Exchange - Morning Post - Transportation

Contact
Tel 519.886.2831
Advertising Inquires
Feedback
Subscribe to Exchange Magazine

	Daily News Visitor Events Stock Reports Weather
	Department Index Agribiz Associations A/V Cast Biotech Book Reviews Construction Economy Education Energy Entrepreneurship Environment Financial Government Health Care Human Resources Immigration Legal Lifestyles Manufacturing Marketing Media Philanthropy Research Reports Retail Technology Tourism Transportation World News

	2007 Archive Transportation
	2006 - Feb 5
	Feb 6 - Apr 2




	2006 Archive Transportation
	Jan 1 - Mar 27
	Mar 28 - May 15
	May 16 - June 16
	June 16-Sept 11
	Sept 12 - Oct 23
	Oct 24 - Dec 1

TRANSPORTATION

An environmentally responsible company asks the question: 'Why should consumers have to choose between an ecoAuto rebate and vehicles that offer the right balance of safety and environmental responsibility?'

Green, Safe and Fun - Available in Every Honda

TORONTO - In an open letter to Canadians, Honda Canada reaffirmed a long-standing commitment to provide "blue skies for our children." This philosophy goes beyond industry and government requirements to ensure consumers are not forced to choose between the environment and safety when making a vehicle purchase.

In its March 2007 budget, the Canadian Government recognized the Civic Hybrid among the vehicles eligible for its recently announced 'ecoAUTO' rebate. While pleased to offer customers products that provide advanced class-leading fuel efficiency, Honda Canada Inc. believes the eligibility criteria for the rebate is too arbitrary and ignores the balance between environmental responsibility and consumer safety.

"We believe that our vehicles offer the customer the right balance of fuel efficiency and safety," said Jim Miller, executive vice president of Honda Canada, Inc. "Honda's Safety for Everyone commitment offers the same fuel-efficient vehicles with advanced levels of safety as standard equipment regardless of the price or size of the vehicle that meets customer needs." Safety and environment are cornerstones of Honda's DNA. Consider Honda's track-record in the areas of safety and environmental initiatives:

<< ------------------------------------------------------------------------- SAFETY

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Advanced safety technologies as standard equipment on virtually all vehicles regardless of size or price (Oct. 2003) -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Only automaker with standard Occupant Protection Detection System for front passenger side airbag deployment -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Honda has more NHTSA 5-star/5-star vehicles than any other automotive brand -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- 100% of MY07 Honda and Acura trucks achieved NHTSA 5-star/5-star ratings -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Ridgeline is the first 4-door pickup truck to earn a NHTSA 5-star/ 5-star rating -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- 2007 Honda CR-V and Pilot, and 2007 Acura RDX and MDX earned 'Top Best Pick' status from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Pioneer of advanced airbag technology -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- First vertically deploying passenger airbag; first "smart" airbag -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Leader in car-light truck collision compatibility -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure - applied to more than half of all current Honda and Acura models -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Pedestrian safety features on more than 5 million Honda and Acura vehicles -------------------------------------------------------------------------

ENVIRONMENT

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

- North America's most fuel-efficient car company -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- First automaker to introduce Low-Emission Vehicle (LEV) technology to Canada -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- First automaker to introduce Hybrid technology to Canada -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- First automaker to establish a voluntary target to improve fuel efficiency (May 2006): aiming for a 5% improvement in its fleet average fuel efficiency from 2005 levels by 2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- All MY06 Honda and Acura vehicles meet stringent Tier 2 emissions standard, more than any other full-line automaker -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Union of Concerned Scientists recently nominated Honda as the "Greenest Automaker" for the fourth consecutive time -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- March 2007, Fortune magazine singled out Honda as the only automotive company to go beyond what the law requires to operate in an environmentally responsible way -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- A new, more affordable, dedicated hybrid car positioned below the current Civic Hybrid in size and price, to be introduced in the U.S and Canada in CY 2009 -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- New "clean" 4-cylinder diesel engine technology that meets U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards (without a tank of urea), to be introduced in the U.S and Canada within the next several years -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- More advanced and efficient versions of i-VTEC and Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology, introduced by the end of the decade, beginning with VCM on the all-new 2008 Honda Accord V6 -------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Next generation Honda fuel cell vehicle, based on the hydrogen- powered FCX Concept, will be marketed on a limited basis in the U.S. and Japan beginning in CY 2008

------------------------------------------------------------------------- >>

In response to the Government of Canada's arbitrary definition of fuel efficiency and to ensure that Canadians have an equal opportunity to purchase a vehicle that offers the right balance of environmental stewardship and safety, Honda Canada and its automobile dealers are responding. Customers who purchase or lease a new 2007 Honda Fit with automatic or manual transmission or a new 2006 or 2007 Honda Civic with manual transmission (excluding the Civic Si Coupe) will receive a benefit that mirrors the Government's ecoAuto program.

Named the "Honda Benefit," a $1,000 incentive will be applied and, same as the Government program, will be effective retroactively to March 20, 2007, for eligible consumers who purchase or lease one of the above noted vehicles from a Honda dealership. Customers who recently purchased an eligible vehicle or are considering purchasing, are encouraged to contact their Honda dealership to learn about the full details of the "Honda Benefit." At Honda, 'Green, Safe and Fun' exist together. After all, that's what makes a Honda a Honda. For a free Safety For Everyone brochure or to learn more about Honda's environmental leadership visit www.honda.ca.

Honda is the world's preeminent maker of engines for automobiles, motorcycles and power equipment. With 130 manufacturing facilities in 29 countries worldwide, Honda now attracts nearly 20 million customers annually. Honda Canada manufactures the Honda Ridgeline and Civic, and the Acura CSX and MDX at its two plants in Alliston, Ontario. A new, third plant in Alliston, with the capacity to produce up to 200,000 efficient 4-cylinder engines annually, is scheduled to open in 2008.

Overseas-built passenger car sales rose 13.5% in March 2007 compares to March 2006, North American sales decline 9.4%

New motor vehicle sales edged up in March after two consecutive monthly declines. Consumers purchased 137,050 new vehicles, edging up 110 vehicles or 0.1% from the previous month.

Over the past several months, sales of new motor vehicles have been volatile with periods of offsetting declines and gains. Sales declined a combined 7.2% in January and February, almost offsetting the gains made in November and December of 2006. This decline, combined with flat sales in March, resulted in a 1.8% decline in the first quarter of 2007 compared to the fourth quarter of 2006.

Notwithstanding declines in the first quarter of 2007, new motor vehicle sales were roughly on par with 2006 first quarter sales, edging up 0.1%. Sales in the early months of 2006 were relatively stable before surging in July and August due to "employee pricing" and other incentive programs. Sales of new motor vehicles remained strong in the second half of 2006, up 2.6% from the first half.

Preliminary sales figures from the automotive industry indicate that sales of new motor vehicles climbed 7% in April.

Overseas-built cars make gains

Overseas-built passenger car sales rose 2.9% in March after declining 1.8% in February. Consumers purchased 25,992 overseas-built cars, the highest monthly sales level since June 1990. Sales of North American-built passenger cars declined 1.5% to 43,793 units, a third consecutive monthly decrease. Overall, total passenger car sales edged up 0.1% in March after two consecutive monthly declines.

Passenger car sales declined 2.5% in the first quarter of 2007 after falling 0.4% in the previous quarter. Sales for the first quarter were down 3.4% compared with the same period a year earlier.

After declining sales in January and February, dealers sold 67,265 new trucks in March (which include minivans, sport-utility vehicles, light and heavy trucks, vans and buses), practically unchanged from the February sales level of 67,234 units.

Flat and declining truck sales in the first three months of 2007 led to a 1.0% decline in the first quarter, partially offsetting the 2.0% gain in the fourth quarter of 2006. Despite the decline, sales in the first quarter of 2007 were 4.0% higher than in the same quarter in 2006.

Sales increase in six provinces

New motor vehicle sales by province were generally positive in March, with six provinces posting gains. The strongest sales growth was seen in Newfoundland and Labrador (+9.1%), Prince Edward Island (+8.8%), and Alberta (+6.2%).

Newfoundland and Labrador and Alberta both saw increases in new motor vehicle sales after two consecutive monthly declines. In both provinces, the rise in sales in March, more than offset declines of the previous two months.

Nova Scotia (-2.2%), Quebec (-1.9%) and Ontario (-1.8%) experienced the largest declines in March. This was the third consecutive monthly decline for Quebec and Ontario, and the fourth consecutive monthly decline for Nova Scotia.

New motor vehicle sales

March 2006^r February 2007^r March 2007^p March 2006 to March 2007 February to March 2007

Seasonally adjusted

number of vehicles % change

New motor vehicles 138,541 136,940 137,050 -1.1 0.1

Passenger cars 71,224 69,706 69,785 -2.0 0.1

North American¹ 48,318 44,447 43,793 -9.4 -1.5

Overseas 22,906 25,259 25,992 13.5 2.9

Trucks, vans and buses 67,317 67,234 67,265 -0.1 0.0

Province and territory

Newfoundland and Labrador 1,823 2,098 2,288 25.5 9.1

Prince Edward Island 405 420 457 12.8 8.8

Nova Scotia 4,240 3,766 3,685 -13.1 -2.2

New Brunswick 2,870 2,907 2,948 2.7 1.4

Quebec 33,402 33,399 32,780 -1.9 -1.9

Ontario 52,540 49,212 48,345 -8.0 -1.8

Manitoba 3,793 3,828 3,976 4.8 3.9

Saskatchewan 3,304 3,414 3,455 4.6 1.2

Alberta 19,988 21,181 22,488 12.5 6.2

British Columbia² 16,175 16,717 16,627 2.8 -0.5

March 2006 February 2007 March 2007^p March 2006 to March 2007

Unadjusted

number of vehicles % change

New motor vehicles 155,990 99,877 154,450 -1.0

Passenger cars 79,363 47,256 76,487 -3.6

North American¹ 54,748 30,361 49,540 -9.5

Overseas 24,615 16,895 26,947 9.5

Trucks, vans and buses 76,627 52,621 77,963 1.7

Province and territory

Newfoundland and Labrador 1,992 1,253 2,525 26.8

Prince Edward Island 399 278 447 12.0

Nova Scotia 4,842 2,606 4,218 -12.9

New Brunswick 3,419 2,019 3,439 0.6

Quebec 39,979 23,310 38,800 -2.9

Ontario 59,060 35,347 54,650 -7.5

Manitoba 4,111 2,652 4,357 6.0

Saskatchewan 3,404 2,429 3,715 9.1

Alberta 20,961 16,333 23,875 13.9

British Columbia² 17,823 13,650 18,424 3.4

^r revised

^p preliminary.

1. Manufactured or assembled in Canada, the United States or Mexico.

2. Includes Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

Note to readers

Seasonally adjusted estimates of new motor vehicle sales have been revised for 2005 and 2006 to reflect an update in seasonal adjustment factors. Because of the constant evolution of seasonal factors, revisions can be more significant for some months of the year. However, the annual sum of seasonally adjusted figures corresponds to the annual sum of adjusted estimates.

All data in this release are seasonally adjusted.

Passenger cars include those used for personal and commercial purposes, such as taxis or rental cars. Trucks include minivans, sport-utility vehicles, light and heavy trucks, vans and buses.

North American built new motor vehicles include vehicles manufactured or assembled in Canada, the United States or Mexico. All other new motor vehicles are considered to have been manufactured overseas.

For reasons of confidentiality, data for Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut are included with those for British Columbia.

The New Motor Vehicle Sales Survey is compiled on the basis of figures obtained from motor vehicle manufacturers and importers. These results may vary from those obtained directly from auto dealers, due to possible differences in record keeping.

WestJet service to Calgary takes flight from the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)

Waterloo Region – May 14, 2007 arrival of WestJet at the Region of Waterloo International Airport marks a milestone in the history of the airport. Canada’s leading low-cost airline brings daily seasonal non-stop service to Calgary (YYC) from the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF).

Passengers aboard the inaugural WestJet flight arriving from Calgary at 5:37 p.m. will receive a warm Oktoberfest welcome with WestJet flare. Onkel Hans himself, along with an authentic German band will celebrate the arrival of domestic air service at the Region of Waterloo International Airport.

“We are very excited to welcome WestJet to the Region of Waterloo International Airport,” said Ken Seiling, Regional Chair. “With a direct connection from one economic hub to another, our travellers will enjoy even greater convenience for their business and personal travel needs.”

“WestJet’s decision to invest in our community and bring daily Calgary service to the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) has been well received,” said Manager of Airport Development, Jeff Schelling.

To prepare for this increase in volume the airline check-in area was reconfigured and the security screening room was enlarged. The improvements will benefit all airline partners by streamlining passenger traffic flow.

“We are proud to be the first National Canadian airline to offer scheduled service from the Region of Waterloo International Airport,” said Bob Cummings, WestJet’s Executive Vice-President, Guest Experience and Marketing. “Our service has been well accepted across southwestern Ontario and Waterloo Region is a wonderful addition. This new service allows us to meet the demand in the area and continue the planned expansion of our network in Eastern Canada.”

Following are the schedule details of the new seasonal non-stop service WestJet will offer:

Calgary to Kitchener-Waterloo – Daily Flight
WS 788 - Departure Noon - Arrival 5:37 p.m.

Kitchener-Waterloo to Calgary – Daily Flight
WS 485 Departure - 6:10 p.m. - Arrival 8:11 p.m.

WestJet operates North America's most modern fleet of any large commercial airline, comprised of 65 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft equipped with more legroom, leather seats and live seatback television on the majority of its fleet.

Take the hassle out of your vacation and choose your local alternative! The Region of Waterloo International Airport is easy to navigate with modern amenities including high-speed wireless Internet, complimentary baggage carts and car rentals. No traffic jams or lost vehicles, just convenient and friendly air service.

DaimlerChrysler Definitive Agreement to Sell Chrysler Group (including Chrysler Financial Corporation) to Cerberus Capital Management, L.P.

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - Tom LaSorda, President and CEO, Chrysler Corporation LLC has made the following statement:

"We are confident that this transaction will create a standalone Chrysler that is financially stronger, with a winning combination of people, industry know-how, operational expertise and spirit of innovation that will accelerate the company's recovery, and help us regain our position as a competitive industry leader.

Cerberus is the right strategic buyer for Chrysler, with a long-term commitment to Chrysler's growth and success. They are committed to working constructively with both union leadership and Chrysler's management team to help Chrysler realize its full potential. There are no new job cuts planned in connection with this transaction announced today.

As a private company, Chrysler will be better positioned to focus on its long-term plan for recovery, rather than just short-term results. It will allow Chrysler to renew its focus on what has always made us special - our passion, creativity and commitment to delivering exciting Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles and quality Mopar parts to our customers, along with unparalleled customer service.

With strong backing from Cerberus and a continued relationship with Daimler, Chrysler must demonstrate once and for all that we can win in this global marketplace. It is ours to win. And Chrysler has it in its DNA to do just that."

Aircraft movement up 4.7% in April 2007

Aircraft take-offs and landings at the 42 Canadian airports with NAV CANADA air traffic control towers were up 4.7% in April over April 2006. This marks the 11th consecutive increase in year-over-year monthly comparisons.

Take-offs and landings reached 400,069 movements in April compared with 382,266 movements the same month a year earlier. The variations ranged from an increase of 97.4% for Moncton/Greater Moncton International to a 31.5% decline for London. Overall, 24 airports reported increases in aircraft movements.

Itinerant movements (flights from one airport to another) increased by 2.8% (+7,376 movements) in April 2007 compared with the same month a year earlier. Local movements (flights that remain in the vicinity of the airport) increased by 8.5% (+10,427 movements) in April 2007 compared with April 2006.

Canada and Ontario invest in new technology to keep border traffic moving smoothly

SARNIA - Ms. Pat Davidson, MP for Sarnia - Lambton, on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, with MPP for Sarnia - Lambton, Caroline DiCocco, on behalf of the Honourable Donna Cansfield, Ontario Transportation Minister, announced the introduction of new Intelligent Transportation Systems technology at the Blue Water Bridge border crossing along Highway 402 to enhance safety and help improve the flow of traffic.

"Intelligent Transportation Systems technology on Highway 402 will help deliver an integrated transportation network that supports the economic well-being and quality of life that the residents of Sarnia deserve," said Ms. Davidson.

"Innovative technologies at strategic locations, like border crossings, are extremely beneficial for businesses and travellers," said Ms. DiCocco. "The queue-end warning system is helping reduce collisions and ensure faster clearance at the Blue Water Bridge border crossing."

Both governments are contributing a total of $4.4 million for this technology including: <<

- pavement sensors that monitor vehicle speeds and, within 30 seconds, send traffic information to queue-end warning signs and to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation's Southwestern Regional Communications Centre. The warning signs will provide motorists with information on traffic conditions ahead; and

- nine closed-circuit television cameras that will assist Ontario ministry staff to detect incidents and dispatch emergency services sooner. As a result, road emergencies and related traffic congestion will be resolved more efficiently.

"This new technology will help keep this important transportation and trade corridor moving," said Minister Cannon. "It demonstrates Canada's New Government's commitment to working with its partners to improve Canada's border transportation infrastructure."

"This is one more example of Canada and Ontario working together to support economic growth," said Minister Cansfield. "More than $115 million in goods cross at this border point each day. Intelligent Transportation Systems will keep traffic flowing smoothly and safely so that border delays are minimized."

This initiative is just one element of the federal and provincial governments' Action Plan for Intelligent Border Crossing. Other technology investments include traffic management systems, traveller information systems and commercial vehicle and passenger car pre-screening systems.

The Government of Canada's funding for this project comes from the $600-million Border Infrastructure Fund. The fund provides financial assistance for infrastructure projects that reduce border congestion, improve the flow of goods and services and expand existing infrastructure.

This year, the Government of Ontario is investing over $1.7 billion in highway improvements through its five-year ReNew Ontario infrastructure investment plan. This investment will strengthen Ontario's economic advantage and create opportunities for the Province's residents and businesses.

INTELLIGENT BORDER SYSTEMS AT BLUE WATER BRIDGE

The governments of Canada and Ontario have invested in new technology to help improve safety and traffic flow on the section of Highway 402 that leads to the Blue Water Bridge, as both governments recognize the importance of this corridor to the Canadian economy.

Blue Water Bridge/Highway 402 improvements

Intelligent Transportation Systems technology has been installed along the 15-kilometre section of Highway 402 that leads to the Sarnia - Port Huron border crossing. The technology used in this project includes electronic queue-end warning signs; pavement vehicle sensors; 30 vehicle detector stations; and nine closed circuit television cameras.

These investments are one element of a larger Action Plan for Intelligent Border Crossing that will include various other technologies to improve safety and traffic flow.

Previous road improvements and better safety practices are responsible for a significant decrease in the number of border traffic collisions approaching the bridge. Between January and July 2004, there were 26 collisions involving vehicles operating in slow or stopped traffic. In the same seven-month period in 2005, there were no similar collisions.

Did You Know?

- The Blue Water Bridge is the fourth busiest Ontario border crossing and the second busiest commercial traffic border crossing in Ontario.

- In 2005, 3.7 million cars and 1.8 million trucks crossed the bridge.

- On a busy day, trucks account for 30 per cent of the traffic on the bridge.

- Highway 402 carries between 15,000 and 25,000 vehicles per day.

- The Blue Water Bridge Authority owns and operates the Canadian section of the Blue Water Bridge.

Sarnia/Point Edward projects

In addition to the project to construct a queue-end warning system along Highway 402 from the Blue Water Bridge to Lambton Road 26, other projects leading to this border crossing include:

- rebuilding of Highway 402 from Lambton Road 26 to Highway 21, (phase 1 has been completed and phase 2 is currently underway);

- preliminary design for the westbound lane widening and improvements to Highway 402 on the approaches to the Blue Water Bridge easterly (completed);

- widening of Highway 401 from Highway 402 to Wellington Road in London from four to six lanes (currently underway);

- preliminary design for the relocation of municipal roads related to safety of the bridge's infrastructure (currently underway); and

- cost-sharing the eastbound lane plaza reconstruction by Ontario and the

Blue Water Bridge Authority (currently underway). This project is not funded through the Border Infrastructure Fund.

Ship2Save signs Strategic Alliance with SATO Corporation

Montreal, QC Ship2Save announced May 8, 2007 that it has signed a strategic alliance partnership with SATO America, Inc.

By this alliance and its commitment to furthering EPC/RFID technologies, Ship2Save once again sets its place as a supreme authority for RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology application solutions.

Our ability to excel in this market-space is, in no small part, thanks to our prestigious set of alliance partners. SATO is one of the industry leaders in RFID tags, encoding and barcode printing, and it is with this focused and steadfast approach to developing a solid partnership base that we continue to excel in our business. It is a privilege to work with the great team at SATO, and such surely offers a fruitful and exciting time ahead for both our companies. states Sam Falsafi, Business Development & RFID Strategy Manager.

Emerging applications for technology s like RFID require an integrator to have a keen understanding of customer s needs and the core processes they desire. We know Ship2Save has such a steady hand, mindset and dedication to the market and we welcome their partnership with SATO. stated Gary Krause, SATO America s Director of Marketing.

As an authorized training center for SATO products in Canada, the Ship2Save state-of-the art research lab provides resellers and end users alike a hands-on RFID environment to learn about RFID products and how they are featured within a complete RFID system. The partnership also features the integration of multiple SATO products to Ship2Save s flagship applications; the OMS®, a vertical-market specific RFID middleware, and UITS®, a RFID powered mobile-asset tracking system.

Guelph Transit service changes, effective May 6

Guelph Transit is introducing service improvements to routes 9 (Stone Road Mall), 24 (Industrial) and 70A/70B (Perimeter). The service changes take effective Sunday, May 6 and will improve on-time service delivery and maximize route efficiency.

“Increased transit ridership, longer route distances, and greater traffic volume on roadways can impact our ability to deliver on-time service,” says Randall French, Manager of Transit Services. “The changes being introduced to these routes will allow us to better serve our customers by improving on-time service delivery.

The changes include reduced travel distance along route 9 and route 24, while maintaining a 400 meter walking distance to transit services to residents in the affected areas.

The service changes to routes 70A/70B are a result of upcoming construction along Victoria Road. These changes will lay the foundation for future service changes, and allow for service expansion to new development in the east end of the city.

For more information on the Guelph Transit service changes, including route maps and schedules, visit guelph.ca/transit or call 519-822-1811.

Houston Mayor Urges Ports to Go Green At the World Ports at Conference's Closing Session

HOUSTON - The goal of better port environments continues to be of utmost concern as world port leaders unanimously adopted a resolution Friday calling for ports to promote clean air programs to help fight global warming. The action came at the closing session of the 25th International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) World Ports Conference in Houston, Texas.

The IAPH resolution reaffirms the group's recognition of ports' need to adopt clean air programs to better sustain development of the global society. IAPH urges ports, members and nonmembers alike to take active and effective steps towards clean air programs while stressing the critical need to develop integrated action plans for individual ports.

"There is no one-size-fits-all solution," the resolution says. "IAPH will continue to provide a forum to share best practices and experiences among the world's ports and collaborate further with United Nations agencies and other international organizations."

In his remarks at the ceremony, Houston Mayor Bill White encouraged the world's ports executives to create facilities that reduce environmental impacts.

"You are our heroes," said White, referring to those ports who are leading the way on green technologies.

"Ports have a tremendous challenge today," White added, as he urged delegates to take critically important environmental factors into consideration when they deal with the growth in international trade.

This has been a most productive and entertaining week for the IAPH delegates, who came to Houston from 50 different countries and all seven continents. They have participated in six work sessions, ranging in topics from the environment to port security and have heard from a long list of distinguished speakers, including U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez, U.S. Homeland Security Department Deputy Secretary Michael Jackson, Administrator of the Panama Canal Authority Roberto Aleman Zubieta and Executive Director of the Port of Los Angles Dr. Geraldine Knatz.

In his farewell remarks, outgoing President H. Thomas Kornegay urged delegates to "continue to share your ideas." He said, "IAPH's foundations continue to be based on unity, and cooperation is still alive and well."

IAPH made history by electing O.C. Phang, general manager of the Port Klang Authority, as the organization's first woman and first Malaysian IAPH president. Phang pledged to make IAPH "an even greater force in the maritime industry." Phang also said that the expanding membership base would be a major goal.

Along with Phang, incoming officers include:

* 1st Vice President for Africa/Europe Region Gichiri Ndua, corporate service manager, Kenya Ports Authority

* 2nd Vice President for Americas Region Bernard Groseclose, Jr., president and CEO, South Carolina State Ports Authority

* 3rd Vice President for Asia/Oceania Region Lim Heng Tay, chief executive, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

* Immediate Past President H. Thomas Kornegay, executive director, Port of Houston Authority

* Conference Vice President Dr. Maurizio Bussolo, CEO, Finporto, Port Authority of Genoa

The IAPH Essay Contest winners and the IAPH IT Award winner were also announced at the conference. The winners of the Akiyama Award Essay Contest were Mr. Indranil Hazra of the Kolkata Port Trust and Mr. Sandhy Wijaya of the Indonesia Port Corporation I. Their essays were entitled "Suggestions to Improve Safety" and "Indonesia's CPO Marketing through Port of Belawan (A Port Performance Improvement Leads to Increasing Indonesian Product Competitiveness)" respectively.

Winners of the Houston Open contest were Mr. Hadi Karimi, Kaveh Marine and Port Services Co. from Iran with "Job Satisfaction at Ports" and Professor Theo Notteboom, ITMMA-University of Antwerp, with "What New Roles are Expected of a Port Authority as a 'Landlord,' in the Context of Global Competition."

The IAPH Information Technology (IT) Award has been presented biennially to demonstrate its commitment and leadership in promoting the use of IT in ports. The first place winner was Kelang Multi Terminal Sdn. Bhd. (Westport Malaysia).

Each evening, delegates participated in one of seven exciting social events held at some of Houston's most notable venues. Events were held at the Downtown Aquarium, the Hilton-Americas Hotel, Space Center Houston, the Pasadena Rodeo grounds and the Houston Zoo. A final event on Friday night will be held at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, where delegates will be able to privately tour "The Masterpieces of French Painting from The Metropolitan Museum of Art: 1800-1920."

The International Association of Ports and Harbors was founded in 1955. For more than 50 years, IAPH has steadily developed as the leading organization in the global maritime industry. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, the IAPH comprises representatives from more than 400 ports and top executives from major industry corporations in nearly 90 countries around the world. The members' ports as a whole handle 85 percent of the world's container traffic and more than 60 percent of the global seaborne trade. More information about IAPH is available on www.IAPHworldports.org. For more information regarding the conference, visit www.IAPH2007.com.

Armada Data and CAA partner to launch new car price service

MISSISSAUGA - Armada Data Corporation announced May 1, 2007 that it has entered into an agreement with the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). This groundbreaking agreement paves the way for the launch of an innovative New Car Price Service that will assist CAA members in making more informed decisions when buying or leasing new vehicles.

The highlight of the New Car Price Service is a state-of-the-art website which will engage, enlighten and empower CAA members when it comes to the ins and outs of buying and leasing new cars and trucks. The website will include an easy to use vehicle configuration tool plus tips and advice on selecting vehicles prior to purchase. A notable feature of the website is exclusive access to a network of "CAA Approved" new car dealers who have committed to offer CAA members preferred pricing and an enhanced level of customer service.

CAA members, as a whole, represent Canada's largest organized group of new car buyers. In a recent survey, more than 20% of CAA members stated that they intended to buy or lease a new vehicle sometime within the next 12 months. Considering that CAA has five million members from coast to coast, this represents over one million potential new car sales or leases over the coming year.

The New Car Price Service will be launched and available to most Ontario CAA members midsummer 2007 and is scheduled to be expanded to other provinces throughout the following months.

Further details will be announced as the launch date approaches.

Paul Timoteo, President and CFO of Armada Data Corporation, stated, "The launch of the New Car Price Service in partnership with the CAA is very exciting news. The CAA is the largest, oldest and most trusted automobile association in Canada, and we are pleased to be working with such a highly respected and influential organization."

April 2007 New Car Sales released May 1, 2007

Mercedes-Benz Canada reports record results for April and for the first trimester

TORONTO - Mercedes-Benz Canada reported today that it registered yet another record month for a total of 1,782 units for the Mercedes Car Group brands.

On the Mercedes-Benz side, two all-time records were also broken: 1,530 units were delivered representing a best ever April and a gain of 195 units or a 14.6% increase compared to April 2006 while we saw best ever first trimester results of 5,126 units, a growth of 423 vehicles or an increase of 9.0%.

Strong B-Class, C-Class, SLK-Class, M-Class and Diesel models contributed to this April's very good results. The four Mercedes-Benz Diesel model line-up which includes the E320 BLUETEC, ML320 CDI, R320 CDI and GL320 CDI accounted for more than a third of the combined volume of those four classes. A total of 252 smart fortwos were sold this month.

Total Mercedes-Benz passenger car sales were up by 5.7% for the month and ahead by 196 units or 5.3% on a year-to-date basis, bringing the total to 3,919 units for the first four months of the year. On the luxury light truck side, the M-Class, R-Class and GL-Class sales contributed to a notable 50.6% combined increase over last April and a 23.2% increase against year-to-date 2006.

Marcus Breitschwerdt, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada said, "In addition to setting three individual records this month, I am very pleased to see sustained growth across all models and Classes in the first four months of this year. Our dealers have sound inventories and they have clearly been motivated to take advantage of a dynamic selling period. The interest in our diesel models is increasing on a monthly basis and the arrival of spring has promoted very good convertible sales."

Nissan Canada Inc. April Sales Results

MISSISSAUGA - Nissan Canada Inc. (NCI) released its sales figures for April, 2007 today. The total sales figure for both Nissan and Infiniti brands was 7,455 units, an increase of 1,717 units (29.9%) over April 2006.

The Nissan brand accounted for 6,741 units, an increase of 1,672 units (33%) year-over-year. The Infiniti brand accounted for 714 units. Sales were led by the Nissan Versa this month with 2,245 units.

<< NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS
-----------------
- Versa led all models with 2,245 units sold.
- Altima improved to 1,447 units from 1,346 in April 2006, an increase of 7.5%.

INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS

-------------------
- Total Infiniti brand sales were 714 units, up from 669 units April 2006, an increase of 6.7%.
- The G sedan led Infiniti with 412 units sold, an increase of 151 units (57.9%) year over year.

NCI HIGHLIGHTS

--------------

- NCI sold 7,455 Nissan and Infiniti vehicles combined this month.

AUDI CANADA AUTO SALES

Audi Canada achieves second best April ever

AJAX, ON - Audi Canada announced today that it achieved its second best April sales figure ever in Canada with its April results of 799 new automobiles sold, a 9.9% increase over the 727 units sold in April 2006. Particular strength was shown in the A4 Cabriolet and Avant lines as well as the performance SUV from the maker of quattro, the Audi Q7. The first new TT Coupes have also added to this result in advance of their official May launch.

April sales by model line were: <<

----------------------------------------
Apr-07 Actual
----------------------------------------
A3 121
----------------------------------------
A4/S4/RS 4 366
----------------------------------------
4/S4 Cabriolet 42
----------------------------------------
TT 31
----------------------------------------
A6 93
----------------------------------------
A8 19
----------------------------------------
Audi Q7 127
----------------------------------------
TOTAL 799
---------------------------------------- >>

Toyota Canada: New April Sales Record

Toyota Canada Inc. sets new record in April

TORONTO - Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) today announced that strong sales continued in April. TCI set a new April sales record at 21,243 vehicles while Year-to-Date (YTD) total sales reached 60,444, up 4.9 per cent over the first 4 months of 2006. Lexus division reported a new April record. Canadians purchased 19,934 Toyota vehicles in April, down 1.2 per cent from previous all time record set in April 2006.

<< - Toyota sold 14,559 passenger cars, down 4.8 per cent over previous year.
- Toyota truck sales of 5,375 were up 10.3 per cent compared to April 2006. >>

Lexus in Canada enjoyed its best April ever, as Canadian drivers purchased 1,309 Lexus cars and SUVs - up 25.4 per cent from a year ago to mark the 21st consecutive monthly sales record for the luxury badge.

<< - Lexus sold 912 luxury passenger cars in April 2007 - up 60 per cent from the same month the previous year.
- Lexus sold 397 luxury SUVs in April - down 16.2 per cent from April 2006. >>

"Significant gains in the sub-compact and hybrid segments, with Yaris and Prius, show Canadians continue to choose Toyota for fuel-efficient and low emission options," said Tony Wearing, Managing Director of TCI. "Strong early traffic for the all new Tundra and the popular Tacoma demonstrate that Toyota pick-ups are in high-demand."

"Lexus is delighted to report record April Sales. Canadians have embraced the all-new LS 460 and the redesigned ES 350," observed Stuart Payne, Director of Lexus in Canada. "Meantime, our low-emissions, high-performance hybrid vehicles - the GS 450h and RX 400h - now account for significant percentages of all GS and RX units sold."

<< April sales highlights:

- Year to date sales of 16,757 Toyota Trucks and SUVs are up 12.3 per cent versus the same period in 2006.

- April sales for the all new Tundra and the Tacoma pick-ups reached 2108, up almost 92% over the same time last year.

- Toyota sold 2,511 units of Yaris with a Trunk in April. That's up 67.8 per cent versus April 2006. Yaris with a Trunk sales of 5,630 in the first four months of 2007 were ahead 239.6 per cent compared to the same period the previous year.

- Best April ever for Prius at 241 units, up 39.3 per cent from the previous year.

- Best month ever the all-new Tundra at 1,185 units in April, up 394 per cent over April 2006. Tundra sales for the first 4 months of 2007 are ahead by 171 per cent over the same time last year.

- April Hybrid sales for Toyota and Lexus almost tripled at 806 units versus 309 units sold at the same time last year.

- Best April ever for ES 350 at 467 units - up 188.3 per cent over April 2006.

- April sales of GS 450h performance hybrid luxury sedans accounted for more than 10 per cent of all GS series vehicles sold, while sales of the RX 400h luxury hybrid SUV accounted for more than 21 per cent of all RX series vehicles sold.

VOLKSWAGEN CANADA INC. AUTO SALES

Volkswagen Canada sees 22.5% sales increase for April 2007

AJAX, ON - Volkswagen Canada is pleased to announce that its sales totalled 3,501 new units for April 2007, compared with 2,857 new units in April 2006, an increase of 22.5%. There has also been an increase in YTD sales from 9,422 in April of 2006 to 11,724 units in April of 2007, a jump of 24.4%.

New Beetle sales stayed strong with 220 units sold, 52% higher than April 2006. The Rabbit also continues to do very well, with 582 units sold it is the second most popular model in the Volkswagen line-up.

Sales by model line for the month of April 2007 were: <<

----------------------------------------------
April 2007
----------------------------------------------
City Golf 530
----------------------------------------------
City Jetta 243
----------------------------------------------
Golf 54
----------------------------------------------
Rabbit 582
----------------------------------------------
GTI 188
----------------------------------------------
New Beetle 220
----------------------------------------------
Jetta 1,233
----------------------------------------------
Eos 107
----------------------------------------------
Passat 296
----------------------------------------------
Touareg 48
---------------------------------------------- >>

Mitsubishi Sales Soar 91.1 Percent

New Products in Dealer Showrooms Result in Continuous Streak of Record Breaking Sales

MISSISSAUGA, ON - Mitsubishi Motor Sales Of Canada Inc. (MMSCAN) reported its fourth consecutive record-breaking month of sales with 1,953 vehicles for April, marking a stunning 91.1 percent increase over April sales last year (1,022 vehicles sold).

Another in a series of industry-leading performances is '07 year-to-date sales of 5,223 vehicles marking a 51.5 percent increase, up from the previous '06 year-to-date sales of 3,448 vehicles sold.

The recent arrival of the new Outlander SUV and Lancer compact sport sedan, coupled with the best warranty in the business, has driven showroom traffic at Mitsubishi dealerships across the country to dramatic new levels. "These impressive sales results are a defining measure of the far-reaching improvements Mitsubishi and its dealer network have made in recent years to its product line and customer service," said Ted Lancaster, MMSCAN's National Sales Manager. "It's all about offering the most exciting new cars and features at the most competitive prices and with best-in-class service and support."

GM USA Reports 311,687 April Deliveries

- Retail Sales Up 3.6 Percent On An Adjusted Basis, With 15 Models Showing Retail Sales Increases; Daily Rental Sales Drop 36 Percent

- Retail Sales of Full-Size Pickups Up 6 Percent On An Adjusted Basis, Led By The New Silverado and Sierra

- Chevrolet Impala, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura Contribute To 15 Percent Retail Sales Increase On An Adjusted Basis For Mid-Car Segment; Aveo Drives Economy Car Segment Retail Sales Up 27 Percent On An Adjusted Basis

- GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook Fuel Significant Retail Increase In Mid- Utility Crossover Sales >>

DETROIT -- GM dealers in the United States delivered 311,687 vehicles in April, a reduction of 2.2 percent on a sales-day-adjusted basis. GM's April retail sales of 228,465 were up 3.6 percent, on a sales-day- adjusted basis. There were two fewer selling days in April this year. Fifteen different models showed a retail sales increase, reflecting the continuing strength of GM's new product portfolio. So far this year, daily rental sales of 13 percent of total sales accounted for the lowest percentage of total sales in five years. Daily rental sales were down 23,178 vehicles in April, or 36 percent on a sales-day-adjusted basis, compared with a year ago as mix and quality of share continued to improve significantly. Consistent with its turnaround strategy, GM has reduced daily rental sales by more than 83,000 vehicles in the first four months of 2007.

"April sales were consistent with the pattern of the last few quarters -- retail sales up, daily rental down, and continued strength of our launch vehicles," said Mark LaNeve, vice president, GM North American Sales, Service and Marketing. "We are particularly pleased with the Silverado and Sierra pickups, and from January to March this year we've seen more than a four point full-size pickup market share increase at the expense of Toyota, Ford and DCX. Pickup truck customers are telling us in today's environment they are shopping for value, fuel economy and warranty. GM wins on all three."

Chevrolet Aveo, Impala, Silverado, Suburban, and Avalanche; Pontiac G6; Saturn Sky and VUE; GMC Sierra, Yukon XL and Canyon; Cadillac CTS, SRX, Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT all had April retail sales increases compared with a year ago on a sales-day-adjusted basis. Pontiac G5, Saturn Aura and Outlook and the GMC Acadia are newly-offered products and continue to contribute retail sales momentum. The GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook had retail sales of more than 9,100 vehicles, pushing a significant retail increase in GM's mid-crossover segment. GM's total sales of more than 11,000 vehicles in this segment pushed monthly performance up 184 percent, on a sales-day- adjusted basis, compared with the same month last year.

Total sales of Saturn vehicles were up 29 percent, GMC was up 17 percent and Cadillac was up 2 percent in April on a sales-day-adjusted basis.

"As we continue to execute our North American marketing plans, we've seen positive results, including increased residual values for our products. For customers, this means better resale values for their GM car or truck," LaNeve added. "With new products such as the Buick Enclave, Cadillac CTS and Chevrolet Malibu still to come this year, we expect to build on this customer enthusiasm." <<

Certified Used Vehicles >>

April 2007 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 41,622 units, down 11 percent from last April. Total year-to- date certified GM sales are 181,473 units, up 3 percent from the same period last year.

GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling manufacturer- certified used brand, posted 36,625 sales, down nearly 10 percent from last April. Year-to-date sales for GM Certified Used Vehicles are 159,409 units, up 4 percent from the same period in 2006.

Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles posted April sales of 2,800 units, down 22 percent from last April. Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 1,478 units in April, down 17 percent. Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 639 units, down 10 percent from last April, and HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 80 units, down 30 percent.

"GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling certified brand, continues to set the pace for the category, with sales through April up more than 4 percent," said LaNeve. "April sales were impacted by having two less sales days than last year. Certified GM sales year-to-date are up over 3 percent from the same period last year."

GM North America Reports April Production, 2007 Second-Quarter Production Forecast is Revised at 1.145 Million Vehicles

In April, GM North America produced 335,000 vehicles (120,000 cars and 215,000 trucks). This is down 17,000 units or 5 percent compared to April 2006 when the region produced 352,000 vehicles (130,000 cars and 222,000 trucks). (Production totals include joint venture production of 15,000 vehicles in April 2007 and 24,000 vehicles in April 2006.)

Additionally, the region's 2007 second-quarter production forecast is revised at 1.145 million vehicles (403,000 cars and 742,000 trucks), down 15,000 units or 1.3 percent from last month's guidance. GM also announced final 2007 first-quarter and unchanged 2007 second- quarter production forecast for its international regions.

GM Europe - GM Europe produced 511,000 vehicles in the first-quarter of 2007. In the first-quarter of 2006 the region built 494,000 vehicles. The region's 2007 second-quarter production forecast remains unchanged at 473,000 vehicles. In the second-quarter of 2006 the region built 495,000 vehicles. GM Asia Pacific - The region built 544,000 vehicles in the first-quarter of 2007. In the first-quarter of 2006 the region produced 472,000 vehicles. GM Asia Pacific's 2007 second-quarter production forecast remains unchanged at 568,000 vehicles. In the second-quarter of 2006 the region built 482,000 vehicles.

GM Latin America, Africa and the Middle East - The region built 222,000 vehicles in the first quarter of 2007. In the first quarter of 2006 the region produced 194,000 vehicles. The region's 2007 second-quarter production forecast is unchanged at 233,000 vehicles. In the second quarter of 2006 the region built 206,000 vehicles.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

DaimlerChrysler Canada Reports April Sales - 9th Consecutive Month of Growth <<

- Monthly sales increase every month since August, 2006
- Monthly sales up 6.2 per cent; Year-to-Date sales up 4.3 per cent
- Jeep(R) Compass, Patriot, Dodge Charger among monthly highlights
- Dodge Caravan National Sales Event in May features "Drive Free for 3" and Shrek partnership >>

WINDSOR, ON - DaimlerChrysler Canada today reported a total of 22,514 vehicles sold in April, an increase of 6.2 per cent over April 2006. "We head into May as the number two vehicle seller in Canada and with 9 months of sales growth momentum," said Dave Buckingham, Vice President - Sales, DaimlerChrysler Canada. "With the help of our more than 460 Chrysler Jeep and Dodge dealers we plan to continue that momentum into the summer selling season with one of the freshest vehicle line-ups in the industry."

April Highlights

DaimlerChrysler Canada continues to grow share in compact cars and SUVs, two of the largest segments in Canada. Our new line-up of compact cars and SUVs featuring state-of-the-art and highly-fuel efficient, four-cylinder World Engines are connecting well with consumers. Compact vehicle sales of the fuel-efficient Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot reached 3,160 units. The all-new Jeep Wrangler continues to demonstrate strong popularity with sales of 897 units and sales of Dodge Charger marked an all-time high at 1,301. Minivan sales for April were exceptionally strong with an 8.2 per cent increase to a massive 5,802 units.

Dodge Caravan National Sales Event - "Drive Free for 3" and "Shrek the Third"

Today marks the conclusion of the highly-successful "Canada's Choice" program and the start of the Dodge Caravan National Sales Event including

"Drive Free for 3."

"We will continue to be aggressive in the segment we invented and have dominated for over 20 years," said Buckingham. "This new program provides consumers with the best offer of the year on the country's best-selling minivan. Minivans provide a great value to our customers and we are especially optimistic about minivan sales coming off of a strong April and going into the summer family travel season.

The all-new "Drive Free for 3" consumer incentive combines three months free payments with three months free gas and three months free scheduled maintenance and can be combined with all other programs. This program will be further promoted with a Shrek the Third partnership. This campaign pairs Dodge Caravan, the number one family vehicle with the sure-to-be number one summer family film - "Shrek the Third."

BMW Group Canada announces best ever monthly sales for BMW, MINI and Motorrad.

BMW, MINI and Motorrad achieve record year-to-date sales.

WHITBY, ON - BMW Group Canada reported today an all time best sales month of 2,631 BMW and MINI vehicles, breaking the previous sales record of 2,492 units set in May 2006. April sales increased 14.0% compared to April 2006 sales. Year-to-date sales were also up 15.6% to 7,846 units for BMW Group in April compared to the same period last year.

"April was an exceptional month for BMW, MINI and Motorrad," said Lindsay Duffield, President and CEO, BMW Group Canada. "All three brands set new monthly sales and year-to-date records. Customers are continuing to embrace BMW Group brands and our exciting new products like the new 3 Series Coupe and Cabriolet, X5, MINI and F800 ST."

BMW Brand: BMW brand achieves monthly sales record.

The BMW brand sold a record 2,258 units in April 2007, an increase of 16.4% over April 2006 and the best ever sales month for BMW. The highly anticipated new 3 Series Cabriolet with BMW's first retractable hard top roof led the way with the largest sales increase in April. Sales of the 3 Series Cabriolet were up 206.3%, translating to 291 units. Sales of the all-new X5 Sports Activity Vehicle increased by 73.4% to 326 units in April 2007 and increased 92.7% year-to-date.

The BMW brand also achieved record year-to-date sales of 6,775 units, an increase of 16.3% over to last year.

BMW Motorrad Canada sold 244 motorcycles in April, up 8.4% from last year which sets a best ever monthly sales record for the division. Year-to-date, BMW Motorrad has retailed 456 units, up 19.1% from the same period last year. BMW Pre-Owned sales for April set an all time record sales month. 1,740 Pre-Owned units were sold, 780 of those were Certified units, an increase of 12.7% and 15.3% respectively compared to April 2006. Year-to-date, 4,972 Pre-Owned units, 2,176 of those Certified, were sold which is an increase of 20.2% or 23.8% respectively compared to the same period last year.

MINI Brand: Record February Sales for MINI.

The new MINI is proving to be popular in Canada as MINI also achieved its all time best sales month. MINI sold 373 units in April 2007, an increase of 1.6% over April 2006. 1,071 MINIs have been sold in Canada year-to-date, up 11.2% compared to last year.

MINI Pre-Owned sales in April totaled 55 units, with 32 of them MINI NEXT certified pre-owned vehicles. This was a best ever month for MINI Pre-Owned and an increase of 14.5% over April 2006. Year-to-date, 181 MINI Pre-Owned units have been sold, 116 of them MINI NEXT, a 5.3% increase over the same period last year.

Honda Canada reports April sales

Acura MDX sets monthly sales record

TORONTO - Honda Canada Inc. reported April sales of 15,117 units by its Honda and Acura divisions. The combined Honda and Acura division sales were up 1 per cent over last year, with Honda automobile division sales of 13,447 units up 1 per cent, and Acura division reporting a 4 per cent increase with sales of 1,670 units.

Acura's all-new 2007 technology-advanced luxury sport-utility vehicle, the MDX, built in Alliston, Ontario, posted an increase of 77 per cent and set a sales record for April with 533 units, breaking the previous record of 468 units in April 2001. Sales of the RL, Acura's flagship luxury sedan, posted a 50 per cent increase over last year.

Also showing strong sales results were the Honda Accord, Car and Driver's 10Best Cars for 10 consecutive years, with an increase of 26 per cent and the Honda Pilot, Car and Driver's 5 Best Trucks for 6 consecutive years, with an increase of 12 per cent.

Mazda Sets Sales Record in April

-- 10,341 highest monthly sales total in Mazda's history --

RICHMOND HILL, ON - Mazda Canada sold 10,341 vehicles in April, the highest monthly sales total in the Company's thirty-nine year history in Canada. April's sales exceeded the previous monthly record by 192 units, established in April 2005 when the Company sold 10,149 vehicles. Mazda's year-over-year sales increased 27% from April 2006 when 8,143 vehicles were sold. Year-to-date sales for Mazda total 28,090, up 21% from the same period in 2006.

"Canadians continue their love affair with small, fuel efficient, vehicles, at least based upon sales of the Mazda3 and Mazda5," said Don Romano, president of Mazda Canada Inc. "What we also find especially encouraging is that consumer response to our new crossover utility vehicles, the CX-7 and CX-9, is proving to be quite strong as well," he continued. Mazda's record setting month was fuelled by sharp increases in sales of Mazda3, up 18%, and Mazda5, up 114%, over April 2006. Mazda's recently introduced crossover utility vehicles, the CX-7 and CX-9, also sold well, accounting for a combined 841 sales in April.

For the first four months of 2007, Mazda3 sales total 15,420, an increase of 18% over the same period in 2006. Mazda5 sales total 3802, up 70% year-to-date over the same period in 2006. Mazda's CX-7 crossover utility vehicle, introduced last May, has year-to-date sales of 1,933 units while the intermediate-size CX-9, introduced in February of this year, has sold 688 units in its first three months on the market.

Canada's new Government announces Blue Sky agreement with Ireland

OTTAWA - The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, and the Honourable David Emerson, Minister of International Trade, today announced an Open Skies agreement with Ireland under the Government of Canada's Blue Sky policy.

The previous bilateral agreement on air services with Ireland, which has been in place since 1947, has been replaced by a new agreement permitting fully flexible airline operations with strong aviation safety and security provisions.

"This new arrangement is a very positive development in our long-standing air transport relations with Ireland. I am pleased to have this new agreement between Canada and Ireland in place, " said Minister Cannon. "The removal of market access restrictions will lead to the introduction of new air services between our two countries, providing more choices for Canadian passengers, shippers, air carriers and airports."

The new agreement will allow air carriers to provide services between any city in Canada and Ireland. Canadian carriers will be allowed to use Ireland as a platform to serve a third country and vice versa. It will also allow airlines to react quickly to market conditions in the setting of their prices and frequency of services.

"This new agreement will support the growth of the strong business ties between Canada and Ireland, and will also facilitate travel for Irish tourists coming to Canada," said Minister Emerson. "This agreement will also create more opportunities for Canadian business to export and invest in Ireland."

The new agreement takes effect immediately. This is the third Open Skies agreement signed as part of this Government's Blue Sky policy.

Port to introduce industry-leading container truck safety and environmental standards

VANCOUVER - The Vancouver Port Authority (VPA) today announced that it would introduce more rigorous and demanding container truck safety and environmental standards by July 2007. The VPA also registered its support for ongoing container truck inspections and called on its transportation industry partners to implement tougher inspection standards.

"Recent safety inspection results confirm the container trucking industry in the Lower Mainland needs to take a serious look at how it manages safety standards," said Chris Badger, Vancouver Port Authority Vice President, Customer Development & Operations.

During a three-day safety inspection conducted by Delta Police and the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation along Deltaport Way last week, 250 container trucks were singled out for inspection and 114 failed safety standards.

"These results are unacceptable to the port authority, to the communities in which we operate, and to the trucking industry as a whole," said Badger.

"The VPA is putting the operators of unsafe container trucks on notice here: substandard equipment will not be allowed on port property."

In January 2007, the VPA implemented a new trucking policy that introduced new and more rigorous licensing, audit and enforcement provisions that apply to container trucks and container truck operations at the Port of Vancouver.

"Our container trucking license agreement currently requires that licensees comply with existing environmental and safety laws, regulations and standards," said Badger. "But we want to go beyond that. We want our licensees to exceed existing standards."

The Port of Vancouver is the only major North American port that operates a container truck licensing system.

"The VPA's commitment to develop a more stable model for the container trucking sector includes initiating vigorous licensing provisions to address environmental and safety standards and to restrict the access of substandard trucks on port property," said Badger. "We're working to make sure that our Truck Licensing System reflects how seriously we take our safety and environmental responsibilities."

In addition to enhancing its container truck licensing system, the VPA will continue to work with the British Columbia Trucking Association (BCTA), the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation's Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement unit and ICBC's AirCare On Road (ACOR) program to raise safety and environmental standards and awareness in the trucking sector.

The Port of Vancouver is Canada's flagship port, trading $53 billion in goods with more than 100 trading economies annually. Port activities generate 69,200 jobs in total with $4 billion in Gross Domestic Product and $8.9 billion in economic output.

TRIP/Canada: Provincial Highway Budgets See Dramatic Increases in 2007-08

OTTAWA - Following a survey and analysis of all ten provincial highway capital budgets for 2007-08, The Road and Infrastructure Program of Canada (TRIP Canada), a Special Committee of the Canadian Construction Association, revealed that when aggregated, provincial highway capital budgets increased by over 26% when compared to 2006-07 provincial highway budgets. Although there were wide variations between provinces, seven provinces announced increases to their highway budgets, one province announced no change, and two provinces announced decreases.

The province with the highest increase in its highway capital budget was Manitoba, which announced an increase from $150 million in 2006-07 to $400 million in 2007-08, an increase of 166 percent. Other provinces announcing double-digit increases in spending included Alberta (66.8 percent increase); Prince Edward Island (41 percent increase); Quebec (30.7 percent increase), and Ontario (18.1 percent increase). The budget for Newfoundland and Labrador remained unchanged, albeit after a 100 percent increase in 2006-07 from a year prior. Only New Brunswick and Nova Scotia announced lower highway budgets - a 26.7 percent decrease in Nova Scotia, and a 24.4% decrease in New Brunswick.

"These increased budgets are very good news for the roadbuilding community in Canada, but more importantly, for motorists, who can look forward to driving on improved, safer, and more environmentally friendly highways", stated Frank Rizzardo, Chairman of TRIP Canada. "However, we need to continue to remind all governments that our highway systems, which act as the backbone of our national transportation system, continue to need billions more in rehabilitation and expansion."

"What is perhaps most encouraging is that these numbers do not yet account for billions more in infrastructure spending announced by the federal government in Budget 2007, which should come online in time for the 2008-09 construction season", added Jeff Morrison, Executive Director of TRIP Canada. "If provincial governments use additional federal funds to invest in needed highway work, as we hope they will, 2008-09 may be another strong year."

Penske Truck Leasing Celebrated Grand Opening of $6 Million State-of-the-Art Facility in Cambridge, Ontario

READING, Pa. – Penske Truck Leasing celebrated the grand opening of a new facility in Cambridge, Ontario, located at 105 Saltsman Drive. The 18,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility, currently employing 23 associates, offers commercial and consumer truck rental services, full-service truck leasing and contract maintenance. About 40 leasing customers are handled at the nine-acre location, and more than 400 vehicles are maintained onsite.

The one-story building incorporates Penske Truck Leasing's new facility design elements and features state-of-the-art technology to enhance the customer experience. The wireless technology component allows Penske service technicians to integrate various vehicle diagnostic and repair software.

The facility cost approximately $6 million CAD to construct, and has four service bays, a truck washing bay and a two-lane fuel island with high-speed fuel pumps for fast, efficient service.

"This larger, cutting edge facility will provide for a rapid business expansion,” said Ken Coots, Senior Vice President – Maintenance Services, Penske Truck Leasing. "Upgrading our maintenance capabilities has positioned us to stay ahead of the technology curve within the transportation industry. As we continue adding customers, we look forward to hiring more associates in the near future.”

Penske has operated locally for nearly seven years, with previous locations in Kitchener and Cambridge. In Canada, Penske operates more than 11,000 vehicles, and employs nearly 900 associates at 33 locations, 18 in Ontario.

The service and rental departments can be reached at 519-624-4380. The service department is open seven days a week, closing from Saturday at 4 p.m., and reopening Sunday at 11 p.m. The rental office is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and is available on Saturday from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. and on Sunday from 7 a.m. until noon.

Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P., headquartered in Reading, Pa., is a joint venture of Penske Corporation and General Electric. A leading global transportation services provider, Penske operates more than 200,000 vehicles and serves customers from more than 1,000 locations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. Product lines include full-service truck leasing, contract maintenance, commercial and consumer truck rentals, transportation and warehousing management, and supply chain management solutions. Visit www.GoPenske.com to learn more about the company and its products and services.

Toyota joins "GREEN 101 - CARS" panel discussion

TORONTO - Find out what the experts are saying about the future of eco-friendly transportation.

Toyota Canada's Pierre Millette joins guest panelists Gerry Malloy (automotive journalist for The Toronto Star Wheels section,) and Jim Davidson (President of Car$mart,) on the main stage at the Green Living Show. The discussion will be moderated by Merella Fernandez, CITYTV Weekend anchor and host of AutoShop.

The discussion will include popular topics, such as: hybrid, electric, diesel, bio-fuel, hydrogen, fuel cell and ethanol vehicles, as well as scooters and e-cycles. There are many exciting new developments in personal transportation, but how do the technologies compare? What - and when - should consumers buy?

For more information please visit the show website:
www.greenlivingshow.ca

The 2008 Lexus LS 600h L - hybrid power meets style, quality and comfort to create a new masterpiece of motoring luxury

TORONTO - Lexus of Canada today announced the luxury auto-maker's most sophisticated flagship vehicle to date - the 2008 Lexus LS 600h L hybrid-powered, All-Wheel-Drive, long-wheelbase prestige luxury sedan. The Lexus LS 600h L seamlessly marries the Lexus Hybrid Drive's unparalleled performance with contemporary style, unique comfort and convenience features, and the Lexus reputation for quality design and manufacture. The result is a vehicle that doesn't merely qualify as best in class, but changes the very definition of prestige luxury sedan. It sets a new, desirable standard for the prestige luxury segment through the blending of advanced technology and unique new values.

"It's fair to say that - to our knowledge - there is nothing on the road or on the drawing board that comes close to delivering such a formerly contradictory combination of jaw-dropping engine performance, fuel efficiency and low emissions, " said Stuart Payne, Director responsible for Lexus in Canada. "Combine this with Lexus' reputation for quality and service for our guests, the L-finesse approach to uncompromised, contemporary luxury, and an attention to detail that's second-to-none, and the LS 600h L is quite simply in a class by itself."

Building upon the success of the 2007 Lexus LS 460L, which has enjoyed steadily increasing sales since its introduction to Canada in November, the 2008 LS 600h L combines top-flight performance, a new level of meticulous detail and polished excellence, hospitable comfort, and leading edge automotive technology that is uniquely Lexus*.

Study: New motor vehicles sales, year in review 2006

Sales of new motor vehicles recorded their second best year ever in 2006 for number of units sold and their best year in terms of value of sales.

Canadian consumers purchased 1,666,327 new cars and trucks in Canada for a total value of $54.6 billion.

Sales of trucks, a category that includes minivans, sport-utility vehicles, light and heavy trucks, vans and buses, surged to a new record high.

Sales of new passenger cars also increased for a second consecutive year, but still fell far short of the record level set in 2002.

A year-end review of the industry, available for free in the Analysis in Brief series, shows that North American-built cars continued to face stiff competition from their overseas counterparts.

In 2006, passenger cars built overseas accounted for 33.6% of Canada's new car market. This proportion has been increasing almost steadily since 1996, when it was only 13.3%. This gain in overseas-built vehicles over the years has translated into an ongoing loss of market share for North American-built passenger cars.

In the case of passenger cars built in North America, the traditional "Big Three" automakers still control a slight majority of the market, but they are losing market share to automaker "transplants". Transplants are plants owned by overseas companies that build or assemble vehicles in North America.

Between 1996 and 2006, the "Big Three's" share of the North American-built passenger car market fell from 71.5% to 52.7%.

In total, the value of car and truck sales in Canada hit a record high of nearly $54.6 billion in 2006, up 3.9% from the previous year. The average sale price of a new motor vehicle rose 1.7% to about $32,700. On average, consumers in the western provinces bought more expensive vehicles than their eastern counterparts.

Overall, new vehicle sales rose in seven provinces in 2006. Alberta led the way with record high sales of 248,731 vehicles, up 11.9% from 2005, the province's third consecutive annual increase.

Car market: Overseas-built models gaining ground

Passenger car sales accounted for just over half (51.8%) of the new vehicle sales in 2006, unchanged from the previous year. On the other hand, 15 years ago, they made up about two-thirds of the market.

In 2006, car dealers sold 290,059 cars that were built overseas, accounting for about one-third (33.6%) of the Canadian new car market.

This was up from the 32.0% market share held in 2005, and roughly on par with the proportion in 2004, which was the highest in over a decade.

Since 1996, overseas-built passenger cars have gained just over 20 percentage points in market share.

Within the North American-built passenger car sector, it is the traditional "Big Three" automakers who have lost market share. Automaker transplants have made gains almost every year over the last 15 years.

By building vehicles in North America, foreign automakers can reduce transportation costs and take advantage of the 1989 Canada-US Free Trade Agreement and the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement.

Of the 863,161 passenger cars sold in Canada in 2006, 573,102 were built in North America. Of these, the "Big Three" automakers accounted for 52.7%, down from 71.5% in 1996. In other words, almost half of the North American-built cars sold in Canada in 2006 were made by automaker transplants.

Between 1992 and 1996, the proportion of overseas-built passenger cars sold in Canada declined rapidly, due to gains made by the automaker transplants. During this period, many foreign automakers expanded their North American operations, or built new plants in North America.

The market share for overseas-built car sales fell from 36.9% to 13.3% between 1992 and 1996. At the same time, the share of transplant-built car sales tripled from 7.8% to 24.7%.

Average price per vehicle up for a fifth consecutive year

The average sale price of a new motor vehicle increased for the fifth consecutive year in 2006. Consumers paid just over $32,700 on average for a new vehicle, up 1.7% or about $500 more than the year before. This increase is in line with gains posted during the previous five years, varying between 1.5% and 3.0%.

For passenger cars, the average sale price edged up 1.8%, or about $445, to $25,550. Average sale prices exceeded this price in only three provinces: Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia.

Drivers in Ontario paid the highest average price, just shy of $27,000, followed by those in British Columbia ($26,640). Drivers in Prince Edward Island paid the lowest average price, just over $22,000, about $3,500 less than the national average.

For trucks, the average sale price rose 1.6% to about $40,500, the fifth consecutive increase. During the last five years, prices increased between 2% and 4% a year. Prices exceeded the national average in Alberta, Manitoba and British Columbia.

Consumers in British Columbia paid the highest, on average, for a new truck in 2006, about $44,000.

Bill To End CN Rail Strike Won't End Strife, Say Union Leaders

UTU Vows to Continue Fight

OTTAWA - United Transportation Union leaders reacted swiftly and vehemently to the passage of back-to-work legislation today, vowing to continue the fight over worker dissatisfaction with work rules and conditions at CN, dissatisfaction the UTU says gave rise to their national rail strike and caused a 79% rejection vote by their 2,800 members against a tentative contract deal on April 10th.

The UTU also warned CN not to attempt to use the legislation and its arbitration provision to pursue a wrong-headed and illegal plan to break up the UTU's national bargaining unit and replace it with regional bargaining units. CN Rail announced its intention of pushing regionally bargained contracts in an April 16th press release and the UTU has promised to challenge this before the Canada Industrial Relations Board, calling it an unfair labour practice.

"This Bill appears to be intended to pave the way for CN Rail to attack our rights. They want to break up our bargaining unit in order to weaken the workers' ability to stop management from pushing older workers out of the way and manipulating work rules and schedules at workers' expense," UTU Vice-President John Armstrong said today.

The UTU expressed anger that railworkers are the target, for the first time in more than a decade, of government legislation against a legal strike.

Armstrong challenged the need for the legislation by pointing out that it was CN, not the union, that slowed rail traffic by imposing a lockout and keeping workers home from multiple worksites, including the CN yard at the port of Vancouver.

The federal Government used closure to force Bill C-46 through Parliament today. Section 7 of the Bill provides for an immediate end to any strike or lockout at CN Rail. It is expected that the Bill will receive Royal Assent sometime on Thursday.

Six Tips on How to "Summer-ize" Your Car

TORONTO - Everyone talks about winterizing cars, but did you know that you should also prepare your car for summer? Canadian winters can be especially harsh on your vehicle. All of that snow, ice, road salt and sub-zero temperatures can really wreak havoc on your car. Here are a few important maintenance tips that will not only keep your vehicle running smoothly and help prevent roadside emergencies, but could also save you hundreds of dollars in repair costs by avoiding problems before they arise.

Here's a list of six things that you can do to ensure that you're ready for summer driving:

1) Clean the top of your battery: Did you know that dirt on a battery can conduct electrical currents and drain the battery power even while the car is parked? During the winter, all of that sand and salt used on the roads for ice and snow removal gets up into your engine compartment and onto your battery. To get the best service from your battery this summer, make sure the top is clean and dry and that the terminals and connections are clean and tight. This simple maintenance tip can save you from having to replace a dead battery.