GM and Ford Expand Participation in NASTF SDRM
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LEESBURG, Va., May 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) has announced that both GM and ford have expanded their participation in the Secure Data Release Model (SDRM) to include the release of key codes to registered security professionals and service technicians in all 50 states. Prior to this announcement, GM and ford had only provided key code data to users in California. “The SDRM continues to grow in importance and capability to address the difficult issue of access to security information for the automotive service industry,” said Charlie Gorman, NASTF Chairman. “This expanded participation by GM and ford is welcome and an important addition to the body of information made available by all of the OEM’s who have been engaged with the SDRM from the beginning.”
GM and ford join eight other manufacturers in providing access to key codes and other security information on a nationwide basis. The list of those car manufacturers who are participating nationwide in the SDRM also includes Honda, Kia, Land Rover, Nissan, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, and Volvo.
For reference, all information on the SDRM is available on the NASTF website at . This information also covers the registration process and qualifications necessary for a repairer or other security professional to access this security information. The website also provides a link to download the necessary forms to apply for inclusion in the national registry.
NASTF was established in 2000 to identify, communicate and resolve gaps in the availability and accessibility of automotive service information, service training, diagnostic tools, and equipment for the benefit of automotive service professionals and their customers. NASTF was incorporated in 2006. Additional details can be found at .
As a 501(c)6 not-for profit organization, NASTF takes no position on any legislation that may be proposed or pending in state or national legislative bodies.
National Automotive Service Task Force
Kia Sorento Receives Top Ranking in AutoPacific 2008 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards
IRVINE, Calif., May 29 /PRNewswire/ — The 2008 Kia Sorento is the top ranking midsize SUV in AutoPacific, Inc.’s 2008 vehicle Satisfaction Awards (VSA), an industry benchmark for objectively measuring owner satisfaction of new vehicles. In this competitive segment, Sorento received a higher rating than the Hummer H3, Jeep Liberty, Dodge Nitro and Nissan Xterra.
“Sorento’s recognition by AutoPacific’s vehicle Satisfaction Awards shows that you don’t have to spend a lot to be satisfied with your new vehicle purchase,” said Tom Loveless, vice president, sales of Kia Motors America (KMA). “In these difficult economic times, it is good to know that you can still purchase an SUV with great amenities, options and standard safety features, and be satisfied with your decision.”
The 2008 VSA are based on survey responses from more than 34,000 vehicle owners who purchased a new 2008 model year car or truck between September and December 2007. Respondents rate 46 attributes for importance in the purchase decision and satisfaction after purchase.
The 2008 Sorento was recently recognized by The Car Book as a “Best Bet” in the Midsize SUV category and received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) five-star crash safety rating in all four seating positions.
About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the United States. For 2007, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of record U.S. sales. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline “The Power to Surprise.”
Kia Motors America is the “Official Automotive Partner of the NBA.” Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site — . For media information, including photography, visit .
Kia Motors America
Garmin Announce Third Generation StreetPilot for Mercedes-Benz A-Class, B-Class and C-Class
SOUTHAMPTON, England, May 29 /PRNewswire/ —
- With Photos
Garmin, global leaders in portable satellite navigation, today announced
Mercedes-Benz Accessories will continue its relationship with Garmin by
selecting the nüvi 760 as their latest portable after market navigation
solution. The nüvi 760 named the ‘StreetPilot III’ by Mercedes-Benz, is
customised with a specially designed mount for the new generation A-Class,
B-Class and C-Class cars will be available at dealers across Europe May 2008
“Garmin is delighted Mercedes-Benz has chosen the nüvi 760 as an after
market fit for its range of A-Class, B-Class and C-Class cars. This will be
the third generation of products developed for the company over the last 3
years. The outcome is a superb satellite navigation system which combines the
engineering effort of two quality driven companies,” said Roger Jollis,
Garmin’s Director of OEM & Mobile Marketing.
The Mercedes- Benz StreetPilot III (nüvi 760) has been designed with a
special dashboard mount integrated into the vehicles electronics allowing for
easy access to the touch screen controls and a clear view of the maps and
navigational instructions. The design of the in-car mount wires it directly
into the car’s electronics meaning there are no visible power cables.
The StreetPilot III (nüvi 760) offers a large 4.3″ bright widescreen
which is easily readable in bright sunlight and has some of the most advanced
navigational functions available. Including, traffic avoidance, safety camera
alerts and hands free calling via a Bluetooth connection. As the system is
integrated into the vehicle’s electronics all spoken directions are via the
car speakers, muting the radio as the voice guidance speaks the street names
as well as directions.
The units has all the latest Mercedes-Benz dealerships within its
extensive POI database accessed via a touch button on the ‘where to’ menu
page with the nearest dealer displayed first. Also, features include
‘automatic position marking’, where the device remembers where the car is
parked and help drivers find their way back to the vehicle in unfamiliar
surroundings.
Touching the vehicle icon brings up information on ‘where am I?’ giving
the nearest address, longitude & latitude points and junction, police
station, hospitals and fuel stations. There is also full seven digit postcode
search, multipoint route planning and a tracklog function for viewing routes
in Google Earth.
The StreetPilot III (nüvi 760) is super slim and lightweight making it
easy to fit in a jacket pocket or bag, The unit can also be removed and used
in other cars, with the optional power cable and suction cup or for
pedestrian navigation.The design of the unit was developed in collaboration
with Mercedes- Benz. Customers should consult local Mercedes-Benz affiliates
for the price of installation.
This is the sixth European car manufacturer account that
Garmin has won business with over the last two years and highlights the
demand for customized portable navigation solutions from within the
automotive channel. Drawing upon a breadth of experience gained from within
the aviation and marine OEM sectors, Garmin currently supplies its navigation
products to Volvo car Corporation, BMW AG & Mini, Ford Europe and Honda
Accessories.
About Garmin
The global leader in satellite navigation, Garmin Ltd. and its
subsidiaries have designed, manufactured, marketed and sold navigation,
communication and information devices and applications since 1989 - most of
which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin’s products serve automotive,
mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, aviation, and OEM applications.
Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in the Cayman Islands, and its principal
subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom.
For more information visit Garmin’s media centre at
http://www.garmin.co.uk/mediacentre. Garmin is a registered trademark of
Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names, company
names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective
owners. All rights reserved.
Notice on forward-looking statements:
This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd.
and its business. All statements regarding the company’s future product
introductions are forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on
management’s current expectations. The forward-looking events and
circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results
could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and
uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk
factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December
29, 2007 filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission
(Commission file number 000-31983). A copy of Garmin’s Form 10-K can be
downloaded at http://www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/invRelations/finReports.html.
No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements
speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no
obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement,
whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
Note to Editors:
Pictures accompanying this release are available through the PA
Photowire. They can be downloaded from http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net or
viewed at http://www.mediapoint.press.net or http://www.prnewswire.co.uk.
Garmin Europe
Callpod’s Chargepod(R) - Versatile 6-in-1 Charger Now Starts at $39.95
CHICAGO, May 28 /PRNewswire/ — Callpod, Inc. (), an award-winning emerging technology company that has created and patented unique audio conferencing and content sharing technologies for wireless and consumer electronic devices as well as cellular telephones, has reduced the starting price of its debut product, the Chargepod, to $39.95 and the bundle pack to $79.95.
The Chargepod is a 6-in-1 device that allows users to charge most mobile electronic devices with a single power cord from almost anywhere including at home, in the car or at the office.
“The response to the Chargepod has been extremely positive across the board,” said Darren Guccione, President, CEO and Co-Founder of Callpod Inc. “It is a unique yet simple product that is extremely useful as it eliminates annoying gadget clutter by saving space, outlets and power. We understood that the Chargepod was a very special product that we wanted to share in both domestic and international markets. This price enhancement allowed us to better serve our customers as we scale into the mass retail channels this year.”
Essential at Home, at the Office or on the Road
Callpod offers hundreds of manufacturer-specific adapters for all types of portable devices. Users can dispose of numerous power cords once the Chargepod enters the picture. The Chargepod uses voltage regulator technology and interchangeable power adapters to safely charge all of your mobile devices regardless of manufacturer or model. The Chargepod comes with an AC adapter; users can also purchase the car adapter for use in an automobile, making it an extremely versatile product for the mobile traveler or business user.
The Chargepod is an easy-to-use charger that solves an annoying problem that has plagued portable gadget lovers, families, road warriors, and employees ever since portable gadgets came on the scene. Callpod continues to add adapters for the Chargepod as new devices are introduced so that users can simply add an adapter and not a whole new charger every time they upgrade their device. The Chargepod is the last device charger you’ll ever need to buy. It is simply the best travel charger for mobile devices available today.
Pricing options start at $39.95
1. The Chargepod carries a street price of $39.95 which includes the
Chargepod base unit, a carrying case and wall plug (100-240V AC, 50-60
Hz). Each additional adapter is $9.95.
2. Callpod offers a bundle pack for $79.95, which includes the Chargepod
base unit, AC wall plug, car charger, carrying case and the following
six popular adapters: Apple/iPod/phone, Motorola, Blackberry, Nokia,
Palm Treo and Sony PSP devices. (Consumers save $40 by purchasing the
bundle pack)
Callpod has also fitted the Chargepod with a smaller wall plug for customer convenience.
In addition, Callpod recently released the award winning Dragon(R), a 100m range advanced Bluetooth headset for mobile phones, PDAs, gaming systems and computers. Another breakthrough device is Callpod’s Phoenix, a revolutionary and patented Bluetooth mobile conferencing system which connects five Bluetooth headsets together so when users make a call, all five participants can talk in full duplex and join in a phone call on the other end. The Dragon is currently available in several retail stores and online retailers. The Phoenix(R) will be available this quarter. Stay tuned as Callpod plans to announce several new innovative products this year.
For more information please visit Callpod at .
ABOUT CALLPOD
Callpod is an emerging technology company that has created and patented unique audio conferencing and content sharing technologies for wireless consumer electronic devices and cellular telephones. The company designs and produces innovative products in three categories: Wireless headset, charging systems and mobile conferencing devices. It is a strategic solution provider as well as a reference and ASIC designer for manufacturers of cellular, consumer electronics and wireless devices.
Callpod, Inc.
Appearance Does Matter: Tips to Protect the Value of Your Vehicle
CHICAGO, May 28 /PRNewswire/ — With the rising price of gas and food, a difficult job market and declining home values, the last thing many Americans are thinking about is purchasing a new vehicle. In fact, according to Autodata Corp., overall U.S. automotive sales fell 14% in April 2008, marking the lowest automotive sales volume since August 1998. Now, more than ever, it is important for consumers to protect the value of their investment with proper vehicle maintenance, including up-keep of appearance.
Most consumers know that proper performance maintenance, such as regular oil changes and tune-ups, influence a vehicle’s long-term drivability. But when it comes to determining a car or truck’s sale or trade-in value, appearance is as important as what’s under the hood. The condition of a vehicle’s exterior and interior is a strong indication whether it has been well-maintained and can significantly alter its worth.
“Any type of foreign material that sits on the interior or exterior of a vehicle can alter the surface and lead to permanent damage, which can decrease the value of your vehicle,” said Mike Schultz, senior vice president of product development for Turtle Wax(R). “Since many people are holding on to their cars longer, it is becoming increasingly important to establish a routine regiment to maintain a vehicle’s appearance. Not only does it help the car look better, but it also enhances the car’s value when it does come time to sell or trade-in.”
To keep vehicles looking great and help protect their value, Turtle Wax offers the following maintenance tips:
* Wash your car every other week. No matter the season, regular
washing helps prevent bugs, tar, road grime and other damaging
elements from eroding the finish and becoming a long-term fixture on
the vehicle’s exterior. Do not use dish soap to wash the vehicle –
dish soap dulls the finish and strips the car of shine. Instead,
choose a car wash product with a clean rinsing formula that is safe
for all finishes.
* Apply car wax as needed. Not only does waxing help restore color and
shine, it leaves behind a protective barrier to help prevent
scratches, swirl marks and other imperfections that can permanently
damage the vehicle’s paint and finish. Water will bead on a properly
waxed surface. When beads do not form, it is time to apply another
coat of wax. For best results, select a wax or polish that offers
long lasting protection and durability.
* Pay attention to other exterior surfaces. In addition to the
vehicle’s finish, protecting and cleaning wheels, exterior plastics
and molding will help keep your car looking like new. Use a wheel
product to remove and help prevent buildup of break dust and road
grime, which can permanently adhere to wheels and rims. For plastic
and rubber surfaces, use a product that will restore and protect the
materials’ finish.
* Don’t forget the inside counts, too. It’s just as easy to notice
areas of neglect on the interior of a vehicle. To prevent stains and
permanent discoloration, clean interior surfaces, including
carpeting, upholstery and inside door panels on a regular basis.
Similar to car wax, interior products will leave behind protective
barriers, making the surface easier to clean next time around and
more difficult for stains to set in.
“Many people don’t know where to start when it comes to properly maintaining the appearance of their vehicle,” said Schultz. “The truth is, when you use the right products it doesn’t have to be a bothersome task. The new Turtle Wax(R) ICE(R) line of products feature innovative technology to cut down on time and effort needed restore and maintain your vehicle’s factory fresh appearance. It is completely different from other car care products and is designed to achieve showroom shine and flawless finish every time.”
For more information about available car care products for interior and exterior surfaces, visit . This Web site offers a product selection tool to help users choose the right products for their vehicle and car care needs.
About Turtle Wax
Turtle Wax(R) is the number one selling brand of car care products in the world with sales in 90 countries. Founded more than 60 years ago in Chicago, the company is recognized for manufacturing environmentally-friendly appearance and performance car care products for the retail consumer market and the commercial car care and professional detailing industries.
Turtle Wax
May 28 Ford E-News
DEARBORN, Mich., May 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — An environmental win-win at Ford’s test facility
Thinking green at ford Motor Company encompasses more than high-tech engines and hybrid SUVs. Ford’s $13 million renovation of the high-speed test track at its Michigan Proving Ground in Romeo is a perfect example of a win-win solution for the environment and the bottom line. Responding to Ford’s challenge to utilize best environmental practices, contractors developed a plan to reuse nearly every bit of existing material, sending whatever couldn’t be repurposed to a recycling center. All told, ford is reusing or recycling 200,000 cubic yards of material that would have ended up in a landfill. That’s the equivalent of a 12-story building on a one-acre footprint. Not only that, the green approach to construction is saving ford roughly $12 million — and will result in a better testing ground. For more information, please contact Said Deep at 313-594-0942 or click on:
Escape Hybrid joins forces with L.A. lifeguards
Sun-drenched beaches, super slow-motion running, daring ocean rescues — what’s missing from this picture? The answer is the ford Escape Hybrid SUV. ford Motor Company is teaming up with the Los Angeles County Lifeguards to help save lives while protecting the environment. ford recently presented the squad with the first 10 of a fleet of 45 eco-friendly Escape Hybrids with Intelligent four-wheel-drive, specially equipped for use on rescue patrol along 72 miles of Southern California coastline. ford engineers did some in the field research to ensure the specially modified Escape Hybrids were up to the job. For more information, please contact John Clinard at 949-341-7689 or click on:
The ford Flex, cleaner pants come standard
The 2009 ford Flex is easy on the eyes — and the dry cleaning bill. ford designers stretched the width of the Flex to wrap around the sill, bringing the step-in area inboard for much easier access for passengers. In combination with a new concealed rocker, the Flex door was designed to wrap under the sill, effectively sealing out the elements. “The clever design minimizes your clothes’ exposure to the elements. There’s no sill area where dirt usually collects,” said Rich Gresens, Flex chief designer. For more information, please contact Charlotte Fisher at 313-323-7045 or click on:
Ford makes Easy Fuel(TM) capless fuel filler standard
Ford is helping thousands of customers save time and keep their hands clean at the fuel pump. The Easy Fuel capless fuel-filler system is a Ford-exclusive feature that uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap. That means no more fumbling to remove and tighten the cap and less fuel odor on customers’ hands or gloves when they’re at the pump. These are just two of the reasons behind Ford’s decision to offer Easy Fuel as standard equipment across the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury product lineups. For more information please contact Alan Hall at 313-594-3744 or click on:
Stamping operations key to Flex ride and quietness
Automotive stamping operations rarely grab the limelight. But with the new ford Flex coming to market this summer, the untold story behind the vehicle’s quiet ride is happening at Ford’s Buffalo Stamping Plant. The sheet metal plays a major role in the vehicle’s world-class fit and finish, which contributes to the quiet ride by eliminating wind noise and squeaks and rattles. “The sheet metal sets the stage for the smooth styling, a dynamic ride and an incredibly quiet interior in this beautiful new vehicle.” For more information please contact Angie Kozleski at 313-323-1984 or click on:
Ford Motor Company
Sonic Automotive, Inc. Reports First Quarter Earnings in Line with Company Expectations
CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Sonic Automotive, Inc. , a leader in automotive retailing, today reported that its 2008 first quarter earnings from continuing operations were $18.0 million, or $0.44 per diluted share, compared to $22.3 million, or $0.49 per diluted share, for the same period in 2007.
Total revenue for the first quarter of 2008 increased 1.0% over the prior year period primarily from the impact of acquisitions made during 2007. Overall same store revenue declined 4.0% over the prior year quarter with softness in new vehicle sales being partially offset by growth in used vehicles and finance and insurance. On a same store basis compared to the same quarter last year, new vehicle retail revenues declined 8.2%, used vehicle retail revenues were up 11.5%, fixed operations revenue was up 0.7% and finance and insurance revenues were up 5.9%.
B. Scott Smith, the Company’s President said, “Our results for this quarter are in line with our expectations given our previous forecast of a soft new vehicle sales environment through the first half of this year. To confront these challenges, we are continuing our strong focus on the higher-margin segments of our business — fixed operations, finance and insurance, and used vehicles. In particular, the growth in our used vehicle business demonstrates the strength of our business model and strategy as our stores continue to embrace the concepts we have rolled out over the last 24 months. The quarter’s results met our internal forecasts and, as a result, we remain comfortable with our 2008 continuing operations EPS target of $2.35 to $2.50 per diluted share.”
Presentation materials for the Company’s April 29, 2008 earnings conference call at 11:00 A.M. (Eastern) can be accessed on the Company’s website at by clicking on the “For Investors” tab and choosing “Webcasts & Presentations” on the left side of the monitor.
To access the live broadcast of the call over the Internet go to: or
A live audio of the call will be accessible to the public by calling (877) 791-3416. International callers dial (706) 643-0958. Callers should dial in approximately 10 minutes before the call begins.
A conference call replay will be available one hour following the call for seven days and can be accessed by calling: 800-642-1687, Conference ID: 43381696, International callers dial (706) 645-9291.
About Sonic Automotive
Sonic Automotive, Inc., a Fortune 300 company based in Charlotte, N.C., is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States operating 168 franchises. Sonic can be reached on the web at .
Included herein are forward-looking statements, including statements pertaining to anticipated diluted earnings per share from continuing operations. There are many factors that affect management’s views about future events and trends of the Company’s business. These factors involve risk and uncertainties that could cause actual results or trends to differ materially from management’s view, including without limitation, economic conditions, risks associated with acquisitions and the risk factors described in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking information.
Sonic Automotive, Inc.
Results of Operations (Unaudited)
(in thousands, except per share, unit data and percentage amounts)
Three Months Ended
03/31/2008 03/31/2007
Revenues
New retail vehicles $985,274 $1,032,994
Fleet vehicles 107,592 88,805
Total new vehicles 1,092,866 1,121,799
Used vehicles 372,559 320,133
Wholesale vehicles 88,911 113,332
Total vehicles 1,554,336 1,555,264
Parts, service and collision
repair 296,049 281,093
Finance, insurance and other 51,137 46,940
Total revenues 1,901,522 1,883,297
Total gross profit 305,643 298,176
SG&A expenses 242,451 231,507
Depreciation 7,935 5,572
Operating income 55,257 61,097
Interest expense, floor plan 13,397 15,853
Interest expense, other 11,863 8,554
Other (expense) / income 70 14
Income from continuing operations before
taxes 30,067 36,704
Income taxes 12,027 14,428
Income from continuing operations 18,040 22,276
Discontinued operations:
Loss from operations and the sale
of discontinued franchises (5,473) (3,154)
Income tax benefit 1,641 869
Loss from discontinued operations (3,832) (2,285)
Net income $14,208 $19,991
Diluted:
Weighted average common shares
outstanding 43,845 47,938
Earnings per share from
continuing operations $0.44 $0.49
Loss per share from discontinued
operations ($0.09) ($0.05)
Earnings per share $0.35 $0.44
Gross Margin Data (Continuing Operations):
Retail new vehicles 7.4% 7.4%
Fleet vehicles 2.1% 2.2%
Total new vehicles 6.8% 7.0%
Used vehicles retail 8.9% 9.6%
Total vehicles retail 7.4% 7.6%
Wholesale vehicles (0.9%) 0.4%
Parts, service and collision repair 49.7% 50.1%
Finance, insurance and other 100.0% 100.0%
Overall gross margin 16.1% 15.8%
SG&A Expenses (Continuing Operations):
Personnel $136,485 $130,500
Advertising 16,343 15,089
Facility rent 25,620 25,407
Other 64,003 60,511
Total $242,451 $231,507
SG&A Expenses as % of Gross Profit
Personnel 44.7% 43.8%
Advertising 5.3% 5.1%
Facility rent 8.4% 8.5%
Other 20.9% 20.2%
Total 79.3% 77.6%
Operating Margin % 2.9% 3.2%
Three Months Ended
Unit Data (Continuing Operations): 03/31/2008 03/31/2007
New retail units 28,941 30,342
Fleet units 4,355 3,736
Used units 18,511 16,300
Wholesale units 10,749 12,438
Average price per unit:
New retail vehicles $34,044 $34,045
Fleet vehicles 24,705 23,770
Used vehicles 20,126 19,640
Wholesale vehicles 8,272 9,112
Other Data:
Same store revenue percentage changes:
New retail (10.0%)
Fleet 12.4%
Total New Vehicles (8.2%)
Used 11.5%
Parts, service and collision repair 0.7%
Finance, insurance and other 5.9%
Total (4.0%)
Balance Sheet Data:
03/31/2008 12/31/2007
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $5,112 $16,514
Receivables, net 305,624 347,309
Inventories 1,182,086 1,093,017
Assets held for sale 134,056 87,342
Other current assets 39,089 35,879
Total current assets 1,665,967 1,580,061
Property and Equipment, Net 365,653 286,591
Goodwill, Net 1,248,854 1,276,074
Other Intangibles, Net 111,306 111,342
Other Assets 32,336 28,676
TOTAL ASSETS $3,424,116 $3,282,744
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Floor plan notes payable $1,186,123 $1,125,670
Other current liabilities 239,041 247,658
Liabilities associated with
assets held for sale 64,043 48,592
Current maturities of long-term
debt 4,338 4,197
Total current liabilities 1,493,545 1,426,117
LONG-TERM DEBT 783,348 697,800
OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES 237,771 227,999
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY 909,452 930,828
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY $3,424,116 $3,282,744
Balance Sheet Ratios:
Current Ratio 1.12 1.11
Debt to Total Capital, Net of Cash 46.3% 42.4%
Sonic Automotive, Inc.
Experience Four Different States of Euphoria: Rolling Stone Music Stage to Present Performances by Leading Musical Acts at MINI Takes the States 2008
WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., May 27 /PRNewswire/ — When hundreds of MINI owners and their MINIs roll into four cities this summer for MINI Takes the States 2008, Rolling Stone magazine, the number one pop culture reference, will present performances by leading musical acts that are sure to rock the crowd.
Hosted by MINI USA, the series of events for MINI owners and future MINI owners will celebrate the spirit of the MINI brand in the U.S., and will foster a sense of community among a growing group of passionate owners and enthusiasts. MTTS 2008 will converge upon Miami from June 13th-15th, Boston from June 20th-22nd, Chicago from July 25th-27th, and Los Angeles from August 1st-3rd. Online event registration, more information and specific event details are available at: .
Headline artists to be presented on the Rolling Stone Music Stage at MTTS 2008 are:
— Michelle Branch (Miami), Sat., June 14 at 8:00 p.m., Homestead Miami
Speedway, Homestead, Fla.
— Fountains of Wayne (Boston), Sat., June 21 at 8:00 p.m., University of
Massachusetts, Boston, Mass.
— Blues Traveler (Chicago), Sat., July 26 at 8:00 p.m., Road America,
Elkhart Lake, Wis.
— Vertical Horizon (Los Angeles), Sat., Aug. 2 at 8:00 p.m., Rose Bowl
Stadium, Pasadena, Calif.
Admission to MTTS 2008 is $20 for advance online registration at , or $30 for on-site registrants. The net proceeds from the registration fees will benefit regional MINI Motoring Hearts(TM) charitable organizations. The Motoring Hearts program helps members of the MINI community easily find volunteer activities that match their interests.
The MINI Takes the States 2008 events will welcome members of the MINI community, prospective MINI owners and the otherwise curious for two days of action-packed events and activities. Event highlights include: an autocross, go-kart racing, rock climbing, a fun zone, a mountain bike stunt show, a car wash, MINI merchandise, product displays, live music and entertainment.
The inaugural MINI Takes the States of 2006 drew more than 6,000 MINI enthusiasts to join in a 15-day, 19-state, cross-country road trip from Monterrey, Calif., to Lime Rock, Conn. The 3,904-mile route included major event stops along the way in Nashville, St. Louis, Indianapolis and Jersey City, N.J.
For more information about events for MINI Takes the States 2008, please visit
MINI in the US
MINI is an independent brand of the BMW Group. In the United States, MINI USA operates as a business unit of BMW of North America, LLC which has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 models, X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sport Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 82 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.
Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at:
About the Artists
Singer, songwriter, and guitarist Michelle Branch has always been a young woman in a big hurry. At the age of 18 she released her first multi-platinum album and turned the world onto her catchy, heartfelt sound with the hit singles “Everywhere” and “All You Wanted.” Her second album proved to be just as successful with the hit singles “Are You Happy Now?” and “Breathe.” Branch has collaborated with Carlos Santana and broke down the barriers between pop and country with her band The Wreckers. The Grammy winner is now back at work in the studio on her new solo album that is sure to embody the timeless, bold music fans have come to expect from her.
Fountains of Wayne took America by storm in 1996 with their single “Radiation Vibe,” solidifying it as a top hit of the decade. The New York band has shown that their sound is just as relevant almost a decade later with their irresistibly catchy 2003 hit “Stacy’s Mom.” Their newest album Traffic and Weather received a four-star review by Rolling Stone, and is reestablishing the band as a definite force to be reckoned with in 2008.
Blues Traveler formed in New York City twenty years ago. With the release of Four (1994) Blues Traveler spawned one of the biggest hits of 1990s — the Grammy-winning “Run-Around” — which spent nearly a year on the charts and, along with the hit single “Hook,” drove the album to sell over 5 million copies. Over the course of their career the band has released 8 studio albums, six of which have been certified either gold or platinum and have collectively sold over 10 million units worldwide.
Vertical Horizon developed their reputation for electrifying live performances through years of touring, building their fan base from a devoted grass-roots following to a fiercely loyal international audience. Their multi-platinum debut album, Everything You Want, featured four hit singles, including “You’re A God,”"Best I Ever Had,”"We Are,” and the title track, which reached #1 on the Billboard charts and was the most played song of the year 2000 on Top Forty radio. Their follow-up album, Go, featured the hits “I’m Still Here” and “Forever.” Vertical Horizon’s new release, Burning the Days, will be released this fall.
MINI USA
Vacationing With High Gas Expenses? Drivers Can Cut Memorial Day Holiday, Summer Gas Costs With Alliance to Save Energy’s Money-Saving Tips, Resources
WASHINGTON, May 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — High gas prices are affecting Memorial Day weekend and summer travel plans, but the Alliance to Save Energy offers ways to cut vacation gas expenses.
Whether you are headed to the big city or great outdoors, how you drive and maintain a vehicle can either increase or decrease a vehicle’s fuel efficiency and your gas costs. You can start saving money on gas even before you are on the road with a little planning and basic maintenance tips. The Alliance’s Drive $marter Challenge website () offers money-saving gas tips and extensive resources that cover such questions as: Where can I rent a hybrid or fuel-efficient vehicle? Where can I find public transportation at my vacation destination? Where can I find cheap gas along my vacation route?
Drive $marter Money-$aving Gas Tips
Planning your vacation:
– Choose the Right Vehicle. If your family has more than one vehicle, drive the car that gets better gas mileage if possible. If your family is vacationing 300 miles from home, switching from a vehicle that averages 18 mpg to one that gets 30 mpg will save approximately $43 on fuel costs.
– Reserve the Right Rental. Request a vehicle in your car size class that gets the best fuel economy, and remember to fill up the tank before returning the car to the rental company, which charges much higher gas prices - and perhaps even an extra gas surcharge. Keep your gas receipts in case the rental car company requires receipts to remove a gas surcharge.
– Are we there yet? Getting lost while driving in unfamiliar areas could lead to an expensive waste of gas. Resources on the Drive $marter Challenge website can help your family print a customized vacation map that highlights low cost gas stations along your route. Also consider the long-term wroth of a GPS system - some also locate the cheapest gas stations on your route.
– Rise and Shine! Although it may not be possible for your family to drive during off-peak hours, it could save on gas costs and stress by avoiding stop and go or bumper to bumper traffic conditions.
– Investigate other options for getting to your vacation destination - consider public transportation, buses, or trains when possible.
Before You Leave: Maintenance Tips
– Inflate Your Tires. Keeping your tires properly inflated improves gas mileage by around 3%, saving up to 20 gallons of gasoline, or about $65 a year.
– Check and replace air filters if necessary. Replacing a clogged or dirty air filter keeps impurities from damaging the inside of your engine.
– Select the Right Oil. Using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil, including re-refined motor oil, improves gas mileage by 1 to 2%, resulting in annual savings of up to $40. Motor oil that says “Energy Conserving” on the API performance symbol contains friction-reducing additives. Also, change your oil to extend the life of your vehicle, and remember to recycle used oil which can be re-refined, to save even more money.
– Tune up. Fixing a car that is noticeably out of tune or has failed an emissions test can improve its gas mileage by an average of 4%.
While On The Road: Driving Tips
– Decrease Your Speed. Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly above 60 mph. Each five miles per hour over 60 mph is like paying an additional 20 cents per gallon for gas.
– Drive Sensibly. Speeding, rapid acceleration (jackrabbit starts), and rapid braking can lower gas mileage by 33% at highway speeds.
– Use cruise control. Cruise control to cuts fuel consumption by maintaining a steady speed during highway driving.
– Use Overdrive Gear when appropriate to reduce engine speed, which will enable you to save gas and reduce engine wear.
– It’s a “drag.” If possible avoid carrying items on your vehicle’s roof. A loaded roof rack or carrier increases weight and aerodynamic drag, which can cut mileage by 5%. Place items inside the trunk whenever possible to improve your fuel economy.
– Ditch “junk in the trunk.” After your vacation, don’t forget to unpack your trunk. An extra 100 pounds in the trunk cuts a typical car’s fuel economy by up to 2%. You can save up to 12 gallons of gasoline per year - up to $40 - by removing an extra 100 pounds of unneeded items in the trunk of a car.
– Turn Down the Air. Operating the air conditioner on “Max” can reduce mpg by 5-25% compared to not using it.
– Avoid idling, which gets 0 mpg. Cars with larger engines typically waste even more gas while idling than cars with smaller engines.
Taking the Drive $marter Challenge, a campaign with 18 diverse nonprofit, governmental, and for profit partners, means pledging to take from one to six actions that will produce measurable reductions in gas, money, and CO2 emissions. The website demonstrates how taking small steps can add up to big savings by showing each individual visitor’s savings along with a running tally of savings by everyone who has taken the challenge at .
Alliance to Save Energy
ThermoEnergy Corp to Present at 4th Annual Merriman, Curhan & Ford CleanTech Conference in New York City
LITTLE ROCK, Ark., May 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — ThermoEnergy Corp (OTC Bulletin Board: TMEN), a leading provider of carbon reducing technology solutions in the waste water and alternative energy space, today announced that the Company will present at the Merriman, Curhan & ford 4th Annual CleanTech Conference. The management team of CEO Dennis Cossey, CFO Andrew Melton and CTO Alex Fassbender will present at 2:15pm on Track 3, Tuesday, May 13th at Le Parker Meridien in New York City.
For investors who are unable to attend, the Company’s presentation will be webcast and available from both the company’s website, or the conference website and archived for viewing for approximately 90 days.
In addition to presentations from attending companies at the conference, this year will also feature several expert panel discussions on topics including bio-fuels, clean coal technology, electric vehicles, energy-efficient lighting, energy storage, next-generation solar and utility-scale solar. Please visit for more information regarding the conference and contact your Merriman salesperson for available one on one meetings with management.
About Merriman Curhan ford & Co.
MCF Corporation is a financial services holding company that provides investment research, capital markets services, corporate and venture services, investment banking, asset management and primary research through its operating subsidiaries, Merriman Curhan ford & Co., MCF Asset Management, LLC and Panel Intelligence, LLC. MCF is focused on providing a full range of specialized and integrated services to institutional investors and corporate clients.
About ThermoEnergy Corporation
ThermoEnergy Corporation is a diversified technologies company engaged in the worldwide commercialization of patented and/or proprietary municipal and industrial wastewater treatment and power generation technologies. The wastewater treatment technologies are consolidated in our subsidiary, CASTion Corporation (”CASTion”), a fast growing developer and manufacturer of innovative wastewater treatment and recovery systems to industrial and municipal clients. The systems are unique because they meet environmental regulations while providing a rapid return on investment by recovering and reusing expensive feedstocks, reducing contaminated wastewater discharge and reusing wastewater in process operations. CASTion’s wastewater treatment systems have application in aerospace, food processing, metal finishing, refineries, manufacturing and municipal wastewater. We assemble and ship our waste water treatment products from our 20,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Worcester, Massachusetts. The power generation technologies are consolidated in our subsidiary, ThermoEnergy Power Systems, LLC (”TEPS”). The economic and environmental matrix of the Company’s technologies represents a paradigm shift in these key infrastructure industries. The Company currently has offices in Little Rock, AR, Worcester, MA, Hudson, MA, and New York, NY, Jacksonville, FL and Baton Rouge, LA. Additional information on the Company and its technologies can be found on its website at ( ), or ( ) for wastewater treatment specific information.
Contact Information:
Investors:
Alliance Advisors, LLC
Mark McPartland or Bryan Kobel
212-398-3487
ThermoEnergy Corp