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Mercedes-Benz Barrie breaks ground for brand new facility on Doral Drive
BARRIE, ON - Mercedes-Benz Barrie is relocating to a new property on Doral Drive. A ground breaking ceremony took place a few days ago and dealer principal John Angelucci expects construction to be completed by late spring 2007.
The current facility located at 290 Yonge Street in Barrie has been the
home of Mercedes-Benz for more than two decades. Over the course of the last
few years, the Greater Barrie Area has experienced tremendous growth, and
Mercedes-Benz sales have grown along with it. The Yonge Street dealership,
with 8,500 sq.ft. and 6 service bays, has simply become too small to meet the
needs of Mercedes-Benz customers in Barrie.
The new facility will be located at the southern edge of the Barrie area
on Doral Drive, just off the Innisfil Beach Road exit, easily and conveniently
accessible from Highway 400. The 3.6 acre property and the new 27,500 sq.ft.
building will be very visible from the busy 400 Highway, which accommodates
more than 100,000 commuters daily (and far more on the weekends en route to
cottage country).
This new state-of-the-art facility will feature a 16-car showroom, 9
service bays and 3 prep bays, and as is the case with all of the new
Mercedes-Benz dealerships built across Canada in recent years, this new
facility will meet all of the global facility design standards and guidelines
set by Mercedes-Benz.
The relocation of this dealership is just one example of Mercedes-Benz
Canada's nationwide dealer network development program, which in itself is a
key element of the company's customer satisfaction strategy. The concept and
architecture of all new Mercedes-Benz dealer facilities are designed with the
customer in mind, providing a top notch brand, purchase and service
experience.
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ShareholdersMotion to Prevent Ace Aviation From Distributing up to $2-Billion to Shareholders
TORONTO - Air Canada's pilots moved for an injunction with the Ontario Superior Court to prevent ACE Aviation Holdings Inc. from distributing up to $2-billion to shareholders until the court has had sufficient time to hear the lawsuit filed against the company Oct. 4.
"We are proceeding as planned," says Capt. Andy Wilson, president of the Air Canada Pilots Association. "Our case is strong and we are confident that the courts in Ontario will see the $2-billion distribution by ACE as unfairly disregarding the interests of creditors."
The company has until Friday, Oct. 20 to file materials with the Ontario Superior Court of Justice responding to ACPA's request for an injunction.
Capt. Wilson says last week's Quebec court proceeding on ACE's corporate arrangement was an internal mechanical step to simply allow ACE's directors to make multiple distributions without having to seek shareholder approval each time. The Quebec court did not assess whether or not the size of the distribution would have any affect on the economic future of ACE or any of its subsidiaries.
The court action filed against ACE by Air Canada's pilots under the CBCA, commonly known as the 'oppression remedy,' states that the proposed return of up to $2-billion to shareholders is oppressive and unfairly disregards the interests of Air Canada's creditors. Air Canada's pilots are creditors for the about $1-billion in pension obligations that remain outstanding following the company's emergence from insolvency in 2004 as well as for other continuing obligations.
"Air Canada has shown it can prosper. But we are concerned that if this distribution goes ahead, the company would then be on very tenuous financial footing and unable to weather a downturn in the economy," Wilson says.
Media reports the morning of october 16 announced that ACE will be issuing a $200-million initial public offering (IPO) of Air Canada. Capt. Wilson says the pilots' legal and financial advisors will be studying the IPO documents once they become available.
ACPA is the largest professional pilot group in Canada, representing 3,100 pilots who operate Air Canada's mainline fleet.
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New motor vehicle sales August 2006
Continued demand for trucks drove new motor vehicles 2.8% higher in August, extending the rebound that began in July. However, this rebound looks set to soften as preliminary sales data from the auto industry indicate the number of new motor vehicles sold in September is estimated to have slipped about 4%, due to a fallback in truck sales.
Consumers purchased 144,394 new vehicles in August, 3,882 more than in July. August volumes were the highest since July 2005 and the second highest on record. The all-time peak was reached in August 2002 when 145,562 vehicles were sold.
Quebec was responsible for over half of the national increase in August.
Truck sales accounted for 80% of the overall increase in new motor vehicle sales in August. Dealer incentives geared toward larger vehicles may have contributed to consumer preference for trucks in August. According to the Consumer Price Index, the price paid for all new vehicles (both cars and trucks) edged down 0.8% in August.
New motor vehicle sales have been trending upwards recently, following a relatively flat period during the first half of 2006. In 2005, sales had been extremely volatile with the introduction and subsequent removal of dealer incentive programs such as "employee pricing."
Truck sales show continued strength
Truck sales (which include minivans, sport-utility vehicles, light and heavy trucks, vans and buses) posted a second consecutive increase in August, rising 4.6% to 71,144 vehicles. Excluding the record peak in July 2005, truck sales have never been higher.
Passenger car sales edged up 1.1%, offsetting the 1.1% slip in July. This latest advance was attributed to a 6.3% increase in the sales of North American built cars, which more than erased July's 4.5% drop and saw the largest month-over-month gain since June 2005. North American built car sales accounted for 66.3% of all passenger cars sold in August. Overseas built passenger car sales fell 7.9% in August, ending a streak of six consecutive monthly increases.
Car and truck sales have been on an upward trend since May 2006, with trucks showing a somewhat steeper incline than passenger cars. This upward trend follows a period of relatively flat sales since the fourth quarter of 2005.
Over half the increase occurs in Quebec
New motor vehicle sales increased in eight provinces in August, with Nova Scotia (+8.2%) and Quebec (+6.1%) experiencing the strongest gains. Quebec new motor vehicle sales reached 35,762 units in August, up 2,052 vehicles compared with July. Quebec sales represented slightly more than half (52.9%) of the national increase in August, despite representing only one quarter of the Canadian automotive market. This sales level was also Quebec's highest since the peak reached in July 2005.
New motor vehicle sales in Alberta increased 2.4% to 22,204 vehicles, the highest sales level ever recorded for the province.
Prince Edward Island (+3.6%), British Columbia (+2.8%), Ontario (+1.0%), and New Brunswick (+0.7%) all posted second consecutive monthly increases and the highest sales of the year.
Manitoba and Saskatchewan were the only provinces that posted lower sales in August. Sales in Manitoba fell 2.0% after two consecutive monthly increases, while Saskatchewan sales were relatively flat (-0.1%).
| New motor vehicle sales |
| |
August 2005 |
July 2006r |
August 2006p |
August 2005 to August 2006 |
July to August 2006 |
| |
Seasonally adjusted |
| |
number of vehicles |
% change |
| New motor vehicles |
137,690 |
140,512 |
144,394 |
4.9 |
2.8 |
| Passenger cars |
71,973 |
72,481 |
73,250 |
1.8 |
1.1 |
| North American1 |
48,935 |
45,706 |
48,585 |
-0.7 |
6.3 |
| Overseas |
23,039 |
26,775 |
24,666 |
7.1 |
-7.9 |
| Trucks, vans and buses |
65,717 |
68,031 |
71,144 |
8.3 |
4.6 |
| New motor vehicles |
|
|
|
|
|
| Newfoundland and Labrador |
1,788 |
1,963 |
2,020 |
13.0 |
2.9 |
| Prince Edward Island |
430 |
422 |
437 |
1.6 |
3.6 |
| Nova Scotia |
4,068 |
3,809 |
4,121 |
1.3 |
8.2 |
| New Brunswick |
2,958 |
2,964 |
2,986 |
0.9 |
0.7 |
| Quebec |
33,149 |
33,710 |
35,762 |
7.9 |
6.1 |
| Ontario |
51,532 |
52,435 |
52,962 |
2.8 |
1.0 |
| Manitoba |
3,994 |
3,858 |
3,782 |
-5.3 |
-2.0 |
| Saskatchewan |
3,362 |
3,404 |
3,400 |
1.1 |
-0.1 |
| Alberta |
19,394 |
21,690 |
22,204 |
14.5 |
2.4 |
| British Columbia2 |
17,015 |
16,258 |
16,720 |
-1.7 |
2.8 |
| |
August 2005 |
July 2006r |
August 2006p |
August 2005 to August 2006 |
|
| |
Unadjusted |
|
| |
number of vehicles |
% change |
|
| New motor vehicles |
146,862 |
145,521 |
157,868 |
7.5 |
|
| Passenger cars |
78,942 |
76,556 |
82,244 |
4.2 |
|
| North American1 |
53,093 |
48,349 |
53,812 |
1.4 |
|
| Overseas |
25,849 |
28,207 |
28,432 |
10.0 |
|
| Trucks, vans and buses |
67,920 |
68,965 |
75,624 |
11.3 |
|
| New motor vehicles |
|
|
|
|
|
| Newfoundland and Labrador |
2,153 |
2,244 |
2,482 |
15.3 |
|
| Prince Edward Island |
504 |
519 |
531 |
5.4 |
|
| Nova Scotia |
4,345 |
3,998 |
4,597 |
5.8 |
|
| New Brunswick |
3,242 |
3,149 |
3,389 |
4.5 |
|
| Quebec |
36,084 |
36,605 |
40,566 |
12.4 |
|
| Ontario |
55,081 |
53,323 |
56,732 |
3.0 |
|
| Manitoba |
4,685 |
4,092 |
4,471 |
-4.6 |
|
| Saskatchewan |
3,873 |
3,540 |
3,963 |
2.3 |
|
| Alberta |
19,742 |
21,075 |
23,266 |
17.9 |
|
| British Columbia2 |
17,153 |
16,976 |
17,871 |
4.2 |
|
| r | revised |
| p | preliminary |
| 1. | Manufactured or assembled in Canada, the United States or Mexico. |
| 2. | Includes Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. |
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Note to readers
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.
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Mercedes-Benz Franchise in Burlington/Hamilton Changes Hands
TORONTO - Mercedes-Benz Canada today announced a change in the ownership of Garden Motorcar, its franchised dealer in Burlington with satellite location in Hamilton.
The current owners of the franchise, Tim and Debbie Hogan, have decided
to retire and sell their business after successfully representing
Mercedes-Benz in Burlington since 1994, and in Hamilton since 2002.
The two operations have been acquired by Steven Lewis and Ken Szekely,
who together bring a wealth of automotive experience, entrepreneurial spirit
and business acumen to their new partnership and venture.
Steven Lewis has been working in the automotive industry his entire life
and boasts impressive credentials on the retail side of the business. He was
last employed with Mercedes-Benz Canada for 17 years, during which time he
held sales management responsibility in a number of the company's own retail
locations in the GTA. Ken Szekely is a very successful entrepreneur and
business owner with interests in plastics manufacturing and real estate
development.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada, noted:
"We are pleased to welcome Steven Lewis and Ken Szekely as Mercedes-Benz
Canada's newest dealer principals. Their business and automotive experience,
and their commitment to their partnership, will undoubtedly benefit our
customers and our brand in the Burlington and Hamilton markets. We look
forward to building our relationship with these two gentlemen, and to
assisting them in the planning of a new dealership that will combine both the
Burlington and Hamilton operations under one roof."
He continued: "We also most certainly want to express our heartfelt
appreciation to Tim and Debbie Hogan for their enthusiasm and dedication, and
for their tireless work on behalf of Mercedes-Benz in the Burlington and
Hamilton area over these past twelve years. We are sorry to see them leave the
Mercedes-Benz family of dealers, but we certainly wish them all the best in
this new chapter of their life."
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Chrysler Group Named 2006 Corporation of the Year by the Canadian Aboriginal Minority Supplier Council
* Company leads industry by spending 13 percent of total dollars with
minority suppliers
* Chrysler Group recognized for making a significant impact on aboriginal
and minority business development
* Chrysler Group also recognized by MMBDC as "Corporation of the Year" for the sixth time since 2000
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - Chrysler Group was hailed as the 2006 "Corporation of the Year" by the Canadian Aboriginal Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC). The award, which is the Council's most prestigious, was be presented to DaimlerChrysler on October 12.
"In highlighting the successes of these companies, we are showcasing some
of the forward-thinking businesses that have recognized the tremendous
positive impact aboriginals and minorities have in the development of the
Canadian economy," said Orrin Benn, President of the CAMSC. "We are incredibly
proud of these organizations and we sincerely commend their efforts toward
building a truly diverse and productive Canadian business community."
The "Corporation of the Year" award is given to the company that has a
significant impact in aboriginal and minority business development and clearly
demonstrates efforts to help minority businesses develop and prosper.
"Receiving the CAMSC's 'Corporation of the Year' award is a wonderful way
for DaimlerChrysler to be recognized for its efforts," said Peter Rosenfeld,
Chrysler Group Executive Vice President -- Procurement and Supply. "Our
company has actively supported minority business development for several
years. Last year, we led the industry by spending almost 13 percent of our
dollars with minority suppliers. We are very proud to be recognized for our
commitment to Diversity Supplier Development."
In addition to Chrysler Group's overall minority supplier spend, several
vehicles contain large amounts of minority-supplied content, including the
2006 Jeep(R) Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee, which has various components
valued at $143 million; and the award winning 2006 Chrysler 300C and 2006
Dodge Charger, manufactured in Ontario, Canada, contain $140 million in
minority content on the vehicles. Minority supplier expertise can be found on
the inside and the outside of the vehicles -- stamping, interior trim,
electrical and logistics.
DaimlerChrysler has been recognized by other organizations for its
commitment to minority supplier development. The Company received the National
Minority Supplier Development Council's Corporation of the Year award: in
1986, 1993 and 2000. The Corporation also was recently named "Corporation of
the Year" by the Michigan Minority Business Development Council for the sixth
time, since 2000.
CAMSC was created in 2004 to promote purchasing from Aboriginal and
minority enterprises by large corporations. During the organization's charter
year, DaimlerChrysler has promoted opportunities for CAMSC members through
introductions to both the Michigan Minority Business Development Council
(MMBDC) and the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC). For
the first time in 2005, CAMSC members also participated in DaimlerChrysler's
annual Matchmaker event, gaining visibility with Tier One suppliers.
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Vancouver Port Authority applauds immediate allocation of federal funding for transportation infrastructure development
Houston says "Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative" critical for capturing trans-Pacific trade
VANCOUVER - Vancouver Port Authority President and CEO Gordon Houston says the $591 million federal "Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative" announced today by Prime Minister Stephen Harper is vital to the continued success of the Port of Vancouver. Harper announced details of the initiative this morning at the Port of Vancouver's Centerm container terminal in Burrard Inlet.
"The federal government's investment of $591 million in funding for
infrastructure and programs to enhance Canada's Pacific Gateway moves British
Columbia's ports closer to realizing the tremendous economic potential of
expanding Asia-Pacific trade," said Houston. "The government's immediate
allocation of $321 million will address urgent road and rail capacity and
congestion issues to improve goods movement and livability in the gateway."
Houston stated that, in the past two years, the VPA and its terminal
operators have invested more than $400 million to increase the Port of
Vancouver's cargo and container handling capacity to meet the growing
opportunity that Asia-Pacific trade represents to the region and to the
country. "But our investment means nothing without the supporting expanded
road and rail networks that move goods to and from the port," said Houston.
Immediate federal funding to promote more efficient and seamless
transportation connections specific to the Port of Vancouver include up to
$50 million for overpasses and underpasses along the Roberts Bank Railway
Corridor, up to $100 million toward construction of the South Fraser Perimeter
Road, and up to $2 million over two years to support environmental assessments
for the South Fraser Perimeter Road work.
Houston noted that the "Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative"
exemplifies how governments can work together to support industry and maximize
the benefit for all Canadians. "The Port of Vancouver is Canada's flagship
port. Today's funding allocation announcement benefits us here in western
Canada and across the entire country," said Houston. "We look forward to
working with all levels of government and our industry partners to draw on the
economic benefits of expanded trade between Canada and Asia."
The Port of Vancouver is Canada's largest and most diversified port,
trading $43 billion in goods with more than 90 trading economies annually.
Port activities generate 69,200 jobs in total, $4 billion in Gross Domestic
Product and $8.9 billion in economic output.
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Audi Canada announces best September ever
AJAX, ON - Audi Canada announced its September 2006 sales result of 850 new Audis sold. This is a 17.1% increase over the 726 units sold in September 2005 and marks the best September and second best month ever in the history of Audi Canada. This result means the best first three quarters ever for Audi Canada with 6,180 cars sold in 2006, and a 14.5% increase over the 5,398 cars sold in the first nine months of 2005. <<
Sales by model line for the month of September were:
Sept - 06 Actual
----------------
A3 146
TT 6
A4/S4/RS 4 408
A4/S4 Cabriolet 54
A6 131
A8 24
Audi Q7 81
TOTAL 850
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Online Canadians drive Toyota Canada's web site to new records
TORONTO - Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) announced that its web site - www.toyota.ca - has set a new annual record for visits this week. The old record - 8.19 million visits, set in 2005 has now toppled, with just less than three months to go in 2006.
"Canadians are turning to Toyota.ca for everything from vehicle
specifications and financing information, to employment opportunities and news
on our environmental initiatives," said Stephen Beatty, Managing Director at
TCI. "We're pleased that online Canadians have chosen Toyota.ca - and Lexus.ca
- as trusted sources on the Internet."
Toyota.ca, launched in July 1997, is on track to set three new
performance records this year. In addition to most number of visits in a year,
Toyota.ca will also record its greatest number of total visitors, and greatest
number of pages viewed. In addition, Industry Studies have shown that 31 per
cent of those surveyed in Canada have visited the Toyota.ca web site - making
Toyota.ca the most frequently referred website among shoppers.
The Lexus.ca web site, which includes vehicle and service information as
well as the Lexus owner's club, is also on track to record its best-ever year.
While most visitors to Toyota.ca are looking for information about new
Toyota cars and trucks, other popular sections on the web site include:
<<
- Price your Toyota (Toyota Financial Services' online payment/price
calculator)
- Trade-In Assessment (which provides visitors with an estimated value
for their current vehicle, based on values published in the Canadian
Black Book)
- Request a Test Drive (which allows Canadians to book a test drive
appointment with a dealer online)
- Dealer Locator (which allows Canadians to enter their postal code to
find a list of nearby Toyota dealers)
>>
Approximately three-quarters of the visits to Toyota.ca are direct hits -
coming from users who type in the address or have bookmarked it - while the
remaining quarter are click-through visits from other sites such as search
engines and Toyota vehicle mini-sites (eg. thenewtundra.ca).
"Whether it's information on our products, our services, our company, or
our commitment to Canada, Canadians will find it online," Mr. Beatty
continued, "and we'll continue to add content and features to Toyota.ca and
Lexus.ca to make them even more useful when Canadians want to connect with
us."
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General Motors of Canada September 2006 Sales
Oshawa – For September 2006, General Motors of Canada sales were up 8.1%, with dealers delivering 35,687 vehicles, compared to 32,998 deliveries over the same month last year. Trucks were up 21% to 18,467 and passenger car sales for the month were down slightly by 2.9% to 17,220 units.
Marc Comeau, GM of Canada’s vice-president of sales, service, and marketing said “September sales reflect solid growth on the retail side of the business with our launch vehicles continuing to lead the way. We are pleased with our truck performance this month, led by the continued strength of our small utilities - the Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent. Our all new 2007 full size utilities, the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, with Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology continue to lead their segment. Mid-size cars like the Oshawa built Chevrolet Impala and the Chevrolet Malibu are continuing their trend of double digit gains and luxury vehicles from Cadillac and Saab once again set monthly sales records."
Comeau added “With last month’s announcement of our extended warranty coverage and the launch of our new Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pick ups later this month, we are anticipating this momentum to continue in the last quarter of 2006.”
Sales Highlights for September 2006
· Chevrolet Impala and Malibu once again saw double digit increases, each up 14% over the same period last year.
· Combined sales of the Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent doubled for the month of September.
· Cadillac was up 19% overall calendar year to date, led by the strength of the new 2007 Escalade and SRX.
· Saab is up 14% calendar year to date and set a monthly record, up 56% over last year.
· Combined sales of the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon were up 60% for September.
GENERAL MOTORS OF CANADA SALES
MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2006 2006 2005 % CHG
TOTAL CARS 17,220 17,737 -2.9%
TOTAL TRUCKS 18,467 15,261 21.0%
COMBINED VEHICLES 35,687 32,998 8.1%
CALENDAR YEAR-TO-DATE: September 30, 2006
2006 2005 % CHG
TOTAL CARS 160,638 176,110 -8.8%
TOTAL TRUCKS 166,340 178,241 -6.7%
COMBINED VEHICLES 326,978 354,351 -7.7%
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DaimlerChrysler Canada Reports September 2006 Sales
- Total vehicle sales up .5 per cent over September 2005
- Dodge Ram sales reach monthly sales record, up 10.7 per cent year-to-date
- Chrysler 300/300C sales of 929 units, up 19.6 per cent
- Dodge Caliber, Jeep Liberty, PT Cruiser, Jeep Compass all post
monthly gains
>>
WINDSOR - DaimlerChrysler Canada reported a total of 16,191 units sold in September, including 3,775 cars and 12,416 trucks. Compared to September 2005, sales for the month are up .5 per cent. Car sales for September 2006 increased 10.4 per cent and truck sales decreased 2.2 per cent.
"Despite market dynamics that seem to change monthly, we are seeing a
continuation of positive trends in our Canadian business," said Dave
Buckingham, Vice President - Sales, DaimlerChrysler Canada. "Pickup trucks
continue to have an excellent year, and for the second month in a row we set a
Dodge Ram sales record. At the same time, a variety of full-size, mid-size and
compact vehicles all contributed to healthy September sales."
September Sales Highlights
Dodge Ram sales increased 6.9% to reach 2,914 units, a September monthly
record, while Dodge Dakota's monthly sales increased 9.5%.
Brampton-built-Chrysler 300/300C and Dodge Charger achieved monthly increases
of 19.6% and 120% respectively. Newer models, like Dodge Caliber and Jeep
Compass with sales of 1,810 and 371 respectively, are drawing new customers
into the showrooms. Year-to-Date Sales Highlights Sales for the year are
nearly flat at -1.0 per cent with car sales up 0.7 per cent and trucks down
1.5 per cent. Leading growth in cars is the Dodge Charger, up 218 per cent and
incremental sales from the Dodge Caliber. Truck sales for the year are led by
Dodge Ram (up 10.7 per cent) and incremental sales from two new SUVs: Jeep
Commander and Jeep Compass. Dodge Caravan remains the volume leader for
DaimlerChrysler Canada with sales of 49,151 this year, down 4.5 percent.
|
Mercedes-Benz Canada sets new records in September
TORONTO - Mercedes-Benz Canada set a string of new performance records in September as the company posted its best ever September, its best third quarter sales, and a new sales benchmark for the first three quarters.
September, with Mercedes Car Group sales (Mercedes-Benz, smart, Maybach)
at 1,421 units, capped off a fast paced third quarter in which the company
delivered 4,081 units. YTD volume of 13,347 units also represented a new best
and an increase of 15.9% for the Group.
On the Mercedes-Benz side, September sales reached 1,229 units for an
increase of 17%, while year-to-date volume attained new heights with 10,680
units and an improvement of 25.5% over the previous year.
The smart brand maintained strong momentum in September with deliveries
of 192 units, which resulted in year-to-date volume of 2,667 units. smart was
the leader in the premium lifestyle microcar segment through the first nine
months of the year.
At the same time, Mercedes-Benz Canada also reported its best ever
pre-owned car month in September, with deliveries of 682 pre-owned
Mercedes-Benz units. This performance represented a gain of 50% over the
previous year and resulted in an unprecedented year-to-date increase in
pre-owned retail deliveries of 22%.
"We are particularly pleased that our growth this year has been so
broadly based right across all of our model lines, and that all our model
series have been contributing fairly equally to the gain in our volume", noted
Marcus Breitschwerdt, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada. He added:
"Even more gratifying is the fact that we have seen a lot of growth at the
uppermost end of the price spectrum, at the highest level of the luxury
market."
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Volkswagen Canada September 2006 Sales Results
AJAX - Volkswagen Canada sales totalled 3,176 new units for September 2006, compared with 3,338 new units in September 2005. There has also been an increase in YTD sales from 23,541 in September of 2005 to 23,584 in September of 2006, a jump of over 8.7%. The monthly total is comprised of: 138 New Beetle, 258 Golf/ GTI, 482 Rabbit, 1,792 Jetta, 263 Passat, and 62 Touareg.
We are pleased to announce that in its month, Touareg sales jumped by
over 59.0% while Jetta Sedan sales increased 20.7% compared to September 2005.
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Nissan Canada Inc. September Sales Results - Third best month ever for Nissan brand highlights year-over-year improvement
MISSISSAUGA - Nissan Canada Inc. (NCI) released its sales figures for September, 2006. Nissan brand improved by 89 units year-over-year to 6,544 units (Sept '06 vs. Sept '05). This represents Nissan brand's best month since March, 2004, and its third best month all-time. The total sales figure for both Nissan and Infiniti brands was 7,124 units, a 39-unit improvement over September 2005's total of 7,085.
Sales were led by Versa Hatchback, Titan and Frontier, which all set
sales records in September. In its third month in dealerships, the Nissan
Versa Hatchback sold 1,431 units, up 121 units over the previous month.
<<
NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS
-----------------
- Total Nissan brand sales were 6,544 units, an increase of 89 units
year-over-year, the best September ever and 3rd best all-time month.
- Versa Hatchback sold 1,431 units, an increase of 121 units (9%) over
the previous month. This led all models.
- Altima sold 1,415 units.
- X-trail sold 966 units to lead SUV sales.
- Pathfinder sold 295 units, up 11 units over September 2005.
- Frontier had its best month ever with 275 units sold, an increase of
51 units year-over-year.
- Titan had its best month ever with 384 units, up 226 units year-over-
year.
- Murano had its best month this year (and 2nd best ever) with 663
units sold, an increase of 50% over August sales.
INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS
-------------------
- Total Infiniti brand sales were 580 units.
- G35 led all Infiniti models with 324 units sold.
- FX35/45 sold 153 units, up 17 units year-over-year.
NCI HIGHLIGHTS
--------------
- NCI sold 7,124 Nissan and Infiniti vehicles combined this month, an
increase of 39 units year-over-year.
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Toyota Canada: Best third quarter ever and ninth consecutive sales record
TORONTO - Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) announced its best ever third quarter, and its ninth monthly consecutive sales record for 2006. TCI total sales of 17,204 are up 12.1 per cent over last September. Record TCI car sales of 12,416 units are up by 3.7 per cent for the month, and record TCI truck sales of 4,788 units jumped 42.2 per cent. TCI's best ever third quarter surpassed last year by 15.3%, while record Year-to-Date (YTD) sales performance remains on pace, with total yearly sales of 153,887 units ahead of last year by 13.8 per cent.
Record September sales for the Toyota Division reached 16,247 units, up
11.7 per cent over last September. Record YTD Toyota sales of 145,045 units
are ahead by 13.2 per cent.
<<
- September record for Toyota cars - sales of 11,933 units are up
2.5 per cent.
- September record for Toyota trucks - sales of 4,314 units beat last
August by 48.9 per cent.
Record September performance from Lexus, as total sales of 957 units beat
last September by 19.3 per cent. Record annual Lexus sales of 8,833 units are
up by 24.9 per cent YTD.
- Lexus cars set a new September record, with 483 units up 45.0 per
cent.
- Lexus truck sales of 474 units were up by 1.1 per cent over last
September.
>>
"Our goal is to continuously challenge ourselves to do even better -
whether it's in designing new products or offering innovative new features and
technologies - to meet the needs of our customers," said Tony Wearing,
Managing Director of TCI. "We're gratified to see that consumer response to
our products - such as the all-new Yaris, Camry and RAV4 - has been so
favourable, and our sales results confirm that we are indeed meeting their
needs."
"Customer demand for the sporty Lexus IS continue to drive Lexus to new
monthly sales records," said Stuart Payne, Director of Lexus in Canada.
"Demand also remains high for the luxurious RX SUV, in both hybrid and
conventionally powered versions, reinforcing the unique Lexus appeal to a wide
range of astute drivers."
Vehicle highlights for September include:
<<
- Monthly sales for the all-new 2007 Camry remain strong, with
September sales of 2,412 units, up by 29.2 per cent over last
September.
- Combined monthly Yaris sales of 3,075 units, have surpassed last
year's September sales by 44.8 per cent.
- Best September ever for the all-new 2007 RAV4 - 1,336 units are up by
91.7 per cent for the month.
- Monthly sales for the popular FJ Cruiser continue to grow, with
619 units sold in September.
- Strong demand for Tacoma pickup trucks, with combined sales of
820 units up 84.3 per cent.
- New September record for the Lexus IS performance sedan, with
219 units sold surpasses last year by a significant margin.
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Honda Canada Sets Record September Sales
Honda Division Sets Sales Record with 52% Increase;
Acura Division Sets Sales Record with 13% Increase
TORONTO - Powered by strong monthly sales of Honda and Acura light-duty trucks and its popular cars, Honda Canada Inc. reported record sales of 16,888 units by its Honda and Acura divisions. Combined Honda and Acura division record sales for September were up 46 per cent over last year, with Honda automobile division sales of 14,702 units up 52 per cent, and Acura division reporting a 13 per cent increase with sales of 2,186 units. "Honda and Acura truck products in September created an overall increase of 80 per cent with part of that success due to the strong interest in the all-new Acura RDX luxury crossover utility vehicle," said Jim Miller, executive vice president of Honda Canada Inc. "We're also encouraged by Canada's best selling car, Honda Civic, which also set an all-time record with a monthly increase of 45 per cent."
Honda's innovative tough trucks achieved an overall increase of 70%, with
Pilot, Odyssey, Element, and Ridgeline all achieving record sales:
<<
- Pilot SUV, 623 units, increase of 103%
- Odyssey minivan, 2,006 units, increase of 91%
- Element utility vehicle, 286 units, increase of 14%
- Ridgeline pickup, 377 units, increase of 16%
Strong monthly sales in Honda's car lineup include:
- Civic with record sales of 7,586 units, an increase of 45%
- Accord with sales of 1,635 units, up 1%
>>
Technology-advanced trucks in the Acura family - MDX and the all-new 2007
RDX crossover utility vehicle that went on sale in July - increased Acura
truck sales by 174%. The Canadian-built MDX luxury SUV set a September sales
record of 409 units - up 36%. Showing increased passenger car sales was the
Acura TL luxury sports sedan with 464 units for a 17 per cent increase.
Joining the Acura and Honda family of trucks in mid-October will be the
all-new 2007 Acura MDX luxury sport-utility vehicle with a starting price of
$52,300 and the 2007 Honda CR-V compact sport-utility vehicle with a starting
price of $27,700 for a new two-wheel-drive model and $29,700 for models with
RealTime(TM) 4-wheel-drive.
Honda is the world's preeminent maker of engines for automobiles,
motorcycles and power equipment. With 124 manufacturing facilities in 28
countries worldwide, Honda now attracts nearly 20 million customers annually.
Honda Canada manufactures the Honda Ridgeline, Civic and Pilot, 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.
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Volkswagen's 2007 portfolio streamlined to offer generous standard features at "Volks" pricing
"City" line, Rabbit, and Eos offer driving excitement at
'people's price'; 2007 New Beetle and New Beetle Convertible models
benefit from lower pricing
AJAX - Volkswagen's 2007 product portfolio will be
expanded to a wider range of customers by offering an aggressive "Volks"
(people's) pricing strategy that provides a high level of standard features at
appealing prices.
Volkswagen's new pricing strategy kicked off recently with the launch of
the all-new Rabbit. The Rabbit's has enjoyed a popularity which can be
attributed to the wide array of standard features it offers at an attractive
price. This latest Rabbit is a return to the high-value, iconic status of the
original Rabbit, which was launched in Canada in 1977.
The Rabbit, which went on sale in June of this year, is available in both
a three and five-door version, with pricing starting at $19,990 for the
three-door. Always known for its value, this latest Rabbit is no exception,
offering a high level of standard features and equipment at an attractive
starting price. Standard features include an advanced ABS braking system,
traction control, rear crash optimized head restraints, front side and side
curtain airbags, air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, and
anti-theft alarm system with remote power locking.
Volkswagen Canada is also introducing a new brand-entry vehicle line-up
under the "City" banner. The City Golf and City Jetta models go on sale on
October 14th, with pricing starting at $14,900 for the City Golf and $16,700
for the City Jetta. Standard features include 15 inch wheels, four-wheel disc
brakes with ABS, MP3-readable CD player, height adjustable and telescopic
steering wheel, variable intermittent front wipers, height adjustable driver
seat, 60/40 split folding rear seat, and more. The City Jetta also adds
standard power door locks with remote locking, an anti-theft alarm system,
chrome exterior appliqués, aluminium-look instrument surrounding, and front
floor mats. Packed with value, the City Golf and City Jetta models conjugate
legendary German engineering and driving enjoyment, at a very sensible price
point.
Continuing the value story, the New Beetle models will feature a lower
starting price point. For 2007, the New Beetle starting price is $22,780,
compared to the 2006 version at $24,490. The 2007 New Beetle Convertible
follows the trend with a starting price of $27,790, compared to the 2006
version at $29,880. At this reduced price, the New Beetle maintains an
impressive list of standard equipment such as, 16-inch wheels, 4-wheel disc
brakes with ABS, Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), heated front seats
and washer nozzles, air conditioning, dual front airbags and front side
airbags, AM/FM CD radio, audio jack, leatherette interior trim, cruise
control, power locks, power windows, and a remote entry system with anti-theft
alarm. Other Jetta models offer package enhancements at similar savings.
The all-new, 2007 Eos convertible has now arrived in showrooms. This
four-seater features a revolutionary five-panel roof that transforms a hardtop
coupe roof with an integrated sunroof into an open convertible. Volkswagen
offers the Eos with the award-winning 2.0 litre turbo, 200 horsepower,
four-cylinder engine starting at $36,900.
In addition to the innovative CSC (coupe-sunroof-convertible) roof, the
Eos includes high-quality standard features such as Electronic Stabilization
Program (ESP), safety-optimized front headrests, front airbags and specially
developed front side head-thorax airbags; 17-inch alloy wheels (18-inch are
optional), air conditioning system, fog lights, panoramic sunroof, power
windows, cruise control, Homelink(R) transmitter, as well as leather-wrapped
steering wheel, shift knob, and handbrake handle.
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Volkswagen 2007 City Golf and 2007 City Jetta brand entry models announced
AJAX, ON - Volkswagen announced its new 'City' brand entry strategy which is defined with two models: the 2007 City Golf and 2007 City Jetta. Exclusive to the Canadian market, these new brand entry propositions are the latest models to join an already impressive roster of value-priced models recently-introduced at Volkswagen.
"This strategy will enable us to compete very effectively in the popular
and growing sub-compact segment in Canada," said John White, Executive
Vice-President of Volkswagen Canada. "These cars will appeal to a new category
of buyers who, otherwise, might not have considered the Volkswagen brand",
added Mr. White.
The City Golf and City Jetta models go on sale on October 14th, with
pricing starting at $14,900 for the City Golf and $16,700 for the City Jetta.
Standard features include 15 inch wheels, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS,
MP3-readable CD player, height adjustable and telescopic steering wheel,
variable intermittent front wipers, height adjustable driver seat, 60/40 split
folding rear seat, and more. The City Jetta also adds standard power door
locks with remote locking, an anti-theft alarm system, chrome exterior
appliqués, aluminium-look instrument surrounding, and front floor mats. Packed
with value, the City Golf and City Jetta models conjugate legendary German
engineering and driving enjoyment, with a very sensible price point.
The 2007 City Golf and City Jetta benefit from industry-leading fit and
finish, class-leading driving dynamics, as well as the inherent body strength
and crash protection coming from their laser-welding production process. These
vehicles also offer a spacious and practical interior with easy entry thanks
to large door and luggage compartment openings.
Drivers of the City Golf or City Jetta will benefit from their suspension
system that uses an independent McPherson strut font setup, as well as a
track-correcting torsion beam at the rear. Moreover, a five-speed manual
transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. Both the
City Golf and City Jetta are powered by a proven and torque-generous 2.0 litre
four-cylinder engine that generates 115 horsepower and 122 lb/ft of torque at
a low 2,600 rpm. Among the most impressive driving advancements, is an
optional electronic stability programme (ESP) that uses multiple sensors,
coupled with the vehicle's ABS system, to selectively apply the brake on an
individual wheel in an attempt to maintain the driver's control of the vehicle
at all times. This comprehensive safety system also includes an integrated
electronic differential lock (EDL), anti-slip regulation (ASR) traction
control, as well as an emergency brake assistant (EBA).
The list of individual option continues with side airbags, side curtain
protection, and air conditioning. Packages offered are the following: a cold
weather package with heated front seats and washer nozzles, a convenience
package replete with items such as power windows, mirrors, and cruise control,
and finally, a luxury package with power sunroof and 15" alloy wheels. For
added assurance, the City Golf and the City Jetta will come with 24-hour
Roadside Assistance for four years with unlimited distance and new vehicle
warranties including:
<<
- Five-year/100,000 kilometres (whichever occurs first) Powertrain
Limited Warranty
- Four-year/80,000 kilometres (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle
Limited Warranty with wear and tear items and adjustments excluded
after the initial 12 months/20,000 kilometres
- 12 year unlimited distance Limited Warranty against body-panel
corrosion perforation
>>
Founded in 1952, Volkswagen Canada, Inc. is headquartered in Ajax,
Ontario. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg,
Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars
and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the City Golf, City Jetta,
Rabbit, GTI, New Beetle, Jetta, Passat, Eos, and Touareg through more than 130
independent Canadian dealers.
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Large urban transit July 2006 (preliminary)
Combined ridership on 10 large urban transit systems in Canada was 2.7% higher in July than it was for the same month in 2005.
Approximately 98.6 million passenger trips were taken on these transit systems in July. These systems account for about 80% of total urban transit in Canada.
The trips generated $162.4 million in revenue in July (excluding subsidies), a 2.4% increase over July 2005.
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Aircraft movement statistics August 2006
Aircraft take-offs and landings at the 42 Canadian airports with NAV CANADA air traffic control towers reached 436,204 movements in August, up 5.9% from the same month a year earlier (411,896 movements) and the sixth increase in eight months.
Year-over-year increases in aircraft movements were reported by 29 of the airports. The variations ranged from an increase of 76.4% for Moncton/Greater Moncton International to a decline of 17.9% for Sudbury.
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Railway carloadings July 2006
Canada's railways have recorded their strongest tonnages for the month of July in six years.
Railways carried 23.9 million metric tonnes of freight in July, a 3.9% increase from July last year and the highest level since 2000.
However, July's figures were up only marginally from June's 23.8 million tonnes.
Total non-intermodal loadings amounted to 21.6 million tonnes, about the same as in June. Intermodal loadings, that is, containers and trailers hauled on flat cars, decreased 4.2% from June to 2.3 million tonnes.
Freight coming from the United States either destined for or passing through Canada held steady at 2.2 million tonnes, reflecting the non-intermodal trend of no change from the previous month.
Four commodities (wheat, iron ore and concentrates, coal and lumber) accounted for just over 42% of rail tonnage in the non-intermodal portion of goods loaded in July.
Potash, still the fifth largest commodity grouping, fell by almost 16.0% from last July, continuing its downward trend in 2006.
On a year-over-year basis, non-intermodal tonnage was 3.8% higher than in July 2005. Intermodal loadings rose 4.7%, while traffic received from the United States rose 12.2%
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GM Canada Partnership Key as Chevrolet Prepares to Launch the World's Largest Fuel Cell Vehicle Fleet
OSHAWA - There was a special Canadian connection today when General Motors Corp. committed to building the world's largest fuel cell vehicle fleet during the Company's reveal of its next generation fuel cell vehicle - the Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell.
"General Motors is demonstrating its commitment to hydrogen fuel cells as
the answer for taking the automobile out of the environmental debate and
reducing our dependence on petroleum," said Arturo Elias, President, GM
Canada. "We are especially proud that through partnerships with the Federal
and Ontario governments, our Canadian operations will play an important role
in the preparation of the Equinox Fuel Cell which will be powered by GM's most
advanced fuel cell propulsion system to-date. This demonstrates an important
milestone on GM's pathway to automotive-competitive fuel cell propulsion
technology development."
With support from the Federal and Ontario Governments as part of GM
Canada's Beacon Project (announced in March 2005) GM's engineering centre in
Oshawa Ontario is playing a key engineering role in the conversion of more
than 100 Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell vehicles to be placed with regular GM
customers in the fall of 2007. The Chevrolet Equinox, currently manufactured
in Ingersoll, Ontario was the first vehicle to be both lead-engineered and
built in Canada. In addition to final integration work for the Chevrolet
Equinox fuel cell vehicles that will be conducted at the GM Canada regional
engineering centre, special cold weather development work will be carried out
for these zero emission vehicles at GM's cold weather development centre in
Kapuskasing Ontario.
A comprehensive deployment plan, dubbed "Project Driveway", is designed
to gain comprehensive learnings on all aspects of the customer experience and
constitutes the first meaningful market test of fuel cell vehicles anywhere. A
variety of drivers, in differing driving environments, will operate these
vehicles in three geographic areas where hydrogen refueling is feasible:
California, the New York metropolitan area, and Washington DC.
Enabled by GM's 4th generation fuel cell propulsion system, the Equinox
Fuel Cell is a fully-functional crossover vehicle, engineered for an 80,000 km
life. Importantly, the Equinox Fuel Cell is able to start and operate in
sub-freezing temperatures. It is expected to meet all applicable 2007 US
federal motor vehicle safety standards, and is equipped with a long list of
standard safety features including driver, passenger and roof rail airbags,
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), StabiliTrak stability enhancement technology
and OnStar, while providing all of the environmental benefits of hydrogen fuel
cell technology.
"Ontario has worked hard to support and encourage leading-edge
investments in our automotive industry," said Joseph Cordiano, Minister of
Economic Development and Trade. "GM is leading the way in fuel cell technology
which will result in benefits to the environment and build on the province's
strengths as an innovative economy."
The Project Driveway market test will provide comprehensive insight into
all aspects of the customer experience, including reaction to the exciting,
smooth, and quiet performance of a fuel cell vehicle, and refueling with clean
hydrogen gas. These learnings will directly influence future fuel cell vehicle
generations and ultimate market acceptance. Chevrolet as GM's global volume
brand will lead GM's fuel cell vehicle commercialization charge.
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The Civil Aviation Administration of China unveils Aerosim Boeing 737-700 Virtual Procedure Trainer(TM)
Aerosim-Mechtronix shows CAAC appreciation for ongoing business by
donating one of their training devices
BEIJING, China - Aerosim Technologies announced September 12, 2006 that they have donated a Boeing 737-700 Virtual Procedure Trainer(TM) (VPT(TM)) to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).
The Virtual Procedure Trainer(TM) (VPT(TM)) is a reconfigurable crew
training device designed to combine customized courseware with simulation to
actively engage students in the learning process. Normal and non-normal
procedures for all ground-based and airborne operations can be achieved with
full integration across all systems. The VPT(TM) can be used to replace fixed
base simulator sessions previously performed on the full flight simulator.
Seven touch panel screens allow students to view and manipulate all
panels, controls, indicators and displays within the flight deck. The VPT(TM)
allows real-time interaction with every aircraft system in a structured
training environment or in complete free-play mode. An Instructor Operating
Station and simulated aircraft hardware (MCP and CDUs) round out the complete
CAAC VPT(TM) configuration.
At the ceremony taking place in Beijing, China the donated VPT(TM) is
being unveiled together with CAAC by Aerosim's President Dave Rapley, and
Mechtronix President Xavier Hervé.
Aerosim is committed to building strong business relationships with their
customers. This donation strengthens the Aerosim-Mechtronix presence in China
and reinforces the dedication the company has towards building training
solutions that truly meet the needs of their customers. "We are eager to build
and maintain a solid partnership with CAAC. The ever growing commercial
aviation market in China presents an exciting opportunity for application of
our unique family of pilot training solutions," says President of Aerosim Dave
Rapley. "We are very appreciative that CAAC will evaluate the VPT(TM) and
integrate it into their training program.
"We deeply appreciate Aerosim-Mechtronix' donation to CAAC and we look
forward to integrating the Virtual Procedure Trainer(TM) as a new tool in our
training programs. We greatly value the efforts they are making in building a
strong partnership, which we value tremendously," says Mr. Shi Ding Hao,
General Director of CAAC's Center of Aviation Safety Technology.
"The purpose of this donation is truly intended to show CAAC that we
value and attach importance to the strong relationship we are building with
CAAC as an Aerosim-Mechtronix partner," indicated Mechtronix President Xavier
Hervé.
About Aerosim
Aerosim Technologies, Inc. is the recognized leader in low cost,
hi-fidelity simulation software training products within the air transport
market. Aerosim offers a complete family of pilot and maintenance technician
training tools for distance learning, ground school, and flight training.
These training devices are both portable and flexible and have been applied in
classroom and computer lab environments, and on distance learning platforms.
The cost effectiveness, fidelity and industrial reliability of Aerosim
training devices has been demonstrated time and again through reduced training
footprints resulting in better qualified, more confident and safer pilots and
technicians. Aerosim products are used around the world by aircraft
manufacturers, commercial airlines, flight training centers and universities
for training of flight management procedures, flight operations, and
maintenance. Aerosim actively provides training solutions to the air
transport, business aviation and general aviation industries as well as the
military. More information is available on-line at www.aerosim.com
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Emirates SkyCargo Launches Groundbreaking Cargo Management System
SkyChain Set to Transform the Air Cargo Industry
- Largest single software development in the aviation industry
in recent times
- Offering unprecedented flexibility among IT air cargo management
solutions
- Innovation set to work with systems and standards of tomorrow
CALGARY - In a step set to revolutionize the air freight industry, Emirates SkyCargo today officially launched SkyChain, a comprehensive end-to-end IT cargo management system at the Air Cargo Forum, the world's largest conference and trade exhibition for the air freight industry.
SkyChain, a centralized cargo reservation and business management
solution, offers a number of advantages over existing systems. Benefits
include compatibility with the wide host customer systems, capacity to
accommodate upgrades and changes through Java architecture, and real-time
access and updates, all designed to address the current needs of today's cargo
customer.
Ram Menen, Divisional Senior Vice President, Cargo said: "There has been
a demand for a system that offers flexibility and allows users to move past
the constraints of legacy technology. SkyChain will enable us to do this. We
can now develop innovative business strategies with confidence, knowing that
SkyChain will effectively support these plans."
Currently, cargo carriers are using systems that are 10 to 30 years old
and offer little flexibility. Using the latest Java technology, SkyChain
substantially improves business efficiencies across the air freight life
cycle.
SkyChain was built in less than two and-a-half years and was successfully
implemented in August 2006. Built by a team of over 150 IT and Cargo
professionals in Dubai, an overall effort of about 300 person years has
contributed to creating the system, making it the largest single software
development project in the aviation industry in recent times.
SkyChain, built for the air cargo business of today and that of the
future is expected to make a significant difference to the air cargo industry.
Recognizing the potential of the system, SkyChain will be made available to
other cargo carriers through a sales effort led by Mercator, the Dubai-based
IT division of the Emirates Group.
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For-hire motor carriers of freight, top carriers Second quarter 2006
The top 91 for-hire motor carriers of freight (Canadian-based trucking companies earning $25 million or more annually) generated operating revenue of $2.4 billion and expenses of $2.2 billion in the second quarter.
Average per-carrier revenues ($26.3 million) and expenses ($24.6 million) both increased by 5.7% from the second quarter of 2005.
The top for-hire carriers' operating ratio (operating expenses divided by operating revenue) was 0.94, similar to the second quarter of 2005. A ratio greater than 1.00 represents an operating loss.
The second quarter of 2006 data on the top for-hire carriers, taken from the Quarterly Motor Carriers of Freight Survey, provide results from 64 general freight carriers and 27 specialized freight carriers.
Note: Readers should note that, with few exceptions, additions and deletions to the top carriers are done only for the first quarter of each calendar year, while the composition of a top carrier may change at any time due to acquisitions or divestitures.
Year-over-year variations in revenue and expenses may arise from changes to the mix of companies included in the top carriers and/or changes in the financial results reported by individual carriers.
The revenue and expenses attributed to top carriers may also include that of some companies with less than $25 million in annual revenue, particularly when these companies exist in complex corporate structures where their individual activities may be difficult to accurately measure.
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Newmarket "Wins" Slowest Commute Contest
Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid SUV Eases the Pain for Commuters
OSHAWA - It's official. Residents of Newmarket have the dubious honour of winning the Saturn Challenge, held September 7, by having the slowest morning drive into downtown Toronto. To determine the slowest commute, three 2007 Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid SUVs were dispatched simultaneously at 7:45 a.m. from the North (Newmarket), West (Burlington) and East (Whitby) of the city for equal 60 kilometre journeys to Yonge-Dundas Square in the heart of downtown Toronto.
The Vue Green Line from Newmarket arrived last, taking one hour, 37
minutes, 21 seconds to make the journey despite ideal weather conditions and
no major accidents along the route. The Vue Green Line from Burlington arrived
second, taking one hour, 36 minutes, 10 seconds; the Vue Green Line from
Whitby had the fastest commute, taking one hour, 27 minutes, 36 seconds.
The 2007 Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid SUV is the ideal vehicle for such a
test - and for anyone who sometimes faces heavy traffic - because of its
flexible hybrid design that allows increased fuel economy through engine
shut-off at idle, fuel cut-off during deceleration and the capability to
capture electrical energy through regenerative braking.
"Whatever distance or direction Canadian drivers commute, the Saturn
Challenge proves that the Vue Green Line hybrid SUV is an affordable, powerful
and responsible way to make the trip," said Sam Alaimo, director, Saturn
Canada. "Stop and go traffic may be a headache, but the Saturn Green Line is
like an aspirin that eases the pain."
Go Green Without Going Broke
Arriving at Saturn Retailers later this fall, the 2007 Vue Green Line
hybrid model starts at just $29,060 making it the most affordable hybrid SUV
in Canada. At almost $5,000 less than its nearest direct competitor, Canadians
can finally go green without going broke.
The Vue Green Line provides up to 20 per cent improved fuel consumption
versus its 2007 non-hybrid sibling depending on driving conditions, thanks to
a fuel consumption rating of 8.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.7 L/100 km on the
highway - the best highway rating of any SUV currently available.
While other manufacturers typically charge a large premium for their
hybrid variants, the Vue Green Line hybrid will cost just $2,600 more than a
similarly equipped non-hybrid Vue. That represents half of the premium charged
for most other hybrids on the market.
As a result, the Vue Green Line can offer customers a realistic payback
on their up-front hybrid investment through fuel savings. In fact, customers
who take advantage of hybrid tax credits available in some provinces could
achieve a payback on the cost of the Green Line's hybrid system in under two
years.*
To celebrate the Saturn Challenge, Saturn Canada made a $1,000 donation
to the Clean Air Foundation's Car Heaven program (www.carheaven.ca) an
initiative aimed at accelerating the retirement of older, higher polluting
vehicles by offering incentives including a $1,000 certificate towards a new
GM vehicle and free tow-away and environmentally responsible recycling of the
old vehicle.
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