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Chrysler Canada Reports November Sales Increase
- Sales up 7.2 per cent versus same month last year marking a record
16th consecutive month of sales growth
- 2007 sales up 5.8 per cent
- Highest YTD sales volume increase of any OEM in Canada
- Strong product portfolio and year-end incentives price adjustment is grabbing consumers
WINDSOR - Chrysler Canada reported November sales of 18,445 vehicles, an increase of 7.2 per cent versus November 2006 when 17,200 units were sold. This marks the 16th consecutive month of sales growth for Chrysler Canada, a company record. So far this year Chrysler Canada has sold 213,729 - a significant increase of 5.8 per cent over 2006 when 201,964 vehicles were sold - positioning the company as the number two seller of light vehicles in the country.
"Our new product is certainly hitting the sweet spot of the Canadian
market," said Dave Buckingham, Vice President of Sales - Chrysler Canada.
"When we talk about fuel-efficient vehicles like Dodge Caliber, Jeep(R)
Patriot and Compass, and the size of those segments in Canada, they have been
a perfect fit."
Chrysler Canada's 11,765 unit increase in incremental sales is the
largest of any OEM.
Year-end Incentives
In November, Chrysler Canada restructured and increased overall
incentives programs so that going forward the offers would be equally valuable
for cash, finance or lease customers. On top of that, Chrysler Canada is
announcing some one time only additional incentives for December to help
finish the year in the number two position.
"We were the first volume OEM to respond to market concerns and now we
are lowering our prices further for the month of December by as much as $4,750
for total discounts totaling up to $11,000."
For example, the 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 price has been lowered by up to
$4,750; the 2008 Dodge Charger and 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel price has
been lowered by $4,000; the Dodge Ram Heavy Duty Diesel has been lowered by
$3,750; and the 2008 Chrysler 300 has been lowered by $3,500 from the
already-low November price points.
Total discounts are now as much as $11,000 for a 2007 Jeep Grand
Cherokee, $10,000 for a 2007 Dodge Ram 1500, $9,500 on a 2007 Chrysler 300C,
up to $8,000 on a Dodge Ram Heavy Duty Diesel, $6,500 on 2008 Dodge Ram 1500,
and $6,000 on 2008 Dodge Charger and 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel.
Also continuing will be the popular "3 for Free" sales program which has
been enhanced and expanded in December. It is now eligible on most 2007 and
2008 vehicles and gives customers the flexibility to choose the offer that
meets their needs. As in November, Chrysler will make the first three payments
up to $500 per month on Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicles purchased or leased
with Chrysler Financial plus, new for December, these customers will also
receive a gas discount card valued at $500. Alternatively, the customer can
opt for an immediate $1,500 rebate increased by $250 from November, which they
can use to lower their purchase price/monthly payments, add Mopar Accessories,
get an extended service contract or simply help out with Holiday shopping
bills.
Sales Highlights
Chrysler Canada's sales success is not limited to any particular segment.
Truck sales are up 6.8 per cent in November, and for the year-to-date, Dodge
Ram and Dakota sales are up 5.7 and 6.4 per cent respectively. Canadians also
embraced the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country, as
sales rose 28.6% in November, and the Canadian-built Chrysler 300 / 300C, with
sales up 26.2% in November. On the other side of the spectrum, small, highly
fuel-efficient Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot sales are up 80.9
per cent to 35,492 units. Meanwhile, the diesel version of the Jeep Grand
Cherokee is making up 60 per cent of total Grand Cherokee sales, which were up
34 per cent as Canadians embrace the benefits of new advanced clean diesel
engines.
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November sales moderate for Toyota Canada Inc.
Lexus establishes new yearly sales record; Hybrids, Toyota trucks stand
out as Canadians shop for value, efficiency and utility
TORONTO - Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) announced its November sales results. TCI sold 12,554 vehicles, off 8.3 per cent from a strong November in 2006. Despite this, Year-to-Date (YTD) sales remain 1.4 per cent ahead of 2006, at 186,238.
Canadians purchased 11,587 Toyota vehicles in November, down 7.9 per cent
from the same month last year. Year-to-date sales of 174,073 are up 0.8 per
cent over January-November 2006.
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- Toyota sold 7,374 passenger cars in November, down 12.8 per cent from
the same month in 2006.
- Toyota truck sales of 4,213 were up 2.3 per cent compared to the same
month in 2006, to set a new November record. YTD sales of 52,009 are
up 14.8% per cent versus the same period in 2006.
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Canadians purchased 967 Lexus luxury cars and SUVs in November - down
13.4 per cent from the same month in 2006. Year-to-date sales of 12,165 are up
11.2 per cent compared to January-November 2006, and set a new yearly sales
record by surpassing last year's total sales of 12,001.
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- Lexus sold 572 luxury passenger cars in November 2007 - down
11.5 per cent from the same month the previous year. Lexus passenger
car sales for the first eleven months of this year are ahead of 2006
by 23.6 per cent, at 7,703.
- Lexus sold 395 luxury SUVs in November - down 16.1 per cent from
November 2006.
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"As we adjust to the continued strength of the Canadian dollar versus its
American counterpart, Toyota - like all Canadian auto companies - has been
searching for the right combination of price repositioning, incentives,
attractive financing and other benefits to encourage Canadians to visit our
dealers," said Tony Wearing, Managing Director of TCI. "As our November
results illustrate, Canadian drivers are starting to take note of our
adjustments and we did enjoy robust sales of some models in November."
"Those Canadians shopping for a luxury vehicle continued to turn to Lexus
last month, helping us to set a new yearly sales record - a month early,"
noted Yves Gionet, Director of Lexus in Canada. "We're pleased that our
Dealers set new November records for both our Lexus ES 350 luxury sedan and
our Lexus RX 400h hybrid luxury SUV, and we look forward to delivering more
perfect moments to our new and returning Canadian guests in December."
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November sales highlights:
- Sales of 1,072 of Yaris with a Trunk were up 14 per cent compared to
the same month in 2006 to set a new November record. Year-to-date
sales of 15,979 are ahead 20.6 per cent versus the January-November
period in 2006.
- In November, Canadians purchased 114 Tundra 4x2 models to establish
the best month ever for this pick-up. Meanwhile, sales of 1,014
Tundra 4x4 models set a new November record. In the first eleven
months of 2007, Toyota has sold 9,840 Tundra 4x2 and 4x4 models, up
316 per cent from 2006.
- Toyota hybrid vehicles were popular choices, with 967 sold in
November. Out of all TCI vehicles sold in November, 7.7 per cent were
hybrid vehicles. Canadians purchased 339 Prius liftbacks - ahead 200
per cent versus November 2006 and setting a new monthly sales record
for this model. Camry Hybrid sales of 413 in November were up
63.2 per cent compared to the same month last year, representing
24 per cent of all Camry sales that month. Canadians also set a new
November sales record for Toyota's all-new Highlander Hybrid - the
fuel efficient, emissions friendly, mid-size SUV - purchasing 88
vehicles in November, an increase of 11.4 per cent over the same
month in 2006.
- The sophisticated Toyota Avalon enjoyed strong sales, with 163 models
sold. That's an increase of 87.4 per cent versus November 2006.
- At Lexus of Canada, sales of Lexus ES 350 luxury passenger cars in
November were up 0.7 per cent compared to the same month last year to
set a new November record.
- Canadians purchased 103 RX 400h luxury hybrid SUVs in November, up
80.7 per cent compared to the same month last year to set a new
November record for this. The hybrid RX accounted for more than 28
per cent of all RX-series SUVs sold in November.
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Descartes Reports Fiscal 2008 Third Quarter Financial Results
Record Profits: Quarterly Net Income Up 325 Percent Over
Year-Ago Quarter; Year-to-Date Net Income Increased 61
Percent Over Previous Year
WATERLOO - Descartes Systems Group (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG), a global on-demand software-as-a-service (SaaS) logistics solutions provider, announced financial results for its fiscal 2008 third quarter (Q3FY08) ended October 31, 2007. All financial results referenced are in United States currency and, unless otherwise indicated, are determined in accordance with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Q3FY08 Financial Results
As described in more detail below, key financial highlights for
Descartes in Q3FY08 included:
* Revenues of $15.5 million, up $2.1 million or 16% from the
third quarter of last fiscal year (Q3FY07) and up $1.2 million
or 8% from $14.3 million in the previous quarter (Q2FY08).
Services revenues in the quarter were $14.5 million, up $2.1
million or 17% from $12.4 million in Q3FY07 and up $1.0
million or 7% from $13.5 million in Q2FY08. Revenues in the
quarter benefited from Descartes' August 2007 acquisition of
Global Freight Exchange Limited ("GF-X");
* Net income of $1.7 million, up $1.3 million or 325% from $0.4
million in Q3FY07 and unchanged from $1.7 million in Q2FY08;
* Earnings per share of $0.03, up from $0.01 in Q3FY07 and
unchanged from Q2FY08;
* Record EBITDA of $3.7 million, up 23% from $3.0 million in
Q3FY07 and up 9% from $3.4 million in Q2FY08. EBITDA as a
percentage of revenues was 24% this quarter, compared to 22%
in Q3FY07 and 24% in Q2FY08. Q3FY08 is the eighth consecutive
quarter where EBITDA grew by more than 20% over the same
quarter in the previous year. Q3FY08 is also the seventh
consecutive quarter that EBITDA, as a percentage of revenues,
has exceeded 20%.
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Canadian Vehicle Survey January to March 2007
Vehicles registered in Canada traveled an estimated 75.1 billion kilometres in the first quarter of 2007. This represented an increase of 5.6% over the same quarter of 2006. It is also the highest total for the first quarter ever recorded by the survey.
Light vehicles (weighing less than 4 500 kg) were driven an average of 3,621 kilometres for all of Canada. Among the provinces, drivers in Nova Scotia were the busiest, logging an average of 4,404 kilometres per vehicle, while drivers in Newfoundland and Labrador drove the least, with an average of 3,314 kilometres per vehicle.
The average number of kilometres driven for vehicles weighing at least 15 tonnes was 18,772 kilometres. Trucks from the Yukon drove the most, with an average of 31,377 kilometres. Among the provinces, trucks from Manitoba were busiest, with an average of 29,929 kilometres.
Within the provinces, cars, including station wagons, were driven an average of 3,159 kilometres during the quarter, while light trucks (minivans, sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks) were driven 4,224 kilometres. While there are fewer light trucks on the road, they are driven more intensively than cars.
Drivers of both cars and light trucks have typically driven fewer kilometers in the January to March period than in the other seasons of the year. However, this has not been the case for the past two years for light trucks, as drivers of these vehicles have used them more intensively in the winter than in the October to December period.
As has generally been the case, Monday was the busiest driving day for light vehicles, followed closely by Tuesday. Sunday is the slowest driving day of the week. For the heaviest vehicles on the road (weighing 15 tonnes or more), Wednesday was the busiest day of the week. As with light vehicles, Sunday is also the slowest day of the week for these vehicles.
The survey measures the activity of all on-road vehicles registered in Canada with the exception of some vehicles, including buses, motorcycles, construction equipment and road maintenance equipment.
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The Co-operators vehicle fleet goes green to reduce global warming emissions
Insurance fleet becomes first Canadian company to adopt PHH GreenFleet
program
GUELPH - The Co-operators Group Ltd., the leading Canadian-owned, multi-product insurance company, today announced that it is reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its vehicle fleet. Greenhouse gas emissions are the leading cause of human-induced global warming.
The Co-operators is beginning its sustainability journey and, as one of
its first steps is seeking to reduce emissions from its fleet of more than 400
vehicles throughout Canada. Vehicles are a significant source of global
warming gases because they emit more than two kilograms of these gases for
every liter of gasoline they consume. The PHH GreenFleet program was developed
by PHH Arval and Environmental Defense to guide organizations through choosing
more efficient vehicles, upgrading vehicle maintenance programs and providing
additional training to drivers.
Through PHH GreenFleet, The Co-operators expects to improve its fuel
economy and cut emissions. After rolling out PHH GreenFleet to its entire
fleet, the organization expects to improve fuel economy by over 20 per cent,
without increasing fleet costs. All fleet vehicles The Co-operators group of
companies acquires will now meet their new fuel economy requirements and help
achieve their goal of significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
"We are committed to protecting the health and welfare of our communities
and our planet - this includes recognizing and reducing the impact of our
vehicle emissions on the climate," said Kathy Bardswick, The Co-operators
president and CEO. "As an organization that insures more than a million
vehicles in Canada, we felt it was important that we assess our own fleet and
do what we can to minimize the impact our vehicles have on the environment.
Implementing PHH GreenFleet will help us do just that."
None of the organizations belonging to The Co-operators group of
companies will order any new trucks, vans or eight-cylinder vehicles, and
every driver in its fleet program will have the option of selecting a hybrid
vehicle.
"We are excited to have our first Canadian partner in the PHH GreenFleet
program," said Jim Halliday, senior vice president and general manager of PHH
Arval's Canadian operations. "The Co-operators is leading the way by
demonstrating a cost-effective method to minimize the impact of fleet vehicle
emissions."
"There's an exciting buzz and a lot of momentum around improving the
environmental performance of vehicle fleets," said Environmental Defense
Project Manager Jason Mathers. "We applaud The Co-operators for taking a
comprehensive approach to measuring and reducing emissions that will produce
real, measurable results for their business and the environment."
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Top Ten Shipping Tips for Holiday Shoppers
OAKVILLE - For those of us worrying that we might miss the deadline to get packages sent in time for the holidays, take heart. The UPS Store accepts parcels up until Friday, December 21 for shipping to most places across the country by December 24. For international shipping the deadline is December 17.
Says Steve Moorman, Senior Vice President, The UPS Store Canada, "Based
on past years, we anticipate The UPS Store will ship more than two million
pounds of holiday packages this season - with the majority being sent the
third week in December. So procrastinators should know they're in good company
and we're anticipating the rush for shipping, and for packing."
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Moorman also has the top ten packaging tips to ensure gifts arrive on time
and intact:
1. Always use a new, corrugated box for shipping because used ones
weaken and may break apart during shipping.
2. Don't wrap boxes with string, gift or kraft paper if sending an item
by courier. Couriers do NOT accept packages wrapped this way because
the package could get damaged.
3. Don't use newspaper to protect items in a box; newspaper doesn't have
"memory", which means it doesn't bounce back upon impact to protect
the goods. Bubble wrap and Styrofoam peanuts are the best packing
materials.
4. Secure all seams of your box with two inches of packing tape. Avoid
using masking or cellophane tape, which isn't strong enough.
5. Remove any batteries. Batteries must be packed separately. They
generate a lot of heat inside an item and if jostled a lot, they can
cause a fire.
6. Fragile items should be sent via air service to minimize time in
transit and reduce the possibility of damage.
7. Electronic equipment should be double boxed. Ship in its original
packaging but add cushioning materials, such as Styrofoam peanuts,
and then place inside another larger box. The original packaging
isn't enough protection because these boxes are meant to be on
shelves, not sent through conveyor systems.
8. Make sure all foods are sealed in an interior airtight container or
plastic bag before putting them into a gift box and shipping box. If
air pockets are in these containers, items will vibrate, break and/or
crumble.
9. Always ensure someone is available to accept your parcel. Many
holiday goodwill gestures have been thwarted by vacation schedules
and closed offices.
10. Know customs requirements. Make sure you've filled out all the
necessary paperwork and also know the rules as to what can and cannot
be shipped.
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Surge In Vehicle Imports Dampens Prices In Canada, Says Scotiabank Economist
TORONTO - Vehicle imports from the United States have surged as the Canadian dollar climbed above parity with the U.S. greenback, pressuring sales in Canada, as well as prices for new and used vehicles, according to the latest Global Auto Report released today by Scotia Economics.
Canadians imported a record 137,000 new and used vehicles from the United
States through October, 21 per cent above a year earlier, according to data
from the Registrar of Imported Vehicles.
"The import surge was particularly striking in October, with Canadians
importing a record 24,873 vehicles into Canada, double the level of a year ago
and a 68 per cent increase from the previous month," said Carlos Gomes,
Scotiabank's auto industry specialist. "The import surge and vehicle price
differential between Canada and the United States reflect the rapid
appreciation of the Canadian dollar, and are not due to increases in the
manufacturers' suggested retail price (MSRP) in Canada.
"In fact, Canadian new car prices were flat between 1998 and 2006 and
have declined by five per cent so far this year," added Mr. Gomes. "This
reflects the fact that while manufacturers have not adjusted their MSRPs in
Canada, they have enhanced incentives and have been offering better lease and
financing deals. As such, transaction prices have fallen, led by an eight per
cent decline for North American-built light trucks."
While MSRPs on many vehicles remain $4,000-$5,000 higher in Canada than
in the United States, the decline in new vehicle prices in Canada has
intensified since the spring, leading to lower prices for used vehicles,
especially one-year old models. As of early November, the Scotiabank Used Car
Price Index had fallen five per cent below a year earlier, led by an eight per
cent drop in the price of one-year old models.
The potential impact on used car prices and residual values is the main
reason why automakers are reluctant to reduce MSRPs, especially since the
number of vehicles coming off-lease is set to jump to a record 550,000 units
in 2008, up from a five-year low of 470,000 units last year, and nearly triple
the current level of imports from the United States. Furthermore, the number
of vehicles coming off-lease next year represents a record 14 per cent of the
entire Canadian market (new and used sales), suggesting that increased supply
will pressure residual values.
However, recognizing that Canadians are demanding lower vehicle prices in
view of the deals available in the United States, automakers boosted
incentives further earlier this month, offering discounts up to $10,000 on
selected models in an attempt to entice Canadians to move off the sidelines
and buy vehicles at home. Some manufacturers have also recently announced
lower prices for their all-new 2008 models.
Looking at used vehicle imports by province, Ontario and British Columbia
account for two-thirds of overall imports from the United States, nearly
20 per cent above their share of overall Canadian motor vehicle sales. We
estimate that roughly 40 per cent of all used vehicles imported from the
United States are destined for Ontario, a level only slightly above the
province's share of the entire Canadian vehicle fleet.
British Columbia is the big surprise, with the province representing
27 per cent of all vehicles imported into Canada, more than double its share
of overall Canadian sales. The high percentage of imports into British
Columbia reflects the large population base in Vancouver and the Lower
Mainland as well as the region's proximity to major cities in the U.S.
Northwest, especially Seattle.
In contrast, used vehicle imports from the United States have experienced
only moderate gains in Quebec and across most of Atlantic Canada. For example,
while vehicle imports have tripled across Canada since 2004, the increase in
Quebec is much smaller and is being driven by imports by large dealers.
Meanwhile, in Atlantic Canada, only New Brunswick has experienced a
double-digit increase in imports from the United States. However, even with
this jump, imports from the United States only represent a small percentage of
overall sales in the province.
"Looking forward, the auto sector will continue to experience
disinflation even if automakers hold off on lowering MSRPs. This reflects the
fact that with macro economic trends continuing to weaken in the United
States, used car prices will face downward pressure south of the border," said
Mr. Gomes. "This should further bolster imports into Canada, provided that the
Canadian dollar remains close to parity, a good bet given Canada's
comparatively strong economic fundamentals."
Turning to new vehicle sales, purchases across North America weakened to
an annualized 18.7 million units in October, down from an average of
19.0 million during the previous two months.
In Canada, sales edged up two per cent in October, reversing the previous
month's year-over-year decline. Despite the improvement, sales totalled an
annualized 1.57 million units in October, well below the August peak of
1.77 million. In fact, purchases have softened below 1.60 million units over
the past two months, as consumers appear to have moved to the sidelines in
anticipation of lower vehicle prices.
In the United States, purchases remained below a year earlier for the
fifth consecutive month, with volumes dampened by the ongoing turmoil in the
U.S. housing market, as well as record oil prices.
Scotia Economics provides clients with in-depth research into the factors
shaping the outlook for Canada and the global economy, including macroeconomic
developments, currency and capital market trends, commodity and industry
performance, as well as monetary, fiscal and public policy issues.
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Volkswagen presents its cleanest diesel ever during L.A. Autoshow
All-new Jetta TDI Clean Diesel will be available summer 2008
LOS ANGELES - Volkswagen of America, Inc. introduced its cleanest diesel ever, a 2.0L four cylinder TDI engine that will be available in Jetta sedan and SportWagen body styles in the summer of 2008. The 2009 Jetta TDI, equipped with the clean diesel engine option, will be available in all fifty states. This innovative new engine meets the most stringent Tier II/Bin 5 standards, without the use of urea injection. Instead, a nitrous oxide storage catalyst reduces NO* emissions by up to 90 percent. The engine management system changes operating modes to periodically treat the NO* stored in the catalyst. A particulate filter further reduces emissions, allowing this new clean diesel to be held to the same standards as gasoline models.
In the Jetta application, this sixteen valve engine will produce 140
horsepower and 235 foot pounds of torque. Featuring a common rail fuel supply
and high pressure injectors, smoothness and drivability have been greatly
improved over previous Volkswagen diesel engines.
Volkswagen engineers report that customers can expect "real world" fuel
economy to be increased by over 30 percent, in comparison to an identical
gasoline model. The new clean diesel Jetta TDI offers legendary longevity and
reliability, as well as inherent "fun to drive" Volkswagen vehicle dynamics.
This clean diesel technology will be available in 2009 Jetta models in the
third quarter of 2008. Pricing for this new model has not yet been
established.
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Audi wins three IIHS "Top Safety Pick" awards
TORONTO - Three 2008 Audi models have been named as "Top Safety Pick" award winners in all categories in the most recent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests. The Audi A3, A4 and A6 models feature extensive standard safety equipment which clearly contributed to the IIHS awarding these Audi models with its highest ratings following rigorous front, side and rear impact crash tests. This makes Audi the only German manufacturer to have three award winning models in its ranks: the Audi A4 and A6 had previously been honoured with this top safety rating.
While the Audi A4 and A6 models had been rated as "Good" in prior IIHS
crash tests, this was the first win for the Audi A3 sportback. This outcome
for the Audi A3 is the result of IIHS frontal, rear and side crash test which
the A3, like the A4 and A6 before it, completed in the U.S. The side impact
test is a particularly challenging part of the IIHS crash test series. In this
test, vehicles are struck from the side by a moving barrier at a speed of
31 mph (50 km/h). The barrier is shaped to resemble the front end of a pick-up
or SUV. Structural deformation as well as the kinematics and stresses to which
passengers are subjected are then evaluated. The outstandingly low loads
measured are thanks to the car's rigid body and standard restraint systems,
including the sideguard head airbag.
The IIHS also evaluates the risk of neck injuries in a rear impact.
According to the IIHS report, the A3 moved from a previous rating of
"acceptable" to "good" as a result of its significantly improved seat and head
restraint design incorporated into the 2008 models. Because of the optimized
design of the seat structure, seat components and above all the geometry and
position of the head restraints, Audi models score top marks in this
discipline.
"Following the Audi 'Vorsprung durch Technik' philosophy, we load the A3,
A4 and A6 models with life-saving safety technologies and we're delighted that
the passive safety features of the tested vehicles performed so well in the
most recent tests," said Audi Canada's Executive Vice President, Diego Ramos.
"These sporty, progressive and sophisticated Audi products combine important
passive safety features with an extensive list of advanced, active safety
technologies like the Audi electronic stability program which includes brake
assist and Electronic Brake-Pressure Distribution, anti-lock brakes and
quattro drive, all of which can help drivers avoid accidents in the first
place."
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The Lexus GS series: greater value means no compromise with the addition of more features, a new design and more power on the 2008 editions of the performance luxury sedan
TORONTO - Lexus in Canada today introduced the 2008 editions of its GS series performance luxury sedan, with new design touches throughout the line-up, more performance for the top of the line GS 460, and a price repositioning that makes all vehicles in the GS series more compelling choices for Canadian drivers.
"Lexus of Canada has enhanced the entire GS line - including the GS 450h
hybrid model - with new standard features and specifications, and even more
attractive suggested retail pricing," explained Yves Gionet, Director of Lexus
in Canada. "The GS series launched the L-finesse design language that has now
informed the look and feel of all Lexus passenger cars, so for 2008 Lexus
decided to give all GS models an update with a newly designed grille, front
and rear bumper, headlamps and aluminium alloy wheels on the outside, as well
as updated interior trim details. Particularly exciting is the performance
update for the GS 430 - now the GS 460 - in the form of a larger, 4.6-litre V8
and the same state-of-the-art eight-speed automatic transmission found in our
flagship LS 460 prestige luxury sedan. If you add this to the introduction of
more competitive pricing, there's never been a better time for Canadians to
get behind the wheel of a Lexus."
For 2008, the Lexus GS series comes in four models: the GS 350 - in
rear-wheel or all-wheel drive versions - the GS 460 in rear-wheel drive, and
the GS 450h featuring the Lexus Hybrid Drive gasoline-electric power plant.
All are well-equipped with many performance, comfort, convenience, luxury and
safety features.
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ACTS creates strategic partnership with Aero Inventory for its supply of consumable aircraft parts
MONTREAL - ACTS has signed an exclusive ten-year contract with UK-based Aero Inventory plc for the supply and management of a range of its consumable aircraft inventory, allowing ACTS to improve its inventory management process, increase its access to consumable parts, reduce its costs and improve customer turnaround time.
The service provided by Aero Inventory involves the management of
high-volume, in-house inventory and a significant number of suppliers.
"Through this partnership, ACTS will be better able to focus on its core
competencies by working with one single source for all its consumable parts
needs. Aero Inventory will give ACTS access to a wider network of aircraft
parts providers through a best-in-class integrated inventory management
process. This will improve our inventory mix and customer turnaround time,"
said Chahram Bolouri, President and CEO of ACTS. "ACTS will also become Aero
Inventory's channel to the market in the Americas, allowing both companies to
leverage their combined service offering to customers," he added.
"We are delighted to have been selected to partner with ACTS at this
pivotal time as Chahram Bolouri and his team set out to build ACTS into the
leading independent MRO in the Americas. Aero Inventory has long sought to
enter this key market. Alongside ACTS we now have the perfect opportunity to
promote our business model to the largest market in the world," said Rupert
Lewin, CEO of Aero Inventory.
This contract will involve the sale of ACTS's existing inventory to Aero
Inventory and a service agreement between both companies for the supply of
consumable aircraft parts.
Aero Inventory provides customized e-based procurement and inventory
management solutions to companies in the aerospace industry throughout the UK,
Continental Europe, Australia, and Asia Pacific.
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Toyota unveils all-new 2008 Sequoia at 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show
LOS ANGELES - Toyota unveiled the second-generation Sequoia full-size sport utility vehicle at a press conference today at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. Sequoia is completely new for 2008, with a new body, a new interior, a new chassis, an available new 5.7L V8 engine/six-speed transmission combination and an increased focus on efficiency, performance and driver/passenger comfort.
Since the Sequoia was introduced in 2000, the world has changed. With
both gasoline prices and environmental concerns on the rise, Toyota's
engineers and designers have taken steps to increase not just the 2008
Sequoia's performance and comfort, but also its efficiency and environmental
awareness.
To that end, the Sequoia is equipped with an available powerful new
5.7L V8 engine that generates excellent fuel efficiency and very low
emissions.
An all-new platform now provides exterior dimensions that are competitive
with other vehicles in the Sequoia's class. Inside, highly efficient packaging
gives the new Sequoia a very roomy cabin and a capacious luggage space.
In his efforts to be sure he got the 2008 Sequoia right, Chief Engineer
Motoharu Araya immersed himself in American culture for two-and-a-half years
as he began his design brief for the Sequoia. He even went so far as to live
for a time with an American family that owned a fullsize SUV so that he could
better understand the way SUV users relate to their vehicles. He also used the
Internet to circulate a questionnaire so that he could acquire detailed
information about how North Americans use their SUVs and what their
preferences are, right down to the side of the vehicle on which drivers prefer
their fuel fillers to be located. The result is a class-leading vehicle with
the efficiency, performance, comfort and convenience that SUV buyers want.
Engines and Transmissions
An available new DOHC 5.7L V8 engine enables the 2008 Sequoia to provide
acceleration performance that is among the leaders in its class, especially
while towing. Sequoia engineers developed the new engine to produce 381 hp,
one of the highest outputs in this vehicle class. This engine, which is Tier
II Bin 5 compliant, uses four valves per cylinder and Dual Variable Valve
Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) to produce 401 lb-ft of torque.
Dual VVT-i continually alters the phase of each camshaft by operating the
oil-control valve and controlling oil pressure on the advance/retard chamber
of the VVT-i cam pulley through signals from the engine control computer. It
produces optimized valve timing, contributing to higher output and increased
efficiency.
Compact pentroof combustion chambers and high-strength pistons that are
resin-coated to reduce friction, low-tension piston rings and a low-friction
valve train that uses roller rocker arms also are important features of this
engine, as is an Acoustic Control Induction System that changes the length of
the intake manifold runners based on engine speed and throttle opening. The
exhaust system, constructed of stainless steel, uses a valve in the main
muffler to alter exhaust flow, reduce exhaust noise and improve performance.
It also employs four catalytic converters - two for cold starts and two main.
As a result, the 2008 Sequoia provides the acceleration desired by users
and an available towing capacity of just over 4,082 kg (9,000 lbs). In
addition to the available 5.7L V8 engine, the 4.7L iForce V8 continues to be
offered as standard.
A smooth-shifting electronically controlled five-speed automatic ECT
(Electronically Controlled Transmission) is mated to the standard 4.7L V8,
while a new six-speed ECT automatic is part of the powertrain package when the
available 5.7L V8 is selected.
This transmission benefits from hydraulic pressures that are very
carefully controlled for smoother shifts, and from highly accurate gear-tooth
surfaces that help ensure low noise levels. A Tow/Haul mode that extends use
of the lower gear ratios also is part of this transmission's package.
Both transmissions are controlled by floor-mounted shifters and are
equipped with torque converters that use Toyota's flexible lock-up control for
enhanced fuel efficiency, and both transmissions can be shifted sequentially.
Additionally, the six-speed transmission's torque converter will lock up
in fourth and fifth gear, as well as in sixth gear.
On four-wheel-drive models, a two-speed transfer case that contains a
lockable Torsen limited-slip differential is used to transmit power to both
the front and rear wheels. Interestingly, this transfer case, with its 1:1
high-range gear ratio and its 2.618:1 low-range gear ratio, uses a durable
six-gear planetary ring instead of the more usual four-gear ring. The transfer
case is shifted electronically via a rotary knob within easy reach of the
driver, and it locks with the push of a button. High-capacity universal joints
are used in the drive line to accommodate the available power of the engines.
The front and rear differentials are larger for added strength and
measure 8.7 inches in diameter (front) and 10.0 inches (rear). The standard
differential ratio is 4.3:1 ratio available as part of Sequoia's towing
package.
Chassis and Suspension
To improve ride comfort and overall vehicle dynamics, the 2008 Sequoia
was given an all-new platform that features independent suspension at both
front and rear. This new suspension not only provides unparalleled ride,
handling and straight-line stability, but it also equips Sequoia with an
available towing capacity of just over 4,082 kg (9,000 lbs) which puts Sequoia
among the leaders in its class.
To provide a vehicle that will not fatigue its driver or passengers even
on very long trips, Sequoia engineers focused on improved ride comfort and
quietness, and on enhanced straight-line stability.
The new independent suspension employs upper and lower A-arms at each
wheel, tubular shock absorbers, coil springs and a hollow tubular antiroll
bar. It provides not only improved chassis dynamics thanks to reduced unsprung
weight, but also a turning radius of about 19 feet, the tightest in Sequoia's
class. Additionally, increased suspension travel and a newly developed upper
front shock-absorber support and lower bushing help enhance ride quality.
An available air suspension package and Active Variable Suspension (AVS),
with settings for comfort, normal and sport, improves the ride comfort and
augments the Sequoia's ability to tow and haul heavy loads while maintaining
an appropriate ride height and chassis attitude.
Larger tires and wheels were adopted to complete the chassis equation.
Standard are 275/65R18 tires and 18-inch aluminum wheels, while 275/55R20
tires and specially designed 20-inch aluminum wheels are available.
Inside those wheels, Sequoia uses 13.9-inch ventilated disc brakes up
front and 13.6-inch ventilated disc brakes at the rear. To improve braking
performance and fade resistance, calipers with four opposed pistons - two per
side - are used for the front brakes. The Anti-lock Braking System is equipped
with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) and Brake Assist.
Design and Styling
Working from a design theme articulated as "Rugged and Advanced,"
engineers gave the 2008 Sequoia a new, larger body size and a tough new look.
Sequoia's overall length, width and height are increased, its wheelbase
lengthened and its front and rear track is widened. Front and rear overhang,
meanwhile, is reduced.
Larger headlamps, with available headlamp washers, were adopted, as were
large side-view mirrors that are available with power retraction, automatic
glare-resistance, puddle lamps, turn-signal lamps, position memory and
reverse-linked tilt functions.
This new design achieves a drag coefficient of 0.35, which means the
vehicle offers exceptional aerodynamic characteristics and low wind-noise. The
vehicle's mirrors, wipers, A-pillar and roof header are shaped to maximize
aerodynamic efficiency and minimize wind noise.
The Sequoia's underside, meanwhile, also is optimized to reduce drag and
wind noise, and to help improve directional stability.
Interior and Comfort
A primary design goal was to ensure that the 2008 Sequoia is useful and
user-friendly and its driver and passengers, regardless of size and build,
have sufficient space to ride in comfort. To that end, the Sequoia's cabin
interior is longer, wider and taller than the previous Sequoia. Indeed, space
sufficient to comfortably accommodate people well above normal height is
available in each of Sequoia's eight seats.
Additionally, the second-row seat is equipped with a sliding-type seat
adjuster that allows the seat to be adjusted for added comfort when the number
of passengers is limited. For the third-row seat, an advanced seat-cushion
linkage reclining mechanism is adopted that elevates rear passenger comfort to
new levels.
Designers took special care to create comfortable, spacious seats in all
positions. To help achieve this goal, a new seat framework, with increased
seat width, was adopted. The driver's seat is standard-equipped with power
lumbar support, and available as an option on the front passenger seat. Seat
heaters are available for the driver seat and front passenger seat.
The second-row seats are split 40:20:40, and separate captain's seats are
available. The second-row seat is equipped with a seat-slide mechanism that
offers an adjustment range of 14.9 centimetres.
This seat can also be folded down flat and uses an easy-slide action to
allow passenger access to the third-row seat. A seat heater is standard on
second row seats (including the available captain's seats) with the Platinum
grade, and child-seat restraints for the second row are standard on all
grades.
The third-row seat is split 60:40, and it also has a seatback reclining
mechanism. It too can be easily folded flat.
The interior surrounding these seats is a model of comfort, safety and
efficiency and is filled with thoughtful details. For example, the rear-view
mirror incorporates an automatic electro chromic function, and also
incorporates a compass, a map lamp and garage-door-opener functions. Other
thoughtful features include automatic up-and-down and jam protection for the
front power windows, a back-door power window with automatic up-and-down, jam
protection, and an available power back door equipped with an easy-closer and
remote-control functions. An illuminated entry system is standard.
For the dash, designers incorporated a modular instrument panel structure
and they endowed it, and other interior surfaces, with a finish and feel
worthy of comparison with similar surfaces in the finest luxury cars. Rings
around Sequoia's Optitron gauges, and the climate control knobs, are chrome
colored, and panels on the dash are silver metallic.
A newly designed four-spoke steering wheel contains controls for the
Sequoia's air conditioning system, Bluetooth(R)-capable phones and other
functions. It is connected to a newly developed steering column with a
floating intermediate shaft that helps enhance steering feel and minimize
noise and vibration. This steering column offers both tilt and telescopic
functions, and a powered memory feature is available.
The 2008 Sequoia offers automatic air-conditioning with solar sensors and
automatic left and right independent temperature controls. Rear air
conditioning also is part of the package. This three-zone system uses a newly
developed multi-layer filter to ensure that air brought into the passenger
cabin is as free from dust, pollen and other contaminants as possible.
To help keep driver and passengers entertained, the Sequoia's audio
system is improved and speaker placement is optimized. An AM/FM/CD sound
system with eight speakers is standard for SR5. Also available is a 660-watt
JBL Synthesis 14-speaker system. The JBL systems are Bluetooth-compatible and
are capable of receiving XM Satellite radio with the appropriately installed
equipment and service subscription. Both are equipped with MP3 ports. A
new-generation navigation system with a new menu screen and an improved
seven-inch display is available for 2008.
To enhance the travel experience for passengers in the second- and
third-row seats, a Rear Seat Entertainment system with a DVD player and
nine-inch display is available.
The same efficient packaging that allows class-leading interior comfort,
allows hauling pieces up to 3352.8 mm (11 feet) in length.
Throughout, there are eight extra-large cup holders and eight bottle
holders, and designers also took steps to enhance Sequoia's availability of
storage spaces. For instance, the glove box now measures 9.5 litres, and the
second-row console box will hold 12 CDs or four DVD cases.
For the seating surfaces, leather is standard. Three interior colors are
available, one of which is new. The new one is Red Rock/Black, available only
in the Platinum grade, while the others are Gray and Sand Beige.
Safety
The 2008 Sequoia employs active and passive safety features to help
provide protection for vehicle occupants. Sequoia is standard equipped with
Toyota's key safety systems, which include the following: VSC (Vehicle
Stability Control), A-TRAC (Active-Traction Control), ABS (Antilock Braking
System) with EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), and Brake Assist.
Sequoia's collision safety performance is enhanced by driver and
passenger seat-mounted side- and side- curtain airbags that are included as
standard equipment; and roll-sensing side curtain airbags that extend from the
front seat to the third-row seat.
Standard Features and Options
The 2008 Sequoia is available in three grades - SR5, Limited and
Platinum.
The list of standard items on the SR5 grade, includes the 276 hp 4.7L V8
engine and automatic transmission, Toyota's key safety systems, Electronic
Brake Distribution with Brake Assist, side curtain airbag with rollover
sensor, engine immobilizer with alarm, direct tire pressure monitoring system,
seating for eight passengers, eight-way manually adjustable driver's seat,
four-way manually adjustable front passenger's seat, fold-flat feature for
second- and third-row seats, auto tri-zone air conditioning, power windows,
locks, back window, keyless entry, AM/FM/CD eight-speaker audio system with a
mini-plug for iPod compatibility, roof rack, rear wiper and defogger,
tilt/telescope steering wheel, cruise control, spare tire and mud guards.
To that, the Limited grade adds the 5.7L V8 engine and six-speed
transmission, 20 inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sonar, fog lamps,
heated leather-trimmed seats, 10-way-adjustable driver's seat, leather-trimmed
steering wheel and gear shift knob, Optitron gauges, multi-information
display, electro chromatic rear-view mirror, running boards, rear spoiler,
power back door, sunroof, headlamp cleaner, and JBL Synthesis audio system
with Bluetooth(R) capability.
The Platinum grade includes all of the above, and also adds,rear
load-leveling air suspension, power seat memory package, heated and
air-conditioned front seats (driver and first-row passenger), second-row
heated seats, and navigation system with a backup camera. Laser cruise control
is an option exclusive to the Platinum grade.
Interesting Details
The Sequoia's designers and engineers went to extraordinary lengths to
make sure the vehicle is as comfortable to ride in and convenient to use as
possible. As an example of the conveniences they specified, an available
electrically driven full-flat tilting mechanism was developed for the
third-row seat. When the seat is folded into its flat position, large baggage
or cargo can be loaded without removing the seat.
Every small detail was carefully planned in the effort to ensure concerns
of quality were attended to. For instance, engineers worked to improve the
operational feel of the Sequoia's switches. They specified large door handles
that would be easy to use, and located the handles at an optimum height.
Closing the back door requires less force than was required on previous
models, and the back-door glass can be opened and closed for easy loading or
ventilation with the turn of a key. Also included are handy hooks in the cargo
section from which to hang grocery bags.
The rear door opening angle is 10 degrees wider than the previous model,
providing easier passenger ingress/egress and child seat installation.
An intuitive parking assist system is standard. This uses sensors and an
audible warning to alert the driver of the position of solid objects, and
their distance from the vehicle.
As a final interesting touch, the Sequoia's towing hitch is integrated
into the frame as a single unit.
|
New motor vehicle sales September 2007
Sales of new motor vehicles declined in September, almost completely offsetting the gains made in August. Seasonally adjusted data from the New Motor Vehicle Sales Survey show that 140,263 new vehicles were sold in September. This represents a decrease of 2.1% from August.
The September decline is attributable mainly to a decline in truck sales (which include minivans, sport-utility vehicles, light and heavy trucks, vans and buses). While declines were widespread across Canada, Ontario and Alberta accounted for the lion's share.
Decreases in sales in July and September resulted in a 2.6% decline in the number of new motor vehicles sold in the third quarter from the second quarter of 2007. This did not completely offset the gains made in the second quarter (+4.0%), the strongest quarterly growth in almost four years. Passenger cars followed a similar pattern, while a 3.4% third quarter decline in truck sales more than offset any gains made in the second quarter.
Preliminary industry data for the month of October show that new motor vehicle sales are expected to decline 2% due to a decrease in passenger car sales.
Trucks behind sales decrease in September
Sales of new trucks declined 4.1% in September to 67,215 vehicles. This decrease almost completely offset gains made in August. Combined with low sales in July, sales in August and September resulted in a 3.4% decline in truck sales for the third quarter. This was the lowest quarterly growth rate since the fourth quarter of 2003.
Unit sales of passenger cars were stable in September (-0.2%), totalling 73,048 units. Sales of North American-built vehicles (-0.4%) fell marginally to 46,624 units, while those of overseas-built vehicles (+0.2%) increased slightly to 26,424.
Third quarter sales of passenger cars offset some of the gains made in the second quarter, falling 1.9%. The majority of this decline came from a 2.7% decrease in sales of North American-built vehicles. Sales of overseas-built models (-0.5%) were more stable in the third quarter. So far in 2007, overseas-built cars have accounted for 36.1% of total passenger cars sold. This is higher than the 2006 average of 33.6%, and the highest share since 1992.
Declines in Ontario and Alberta bring down national sales
September unit sales were down in eight provinces, with decreases in both Ontario (-4.0%) and Alberta (-5.3%) accounting for 86% of the total decline across the country.
All four Atlantic Provinces had declines in September. Newfoundland and Labrador (-4.3%) experienced its second straight decrease, and Prince Edward Island (-10.1%), Nova Scotia (-1.5%) and New Brunswick (-3.8%) each offset gains made in August.
Sales in Saskatchewan (-4.8%) were down after two months of growth. Only four sales declines have been recorded in this province since August 2006. Sales in Manitoba (-0.2%) were relatively stable.
Two provinces mitigated the national decline in September. New motor vehicle sales in Quebec (+1.9%) grew for the second straight month, while sales growth in British Columbia (+0.5%) almost offset the small declines registered in August.
Nine provinces had declines in the number of new motor vehicles sold in the third quarter of 2007, with only Nova Scotia (+3.1%) registering an increase. The largest decline was in Prince Edward Island (-4.0%) after four consecutive quarters of growth.
The decline in Quebec (-3.9%) followed a 5.5% growth in the second quarter of 2007, the strongest quarterly growth since the third quarter of 2003. As for Ontario (-3.5%), it also followed a strong second quarter (+4.7%), the strongest quarterly growth since the fourth quarter of 2001.
| New motor vehicle sales |
| |
September 2006 |
August 2007r |
September 2007p |
September 2006 to September 2007 |
August to September 2007 |
| |
Seasonally adjusted |
| |
number of vehicles |
% change |
| New motor vehicles |
138,563 |
143,278 |
140,263 |
1.2 |
-2.1 |
| Passenger cars |
72,146 |
73,166 |
73,048 |
1.3 |
-0.2 |
| North American1 |
47,747 |
46,791 |
46,624 |
-2.4 |
-0.4 |
| Overseas |
24,399 |
26,375 |
26,424 |
8.3 |
0.2 |
| Trucks, vans and buses |
66,418 |
70,112 |
67,215 |
1.2 |
-4.1 |
| New motor vehicles |
|
|
|
|
|
| Newfoundland and Labrador |
1,987 |
2,389 |
2,286 |
15.0 |
-4.3 |
| Prince Edward Island |
391 |
467 |
420 |
7.4 |
-10.1 |
| Nova Scotia |
4,005 |
4,213 |
4,149 |
3.6 |
-1.5 |
| New Brunswick |
2,959 |
3,207 |
3,084 |
4.2 |
-3.8 |
| Quebec |
33,707 |
34,769 |
35,445 |
5.2 |
1.9 |
| Ontario |
50,682 |
51,832 |
49,758 |
-1.8 |
-4.0 |
| Manitoba |
3,861 |
3,947 |
3,939 |
2.0 |
-0.2 |
| Saskatchewan |
3,411 |
3,886 |
3,699 |
8.4 |
-4.8 |
| Alberta |
20,825 |
21,831 |
20,665 |
-0.8 |
-5.3 |
| British Columbia2 |
16,733 |
16,737 |
16,819 |
0.5 |
0.5 |
| |
September 2006 |
August 2007r |
September 2007p |
September 2006 to September 2007 |
|
| |
Unadjusted |
|
| |
number of vehicles |
% change |
|
| New motor vehicles |
140,065 |
160,883 |
134,530 |
-4.0 |
|
| Passenger cars |
72,815 |
84,021 |
70,783 |
-2.8 |
|
| North American1 |
48,497 |
53,703 |
45,441 |
-6.3 |
|
| Overseas |
24,318 |
30,318 |
25,342 |
4.2 |
|
| Trucks, vans and buses |
67,250 |
76,862 |
63,747 |
-5.2 |
|
| New motor vehicles |
|
|
|
|
|
| Newfoundland and Labrador |
1,979 |
2,970 |
2,162 |
9.2 |
|
| Prince Edward Island |
404 |
637 |
383 |
-5.2 |
|
| Nova Scotia |
3,708 |
4,967 |
3,853 |
3.9 |
|
| New Brunswick |
2,843 |
3,767 |
2,846 |
0.1 |
|
| Quebec |
33,612 |
39,972 |
33,565 |
-0.1 |
|
| Ontario |
52,466 |
57,586 |
48,352 |
-7.8 |
|
| Manitoba |
4,223 |
4,721 |
4,132 |
-2.2 |
|
| Saskatchewan |
3,612 |
4,633 |
3,609 |
-0.1 |
|
| Alberta |
21,049 |
23,475 |
19,681 |
-6.5 |
|
| British Columbia2 |
16,169 |
18,155 |
15,947 |
-1.4 |
|
| r | revised |
| p | preliminary |
| 1. | Manufactured or assembled in Canada, the United States or Mexico . |
| 2. | Includes Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. |
| Note: | Figures may not add up to totals due to rounding. |
|
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.
|
Speedy seeks Protection from Creditors
TORONTO - On November 8, 2007, SMK Speedy International Inc. obtained protection under the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act.
"This action was necessary to allow the Company the opportunity to complete the franchising of certain remaining corporate owned stores, the sale of others and the reduction of corporate overheads," said Dorsy Asplund, CEO. "We are now in the process of franchising and selling the remaining stores as quickly as possible. We are confident that a strong franchise operation will emerge from this process. The majority of the Speedy locations have previously been franchised and are continuing to operate on a business as usual basis." KPMG LLP is the financial advisor to the Company. Mintz & Partners Limited is the monitor appointed by the Superior Court of Justice.
|
Descartes' Global Logistics Network Automates Load Tendering for Chambers Transportation
WATERLOO- Descartes Systems Group announced that Charlotte, North Carolina-based Chambers Transportation Services Inc. has selected Descartes' Global Logistics Network (GLN) to manage its day-to-day load tendering and related status reporting for loads it moves for one of its largest customers.
One of the services Descartes' GLN provides is an email-based solution
that enables transportation providers and manufacturers without
electronic data interchange (EDI), or similar technology
infrastructure, to easily exchange messages. The GLN enables the
world's leading transportation providers to reliably connect with their
trading partners.
"As a regional/long-haul truckload carrier, our required reporting
about the status of the loads we were moving was often done manually.
We needed an electronic solution for managing shipments that was easy
to deploy," said Ryan Chambers, President of Chambers Transportation
Services. "With the Descartes GLN, we have a cost-effective and
efficient way to electronically process load tenders and related status
data to not only meet this specific customer's requirements, but also
to alleviate many of the manual processes associated with receiving and
responding to messages."
Descartes enables Chambers Transportation to transfer the entire load
reporting process off of the dispatcher's desk and onto desktop
computers. Chambers Transportation dispatchers can now use their email
applications to view the tendered loads, accept or reject them, and
then provide the 10 status updates that this specific customer, a major
global consumer goods company focused in household and personal care
products, requires on each load. Invoices can also be sent via email
once the load is complete.
"Companies like Chambers can now bypass expensive investments in EDI
and communications infrastructure and still comply with their
customer's requirements by simply deploying the Descartes GLN," said
Eric Bossdorf, Vice President, GLN at Descartes. "This is an excellent
example of how Descartes solutions are flexible enough to help trucking
operations of all sizes compete in today's market. With the success of
the Chambers' implementation, their customers are now looking at
Descartes as a cost-effective means to help its other carriers meet
their load tendering requirements."
|
Volkswagen Canada bolsters value with additional consumer savings
Reinforcing our commitment to value with new savings announced on Jetta,
Passat and Touareg 2
AJAX, ON - Volkswagen Canada today announces a manufacturer's sales program to further strengthen its value pricing proposition.
For the months of November and December 2007, additional
manufacturer-to-dealer savings include $1,000 on Jetta, $2,000 on Passat, and
$2,000 on Touareg 2. These savings are for dealers to pass on to consumers and
are in addition to the attractive APR and lease rates, starting as low as 1.9
% on select models, already being offered.
In 2007, as the Canadian Dollar was showing signs of appreciation,
Volkswagen took pricing and product actions for several models. The original
entry price for the 2007 Jetta was dropped by $1,500. The 2007 New Beetle's
pricing was reduced by $1,710, and the 2007 New Beetle Convertible's price was
lowered by $2,090. For 2008, we introduced the new Touareg 2, with over 2,300
changes and a $1,550 lower starting price.
In addition, Volkswagen Canada introduced the City Golf and City Jetta
brand entry strategy in 2007 - exclusively for the Canadian market. These
vehicles made a big splash upon their introduction, essentially offering
compact cars at subcompact car prices. Redesigned for 2008, the vehicles
benefit from numerous changes, including updated interior and exterior
styling. The 2008 City Golf from $15,300, and the 2008 City Jetta from $16,900
represent incredible value for the Canadian consumer and are also offered with
attractive finance rates from 3.9 %.
"Volkswagen Canada continues to realize strong sales, up 10 % over 2006
through October, by providing exceptional value on fun to drive,
German-engineered cars," said John White, Executive Vice-President. "Our goal
is to continue delivering more value and savings to Canadians, as well as to
maintain our competitive position in the market."
|
New Index Measures Countries' Ability to Connect to Global Markets
The World - A new World Bank study ranking 150 countries pinpoints the places where it’s easy or difficult to ship goods across countries, into and out of ports, and over borders.
| The Logistics Performance Index (LPI) and accompanying study, Connecting to Compete: Trade Logistics in the Global Economy, find that the countries with the most predictable, efficient, and best-run transportation routes and trade procedures are also the most likely to take advantage of technological advances, economic liberalization, and access to international markets. |
 |
Countries with “higher overall logistics costs are more likely to miss the opportunities of globalization,” say the study’s lead authors Jean Francois Arvis and Monica Alina Mustra of the Bank’s Poverty Reduction and Economic Management (PREM) group.
“The biggest source of costs is not really transportation cost (such as freight costs), port and handling charges, procedural fees (such as bonds), or even agent fees, and side payments, it is the predictability, the reliability, and the quality of services that are much more important than the cost,” says Arvis.
“What matters most is reliability of the supply chain – whether the goods can be delivered on time,” adds Mustra.
Like the World Bank Group’s Doing Business report and the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Index, the Logistics Performance Index provides a set of indicators to gauge international competitiveness.
LPI measures the performance of the supply chain in international trade, “something that is not naturally captured by statistics,” says Arvis.
He adds the ability to benchmark the “logistical friendliness” of countries will help inform national policy makers, and development organizations looking for solutions to problems affecting a country’s ability to connect to global markets and foster economic growth.
800 International Logistics Professionals Surveyed
Some 800 freight-forwarders and express carriers working in the international logistics business in 100 countries rated countries in a web-based survey on such things as whether customs brokers or rail transport service providers were competent, export shipments were cleared and shipped as scheduled, and criminal activities occurred or information payments (bribes) were sought.
The index ranks the major transport hub of Singapore first, and land-locked Afghanistan last.
Developed, high-income countries, such as the G-7, are all top performers, while the performance of developing countries, even those with similar income levels, varied considerably.
China, for instance, was 30th out of 150, while some higher-income oil exporters, such as Algeria (140th) performed below their potential logistically, according to the study.
Countries with good shipping logistics tend to attract export-oriented foreign direct investment—seen, along with trade, as a way to access knowledge and technology.
Vicious Circle
Countries at the bottom of the index are “typically trapped in a vicious circle of overregulation, poor quality services, and underinvestment,” the study adds.
Earlier this year, the Bank’s Global Development Finance noted that while net private capital flows to developing countries reached a record US$647 billion in 2006, that money did not go to the poorest countries. In fact, 82 percent of the private capital flows to developing countries in recent years have gone to just 20 of the 135 included in the GDF’s analysis.
“In this highly competitive world, the quality of logistics can have a major bearing on a firm’s decisions about which country to locate in, which suppliers to buy from, and which consumer markets to enter,” the study points out.
An unreliable supply chain may mean having to carry higher inventories of supplies or finished products, or force shippers to use a more expensive form of transportation, such as air, to meet a deadline, it says.
Unpredictability is also a major constraint for companies and countries trying to diversify into higher value production. In global production chains, countries face a double challenge of maintaining an efficient chain not just for exports but also for imported inputs and components.
“The large difference between countries’ performance can be explained by the fact that the overall performance of a country is largely influenced by the weakest link in its supply chain,” says Arvis.
“For the most severely constrained countries—typically landlocked countries in Africa and Central Asia—innovative solutions may need to be found, and international donors will play an important role.”
The Bank’s web-based logistics survey was distributed by large international logistics companies to operational staff in the field “handling trade first hand,” says Mustra.
The survey was translated into English, French, Spanish, and Chinese and produced more than 5,000 evaluations. A follow-up survey likely to be conducted in early 2008 will also be available in Russian and Portuguese.
|
CANADA’S AUTOMAKERS TO LOSE MONEY FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR
Ottawa – Canada’s auto manufacturers are expected to lose money again in 2007, before slowly returning to profitability beginning in 2008, according to a Conference Board report released Nov 1, 2007.
“Loss of market share by the Big Three automakers and the rise of the loonie have taken a toll on Canada’s auto industry,” said Louis Thériault, Director, Canadian Industrial Outlook Service. “However, the opening of Toyota’s new Woodstock plant in early 2008 will help to increase domestic production and boost revenues for the sector. Improved production, combined with major efforts by the Big Three to restructure, will lead to a small industry profit of more than $850 million in 2008.”
Industry losses are expected to decline to $550 million in 2007, about half of the loss recorded in 2006. While the high Canadian dollar is hurting export prices—thereby cutting revenues—costs are declining even further because of job cuts, lower production, and cheaper imported parts as a result of the strong loonie.
Although profits are forecast to continue growing through 2011, profit margins in the motor vehicle manufacturing industry will remain extremely slim because material and labour costs are expected to increase.
This is the first release of the Conference Board’s new Canadian Industrial Outlook: Canada’s Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Industry, published twice a year. This industry was previously covered in the Board’s broader Canada’s Auto and Auto Parts Industry report. |
Bearskin Airlines adds additional flights to meet growing demand!
Waterloo Region – Bearskin Airlines announced October 30 the addition of a 4th flight daily on select weekdays beginning Friday, November 23rd to meet the current demand from the community. This announcement comes on the heels of the successful launch of the service between Waterloo Region and Ottawa and the addition of service over the winter holiday break to accommodate the Region’s large student population.
"It is great to see that the response to Bearskin's new Ottawa service has been so positive that they are adding an additional daily flight on selected week days to meet demand," said Ken Seiling, Regional Chair. "This will provide greater convenience for all."
On October 1, 2007 Bearskin Airlines launched three round trip flights each business day as well as Sunday service between the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) and Ottawa International Airport (YOW). Up to four hours can be saved on a round-trip flight by using this new nonstop service as compared to the use of Toronto’s Pearson terminal and the associated drive to and from Waterloo Region.
Bearskin’s decision to enhance service on Monday’s and Friday’s is directly related to the overwhelming response shown by the community which has resulted in limited availability and a number of sold out flights.
“Our heaviest demand has been from Ottawa to Waterloo Region on Fridays commented Cliff Friesen, Executive Vice President of the airline, “ followed by Waterloo to Ottawa on Mondays, so we’re adding another flight on these days to alleviate the situation, and make our service even more convenient related to the new time choices.”
Following are the details of Bearskin’s additional weekday service (Beginning November 23rd):
Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF) to Ottawa (YOW)
| Monday to Friday |
Dep. 6:45 a.m. / Arr. 7:55 a.m. |
| Monday to Friday |
Dep. 10:00 a.m. / Arr. 11:10 a.m. |
| Monday & Friday Only |
Dep. 1:00 p.m. / Arr. 2:10 p.m. |
| Sunday to Friday |
Dep. 4:30 p.m. / Arr. 5:40 p.m. |
Ottawa (YOW) to Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)
| Monday to Friday |
Dep. 8:15 a.m. / Arr. 9:25 a.m. |
| Monday to Friday |
Dep. 11:00 a.m. / Arr. 12:10 p.m. |
| Monday & Friday Only |
Dep. 2:40 p.m. / Arr. 3:50 p.m. |
| Sunday to Friday |
Dep. 6:00 p.m. / Arr. 7:10 p.m. |
These new flights are currently being offered at fares starting as low as $99 one way plus taxes and surcharges.
Take the hassle out of your business and vacation travel 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.
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Canada needs to close transportation gaps to seize historic opportunity
VANCOUVER - Canada has a historic opportunity to become the gateway of choice for goods entering and leaving North America, but it will miss this chance unless governments and industry work to address shortcomings in the country's transportation network, according to a Conference Board publication released October 23.
"Of the three countries signing the North American Free Trade Agreement,
Canada is closest to both Asia and Europe," said Prof. Mary Brooks of
Dalhousie University, author of Addressing Gaps in the Transportation Network:
Seizing Canada's Continental Gateway Advantage.
"Yet American shippers prefer to use American ports to avoid the
Canada-U.S. border and the uncertainty associated with border delay. The major
investments that the Canadian government is making in port and corridor
infrastructure are good first steps. However, Canada is falling short on the
so-called 'soft' issues, such as developing a highly-skilled workforce in
transportation management and reducing regulatory barriers and administrative
burdens."
Canada's geographic advantage stems from the fact that Shanghai is closer
to Prince Rupert and Vancouver than it is to Los Angeles, and Halifax is
closer to Antwerp, Belgium, than ports on the U.S. eastern seaboard. Both
Vancouver and Halifax are closer to Asian ports than their west and east-coast
American competitors-in most cases by a full day or more. Furthermore, Prince
Rupert and Halifax have spare port capacity, in contrast to the congestion at
Los Angeles and Long Beach.
Canadian governments have made progress in funding infrastructure
improvements in the past two years. Still, Canada needs to move away from its
current policy that ports must be financially self-sustaining in order to
support nationally-significant projects.
In addition to infrastructure, the "soft" issues are contributing even
more to the transportation gap. First, Canada cannot serve as a North American
gateway to the U.S. market if goods are not processed efficiently at the
border. Two issues are particularly relevant:
<<
- the need for regulatory convergence-higher border costs mean that U.S.
ports will be favoured over Canadian ports
- the administrative burden imposed on traders-Canada has the lowest
administrative burden among NAFTA countries, but it is still a greater
burden compared to global leaders like Denmark and Hong Kong.
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Rapid Customer Adoption Drives Growth for Descartes' Global Logistics Network
Latest Version of Standards Based Network and Value-Added
Applications Gaining Traction With Organizations in Multiple
Modes of Transport Unveiled at CSCMP
PHILADELPHIA - CSCMP Annual Conference -- Descartes Systems Group announced that its Descartes Global Logistics Network (GLN) continues to capture the attention of many logistics-intensive organizations around the world. As announced earlier today, Kuehne + Nagel and Polar Air Cargo are among the major brands that have selected the GLN for the value it delivers by standardizing business processes, connecting them to a community of logistics service provides as well as extending their enterprise systems.
With over 5,000 connected transportation and logistics service
providers and interdependent trading partners, the Descartes' GLN is a
definitive electronic communication service for logistics and supply
chain trading partners. Logistics processes are executed more
efficiently and effectively between retailers, their suppliers and
logistics services providers through the value-added applications that
run across Descartes' extensive multimodal network.
"Our commitment to expanding and enhancing our logistics technology
solutions continues to position us well to be a preferred choice for
logistics services providers, and manufacturers, retailers and
distribution enterprises," said Arthur Mesher, CEO at Descartes. "Using
the Global Logistics Network our community of customers can easily
interact with their trading partners and suppliers to reduce
transportation, compliance and inventory costs, while simultaneously
improving service across their supply chains."
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Polar Air Cargo Selects Descartes Logistics Solutions to Optimize Carrier Management and Ensure Compliance With Cargo 2000 Initiative
PHILADELPHIA - CSCMP Annual Conference -- Descartes Systems Group , announced that Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. (Polar), a global air cargo carrier, has selected Descartes' Transportation Manager to automate the selection, execution and auditing of for-hire carriers across its network. Polar is also implementing Descartes' Cargo 2000 solution to monitor its shipments and comply with the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Cargo 2000 initiative.
"Descartes' logistics solutions offer an extensive feature set that
will help us to manage selected carriers, uncover optimization
opportunities and audit freight invoices for accuracy," said Randy
Clark, Chief Operating Officer at Polar. "In addition, Descartes' Cargo
2000 will enable us to collect, monitor and measure our messaging
services to comply with current and upcoming phases of the Cargo 2000
initiative."
Polar works with a number of contract carriers and, with Descartes'
Transportation Manager, can now more effectively evaluate each carrier
and make informed selection decisions. With the ability to efficiently
plan and execute its shipments using automated processes, Polar can
also cost-effectively manage its transportation spend. Information
provided by the system includes quality report compilation, shipment
status, exception alerts, route map creation, and departure time
reporting.
With Descartes Cargo 2000, messages exchanged between contract carriers
are collected, classified and stored on a Cargo Data Management
Platform (CDMP). These messages, along with a route map, are stored for
generating reports and statistics consistent with IATA's Cargo 2000
initiative.
"We were selected from a competitive field of logistics technology
providers -- a testament to the proven value we deliver to our
customers," said Scott Sangster, Vice President Global Logistics
Network at Descartes. "By working with several of Descartes' solutions,
Polar can meet the guidelines set by industry bodies and, at the same
time, position itself to significantly lower its transportation costs,
streamline overall administration, and ensure customer expectations are
being met."
Built to accommodate the end-to-end transportation management business
process, Descartes Transportation Manager supports order management
through consolidation, financial settlement and auditing. Part of the
Descartes Global Logistics Network(tm) (GLN), the solution features a
Web-native design, works across multiple transportation modes and
supports multiple currencies and languages. The GLN, which enables many
of the world's leading transportation providers to connect to their
trading partners and reliably exchange information to drive delivery
performance and high levels of customer satisfaction, enables Descartes
Transportation Manager users to easily and electronically connect with
their business partners.
Descartes Cargo 2000 supports the IATA (International Air Transport
Association) initiative that sets the rules for agreed business
processes and automation standards within the air cargo industry. The
solution allows users to monitor shipments at a master air waybill
level from airport to airport, assisting users in complying with Cargo
2000 certification. Information provided by the system includes quality
report compilation, shipment status, exception alerts, route map
creation, and departure time reporting.
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Kuehne + Nagel Extends Descartes' Global Logistics Network to
Connect to Delivery Carriers
PHILADELPHIA - CSCMP Annual Conference -- Descartes Systems Group, a global on-demand software-as-a-service (SaaS) logistics solutions provider, announced that Kuehne + Nagel has extended its relationship with Descartes to include connectivity to its pick-up and delivery truck carriers in North America.
Kuehne + Nagel has historically used Descartes' Global Logistics
Network (GLN) as its global gateway for air messaging. Now, with the
extended service, Kuehne + Nagel is also able to automate and further
integrate its pick-up and delivery operations to offer more seamless,
door-to-door delivery services to its North American customers.
Descartes Messaging Services, which leverage the extensive reach and
collaborative capabilities of the GLN, enable freight forwarders like
Kuehne + Nagel to connect and share data with motor carriers to
schedule pick ups and deliveries, as well as to receive status
notifications and invoices. With the power of the Descartes GLN, Kuehne
+ Nagel can streamline and simplify the management of first- and
last-mile pickup and delivery movements for its inbound and outbound
air and ocean shipments.
"Descartes Messaging Services enable us to improve the performance and
increase the return on investment in our Oracle transportation
management system, and at the same time reduce the burden | |
