadeo for driving or static display. Click here for more information.
PSG Sessions at the I&E
New Product Information: Light Duty Public Safety Vehicles, offered Saturday, April 25, 2009, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., provide insight from major manufacturers of what the future will bring. You will learn about new products that are available from each manufacturer, what the future holds for law enforcement vehicles; and find out about new accessories and equipment that are available from OEMs. Click here for more information.
New Product Information: Fire & EMS Vehicles, offered Sunday, April 26th, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., outlines what's new in the Fire/EMS vehicle market. Learn directly from the manufacturers about new trends, new products and technologies that are available, and how to incorporate new products into vehicle specifications. Click here for more information.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Problem Report Dialogue, offered Monday, April 27th, from 9:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., will provide you with the chance to listen to the problems other Public Safety Group colleagues have with the vehicles specifically designed for Public Safety operations. The manufacturers will review each problem identified in advance, and provide information about each, with the recommended action to be taken when experiencing a like condition. In addition, you will learn about the problems manufacturers have detected with their products and what type of corrective action is being recommended. Click here for more information.
On Tuesday, April 28th, from 9:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., Impact of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Regulations on Fleet Operations will discuss the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) regulations and provide the skills needed to write specifications for fire/rescue apparatus. Also, learn how to apply these standards to your public safety fleet operation. Click here for more information.
The recent economic crisis has every fleet manager assessing how to cut costs, turn fleets eco-friendly without spending a bundle, and improve overall management and maintenance. NAFA has developed two awards – the Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Award and the Green Fleet Awards – to recognize those in the industry who implemented creative ideas to improve their fleet. Join NAFA this year in honoring recipients of either award and listen to new and vital solutions to today's concerns.
NAFA's Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Award (8:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m., Monday, April 27) sponsored by NAFA and Bell Canada, honors individuals whose creative ideas improve fleet management by increasing productivity or creating bottom-line cost savings. Previous winning ideas have included:
- Innovative use of Internet technology
- Cost and efficiency savings realized by restructuring personnel
- Streamlining tasks or eliminating marginal activities
- Forming both internal and external strategic alliances
- Designing unique vehicles to meet unique needs
- Innovative lifecycle analysis and decision-making
- Unique hiring and retention practices
The Green Fleet Award (3:00 p.m. - 3:15 p.m., Monday, April 27) honors fleet management professionals who have implemented pioneering, innovative and creative programs to help with their employer's overall "going green" initiative. Four awards will be offered: two for a sedan/light truck fleet and two for a truck/equipment fleet.
Last year's winners included George Survant, Director of Fleet Services for Florida Power & Light, in Riviera Beach, Florida; and Steve Weir, Director of the Office of Fleet for the City of New York. Honorable mentions went to Gerry Calk, CAFM, Fleet Administrator for the City of Kansas City, Missouri; Dave Meisel, Director of Transportation Services for Pacific Gas and Electric Company, in San Francisco, California; Diane Lopez, Manager of Corporate Fleet & Limo for Abbot, in Abbot Park, Illinois; and Suzanne Gallagher, Commodity Manager for Johnson and Johnson.
Though the opportunity to submit an application for the Green Fleet Award has passed, you still have time to submit your ideas for the Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Award. Submit your idea and be in the category of these past recipients: Christopher Amos, CAFM; Jack Harris; David Carr, CAFM; J.J. Keig, CAFM; Oleg Cytowicz; Jon Crull, CAFM; Robert Stanton; John Alley, CAFM; and David Bragg.
To be considered a candidate for the Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Awards, please complete the entry form located at
www.nafa.org/goill or click here for an entry form. Deadline for entries is March 12, 2009.
This year's I&E Keynote Speaker is Graeme Maxton, a writer and presenter who specializes in Asian business and economics, as well as the world's auto industry. On April 26th, 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., he will discuss how other countries are doing economically and the strengths of the international automotive business.
Maxton has appeared regularly on major international news channels including CNN and the BBC, and is a regular guest host/anchor on the CNBC morning news program, in addition to writing for a wide variety of publications. He is the presenter of the "Doing Business in Asia" video series and is the author of several books including "Time for a Model Change," which was Cambridge University Press's feature book of the year in 2005, as well as the co-author of "Driving Over a Cliff."
Previously the regional director of the Economist's Corporate Network in Asia, Maxton was the co-founder of autopolis and worked for the firm for 12 years, based in the UK, Singapore and Austria. There, he conducted assignments for a wide range of companies throughout the world.
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, the 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!
Save money and gain knowledge at this year's I&E. Take advantage of several airline and rental car discounts by clicking on "Attendee Information" and then "General Information" on the left hand side at www.nafaiande.org.
Airline Discounts:
American Airlines is offering five percent off the lowest applicable published air fare. For phone reservations: Call (800) 433-1790 and refer to authorization code: A7949AG (a $20 ticketing fee will be added to phone reservations). To book online: Log on to www.AA.com and refer to promotion code A7949AG. For tickets purchased at an airport, a $30 ticketing fee will be added. This amount is subject to change. International originating guests need to call their local reservations number and refer to NAFA's Promotion Code A7949AG.
Continental Airlines - Phone reservations: call Continental Airline's Meeting Works at (800) 468-7022 and provide the Z Code ZEYP and Agreement Code CMNM59 to save 2 to 15 percent off published fares (excluding tax). There will be a $15 service fee collected, per ticket, for all tickets issued through Meeting Works Reservations or any Continental Airlines ticketing facility. The service fee is non-refundable and applies to all itineraries one-way or round trip.
NorthWest Airlines - Phone Reservations: call (800) 328-1111, provide Worldfile number NYVFD. Book online: www.nwa.com.
Car Rental Discounts:
Enterprise has been named the "official car rental company" for NAFA's 2009 Institute & Expo. To arrange your car rental reservation, follow this link: http://www.enterprise.com/billboard/page.do?dspg=6948. For telephone reservations, call Enterprise at (800) 261-7331 and mention our Corporate Number 24E2998 for a discount. Please note: Online reservations may cost less than telephone reservations.
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's famous Jazz Fest! 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. 
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 cut-off date for reservations is April 1, 2009. NAFA will be providing shuttle service between the hotels and convention center.
Attendance numbers for NAFA's I&E are significantly up – a 20% increase from this time last year. Register now! You still have time to secure a prime location at the largest fleet management event under one roof, anywhere! To reserve your booth or request more information, contact Mark Miller at 703-934-4700, ext. 1107, or exhibits@nafa.org.
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!
Sponsorships are also at the same number from last year and on the rise. We have 24 current sponsors and continue to grow by the day! Click here to view sponsors. 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. Become an I&E sponsor! Contact Mark Miller at 703-934-4700, ext. 1107, or exhibits@nafa.org.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan (H.R.1), passed by Congress in February, was recently signed into law, and includes substantial funds that will spur investment, manufacturing and sales of battery, hybrid, plug-in, fuel cell electric vehicles, and supporting infrastructure.
"Electric drive is a major opportunity to create green jobs while reducing our oil consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and we are pleased that Congress and the President recognize that fact," said EDTA President Brian Wynne." The stimulus bill includes critical support for battery manufacturing, recharging infrastructure, and electric drive vehicle deployments in the U.S."
The Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) has been pursuing many of the included programs, as well as additional goals enumerated in its Electric Drive Road Map for Energy Security, a comprehensive strategy to accelerate the growth of hybrid, plug-in, battery, and fuel cell vehicles in the U.S.
Specific highlights of the stimulus bill include: creating green manufacturing jobs; promoting investment and sales through the tax code; and increasing deployment of advanced transportation technologies.
In addition to the economic benefits of stimulating the electric drive industry, there are energy security benefits. According to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, if 73 percent of the nation's passenger vehicles were fueled by electricity, the U.S. could displace an estimated 6.2 million barrels of oil a day, about 52 percent of current oil imports. The U.S. spent nearly $430 billion for imported oil in 2008.
General Motors presented the United States Department of Treasury with an updated plan that provides a comprehensive review of key aspects of GM's restructuring. The plan addresses the key restructuring targets required by the loan agreement, including: U.S. market competitiveness; fuel economy and emissions; competitive labor cost; and restructuring of the company's unsecured debt. It also includes a timeline for repayment of the Federal loans, and an analysis of the company's positive net present value (NPV).
The plan also details the future reduction of GM's vehicle brands and nameplates in the U.S., further consolidation in its workforce and dealer network, accelerated capacity actions and enhanced manufacturing, and competitiveness.
Since the original plan submission on Dec. 2, 2008, GM has made significant progress in a number of areas, including evaluating Hummer sale options; sale or spin-off of Saturn; accelerated consolidation of GM's dealer network; and significant progress with the UAW to address labor cost competitiveness.
In the U.S., GM will focus on its core brands: Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC. Pontiac will serve as a focused brand with fewer entries, within the Buick-Pontiac-GMC channel. GM will have a total of 36 nameplates in 2012, down 25 percent from 2008 levels. The plan also provides additional detail on the Hummer, Saturn and Saab brands.
GM expects to make a decision to sell or phase out the Hummer brand by March 31, with a final resolution expected no later than 2010. The company is investing significantly in alternative fuel and advanced propulsion technologies in the 2009-2012 timeframe. Outside of the U.S., GM has accelerated restructuring plans for its Canadian, European and Asia-Pacific operations, all of which will be funded from sources outside the U.S.
GM is requesting federal funding support of $22.5 billion under its current baseline industry volume scenario. Additional financial support might be required in 2013 and 2014 if GM has to make contributions to our U.S. pension funds. During 2009-2014, GM also is requesting funding support from the governments of Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Thailand; and has included an estimate of $6 billion in funding support by 2010 to provide liquidity specifically for GM's operations in these countries.
GM is notifying its employees that it will reduce salaried employment globally, from a current level of 73,000 to approximately 63,000. These reductions are expected to take place in 2009, and approximately 3,400 of GM's 29,500 salaried employees in the United States will be impacted.
These difficult actions are necessitated by a severe drop in vehicle sales worldwide and by the need to restructure GM for long-term viability. GM outlined the need for the reductions in its restructuring plan, submitted to Congress in December 2008.
The majority of the reductions are expected to take place by May 1, 2009. GM also announced a temporary pay reduction for a majority of U.S. salaried employees. This begins May 1, and will be effective through the end of the year, when it will be reviewed. In the United States, executive employees will have their base pay reduced by 10 percent, and many other salaried employees will see reductions of 3 to 7 percent. Other countries are currently reviewing compensation and benefits for salaried employees.
Chrysler LLC submitted its viability plan to the U.S. Treasury Department, outlining the Company's plans to: enhance its product lineup; complete its ongoing aggressive restructuring; and achieve cost reducing concessions from stakeholders. The Company's plan is required to be finalized by March 31.
To help meet customer needs and increased federal fuel economy standards, Chrysler plans 24 vehicle launches in 48 months, and announced electric technology as a primary strategy for developing fuel-efficient, low emission vehicles, including an electric-drive vehicle in 2010. The viability plan shows compliance with current federal fuel economy requirements as set forth in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. To reduce costs; dealers, suppliers and 2nd lien lenders' concessions have been implemented or fundamentally agreed upon. A tentative agreement has been reached with the UAW that complies with the terms and conditions of The U.S. Treasury Department's loan agreement.
Since Chrysler LLC's original $7 billion submission, there has been an unprecedented decline in the automotive sector. Based on this, Chrysler will require incremental financial support to continue their orderly and effective restructuring, and are therefore now seeking an incremental $2 billion in addition to the remaining $3 billion that was within the scope of our original December 2 plan submission.
Chrysler LLC Viability Plan Highlights include: a non-binding agreement to pursue a strategic alliance with Fiat; in 2010, the company will launch a new product line; taking restructuring actions; implementing management concessions, dealer concessions, Union concessions, supplier concessions, and 2nd Lien Debt Holders' Concessions.
Chrysler Canada submitted its long-term viability plan in support of the company's request for Federal and Provincial assistance. This document follows the original submission, to the Federal and Ontario Governments, of December 5, 2008.
The Viability Plan does not call for Canadian plant closures. The Company will continue to seek opportunities in the form of reduced fixed costs, investments in new vehicles and technologies, and formation of strategic alliances and partnerships.
The Canadian automotive market has significantly declined since Chrysler Canada submitted its original request for funding on December 5. Leasing previously represented approximately half of Chrysler Canada's sales transactions, but this figure dropped to zero when credit became virtually non-existent last summer. The lack of available credit has also significantly affected Canadian dealers.
The creation of the Canadian Secured Credit Facility, announced as part of the Federal budget last month, will assist in the short-term and it is expected to provide a much-needed stimulus to auto sales. Chrysler Canada continues to request a pro-rata contribution from the Canadian and Ontario governments, proportionate to our total manufacturing output that resides in Canada. The current $1 billion pledged by the Canadian and Ontario Governments, will be used to allow for Chrysler Canada's continued viability and presence in Ontario and Canada.
Chrysler has signed a non-binding agreement to pursue a strategic alliance with Fiat, that represents significant strategic and financial benefits to stakeholders. The proposed Fiat Alliance would enhance Chrysler's viability plan and would provide the Company with access to competitive fuel-efficient vehicle platforms, distribution capabilities in key growth markets and substantial cost-saving opportunities.
Toyota is implementing additional measures at its North American manufacturing plants, designed to further reduce production in the midst of the worst automotive slump in decades.
"We've taken responsible, step-by-step actions to address this issue in recent months, and we hope the new measures will help us adjust while protecting jobs," said Jim Wiseman, vice president of external affairs for Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America (TEMA).
Additional steps include: some additional non-production days in April, varying from plant to plant; the possibility of reduced work/pay weeks; executive and salaried bonuses eliminated; executive pay cuts; production team member bonuses reduced; voluntary exit program for team members who wish to pursue other opportunities; and no wage increases for the foreseeable future.
Ford plans on reducing auto insurance costs by making vehicles more damage resistant and cheaper to fix. Ford is opening an industry-first technology center in Inkster, Michigan, dedicated to finding design solutions and repair procedures that will lower repair costs and ultimately drive down auto insurance premiums.
The new Ford Paint and Body Technology Center in Inkster will leverage the combined expertise of Ford's repair and safety experts, auto repair technicians and insurance companies. Ford's goal is developing affordable, innovative vehicle designs, replacement parts and repair procedures that lower the cost to fix a damaged vehicle.
Ford's new Paint and Body Technology Center is funded by a $650,000 investment made by collision repair product, equipment and service suppliers. Those partners, along with insurance companies, are collaborating with Ford by providing repair recommendations early in a new vehicle's development. They also will utilize the facility to train certified repair technicians.
The goal is to identify potential repair issues and refine designs, to help dealers and other auto repairers more affordably repair vehicles to pre-accident condition. After crashes, the repair engineering team works to develop specific repair procedure recommendations for body shops.
Not only is Ford building in more affordable repairs, it is significantly reducing prices for genuine Ford replacement collision parts to its dealers and repair shops. In 2008, Ford reduced prices on more than 6,000 of its highest volume replacement parts.
Government of Canada Obtains Automotive Restructuring Plans
Federal Minister of Industry Tony Clement, along with Ontario's Minister of Economic Development Michael Bryant, has confirmed receipt of restructuring plans as requested in December of 2008 from Chrysler Canada Inc. and General Motors of Canada Limited.
During the course of the next few weeks, Industry Officials will be reviewing the plans in order to make certain that a long-term solution for a practical automobile industry in Canada, is included. Minister Clement highlighted that it will be absolutely crucial that all stakeholders be a component of the solution.
The Ministers added that this process represents the beginning of the next stage of a negotiation. The plans will be studied, and next steps will be based on protecting the public interest.
Private Member's Bill Re-Introduced in the House of Commons
Member of Parliament for Scarborough-Agincourt, Jim Karygiannis, has re-introduced a Private Member's Bill "An Act to amend the Motor Vehicle Safety Act (speed limiters)."
If passed, Bill C-319 will require all vehicles manufactured after January 1, 2010, to be equipped with speed limiters so that the vehicles cannot travel at more than 150 kilometres.
The Bill was seconded by Dan McTeague, MP for Pickering-Scarborough East, who highlighted that speeding significantly lessens an individual's ability to drive or stop the car safely, and also decreases reaction time in dangerous situations.
The Bill received first reading on February 12th, 2009, and will come into force when it receives Royal Assent.
Economic Stimulus Funding
The Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy are moving quickly to implement the funding that is available to fleets through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: $300 million for Diesel Emission Reduction Act grants; and $300 million through the Department of Energy's Clean Cities Program.
Additional information on funding available to fleets through EPAs' Diesel Emission Reduction Act Grants Program, is now available at http://www.epa.gov/otaq/diesel/grantfund.htm.
Information on funding available through the Clean Cities program, is now available at http://www.afdc.energy.gov/cleancities/progs/ddown.php?cc/WHATS_NEW/874/.
Transportation Funding
A congressionally chartered commission, charged with advising lawmakers how to pay for the nation's highway and transit systems, has called for Congress to enact a 10-cent per gallon increase in the gas tax -- and 15-cent per gallon increase in the diesel tax -- in the next surface transportation reauthorization bill. It also paves the way to convert to a system of shifting from the current motor fuel tax to a charge on vehicle miles traveled (VMT), as a way to pay for transportation investment needs. The National Surface Transportation Infrastructure Financing Commission, authorized by the 2005 highway bill, also recommended indexing the fuels tax to inflation, going forward; and increasing taxes on heavy truck use and indexing that tax, and the tax on truck tire sales, to inflation.
President Proposes Cap and Trade
President Obama has proposed that Congress and stakeholders work to develop a cap-and-trade program, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 83 percent below 2005 levels by 2050. The program would provide about $150 billion over 10 years for clean-energy initiatives, starting in 2012, to help the transition to a clean-energy economy. The proposal was included in the budget sent last week by the White House to the Congress.
Kenworth Truck Company introduced its first diesel-electric hybrid truck in a service application, at the World of Concrete Show in Las Vegas. Kenworth's goal is to enhance fuel economy by up to 50 percent with the new Kenworth T270 hybrid service truck, which is expected to draw interest for use in various service applications in construction and other industries.
"Instead of idling the engine to run the crane and other equipment, a mechanic can operate them on electric power, which reduces emissions. That allows companies to go 'green,' helping the environment," said Gary Moore, Kenworth assistant general manager for marketing and sales.
Kenworth's quality vocational products contributed to Kenworth's reception of the 2008 J.D. Power and Associates award for "Highest in Customer Satisfaction for Vocational Segment Class 8 Truck" for the past two years in a row.
Coulomb Technologies, the leader in electric vehicle infrastructure, announced the City of San Francisco has installed its Smartlet Networked Charging Stations at City Hall. The charging stations are a part of a two-year public demonstration conducted with the City of San Francisco – a pilot project to power San Francisco's plug-in fleet and car-share, plug-in vehicles. Coulomb's charging infrastructure is providing the City of San Francisco with special networked features that address electric vehicle fleet needs.
"Our goal is to transform the Bay Area into the EV Capital of the United States, and a networked infrastructure is essential for the adoption of electric vehicles," said San Francisco Mayor, Gavin Newsom. "San Francisco is proud to be the first city to feature charging stations with technology to support our city's clean electric fleet vehicles and car-share fleets."
Three of Coulomb's networked charging stations are located across the street from City Hall, on the plaza. Coulomb's charging stations are part of a smart networked charging infrastructure, called the ChargePoint Network that addresses needs of electric vehicle drivers, utilities, municipalities, and parking space owners. The City of San Francisco's charging stations have new technology that supports clean fleets like those owned by the city.
The "Fleet Management Portal" includes such features as interactive charts that summarize gasoline saved, and greenhouse gases saved displays of which vehicles are charging, which vehicles are fully charged, and which vehicles are overdue for charging. The Fleet Management Portal also includes smartphone text messaging that alerts EV drivers when cars need charging, when they are fully charged and when charging is interrupted.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced global sales of Honda hybrid vehicles passed the 300,000-unit mark on a cumulative basis at the end of January 2009, since the introduction of the first-generation Insight in November 1999.
Honda is now selling its hybrid models in approximately 40 countries around the world including the key markets of Japan, North America and Europe. Honda began sales in Japan February 6, 2009, of the all-new Insight hybrid vehicle, a five-door hatchback model featuring a lightweight, compact hybrid system that achieves exceptional fuel economy at an affordable price. Honda will further enhance its hybrid model lineup with the introduction of the all-new sporty hybrid vehicle, based on the CR-Z design concept model, in 2010, in the effort to achieve full-scale market penetration of hybrid vehicles.
Dominion Virginia Power has added two plug-in electric hybrid cars and two hybrid-powered bucket trucks to its fleet, as part of its efforts to determine the impact of plug-in vehicles on electricity demand, and to find ways to conserve energy and reduce vehicle emissions.
Two Toyota Prius hybrids have been equipped with recharging equipment and additional high-technology batteries that significantly increase fuel efficiency, and Dominion is also operating two hybrid bucket trucks that use battery power both for driving and for operating the bucket. The truck's diesel engine provides power to recharge the batteries and runs far less often than that of a standard truck. These trucks, which produce lower emissions and less noise, have been assigned to Dominion's offices in Northern Virginia.
GM Canada delivered their Restructuring Plan to the Canadian and Ontario Governments and asked for their support to complete the plan. Despite further North American market deterioration, the Restructuring Plan will achieve long-term viability and enable GM Canada to repay Canadian taxpayers.
The Restructuring Plan has three key components: implement further "self help" cost reduction actions and adopt a new, beneficial "Contract Manufacturer" business model; obtain the CAW's agreement to achieve legacy cost reductions and align active worker wage and benefit levels to benchmark levels; and complete Canadian and Ontario Government Support Agreements for sufficient financing to sustain operations, and restructure GM Canada's balance sheet to address unsustainable legacy costs.
The Restructuring Plan requires agreements with the Canadian and Ontario Governments and the CAW, to be completed in March 2009; enables the launch of five new vehicles in Oshawa and Ingersoll, including new hybrid vehicle production; includes a 10% reduction in executive salaries and reduced benefits and pay for salaried workers; and secures pensions for GM Canada retirees. To view the complete Restructuring Plan, visit www.gm.ca/ourcompany.
The 3rd Annual Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit covered the myriad of opportunities and obstacles that will impact the future of Iowa's biofuels industry. Attendees from the Midwest listened to nationally recognized speakers who tackled the tough issues with solutions and strategies.
The audience was told that certain government policies may actually hold back the biofuels industry. According to Walter Wendland, Golden Grain Energy, renewable fuels are being held to higher standards than conventional gasoline or diesel.
"If biofuels don't meet greenhouse gas targets, they are effectively excluded from the marketplace," noted Wendland. "Petroleum products have a much worse greenhouse gas profile and they are allowed to be used without any penalty. This will result in more emissions, less domestic fuel use and less green collar jobs."
World renowned author Robert Zubrin recommended Congress pass a law requiring that all new cars sold in the U.S. be flex-fueled. This "Open Fuel Standard" would make 50 million cars in the U.S. capable of running on alcohol fuels within three years. It would break the oil cartel's monopoly on the world's fuel supply.
Pointing out that alcohol fuels counter global warming, burn cleaner, and are less toxic than gasoline, their use promotes agriculture and gives the U.S. more control because "whoever controls the world's fuel supply, will control the human future."
As the biofuels industry faces very difficult times, there are those who fear that the renewable fuels industry will not recover. Monte Shaw, of Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, identified the challenges facing biofuels, but also the exciting innovations taking place such as corn oil extraction, dry fractionation, ultrasonics, microwave distillers drying, and biomass heat and steam, to replace coal and natural gas.
"We are facing great challenges, but the opportunities are even greater," said Shaw. "We owe it to ourselves, and to those following behind us, not to give up the fight."
UPS has deployed 300 new delivery trucks powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to seven cities in Colorado, Georgia, Oklahoma and California.
The CNG vehicles, part of an order placed last May, will allow UPS to further reduce its dependence on traditional fossil fuels like gasoline and diesel, and lower its carbon footprint. UPS already operates the largest private fleet of alternative fuel vehicles in its industry – 1,819 in total, with these additions.
The new CNG trucks have been deployed over the past month to Denver (43); Atlanta (46); Oklahoma City (100), and four cities in California: Sacramento (21), San Ramon (63), Los Angeles (9) and Ontario (18). All are now in service.
UPS first began deploying trucks powered by CNG in the 1980s, purchasing traditional gas- or diesel-driven vehicles and then converting them to run on compressed gas. The 300 trucks deployed over the past month were built from scratch as CNG vehicles. They join more than 800 CNG vehicles already in use by UPS worldwide.
For its alternative fuel fleet, UPS has deployed CNG, Liquefied Natural Gas, propane, electric and hybrid electric vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, Brazil, Chile, Korea and the United Kingdom. The company recently announced the purchase of seven hydraulic hybrid delivery vehicles, a first in the industry, and has conducted research with hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. UPS began deploying alternative fuel vehicles in the 1930s, with a fleet of electric trucks that operated in New York City. Just since 2000, the company's "green fleet" has traveled 144 million miles.
Frito-Lay North America is adding more than 1,200 fuel-efficient Sprinter vehicles to its nationwide fleet, which will help the company improve miles per gallon, continue to cut energy costs, and reduce emissions. The new Sprinter vehicles improve gas mileage to 17 MPG, which is more than 50% over current route trucks.
"Converting 10% of the trucks that distribute our products to stores daily across the country, is a positive step toward making Frito-Lay's fleet the most efficient and safest," said Mike O'Connell, director, fleet, Frito-Lay North America. "Equally important is managing and improving the impact our fleet has on the environment. Sprinter vehicles are the latest step we've taken to meet our goals to help reduce greenhouse emissions and improve overall productivity of our fleet."
Over the last five years, Frito-Lay's fleet team has implemented a number of programs to improve the company's fleet performance. Key areas of focus include aerodynamics, light weight materials, driver behavior, advanced technology and strategic partnerships. Frito-Lay has been a member of the Environmental Protection Agency's SmartWay program since 2005, which allows the company to save fuel, costs and the environment by identifying products and services that reduce transportation-related emissions. The Sprinters will roll out across the country, with major deployments in California (165), New York/Northeast (200) and Texas (116). All vehicles should be in market by March of 2009.
Ford fills an unmet U.S. commercial business need with the new Transit Connect, an industry-exclusive vehicle specifically developed to be a smart new choice for small business owners.
Ford confirmed EPA fuel economy for the 2010 Ford Transit Connect at 22 miles per gallon in city driving and 25 miles per gallon on the highway. To deliver a more fuel efficient commercial vehicle, Ford is tapping its global portfolio of products to meet the unique needs of American small business owners with the 2010 Transit Connect.
The Transit Connect arrives with a global reputation for durability and toughness dating back to its 2003 launch, when an expert jury of European commercial vehicle journalists named it International Van of the Year.
"Transit Connect will be a useful small business tool," said Rob Stevens, chief engineer. "It drives like a car, works like a van and is engineered to be as tough as a truck."
Order by March 31 and Save 25% on NAFA's Personal Use for Fleets CD-ROM
Personal Use for Fleets CD-ROM
NAFA's Personal Use CD-ROM is a comprehensive tool to instruct and assist you in gaining a greater understanding of this core competency for successful fleet management. The CD offers examples of various plans, data structures, IRS guidelines and rules, liability exposure, how to identify and gather critical information, policy development and personal use management. The CD-ROM format proves easy navigation and access to many samples, reference documents and complicated IRS rules and regulations.
Did you know about NAFA's other products, such as the NAFA Vehicle Classification System or Personal Use for Fleets CD, or Request for Proposals Guide CD? Review all NAFA products at the online store (www.nafa.org/store), or to download the current catalog, 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 opportunity, make your listings 200 words or fewer. Links to complete job descriptions on the company's 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. PLEASE NOTE: This new and exclusive benefit is FREE! To take advantage of this service, e-mail your Job Wanted posting to Maureen Smith at msmith@nafa.org.
March Job Postings
Maintenance Facility Lead - Albany, NY
Fleet Manager - San Antonio, TX
Resume Bank
NAFA is going one step further 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. A few tips and reminders: 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
NAFA's 34 local chapters across Canada and the United States, offer you numerous opportunities to meet colleagues and receive valuable fleet management education to keep you informed! Each year, more than 100 NAFA Chapter meetings provide top level education and training on a wide variety of timely topics!
March is a busy month for NAFA Chapters! Chapter meetings will take place, including:
March 5
Carolinas Chapter Meeting and 30th Anniversary Celebration, March 5 - 7
Location: Kingston Plantation Embassy Suites, Myrtle Beach, SC
Contact: Kirk Budhai, kbudhai@hearstsc.com, P: 704.348.8121
March 10
New Jersey Chapter - Meeting and Presentation "Real Money Saving Maintenance Tips"
Location: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Clark, NJ
Contact: Donna Bibbo, Fax: 609.580.8793
March 10
MidWest Chapter Meeting
Location: Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance, West Des Moines, IA
Contact: Bob Eggerss, Bob.Eggerss@Pioneer.com, P: 515.270.3676
March 10
Tri-State Chapter - Winter Business Luncheon Meeting
Location: Buckeye Hall of Fame, Columbus, Ohio
Contact: John Williams, P: 513.825.8599 x 109
RSVP by March 6, 2009
March 11
Old Dominion Chapter - March Meeting
Location: Henrico County Fleet Management Facility, Glen Allen, VA
Contact: Ken Bernard, P: 540.853.2108 or 540.400.9894, ken.bernard@roanokeva.gov
RSVP by 12 noon on Friday, March 6th
March 13
Mid-America Chapter - Kansas City Car Show and Breakfast Meeting
Location: Marriott Downtown Harvest Room, Kansas City, MO
Contact: Becky Hanna, bhanna1@hallmark.com, P: 816.274.4288
March 18
New England Chapter - Driver and Vehicle Safety
Location: Liberty Mutual Group Research Institute for Safety, Hopkinton, MA
Contact: Karen Kearns, karen.kearns@gtech.com
March 19
Chesapeake Chapter - Meeting
Location: Rose Restaurant
Contact: Donna Kelly, donna.j.kelly@firstgroup.com, P: 410.879.6220
March 19
Nation's Capital Chapter - Virginia Propane Engine Road Show
Location: Fairfax County Government Center
Contact: Rick Hilmer, P: 301.808.1721, rghilmer@co.pg.md.us
March 19
Arizona Chapter Meeting
Location: Redburn Tire Company, Phoenix, AZ
Contact: Mark Manney, P: 602.484.7055, mark@nationalautomart.com
RSVP by March 16th
March 19
Atlanta Chapter Meeting
Location: Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA
Contact: Patsy Brownson, P: 404.313.3323, patsy.brownson@comcast.net
March 24
St. Louis Gateway Chapter - Green Fleets Conference and Expo
Location: St. Charles Convention Center, Charles, MO
Contact: Kevin Herdler, 314.822.5831
March 25
North Central Chapter - Minneapolis/St. Paul Auto Show
Location: MPLS Convention Center
Contact: Greg Hodgdon at ghodgdon@easween.com and Stuart Olson at stuart.olson@tennantco.com
March 26
New York Chapter - Green East Expo and Natural Gas Informational Meeting
Green East Expo, Pier 92 at the New York Cruise Terminal
Contact: Arthur Kappel, P: 516.803.1822, akappel@cablevision.com
RSVP by March 19, 2009
NAFA's FleetED is designed to help you quickly find references and educational resources that you need now.
From asset management to maintenance management, benchmarking and shop operations, NAFA's FleetED covers all fleet management disciplines and competencies, making this free Web site your fast online portal to all fleet management education.
Easily look up available resources, while scanning an overview of a particular fleet management discipline. Complete a brief self-assessment test, selected by discipline, to confirm your strengths and discover what areas may need a little more concentration. These quizzes provide real-time feedback, with suggested education content according to your assessment results.
Whether you are looking for something specific, or just trying to figure out what you need to know, NAFA's FleetED will guide you to valuable, comprehensive education content and reference materials. Visit FleetED at www.nafa.org/fleeted or www.fleeted.org.
Three online, searchable networking databases will put you in easy touch with all your NAFA colleagues. Exclusively for the use of the NAFA membership! Our three databases help YOU find:
- Fellow Members and Affiliates based on name, geographic area, or chapter.
- An expert who has volunteered to answer questions from colleagues on specific topics that are important to you.
- An Affiliate product or service; you can choose from more than 50 categories!
You must be a Member or Affiliate to utilize the online networking databases. To start your search, click here.
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.
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.
NAFA cares about your privacy. As such, NAFA does not sell or rent email addresses or phone numbers of its members or affiliates. NAFA also does not endorse any particular product or service provided by fleet suppliers. If you receive an email (or any other form of communication) from a supplier that implies a NAFA endorsement or uses the NAFA name or likeness to imply endorsement, please notify NAFA immediately. We will issue a "cease and desist" notice and pursue action as necessary. (You should know that email addresses are part of the online pdf files NAFA posts each month for communication among NAFA members and affiliates. Access to these files is restricted to NAFA Members and Affiliates.)
For NAFA's complete privacy policy, please click here: http://www.nafa.org/Template.cfm?Section=Privacy_Policy.