Wednesday, December 16, 2009

National Science Foundation Grants Award to Modumetal for High Temperature Diesel Engine Coatings

Seattle-based Modumetal, Inc announced today that it has received a National Science Foundation (NSF) award for a cutting-edge new coating that is expected to improve the operating performance of diesel engines. Modumetal’s coating technology will provide for greater operating temperatures to be achieved in diesel engines, thus improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) December 16, 2009 -- Modumetal, Inc announced today that it has received a National Science Foundation (NSF) award for a cutting-edge new coating that is expected to improve the operating performance of diesel engines. Modumetal’s coating technology will provide for greater operating temperatures to be achieved in diesel engines, thus improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

There is an ever increasing demand in the marketplace and in the regulatory environment for improvements in the fuel efficiency of transportation vehicles. A major limiting factor in meeting these needs is the availability of advanced materials that can survive the requisite operating temperatures. Modumetal’s Thick Thermal Barrier Coatings (T-TBC), which will be developed under the subject contract, is such a material that will provide the basis for high-temperature, high-efficiency automobile and truck diesel engines by reducing the apparent temperature at the engine’s base metal and protecting against abrasion and high temperature-accelerated degradation.

The project, which will be lead by Modumetal’s Dr. John Whitaker, will involve specific application of a novel, nanolaminated T-TBC for insulation of critical engine components such as piston crowns, valve faces, and cylinder heads, and lower the heat rejected to the cooling system, which in turn increases the amount of the combustion energy converted to useful work.

From an environment protection standpoint, the additional advantages afforded by higher diesel operating temperatures include reductions in both carbon emissions (unburned hydrocarbons, particulates, and CO2) and noise. According to TBC Vice President, Todd Wallen, “Modumetal’s TBCs are not only reducing the emission of carbon into the environment, but are also eliminating the creation of additional waste of natural resources by ensuring longer life and efficiency in equipment and operations. So that as this NSF Award elevates further the performance advancements made possible by Modumetal’s unique coating technology, the recognition also punctuates the growing economic and positive environmental impact of this broad nanotechnology field."

“The NSF Award further validates the progress we’ve made both as a company, and as a solutions provider in a key U.S. industry which needs such innovative technologies as this one in order to secure a position in the forefront of a competitive and demanding international marketplace,” said Modumetal CEO, Christina Lomasney.

About Modumetal’s Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process, Modumetal by Design (MbD), is a low-cost, scalable, and net-shape descendant of electrochemical manufacturing. MbD is a non-line-of-site, ambient-temperature process that supports the production of a wide range of fully dense metals, alloys and net-shape parts. MbD differs from conventional electrochemical plating and forming in its precise, time-varying control of plating conditions at the workpiece surface, producing laminated structures with wavelengths approaching several nanometers. The Modumetal technology is the subject of several issued and pending patents.

About Modumetal
Modumetal (www.modumetal.com), based in the heart of Seattle, Washington, is realizing the commercial potential of a unique class of nanolaminated materials. Modumetal is creating materials that will change design and manufacturing of metals by redefining structural, corrosion and high temperature performance. Modumetal represents a whole new way of producing parts and is leveraging nanotechnology to achieve this unprecedented performance. Modumetal is made by a “green” electrochemical manufacturing approach, which reduces the carbon footprint of conventional metals manufacturing at the same time that it revolutionizes materials performance.

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[Via Automotive]

Posted by prolink at 2:45 AM 0 comments

RS Electronics USA Inducts Five into Silver Service Gallery

RS Electronics USA inducts five employees with 25 years of service into the company's Silver Service Gallery.

Livonia, MI (PRWEB) December 16, 2009 --RS Electronics USA, a Michigan based distributor of industrial electronics, recently inducted five long-time employees into the company's Silver Service Gallery. The gallery is located at the company headquarters in Livonia, Michigan, and features portraits of employees who have served RS for 25 years or more.

The 2009 inductees were: Michele Newman, Purchasing; Carol Robbins, Purchasing; Jerry Walter, Inside Sales; Nancy Gumtow, Finance; and Phil Brown, Operations.

The inductees were honored at a ceremony led by Howard Taxe, President. "The Silver Anniversary event is a very special day at RS. It enables me to publicly acknowledge the dedication and commitment that our 25 year employees have given to our organization. These people are critically important to the success of our business and I recognize and appreciate the contributions that they have given to us." said Taxe.

The ceremony was followed by a buffet luncheon for all employees.

Founded in 1929, RS Electronics is recognized as one of the largest and most successful electronics distributors in North America by leading trade publications. Over the years, the company has earned local, regional, and national recognition for human resources practices and employee satisfaction--most recently being named one of Michigan's Top Workplaces for 2009 by the Detroit Free Press. Customers include businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies--among them many of the world's largest and most successful organizations.

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[Via Automotive]

Posted by prolink at 2:45 AM 0 comments

Study Finds Toll Road Users Save Fuel and Emit Fewer Pollutants

A scientific study conducted on behalf of the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority has found that vehicles driven on the 183A toll road on average use less fuel and emit fewer pollutants than vehicles driven on the alternative parallel route, US 183.

Austin, TX (PRWEB) December 16, 2009 -- A scientific study conducted on behalf of the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority has found that vehicles driven on the 183A toll road on average use less fuel and emit fewer pollutants than vehicles driven on the alternative parallel route, US 183.

Conducted by Sensors Inc. in June 2009, the study involved outfitting two vehicles, a small sedan and a large SUV, with specialized monitoring equipment. The vehicles were then driven on both US 183 and the 183A toll road during peak and non-peak hours. Vehicle emissions and fuel consumption were then compared.

The study found that using 183A could potentially save the average driver 108 gallons of fuel a year, at a current cost savings of approximately $281. Based on current traffic volumes, it has been calculated that the 183A toll road has reduced overall fuel consumption by nearly 665,000 gallons a year, saving local drivers more than $1.7 million annually.

The study also found that vehicles on 183A on average emit significantly fewer pollutants. Nitrogen Oxide annual emissions are 56% lower, Carbon Dioxide annual emissions are 28% less and Total Hydrocarbon annual emissions are reduced by 37%. All of these pollutants have been associated with global warming, and Nitrogen Oxides contribute to the formation of ground level ozone, which can damage human lungs and is especially hazardous to people with asthma and other lung diseases.

"Not only do drivers get where they want to go faster and with less stress, but they can also conserve fuel and reduce vehicle emissions," says Mike Heiligenstein, Executive Director.
"This study suggests that reducing traffic congestion has more benefits than first thought. Not only do drivers get where they want to go faster and with less stress, but they can also conserve fuel and reduce vehicle emissions," says Mike Heiligenstein, Executive Director of the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority. "The net benefit is a better environment and an improved quality of life."    
    
Since passage of the Clean Air Act in 1970, the federal government has been steadily implementing new laws and regulations aimed at reducing air pollution and may soon place new restrictions on carbon emissions.

While the study involved a comparison between a limited access toll road and a parallel arterial highway with traffic signals, the results suggest that any roadway improvement that reduces stop and go traffic would offer similar benefits.

To view the executive summary, the full study or an audio slideshow, please visit: CTRMA 183A Vehicle Emissions Study.

About the Mobility Authority
The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority is a local, independent government agency created to improve the regional transportation system. Our mission is to implement innovative solutions that reduce congestion and create transportation choices that enhance quality of life and economic vitality. The Mobility Authority is the state’s first Regional Mobility Authority, created in January 2003 to serve Travis and Williamson counties. Mike Heiligenstein serves as the Executive Director. The Mobility Authority currently operates the 183A toll road in Williamson County and is working to extend the 183A project and construct the US 290 East (Manor Expressway) project in Travis County.

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[Via Automotive]

Posted by prolink at 2:45 AM 0 comments

Jim Ellis Brings Atlanta Car Dealerships to the Social Web

Jim Ellis Car Dealerships Announce Web 2.0 Initiatives: Jimmy Ellis on Twitter, the Jim Ellis Blog, Dealership Facebook Pages, and Mobile Website Browsing for locations selling Audi, Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Hyundai, Mazda, Porsche, Saab, and Volkswagen brands in Atlanta and Marietta, GA.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) December 16, 2009 -- In addition to his “old media” ties with WSB radio’s "Automotive Minute", Jimmy Ellis, the VP and COO of Jim Ellis Automotive Dealership Group is tweeting and supervising the new company blog.

Jim Ellis is leading the way for online automotive dealerships.
Jim Ellis is leading the way for online automotive dealerships.
We want our customers to feel like they are a part of the family. What better way to keep in touch with what’s going on with family and friends than Facebook?
Like the "Automotive Minute", the new Jim Ellis company blog is a combination of automotive industry news, dealership updates and valuable consumer advice and information for car owners, drivers, and those interested in tips about buying a new or used car.

Follow Jimmy on Twitter

While there are a few of the Jim Ellis family dealerships directly accessible via Twitter (such as Jim Ellis Audi Atlanta or Jim Ellis Porsche), Mr. Ellis himself manages the Twitter account entitled “JimmyEllisAuto”. He provides insight into the big changes going on with the brands the company sells, sneak peeks into the car business, occasional interesting rumors, as well as his personal opinions.

He also keeps an eye out for customers who are tweeting about the company. “If you have a complaint or a compliment about any of the Jim Ellis stores, Mr. Ellis himself will at-reply to your comment on Twitter!” says Wayne Ussery, director of the Internet Marketing department for the dealership group.

Fan Jim Ellis Dealerships on Facebook

Each of the twelve Jim Ellis dealerships has their own Facebook page, where the social media site’s users can become fans to hear industry news, dealership news, and interact directly with people at their local dealership.

“We want our customers to feel like they are a part of the family. What better way to keep in touch with what’s going on with family and friends than Facebook?” says Ellis.

Check the Jim Ellis Websites on your Mobile Phone

In November 2009, the mobile versions for the Jim Ellis websites were launched for access from iphones and any other telephone device equipped with mobile internet.

“This initiative is about meeting our customers where they are – we want to be available when they are looking for vital information,” says Ussery.

“The mobile access is not only great for those who are looking for directions to our locations from the road,” he explains. “We have included all of our inventory information on the mobile sites as well. That way, if customers on our lot and see cars they want to know more about, they can find that information out right then and there – even if the showroom is closed!”

Jim Ellis Ratings and Reviews Online

Another initiative the Jim Ellis stores are working on is responding to every customer review posted on local directory sites like Kudzu.com or Yelp.com.

Negative reviews are investigated by the customer relationship management team. Then, the customer who posted the review is contacted directly to achieve resolution.

Positive reviews are also noted, particularly when individual employees have provided exemplary customer service at one of the Jim Ellis locations. Sometimes customers are invited to publish their testimonials on individual dealership sites, as well.

Bringing the Company Culture to Web 2.0

“When they visit Jim Ellis stores, customers rely on our friendly and dedicated staff, our knowledgeable sales staff, and the fact that they will feel taken care of, rather than taken for a ride.” Ussery said. “The company culture is based on making our customers feel like family, and we strive to bring that same culture to our social media presence online.”

By encouraging user-generated content, participating in the social media space as well as the blogosphere, and ensuring cross-browser compatibility that includes mobile media access, the Jim Ellis family of automotive dealerships are blazing the trails for car businesses online.

About Jim Ellis Automotive Dealerships: The Jim Ellis Auto Dealerships are a family-owned and operated business with dealerships located in Marietta and Atlanta, Georgia. The Jim Ellis dealerships offer a wide selection of used cars as well as new cars from Chevrolet, Volkswagen, Buick/Pontiac/GMC, Audi, Hyundai, Mazda, Porsche, and Saab. To learn more, or to browse a complete inventory online, please visit the Jim Ellis website.

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[Via Automotive]

Posted by prolink at 2:45 AM 0 comments

JAXQuickfit Opens New Tweed Heads Tyre Store

Local tyre man Nathan Brookes recently opened the newest addition to the national JAXQuickfit Tyres network, in Tweed Heads.

(PRWEB) December 16, 2009 --Local tyre man Nathan Brookes recently opened the newest addition to the national JAXQuickfit Tyres network, in Tweed Heads.

News Image"JAXQuickfit has a tremendous product and service offering, and I think it is the right one for my customers, so we grabbed the opportunity to join the JAXQuickfit family with both hands," Nathan Brookes said.

"From the product range, the pricing and the way JAXQuickfit relates to its customers, to the back-end stuff that helps us run the business, it's industry best-practice … joining JAXQuickfit has been a very positive move for my business."

JAXQuickfit new Tweed Heads Tyre store joins the Ashmore, Ballina, Lismore and Southport outlets in offering customers a convenient choice of locations for tyre servicing in South East Queensland & Northern New South Wales.

Nathan Brookes followed his father Danny into the tyre industry and has learnt the trade from the tyre fitting machine up.

"Dad has been in the (tyre) business since before I was born and he's still involved today, running a store in Brisbane, so it was pretty easy for me to be involved … and I have to say I really enjoy it.

"Interaction with customers is the most enjoyable aspect, plus the knowledge that you are contributing to their safety (on the road) by the advice and product choice you give them."

Manager David Byrne-Smith has been a familiar face on that site for more than 17 years.

"Between David & I, there's more than 30 years' combined experience in the business and most importantly, almost two decades of understanding what our customers in Tweed Heads want," Nathan Brookes said.

"We're sensitive to the budget-conscious needs of the large community of retired people here, firstly, and we've ramped up our wheel offering because there's been a swing toward interest in alloy wheels with young families.

"There's also a lot of (four-wheel-drive) work from rural community further south, so it's a real mix of customers."

Nathan was also quick to recognise the importance of female customers, who today make up a large portion of the tyre buying public.

"We've been very conscious about making our store as user-friendly as possible, with female customers particularly in mind," Nathan explained.

JAXQuickfit Tweed Heads offers the national retail chain's range of tyres, wheels and associated services, including wheel alignments. Its workshop also includes two of the latest state-of-the-art wheel balancers.

Australian-owned JAXQuickfit Tyres is unique in representing the top five global manufacturing giants of the tyre industry, including quality and high performance passenger car, 4wd and light commercial tyre brands … BF Goodrich, Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, Goodyear, Michelin and Pirelli together with value for money brand options.

This enables it to offer customers a mix of brands that span the premium, major and budget market sectors.

In 2009 JAXQuickfit is celebrating its 60th year in business and nationally serves more than 42,000 customers per month through more than 70 stores along the eastern seaboard.

JAXQuickfit Tyres Tweed Heads store is located at: 51 Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South. Phone 5524 3444

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[Via Automotive]

Posted by prolink at 2:45 AM 0 comments

Cory O'Brien Wins the 4 Wheel Parts Facebook Video Contest and a $1000 Promo Card

4 Wheel Parts has given back to the off-road community once again with a Facebook contest that promised the winners a $1000 promo card. With a video showcasing his 1988 Chevrolet Suburban, Corey O'Brien inspired the 4 Wheel Parts Facebook fans to crown him the video off-roading king.

You need Flash to see the Feature Video

"I liked the Facebook contest a lot," O'Brien said. "I was really happy because it gave the average Joe like me a chance to actually win something. But I really need to thank everyone who voted. They made it all possible."

Compton, CA (PRWEB) December 16, 2009 -- Show us how 4 Wheel Parts has been a part of your off-roading adventures! That's the challenge 4 Wheel Parts presented to their Facebook fans earlier this year with an enticing reward: a $1000 promo card each for the best photo album and best video.

Cory O'Brien with his 1988 Chevy Suburban
Cory O'Brien with his 1988 Chevy Suburban
Out of 61 entries, 4 Wheel Parts chose their top 5 in each category and then it was up to the fans. Anyone who was a fan of 4 Wheel Parts on Facebook could vote for his or her favorite photo and video. In the end, it was Cory O'Brien of Cromwell, Connecticut who won the most votes for his off-roading video and drove away with a $1000 4 Wheel Parts promo card.

"I liked the Facebook contest a lot," O'Brien said. "I was really happy because it gave the average Joe like me a chance to actually win something. But I really need to thank everyone who voted. They made it all possible." His video featuring his 1988 Chevrolet Suburban won him the majority vote in the contest.

This was the second contest 4 Wheel Parts, the nation's largest distributor of off-road parts for Jeeps, trucks, and SUVs, held on Facebook. Earlier this year they promoted their Show-n-Shine contest, giving Facebook fans the opportunity to vote for their favorite customer-owned and -submitted Jeeps and trucks. The winner from each category won a $1000 shopping spree at 4 Wheel Parts.

With his $1000 winnings, O'Brien didn't shy away from what he really wanted: "For sure the winch was what I was most excited about. It was not in the prospective budget for my truck and was one thing that will come in handy time and time again," O'Brien said. His final purchase list included: a Tabor 12K WARN Winch, Mile Marker 35 spline hubs, a Pro Comp tree saver strap, 2 Smittybilt D-rings, and a small air compressor for onboard air in the future.

This was just the next step in a long history of upgrades he has made to his Suburban including: welded 14 bolt spider gears, Dana 60 front axle with 35 spline outers, hydraulic steering assist, 40" Super Swamper tires, 9" lift kit, 2wd SM465 transmission, twin-sticked NP205 transfercase, and 32 gallon RCI fuel cell. He even chopped off the back of his Chevy to install a tube bed.

Many of these upgrades came from 4 Wheel Parts. "4 Wheel Parts is a big part of off-roading for me," O'Brien said. "I read every page of every off road adventures that comes to the door. They give me great ideas and keep me on my toes for new and upcoming designs. I have ordered countless parts from the website… I just wish there was a store close to me on the east coast. I would be there almost every day."

An avid off-roader since college, he's already thinking about the next upgrades he wants to make. "Future plans are to build an interior and engine cage to protect the truck, build up the onboard air system, and build a 383 to get some more power going. Those are the big things anyway," O'Brien said. Who knows? Maybe he will win another contest and receive those items care of 4 Wheel Parts.

4 Wheel Parts offers competitive pricing on all leveling kits, tonneau covers, winches, tires, and other off-road parts. To get more information and learn how you can enter to win a $500 promo card from 4 Wheel Parts, call 877-885-6474 or visit www.4WheelParts.com.

About 4 Wheel Parts: 4 Wheel Parts has been a leading provider of leveling kits, tonneau covers, and other off road vehicle parts for over 40 years. Discover how you can take advantage of these kick back opportunities at http://www.4WheelParts.com.

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[Via Automotive]

Posted by prolink at 2:45 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Classic Recreations Announces New Dealer for Shelby G.T.500CR: Tradimpex FZE

UAE Dealer will bring highly-anticipated bespoke Shelby G.T.500CR to the Mid East

Yukon, OK (Vocus/PRWEB ) December 15, 2009 -- When the all-new Shelby G.T.500CR by Classic Recreations was announced at the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and the concept renderings took the muscle car world by storm. As the first car nears completion, Classic Recreations has announced its first international dealership: Tradimpex FZE. With extensive experience importing vehicles from around the globe into one of the fastest growing sports car markets in the world, the company will provide concierge-level service to enthusiasts that wish to order an officially licensed, hand built, bespoke Shelby G.T.500CR.

Classic Recreations Shelby G.T.500CR - Now Available in Middle East through Tradimpex FZE
Classic Recreations Shelby G.T.500CR - Now Available in Middle East through Tradimpex FZE

“The response to our new Shelby G.T.500CR Mustang has been overwhelming," said Classic Recreations owner Jason Engel. "Jean Loup and the entire Tradimpex organization have experience handling ultra-rare and exclusive supercars, and we feel that the Middle East market will appreciate the car's heritage, style, and incredible performance. We are confident that this partnership will be a fantastic fit and that our Middle East clients will be very happy.”

The G.T.500CR is a fully licensed, hand-built continuation car based on a 1967 or 1968 Mustang. Each car will blend the iconic styling of a classic Shelby with modern supercar performance and reliability. All three GT500CR models will feature a hand-built 427 cubic inch (7.0L) engine, model specific bodywork, custom paint and hand-stitched upholstery. The "Intro" model is powered by a 545hp fuel injected 427 with a 150hp NOS nitrous oxide system to provide extra power when needed. The "Performance" model adds rack and pinion steering and modern coilover suspension for modern sports car handling. The "Venom" model features a 780hp supercharged engine, chassis upgrades and more.

Every Shelby G.T.500CR will be built with authentic Shelby Performance parts and with input and oversight from Carroll Shelby Licensing and Shelby Automobiles technical staff. Each car built at the Classic Recreations facility will leave the shop with an official Shelby serial number, badges and will be included in the official Shelby Worldwide Registry.

To learn more in the Middle East, visit www.ClassicRecreations.ae or contact:
Tradimpex FZE - Jean Loup
Amriya Free zone, Sharjah, U.A.E.,United Arab Emirates
Phone: 00971-6-5263346 jeanloup(at)classicrecreations(dot)ae

About Classic Recreations
Classic Recreations founder Jason Engel, and his company’s team of skilled technicians and craftsmen, have been modifying and custom fabricating high-performance vehicles for more than 10 years. Each built-to-order vehicle takes approximately four months (nearly 2,500 man hours) of painstaking assembly. Find out more about how to get your own customized vehicle at www.1967fastback.com.

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[Via Automotive]

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