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TUV Rheinland Group: Electric Vehicle Makes a Hit in China

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:00:00 +0000

TUV Rheinland Group: Electric Vehicle Makes a Hit in China

PR Newswire

2011 Report on China's Electric-Vehicle Markets

HONG KONG, Feb. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- The TUV Rheinland Global Electric-Vehicle (EV) Survey 2011, released in the fourth quarter, suggests that almost every car driver in India and China intends to choose an EV in the next five years. "This alone will completely change the market conditions", explains Dr. Thomas Aubel, Executive Vice President of Mobility at TUV Rheinland. The survey also shows that although the problem of charging is the biggest concern for Chinese drivers, most people are still willing to invest more for the sake of environmental protection. In addition, Japan and Germany are perceived asthe leaders in EV technology and thus customers would prefer to buy Japanese and German EVs. Potential EV buyers selected Volkswagen as their preferred brand.

(Photo: http://www.prnasia.com/sa/2012/02/07/20120207121009138335.html )

Study Background

The TUV Rheinland Group has a broad range of specialists and labs for vehicle safety testing in Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, China and the USA. This report is drawn from a poll of 6,421 people, conducted by TUV's vehicle testing specialists in 12 main markets including China, Germany, Japan and the USA. From this sample, a total of 502 adult drivers in China were surveyed. The respondents owned a wide variety of cars, such as micro, small, middle class, luxury, SUVs, pick-up, vans (MPV), roadster and etc.

Chinese opt to drive in the city and most driving is short- or mid-distance

When asked if they would purchase an EV in the coming five years, approximately 88% of the Chinese people interviewed said that they would, trailing just behind India with 92%. The poll finds that 44% of respondents would use an EV in the same way as their present car, while 39% would prefer to use the EV only for regular trips. Over 60% of driving journeys are in cities and 87% of those surveyed drive less than 100km in their daily lives, with journey times of less than 2 hours. The study shows that families with a higher income drive longer hours and distances than those with lower incomes.

Most of the Chinese respondents drive fewer than 100 miles per day. This makes driving an EV viable because the battery needs to recharge after a certain distance and this is likely to be satisfied. Thus, Chinese people are more willing to buy an EV than those in other countries.

The Chinese are willing to pay more for protecting the environment.

In China, 40% of those interviewed said that they would like to buy an EV because of environment protection. Saving fuel (19%) tops the list of environmental concerns; including combating global warming, air pollution, protecting our future from environmental changes and environmental protection through reduced oil exploration. The cost is also relevant; for example, the rising fuel price weighs quite heavily with 32% of respondents. To this end, 16% may choose an EV to save money on fuel. The purchase price, governmental subsidy and tax credits can also assist in the adoption of electric vehicles.

More than four out of five (80%) are willing to pay more to buy an EV to support environmental protection. 38% of the respondents claimed that they would prefer an EV to a regular vehicle even if the price of the EV was 20% higher. The study finds that those with a higher household income are more likely to value environmental protection, with 63% wanting to buy an EV, which is 11-12% higher than those with a lower income. One in four of the low-income respondents said that they were discouraged by the cost of environmental protection.

Access to charging points and battery safety are the greatest concerns.

As the data shows, charging options, convenience and accessibility will be critical to EV adoption. People worry about the need to recharge the battery after a certain distance (22%), the availability of charging stations (19%), the number of hours required to charge the battery (9%) and loss of power while driving (4%).

However, 9% of the respondents would not buy an EV due to safety considerations. Of these, 50% of them are very concerned about battery leakage/explosion (17%), battery safety (17%) and loss of power in the street (16%).

In summary, the future of electric vehicles depends primarily on charging accessibility and battery safety.

Japan and Germany are perceived as the leaders in EV technology

The specialists from TUV Rheinland Group found that when asked about the most technologically advanced country with regard to EV technology, more than half of the respondents perceived Japan (50%) and Germany (49%) as the leaders, followed by the USA (33%) and China (31%).

Brand Influence: a large majority of people prefer Volkswagen

For the question concerning, "Which car manufacturer do consumers associated the most closely with EV?", thirty-four percent of the participants named Audi, Honda and Toyota as the top EV makers, with Volkswagen (31%) taking second place and BMW (30%) in third place. Volkswagen takes the top spot as the favorite car manufacturer, while Honda takes second place. Volkswagen (31%), Honda (27%), Toyota (24%), Audi (23%), Buick (17%) and BMW (17%) make up the list of the top five vehicle brands.

This result shows that a majority of people favors Volkswagen amongst all, and then Toyota, Audi, Buick and Honda, which is more or less the same as the responses to the interview question "What is the brand of your primary vehicle?" It is clear that Chinese drivers will choose Japanese or German brands because they believe that they are the leaders in vehicle technology. The survey also reveals that people's first car buying experience has a direct impact on their next purchase. Volkswagen is selected as the best choice for an electric vehicle for its brand reputation.

As environmental and energy efficiency concerns spread throughout China, electric vehicles (EV) are increasingly seen as a solution for modern transportation. As they grow ever more popular, EVs will have a profound and positive impact on energy applications, transportation and society. EVs growing popularity will also create tremendous opportunities for charging systems and other EV-related products.

TUV Rheinland is an internationally renowned third-party inspection and certification organization, the team of experts foresaw the growth of this new market, being the first in China to launch testing and certification services for EV charging systems and our service scope includes: EV charging stations, EV cables, EV charging couplers and EV on-board battery chargers.

TUV Rheinland can help charging station owners, EV manufacturers, and component suppliers demonstrate the superior quality and safety of their products and equipment.

TUV Rheinland Greater China

A global leader in technical service provision, the TUV Rheinland Group operates out of 490 locations in 61 countries on all five continents. Our 14, 000 employees provide more than 2,500 types of services for 39 industries based on the guiding principle of developing sustainable safety and quality standards.

An important pillar for the Group since 1986, TUV Rheinland Greater China promotes technical progress by sharing expertise on technical innovations. TUV Rheinland Greater China aims to contribute to the region's development by becoming the leading provider of superior safety, quality and environmental services and solutions.

With 8 major offices in key regions, we are strategically positioned to deliver local testing and certification services linked to the safety of products and the quality of management systems. TUV Rheinland Group's 2000 employees focus on clients' requirement by reaching a competitive balance that provides reliable, high-quality products, safe working conditions and low environmental impact. The service scope covers the wide sectors of industry and energy; transportation; machinery; electric and non-electric products; food; system management certification and training & consulting.

Press Contact:

Simon Hung

TUV Rheinland Hong Kong Ltd.

Tel: +852-2192-1948

Email: simon.hung@hk.chn.tuv.com

SOURCE　TUV Rheinland Greater China

Kia Optima Earns Kiplinger's Personal Finance 2012 Best New Car Value Award

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:20:54 +0000

Kia Optima Earns Kiplinger's Personal Finance 2012 Best New Car Value Award

Fast Growing Brand's Popular Midsize Sedan heralded in $25,000-$30,000 sedan category

-- 2012 Optima recognized for standout combination of value, performance and design

-- Optima has been Kia's top-selling model for two straight months following start of U.S. production at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia

PR Newswire

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Recognized by the editors at Kiplinger's Personal Finance as a 2012 Best New Car Value, the Kia Optima has been ranked "Best in Class" in the $25,000-$30,000 sedan category. Kiplinger's editors sort through hundreds of contenders to reveal the best values in its annual buyer's guide. Winners are selected in 12 categories for Best in Class, Best New model, Best Resale and Most Fuel Efficient. Within the categories, each vehicle is ranked by performance, value, safety, roominess and driving impressions. Accolades for the Optima, such as Kiplinger's "Best in Class" award, helped the stylish mid-size sedan become the top-selling Kia model in January with more than 8,800 units sold.

"The Optima continues to attract new customers to the brand with the right balance of value, performance, fuel economy and modern amenities that consumers are looking for," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing & communications, Kia Motors America. "The mid-size sedan segment is more competitive than ever, and Kiplinger's recognition of the Optima is tangible evidence that Kia's momentum continues."

Kiplinger's editors found the Optima's sharp creases, wraparound head lights and aggressive front end to make a bold styling statement. "The available turbo-boosted four-cylinder engine puts out more horsepower than most in its class and it's a difference you'll feel on the road," said Jessica Anderson, Associate Editor of Kiplinger's Personal Finance. "Add in value pricing and loads of standard features and you've got serious swagger."

The monthly Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine advises its readers on managing their money, covering investing, retirement planning, taxes, insurance, real estate, buying and leasing a car, health care, travel and financing college.

About the 2012 Optima

The 2012 Kia Optima stands apart from the crowd with its head-turning design, fun-to-drive performance, modern amenities and long list of standard safety features. Kia's second U.S.-built[1] vehicle offers drivers cutting-edge technologies, including a standard eight-speaker Infinity®[2] audio system, HD Radio™[3], and Kia's UVO powered by Microsoft®[4] voice-activated infotainment and communications system with a starting MSRP of $19,500[5].

Kia's Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality[6] and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking[7]. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan[8]. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

1] The Optima GDI (EX Trims and certain LX Trims only) and GDI Turbo are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally-sourced parts.

[2] Infinity is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.

[3] HD Radio™ and the HD, HD Radio, and "Arc" logos are proprietary trademarks of iBiquity Digital Corporation.

[4] Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

[5] Starting prices are manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP), MSRP excludes $750 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

[6] Source: Automotive Lease Guide Spring 2011 Perceived Quality Study

[7] Source: Experian Automotive Q2 2011 market analysis

[8] Optima Hybrid is not built at KMMG

SOURCE Kia Motors America

Timken and United Steelworkers of America Local 1123 Reach New Tentative Agreement

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:14:09 +0000

Timken and United Steelworkers of America Local 1123 Reach New Tentative Agreement

PR Newswire

CANTON, Ohio, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Timken Company and the United Steelworkers (USW) Local 1123 today announced they have reached a new tentative agreement on a five-year contract to replace the existing labor agreement, which expires Sep. 2013. Members will vote on the new agreement, which is unanimously supported by local USW negotiators, within the next two weeks.

The parties reached a preliminary agreement in December, but union membership failed to ratify the proposal in a January vote, putting at risk a multi-million dollar investment in Stark County (Ohio). Timken is prepared to invest $225 million in its Faircrest Steel Plant if a new labor agreement is ratified.

"We have outlined a very attractive investment for our steel operations," said Salvatore J. Miraglia, Jr., president of Timken's Steel Group. "But it clearly will not move forward without a new agreement that ensures workforce stability throughout construction and startup. The vote will be our final opportunity to put the pieces in place to make this investment happen."

The project has received state and local assistance, in return for Timken's commitment to job security at the plant during the term of that support.

The tentative agreement continues to provide:

Increases to permanent base wages every year, in addition to cost-of-living adjustments;
Increases in both variable pay opportunities and incentive pay;
Improvements in health and wellness plans;
Increases in pension benefits;
And, includes changes to the wage escalation rate for new employees.

Background information is available on www.timken.com/agreement.

About The Timken Company

The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR; www.timken.com) keeps the world turning with innovative friction management and power transmission products and services that help machinery perform more efficiently and reliably. With sales of $5.2 billion in 2011 and approximately 21,000 people operating from locations in 30 countries, Timken is Where You Turn® for better performance.

Media Contact: Lorrie Paul Crum
Manager – Global Media and Strategic Communications
Mail Code: GNW-37
1835 Dueber Avenue, S.W.
Canton, OH 44706 U.S.A.
Telephone: (330) 471-3514
Mobile: (330) 224-5021
lorrie.crum@timken.com

Investor Contact: Steve Tschiegg
Director – Capital Markets and Investor Relations
Mail Code: GNE-26
1835 Dueber Avenue, S.W.
Canton, OH 44706 U.S.A.
Telephone: (330) 471-7446
steve.tschiegg@timken.com

For Additional Information:
www.timken.com/media
www.timken.com/investors

SOURCE The Timken Company

T3 Motion Launches Consumer Electric Vehicle International Product Line at Big Boys Toys Show in Dubai

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:35:32 +0000

T3 Motion Launches Consumer Electric Vehicle International Product Line at Big Boys Toys Show in Dubai

T3 Motion follows successful law enforcement product line with consumer model in Middle East

PR Newswire

COSTA MESA, Calif., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- www.t3motion.com - T3 Motion, Inc. (NYSE AMEX: TTTM) a producer of clean/green technology, announced that T3 Motion will be launching their international consumer product line at the Big Boys Toys show in Dubai this week. The Big Boys Toys 2012 event will be held at Atlantis the Palm in Dubai, hosting a number of exclusive innovative product launches from all over the world.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111208/LA19766)

In the UAE, T3 ESVs are popular among police forces. Emaar Properties, the biggest property management company in the UAE, equipped its private security firm with T3 Electric Stand-up vehicles in order to monitor the popular shopping center Dubai Mall near the 828-meter-tall Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Furthermore, T3 ESVs were featured at the 5th World Future Energy Summit last month in Abu Dhabi.

"We have made great headway with law enforcement in the UAE and the Middle East, opening the door for a successful launch into the consumer market as a luxury brand," stated Ki Nam, T3 Motion CEO.

For more information on T3 Motion at the Big Boys Toys event, visit http://www.drivearabia.com/news/2012/01/23/big-boys-toys-2012-in-dubai-to-host-uae-atlantis-debuts/ . For information at the 5th World Future Energy Summit, visit http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/world/2012-01/19/c_122608865.htm.

The T3 ESV is an electric law enforcement patrol vehicle known for its command presence, quick response time and iconic look that is designed to decrease operating costs, reduce crime and increase patrol capabilities. More than 3,000 T3 Series vehicles have been deployed in over 30 countries worldwide.

About T3 Motion, Inc.

T3 Motion, Inc. (AMEX: TTTM) designs, markets and manufactures the T3 Series, an electric stand up vehicle. Headquartered in Orange County, California, T3 Motion, Inc. is dedicated to raising the bar on environmental standards and law enforcement and security capabilities in personal mobility technology. For more information, visit www.t3motion.com.

"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Statements in this press release regarding T3 Motion's business, which are not historical facts, are "forward-looking statements" that are not guarantees of future performance. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among others, factors associated with market conditions and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions related to the proposed public offering. For additional information concerning these and other factors that may cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see "Risk Factors" in the Company's Registration Statement filed on Form S-1, as amended, and in the periodic reports the Company files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Company Contact	Investor Relations Contact
Ki Nam	Casey Stegman
T3 Motion, Inc.	Stonegate Securities, Inc.
(714) 619-3600 Ext. 189	(214) 987-4121
investor@t3motion.com	casey@stonegateinc.com

SOURCE T3 Motion, Inc.

Volkswagen Chattanooga Completes 50,000th Car

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:09:52 +0000

Volkswagen Chattanooga Completes 50,000th Car

PR Newswire

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen Chattanooga achieved its first significant production milestone of 2012 this week – completion of its 50,000th Passat.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120207/CL49474 )

"An incredible amount of care goes into each vehicle we produce in Chattanooga," said Frank Fischer, CEO and Chair of Volkswagen Chattanooga. "Producing 50,000 cars at this level of quality is a huge accomplishment for our team."

The vehicle was a fully-loaded white 2.5 liter, 170 horsepower Passat SE.

The 50,000 vehicles include US customer deliveries as well as pre-series cars, technical training cars, dealer experience cars and exported cars to Mexico and Canada.

The Volkswagen Chattanooga team celebrated completion of the first customer car on April 18, 2011 and the plant officially opened on May 24, 2011. 2012 marks the first full calendar year of factory production at the Chattanooga plant.

Volkswagen announced last week that an additional 200 jobs would be created at its Tennessee manufacturing facility in addition to the 2,500 person workforce it currently employs.

About Volkswagen Chattanooga
Volkswagen will invest $1 billion in the local economy for the Chattanooga plant and create more than 2,500 direct jobs in the region. According to independent studies, the new Volkswagen plant is expected to generate $12 billion in income growth and an additional 9,500 jobs related to the project. The Chattanooga manufacturing facility is the world's first automotive manufacturer to receive platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification program. The facility produces the all-new 2012 Passat sedan, specially designed for the North American market and winner of the Motor Trend magazine 2012 Car of the Year award.

SOURCE Volkswagen Chattanooga Operations

Goodyear Focuses on Wet Traction With New SUV Tire

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:40:03 +0000

Goodyear Focuses on Wet Traction With New SUV Tire

PR Newswire

AKRON, Ohio, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Recognizing that North American motorists are very concerned with driving on rain-slicked roads, the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE: GT) has announced the Assurance cs TripleTred All-Season, a premium tire for SUVs and CUVs, featuring three unique tread zones for powerful all-season traction. The new tire is now available in 14 sizes, with eight additional sizes available later this year.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20050204/GTLOGO )

"Drivers everywhere are demanding true all-season traction. This tire has enhanced wet traction, maintains strong winter traction for cooler climates, and is an excellent replacement choice for those who drive SUVs and CUVs," said Gary Medalis, Goodyear brand general manager. "It is another example of the type of products Goodyear offers that help provide superior performance with its three unique tread zones."

The cs TripleTred All-Season's three tread zones work to help deliver traction for drivers. This includes:

A Water Zone with a sweeping tread pattern that helps evacuate water from the tread for enhanced wet traction.
A Dry Zone with large tread blocks along the outer edge of the tire to help provide confident handling on dry roads.
An Ice Zone with numerous biting edges to offer gripping power on icy and slick roads.

Goodyear's tread design geometry -- with its innovative arrow-shaped pattern, and proprietary Wet Zone compound -- containing silica and specialized polymers, combine to offer enhanced wet traction for rainy climates.

In the Ice Zone, Goodyear engineers also utilized an innovative polymer composition. Traction-enhancing particles and fibers made with volcanic sand and glass help create an increased micro-texture that offers enhanced low-temperature traction and overall winter traction.

Another differentiation for the new Assurance TripleTred All-Season is a feature known as Evolving Traction Grooves. This design element helps to maintain confident traction in rain and snow as the tire wears.

As the tire wears and initial tread blades become more shallow, some of the thin blades open up to become wider grooves that help evacuate water from under the tread for enhanced wet traction. There are more than 100 Evolving Traction Grooves on each Assurance TripleTred All-Season tire.

The new cs TripleTred All-Season carries a 65,000-mile tread life limited warranty. It also has Goodyear's 30-Day Pledge, which offers buyers 100% satisfaction or they can exchange the tires for a different set of Goodyear tires.

Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs approximately 73,000 people and manufactures its products in 54 facilities in 22 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear or its products, go to www.goodyear.com.

SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

Innovative LED Installation Defines a Detroit Icon

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:11:12 +0000

Innovative LED Installation Defines a Detroit Icon

YESCO delivers a bold look to GM's Global Headquarters

PR Newswire

SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Renaissance Center, Detroit's most prominent and iconic feature and world headquarters for General Motors, has been given a dynamic new appearance by YESCO.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120207/LA49168)

The crowns of the five towers are now vibrantly highlighted day and night, and the previous GM logo signs have been replaced with LED screens. Content on the various LED components can be updated and synchronized immediately and remotely via the new control network designed and implemented by YESCO. "This innovative new signage is fully capable of promoting GM's diverse marketing strategies, from displaying GM's global brand logos to supporting an infinite range of charitable, community, sporting, or seasonal events," says Jim Steffin of YESCO.

Initiated by GM's marketing team, this ambitious project was undertaken by a world-class team of Jack Morton Worldwide, Hines, Gensler, SOM, and YESCO. "We worked collaboratively throughout the process. It was a feat of creative thinking, careful planning, amazing technology, and hard, physical labor. Everyone's hats are off to the crew, who worked tirelessly through a relentless Michigan winter, nearly 900 feet in the air, for most of the installation," says Michael Bojarczyk, GM's global marketing strategist.

YESCO's Las Vegas team led the project for YESCO. "When you see your work finally come to fruition in such a big way, it's so rewarding," says Nick Priest, director of special projects for YESCO. "I don't believe that another firm could have overcome the engineering, logistical, and installation challenges that YESCO had to on this project or delivered the level of quality achieved. It's a great example of our diverse capabilities coming together on one project."

Both General Motors and the local community are pleased with the end result. "Our goal with the Renaissance Center project was to make our World Headquarters a beacon for the city of Detroit – a shining spotlight where we could not only showcase our brands, but also support community and charitable projects," said Joel Ewanick, GM's global chief marketing officer. "We are proud of the new look and feel of the Renaissance Center and the small contribution that it is making to the overall effort to rebuild the image of Detroit."

There's much more to discover about this project. Visit yesco.com to see additional pictures and read the story.

About YESCO: YESCO has been a family-owned provider of a full spectrum of sign and lighting products and services since 1920. YESCO provides custom signs of all types and sizes—from simple wayfinding plaques to towering, spectacular displays. YESCO Electronics manufacturers versatile, color LED signs and is a leading supplier of digital billboards in North America. YESCO Outdoor Media has approximately 1,700 billboards strategically located on major thoroughfares across 10 western states. For more information visit www.yesco.com.

SOURCE YESCO

USA Truck to Participate in the 27th Annual BB&T Capital Markets Transportation Conference

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:00:00 +0000

USA Truck to Participate in the 27th Annual BB&T Capital Markets Transportation Conference

PR Newswire

VAN BUREN, Ark., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- USA Truck, Inc. (NASDAQ: USAK) will make a presentation at the 27^th Annual BB&T Capital Markets Transportation Conference in Coral Gables, FL on Thursday, February 16^th. The presentation will begin at 11:00 a.m. (ET) and will be approximately 35 minutes in length, including questions and answers after the presentation. Representing USA Truck will be Cliff Beckham, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Darron Ming, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. A live audio webcast of the BB&T presentation can be accessed at http://www.wsw.com/webcast/bbt22/usak/ and a replay of the presentation will be archived for 90 days on the USA Truck website, www.usa-truck.com.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110114/DA30069LOGO)

This press release and the presentations and question and answer session to which it relates contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements generally may be identified by their use of terms or phrases such as "expects," "estimates," "anticipates," "projects," "believes," "plans," "goals," "intends," "may," "will," "should," "could," "potential," "continue," "future," and terms or phrases of similar substance. Forward-looking statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified, which could cause future events and actual results to differ materially from those set forth in, contemplated by, or underlying the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, actual results may differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Readers should review and consider the factors that may affect future results and other disclosures by the Company in its press releases, Annual Report on Form 10-K, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We disclaim any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results or changes in the factors affecting the forward-looking information. In light of these risks and uncertainties, the events and circumstances discussed in the forward-looking statements might not occur.

All forward-looking statements attributable to us, or persons acting on our behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

References to the "Company," "we," "us," "our" and words of similar import refer to USA Truck, Inc. and its subsidiary.

USA Truck is a dry van truckload carrier transporting general commodities via our General Freight and Dedicated Freight service offerings. We transport commodities throughout the continental United States and into and out of portions of Canada. We also transport general commodities into and out of Mexico by allowing through-trailer service from our terminal in Laredo, Texas. Our Strategic Capacity Solutions and Intermodal operating segments provide customized transportation solutions using our technology and multiple modes of transportation including our assets and the assets of our partner carriers.

This press release and related information will be available to interested parties at our web site, http://www.usa-truck.com under the "News Releases" tab of the "Investors" menu.

SOURCE USA Truck, Inc.

District Judge in Monterrey Issues Final Ruling Approving Vitro's Reorganization Under the Ley de Concursos Mercantiles

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:59:05 +0000

District Judge in Monterrey Issues Final Ruling Approving Vitro's Reorganization Under the Ley de Concursos Mercantiles

PR Newswire

SAN PEDRO GARZA GARCIA, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Vitro S.A.B. de C.V. ("Vitro" or "The Company") (BMV: VITROA) reports that the Judge for the Fourth District Court Civil and Labor Matters in the City of Monterrey issued her final ruling approving the restructuring plan filed by the Conciliador and approved by the majority of the recognized creditors and the Company, according to Mexican Insolvency Law (Ley de Concursos Mercantiles).

Hugo A. Lara Garcia, Vitro's Chief Executive Officer, said "We are very pleased with this ruling, which undoubtedly is a turning point in Vitro's more than century old history. We are sure that our clients, suppliers, our more than 17,300 workers and the communities where we are located, will share our excitement about this ruling. We will continue to work diligently, as we have for the past months, to be ready to execute the plan as soon as possible."

The Concurso plan submitted by the Conciliador, which provides for the replacement of the guarantees that were previously granted by Vitro's subsidiaries, has the support of the vast majority of the recognized creditors, representing 74.2% of the restructured debt, and including numerous third-party creditors, the holders of the Mexican Cebures, and many bondholders.

Mr. Claudio Del Valle, Vitro's Chief Restructuring Officer stated, "We are pleased our restructuring has been formally recognized by a Federal Judge, as being fully consistent with Mexican law. The so-called Ad Hoc Group of bondholders, who are sophisticated investors with an established pattern of highly litigious behavior, will more than likely continue to try to undermine our restructuring efforts. However, should these vulture investors continue to litigate with Vitro for the sole purpose of self-enrichment, we are confident that we will continue to prevail, and that we will be able to implement the restructuring agreement as soon as possible, thus beginning a new era for Vitro."

Vitro, S.A.B. de C.V. (BMV: VITROA), is the leading company in the manufacture of glass in Mexico and one of the largest in the world, backed up by more than 100 years of experience in the industry. Founded in 1909 in Monterrey, Mexico, the company currently has subsidiaries in America and Europe, which offers quality products and reliable services to meet the needs of two different types of business: glass and flat glass containers. Companies of Vitro produced, processed, distributed and marketed a wide range of glass articles which are part of the daily life of thousands of people. Vitro offers solutions for multiple markets including food, drinks, wines, liquors, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, as well as the architectural and automotive. The company is also a supplier of raw materials, machinery and equipment for industrial use. As a socially responsible company, Vitro implements various initiatives to contribute to improving the quality of life of its employees, providing support to the communities where it has presence, preserve the environment and favoring an ethical and transparent management. For more information, please consult the website: http://www.vitro.com

This announcement contains statements about future events regarding Vitro, S.A.B. de C.V. and its subsidiaries. While Vitro believes that forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, all such statements reflect Vitro's current views with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in this press release. Many factors could cause Vitro's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from anticipated future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In particular, completion of the offers described above or the Concurso Plan on the basis described, or at all, is uncertain. Vitro does not assume any obligation to, and will not, update these forward-looking statements.

For further information, please contact:

MEDIA

INVESTOR RELATIONS

MEXICO

Roberto Riva Palacio

Vitro, S.A.B. de C.V.

+ 52 (81) 8863-1661

rriva@vitro.com

U.S.A.

Liz Cohen / Michael Gonda

(212) 445-8044 / 8275

liz.cohen@webershandwick.com

mgonda@webershandwick.com

MEXICO

Jesus N. Medina

Vitro S.A.B. de C.V.

+ 52 (81) 8863-1730

jnmedina@vitro.com

U.S.A.

Kay Breakstone /

Barbara Cano

(646) 452-2332 / 2334 kbreakstone@breakstone-group.com

bcano@breakstone-group.com

SOURCE Vitro S.A.B. de C.V.

Volkswagen Chattanooga Becomes World's First LEED Platinum Automotive Manufacturing Plant with Design and Construction Management from SSOE Group

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:39:25 +0000

Volkswagen Chattanooga Becomes World's First LEED Platinum Automotive Manufacturing Plant with Design and Construction Management from SSOE Group

PR Newswire

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an international engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, along with Vertegy, announce their involvement in the success of first and only LEED® Platinum automotive manufacturing plant in the world. Volkswagen's Chattanooga manufacturing plant was recently awarded a Platinum certification, the highest designation possible from the U.S. Green Building Council's (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification program.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100917/SSOELOGO )

SSOE has successfully performed design work for more than 50% of all automotive assembly plants built in the United States over the last 10 years. Based on that experience, Volkswagen called upon SSOE to oversee the architecture, engineering, and construction management for this $1 billion+ production facility which produces the all-new 2012 Passat. Once it was determined to pursue LEED, SSOE performed the role of Project Team Administrator (PTA) and Design Lead for all LEED credits with Vertegy provided commissioning and third-party verification.

"Think Blue is Volkswagen's commitment to reach the highest level of environmental protection and corporate social responsibility in everything we do. It was this commitment that drove the team to strive toward designing, constructing, and applying for LEED accreditation. Being the first automotive plant worldwide to receive a Platinum certification is an enormous accomplishment and wouldn't have been possible without the innovative design and construction management of SSOE. Their LEED knowledge and expertise supported us in moving forward with the certification process and achieving the Platinum certification successfully," said Dr. Jan Spies, Head of Factory Planning, Volkswagen AG.

The Volkswagen manufacturing plant earned 52 points out of the 69 possible to earn the Platinum title in October. Sustainable highlights of the plant include:

Certification of the paint shop facility. Previous assembly plants have excluded their paint shop in the LEED certification process due to the complexity of the manufacturing process and the challenge of getting them certified. VW's sustainably designed paint shop will save more than 50 million gallons of water a year.
The construction team salvaged or recycled nearly 78 percent (4,602 tons) of construction and demolition waste.
48 percent of total building materials were manufactured using recycled materials.
Through low-flow water closets and urinals, the plant achieves a 58 percent reduction in potable water used for sewage conveyance. Additionally, the plant harvests rainwater from its roof that is collected for use in the sanitary waste system. Together, these strategies save 1.7 million gallons of potable water each year. Low-flow showers, lavatory and kitchen faucets further decrease potable water usage, resulting in total savings of more than 3 million gallons of potable water each year.
A white, reflective roofing material was installed on 100 percent of the roof area of the building, which reflects heat, lowering cooling costs and saving energy.
All exterior lights at the facility provide only the minimum lighting required for safety to ensure that light does not spill into the night sky, adversely affecting the surrounding nocturnal environments through excessive glare.
Measures to promote environmentally friendly commutes include the provision of bike racks for visitors and employees, availability of showers and lockers for employee use and preferred parking for those driving low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles and for those who carpool to the site.

The Volkswagen Academy was also certified by USGBC as a LEED Platinum facility earning 54 points of out 69 possible and received this designation in November. The Volkswagen Academy is used to train new employees for work at the plant.

In addition to the Volkswagen Chattanooga manufacturing plant, SSOE is also responsible for the first Gold LEED certified facility in the state of Ohio and first Gold LEED certified central utility plant in the U.S. Currently, SSOE has more than a dozen projects underway at various stages of the LEED certification process around the world and was ranked first nationally among green industrial and manufacturing design firms by ENR magazine.

About Volkswagen Chattanooga

Volkswagen will invest $1 billion in the local economy for the Chattanooga plant and create more than 2,000 direct jobs in the region. According to independent studies, the new Volkswagen plant is expected to generate $12 billion in income growth and an additional 9,500 jobs related to the project. The Chattanooga manufacturing facility builds the all-new 2012 Passat sedan, specially designed for the North American market and winner of the Motor Trend magazine 2012 Car of the Year award.

About SSOE Group

As the 14th largest engineering, architectural, and construction management firm (Building Design + Construction), one of Inc. magazine's fastest growing firms (2011), and one of the "Best AEC Firms to Work For" (Building Design + Construction), SSOE Group focuses on delivering Great Client Service to clients through a full range of EPCM services.

With 24 offices around the world, SSOE is known for making its clients successful by saving them time, trouble, and money. Over the company's 60-plus year history, it has earned a reputation for providing quality project solutions to food and consumer products, chemical, government, power, automotive, glass, healthcare, and science and technology industries. SSOE has completed projects in more than 30 countries. Visit www.ssoe.com for additional information and career opportunities.

Media Contact
Jenni Roder
SSOE Group
419.255.3830 x1362
419.351.6480 cell
jroder@ssoe.com

SOURCE SSOE Group

69-Time Gold Medalist and Multi-Sport Wheelchair Athlete Named Spokesperson for National Mobility Awareness Month

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:22:48 +0000

69-Time Gold Medalist and Multi-Sport Wheelchair Athlete Named Spokesperson for National Mobility Awareness Month

PR Newswire

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Mike Savicki, a quadriplegic triathlete, has been named spokesperson for National Mobility Awareness Month, the new May celebration encouraging people with disabilities to live active, mobile lifestyles. The goal is to develop awareness for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles as well as the many other transportation solutions that can improve the quality of life for veterans, seniors and those with disabilities. Savicki is a proud partner along with such sponsors as the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA), Toyota, SanTan Honda Superstore in Chandler, Ariz. and Chrysler LLC.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120207/FL49248 )

Savicki, who is a freelance sports journalist, disability advocate and small business entrepreneur, sustained a C6, 7 spinal cord injury in 1990 from a dive into the waters of Pensacola Beach, Fla., while in flight school to become an F-14 pilot. Since the injury, he's won 69 gold medals in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, the largest annual wheelchair sports competition in the world and has become the only person to finish the Boston Marathon both on foot and in a wheelchair, a race he has completed 18 times since 1990.

"Sure, I knew there would be challenges after my accident, but it never stopped me from pursuing my passions. I got involved with this awareness project because I've been celebrating mobility for the greater part of my life, and I wish the world would join me, even if only for a month," said Savicki.

Beginning this May, National Mobility Awareness Month will be an annual, month-long celebration in the U.S. and Canada encouraging the 18 million people who are struggling with or overcoming mobility challenges to share their stories. Both written and videotaped submissions will be accepted on the National Mobility Awareness Month website from March 18-May 13. The voting period is open to the public April 1-May 13 that will help determine the top winners, who will receive a new Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle on national television, customized to fit their specific needs. Toyota has donated a 2012 Sienna Minivan to the cause, SanTan Honda has donated a Honda Odyssey and Chrysler LLC donated a 2012 Town & Country Minivan. In addition, van conversion companies such as Braun Corporation, Vantage Mobility International and Bruno Independent Living Aids, will be contributing lowered floor conversion and specialized equipment to the cause.

"The first time I got behind the wheel of my new van, a feeling of freedom and liberation came over me. It was as if my disability was just stripped away. I felt free again. I was free again. I could explore, travel and live on my own all over again. That van gave me mobility, and it gave me the self-confidence I never thought I'd experience again," said Savicki.

About National Mobility Awareness Month:

National Mobility Awareness Month is the inaugural May celebration encouraging people with disabilities to enjoy active, mobile lifestyles. Founded in 1989 as a non-profit trade association, The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association sponsors the awareness month with the assistance of more than 600 mobility equipment dealers, manufacturers and driver rehabilitation specialists dedicated to expanding opportunities for people with disabilities. For updates on the awareness month and Local Heroes overcoming mobility issues, please visit NMEDA's Facebook, Twitter or website.

Media Contact:
Cheryl Parker
Evok Advertising
1025 Greenwood Blvd, Ste. 175
Lake Mary, FL 32746
407-302-4416
cheryl.parker@evokad.com

Corporate Contact:
Dave Hubbard
Executive Director & CEO
3327 W. Bearss Avenue
Tampa, FL 33618
866-948-8341
info@nmeda.org

SOURCE National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association

Crown Royal® Kicks Off Nationwide Call for Heroes

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:09:16 +0000

Crown Royal® Kicks Off Nationwide Call for Heroes

Whisky Brand to Honor an American Hero with Naming Rights to the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

PR Newswire

INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- There are certain people who go above and beyond to change the lives of others. From soldiers who protect our country to individuals who serve as leaders within their communities, Crown Royal is looking to pay tribute to those who are making a difference. The whisky brand is encouraging adult fans to nominate their personal heroes (21 or older) for naming rights to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, the Crown Royal Presents the "Your Hero's Name Here"™ 400 at the Brickyard.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120207/NY49274)

The race, to be held on July 29, 2012 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, represents the ultimate celebration of heroes and will mark the sixth time Crown Royal has awarded race naming rights to an adult fan. For the past two years, Crown Royal accepted nominations for military and service members exclusively. Not only has the 2012 race moved to the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but the annual program—now called "Your Hero's Name Here"—has been expanded to accept entries for all of the unsung heroes who make a difference in their communities, from firefighters and police officers, to first responders and local volunteers.

"The expansion of the nomination category gives adult fans the opportunity to honor all men and women who truly make a difference in their day-to-day lives," said Yvonne Briese, VP Marketing, DIAGEO North American whisky. "We've been given the opportunity to shine a spotlight on those who unselfishly commit themselves to giving back, and we look forward to seeing one of our heroes kiss the bricks in Indianapolis this summer."

To nominate a hero for consideration for naming rights to the race, fans are encouraged to visit the Crown Royal Facebook page (Facebook.com/CrownRoyal), where they will be asked to describe a heroic act by the nominee in 100 words or less. Nominations will be accepted until April 30, 2012 and the five finalists will be announced in May. Once the finalists are announced, fans will be provided the chance to cast a vote and determine the winner. The winner will be revealed in a special ceremony leading up to the race.

As part of the prize package, the grand-prize winner will travel to Indianapolis for the race, where he or she will be provided an once-in-a-lifetime experience, which will include waving the green flag to signal the start of the race and delivering the trophy bearing his or her moniker to the race winner in Victory Lane.

The race is the culminating event of the Crown Royal Heroes Project™, an ongoing commitment to recognize everyday heroes and give back to their communities. As part of the project, special commemorative CAMO Crown Royal bag stuffing events were held across the country throughout the fall, resulting in thousands of Crown Royal care packages being sent to American troops overseas, with the help of Packages from Home. The Project benefits the brand's two national charity partners, Honoring Heroes and Operation Patriot Foundation.

Crown Royal's ongoing effort to identify deserving individuals kicked off this weekend in Indianapolis, along with various military bases across the country, and will continue throughout the entry period. Former NFL standout Warrick Dunn made a special appearance around the big game to call attention to the program and encourage adult fans to nominate their heroes. Dunn has partnered with the whisky brand to honor his own hero – his late mother – a former police officer who was killed during an off-duty security shift 19 years ago.

About Crown Royal

Crown Royal Canadian whisky is the number one selling Canadian whisky brand in the US by value and has a tradition as long and distinctive as its taste. Specially blended to commemorate a grand tour of Canada made by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth of Great Britain in 1939, Crown Royal Canadian whisky's smooth, elegant style reflects its aristocratic origins and is considered the epitome of Canadian whisky. For more information visit www.crownroyal.com. Crown Royal encourages all fans to please enjoy responsibly.

About Diageo

Diageo (Dee-AH-Gee-O) is the world's leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, wines and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Smirnoff, J&B, Baileys, Cuervo, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan, Crown Royal, Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines.

Diageo is a global company, trading in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE).

For more information about Diageo, its people, brands, and performance, visit us at Diageo.com. For our global resource that promotes responsible drinking through the sharing of best practice tools, information and initiatives, visit DRINKiQ.com.

About Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been the worldwide leader in motorsports entertainment since it opened in 1909. The facility has hosted the Indianapolis 500, the world's largest single-day annual sporting event, since 1911 and also is the site of the Crown Royal Presents the "Your Hero's Name Here" 400 at the Brickyard and the Red Bull Indianapolis GP. The NASCAR Nationwide Series and GRAND-AM Road Racing also will make their IMS debut with races in 2012.

IMS is the world's largest spectator sporting facility and is the only venue to stage annual races in the IZOD IndyCar Series, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, GRAND-AM Road Racing and MotoGP.

About Operation Patriot Foundation

The mission of Operation Patriot Foundation, Inc., is to pay tribute to those who protect us daily - fire fighters, law enforcement, emergency responders and our active and veteran military forces, and to raise money for organizations representing these men and women who protect us. Our intentions are simple. To pay tribute to and help those who risk their lives for us daily and provide support to these people and their families through fund raising and ceremony in their honor. Operation Patriot Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. For more information, please visit www.operationpatriot.org.

About Honoring Heroes

Honoring Heroes, also known as The American First Responder Institute of Heraldry, has created nationally recognized awards for valor and heroism in the service of the First Responders' life saving mission. No federal, state or local funds are required because the First Responder Institute prioritizes using locally donated dollars to honor local first responders. Prior to the work of the Institute, there was only one nationally recognized award for First Responders; the Medal of Valor. We have created complimentary awards for heroism and exceptional service "above and beyond the call of duty." Awards are also given for direct participation in significant events, for improving security of the homeland and for exemplary service. For more information, please visit www.honoringheroes.com.

About Packages From Home

Packages From Home is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to send care and comfort packages to deployed American military heroes who are stationed in active duty theaters around the world, as well as to facilitate activities that elevate morale of all veterans. Packages From Home was founded in 2004 by Kathleen Lewis and has sent over 130,000 individual care packages and thousands of pounds of bulk mailing to deployed military troops overseas since its inception. You can make a donation and learn more about Packages From Home by calling 602.253.0284 or by visiting us at www.packagesfromhome.org.

SOURCE Crown Royal

SAE International 2012 World Congress Career Fair Offers Employment Opportunities for Engineers, Recruiting for Employers

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:31:33 +0000

SAE International 2012 World Congress Career Fair Offers Employment Opportunities for Engineers, Recruiting for Employers

PR Newswire

DETROIT, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Companies seeking automotive engineering professionals will be able to meet with prospective candidates at the SAE 2012 World Congress Career Fair in Detroit.

The Career Fair will be held April 24-25 at Cobo Center in the lobby in front of Detroit Hall from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

The SAE World Congress is the industry's premiere conference for mobility engineers, offering the latest in cutting edge engineering technology. It also offers a chance for job seekers to network with an array of potential of employers from around the country. The host company for the SAE 2012 World Congress is Nissan; the tier one strategic partner is GE.

The SAE International Career Fair provides unique opportunities for engineers and professionals to explore available jobs, network with recruiters, and learn valuable career tips.

While visiting the Career Fair, job seekers can:

Browse open positions – both onsite and online
Attend a Career Development Session for career skills on Wednesday, April 25 from 1-4 p.m.
Attend a free Resume Clinic where mobility industry experts will critique resumes on Wednesday, April 25 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

For companies, the event presents an opportunity to find talented job seekers that can fulfill a company's unique project needs. The diversity of the SAE World Congress will mean that job seekers will come from an array of backgrounds in regards to technological skill sets and experience.

For more information on career opportunities in the mobility industry or for a list of exhibitors, please visit the SAE International Career Center online at http://www.sae.org/congress/specialevents/career.htm.

To reserve a Career Fair booth, contact Martha Schanno, SAE International Recruitment Sales Manager, at 1-724-772-7155 or email mschanno@sae.org. For more information on the SAE 2012 World Congress and/or to obtain press credentials, send your request to pr@sae.org or call 1-724-772-8522.

SAE International is a global association of more than 134,000 engineers and related technical experts in the aerospace, automotive and commercial-vehicle industries. SAE International's core competencies are life-long learning and voluntary consensus standards development. SAE International's charitable arm is the SAE Foundation, which supports many programs, including A World In Motion® and the Collegiate Design Series.

- www.sae.org -

Contact: Shawn Andreassi of SAE International, 1-724-772-8522 or pr@sae.org

SOURCE SAE International

Gibbs Amphibians Introduces Phibian and Humdinga High Speed Amphitrucks

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:29:04 +0000

Gibbs Amphibians Introduces Phibian and Humdinga High Speed Amphitrucks

PR Newswire

WASHINGTON, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Designed and engineered for multiple transport, first responder and military applications
Phibian features large load capacity and off-road capability
Humdinga is designed for light-duty patrol with rapid-response capability
Quickly reconfigurable for cargo and passenger-carrying operations
Eliminates the need for separate boats and tow vehicles and trailers
Can be specially adapted to customers' specifications
Potential to grow technology and manufacturing jobs in the U.S.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120207/CG49242)

Gibbs Amphibians introduced the Phibian today at an event preceding the American Society of Naval Engineers (ASNE) annual conference. Equipped with Gibbs Amphibians' proprietary High Speed Amphibian (HSA) technology, Phibian joins Humdinga in the Gibbs Amphibians commercial portfolio, two new amphitrucks capable of many uses, including military and rescue roles.

Phibian and Humdinga feature Gibbs' proprietary High Speed Amphibian (HSA) technology, which incorporates many technological breakthroughs in suspension, water propulsion and wheel-retraction design. The water-jet propulsion system enables safe operation in shallow water yet provides the high levels of thrust necessary to achieve planing speeds within seconds. A patented retracting suspension system provides exceptional ride-and-handling on the road, but in the water retracts wheels in seconds to reduce hull drag in marine use.

Phibian is an entirely new type of amphibious truck. Constructed primarily of carbon fiber, it is a multi-mode, multi-mission, high-speed amphibian that offers off-road capability on land. When Phibian transitions from land to water, the wheels retract and its dual jet propulsion provides water performance equal to that of purpose-built patrol and rescue boats.

"Phibian and Humdinga deliver a revolutionary and highly effective solution to the growing demands placed on today's transport, first responder and military communities," said Gibbs' Chairman, Neil Jenkins.

"Natural disasters in recent memory, such as the earthquake and tsunamis in Japan, Thailand, Sri Lanka and elsewhere in Asia; as well as the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, illustrate the need for amphibians as capable, versatile and efficient as Phibian and Humdinga," Jenkins said.

Phibian is capable of traveling at highway speeds on land and in excess of 30 mph on water. It seamlessly makes its land-to-water transition in less than 10 seconds with the simple push of a button.

Humdinga is a smaller vehicle created specifically to deal with remote and difficult terrain.

Gibbs has been developing its HSA technology since 1997. It represents an investment of more than $200 million and more than two million hours of engineering. Gibbs' HSA technology can be applied to amphibians of all sizes – from 800 pounds to 10 tons. It solves the persistent challenges of land-sea borders around the world, such as beachhead landings or crossing waterways and lakes.

Phibian and Humdinga versatility and capability attributes include:

Highway-capable speed
On-plane water performance in excess of 30 mph
Replace need for separate boats and tow vehicles.

In addition to first responder and humanitarian uses, Phibian and Humdinga also have the potential to provide military units with specialized capabilities as well as many general transport applications.

Both amphibians will be offered as a base model that can be configured for customer requirements. Factory-installed options are being developed and may include for the Phibian:

Fully enclosed, stand-up cabin with integrated radar arch
Rear radar arch
Canvas T-top over cockpit and extended canvas over cargo area
Two or three crew seats with integrated restraints
Passenger seating for 12 in cargo area
Right- and left-hand side doors with full NATO pallet size access
Tailgate and winch
Anchor with electric windlass
U.S. Coast Guard-required equipment for passenger use
Heater and air conditioner
Chemical toilet with stowable privacy enclosure
Custom exterior treatments

Phibian and Humdinga are just two of several amphibians Gibbs has developed. Others include:

Aquada: The world's first amphibian to feature Gibbs' High Speed Amphibian technology, Aquada is capable of speeds of more than 100 mph on land and in excess of 30 mph on water. The Aquada was designed from the ground up to perform in both land and marine modes, with over 100 patents covering technical innovations. In 2004, Virgin Group owner Richard Branson used a Gibbs Aquada to set a new record for crossing the English Channel in an amphibian. Branson set a new record of 1 hour 40 minutes, smashing the previous, 30-year-old record by more than 4 hours.

Quadski: The first-generation Quadski was demonstrated in 2006, and is capable of off-highway operation and marine operation. It is the first personal off-highway amphibian to feature HSA technology, and makes a seamless transition between land and water. An advanced Quadski will be introduced this year.

Gibbs Amphibians is the world's leading developer of High Speed Amphibian (HSA) technology platforms for consumer, commercial, humanitarian and military use. It was founded by New Zealand entrepreneur Alan Gibbs in 1996 and Neil Jenkins joined him as a partner in 1999. Since its formation, Gibbs Amphibians has led the world in researching and developing the concept of HSA technology, and has patented more than 100 inventions relating to the technology. Additional information about Gibbs, HSA technology and licensing opportunities is available at www.gibbstech.com.

Contact:

Kelly Kolhagen
MSL Detroit
248-425-6681
kelly.kolhagen@mslgroup.com

Chris Kourtakis
Gibbs Amphibians
248-890-1116
ckourtakis@gibbstech.com

Media may also visit www.gibbstech.com and click on the Media tab.

PHIBIAN SPECIFICATIONS

Engine / Propulsion

Type:	twin turbo diesels (land) with twin jet drives (water)
Horsepower (hp / kW):	500 / 368
Water speed (mph):	more than 30

Suspension

	coil over springs and dampers
Drive layout (land):	FWD or RWD, selectable 4WD
Steering type:	power-assisted hydraulic

Brakes

Type:

hydraulically operated disc brakes

Wheels and tires

275/80R20 MPT

Dimensions

Overall length (ft / mm):	30.22 / 9212
Overall width: (ft / mm):	8.3 / 2532
Overall height: (ft / mm):	11.98 / 3654
Track width (ft / mm):	6.95 / 2120
Wheelbase (ft / mm):	20.63 / 6289
Approach angle (degrees):	30
Departure angle (degrees):	28
Ground clearance (in / mm):	16 / 353

Capacities

Occupants:	three crew, 12 passengers
Curb weight (lb / kg base):	4500
Payload (lb / kg):	3307 / 1500

HUMDINGA SPECIFICATIONS

Engine / Propulsion

Type:	supercharged V8
Horsepower (hp / kW):	350 / 261

Suspension / Brakes

Drive layout (land):	permanent 4WD
Brakes:	disc

Dimensions

Overall length (ft / mm):	21.5 / 6553
Overall width: (ft / mm):	79 / 2000
Overall height: (ft / mm):	98 / 2500
Track width (ft / mm):	6.95 / 2120

Capacities

Curb weight (lb / kg base):	4960 / 2750
Occupants:	5-7 configurable
Payload (lb / kg):	1653 / 750
Gross vehicle weight (lb / kg):	6613 / 3500

SOURCE Gibbs Amphibians

Hino Trucks Honored at National Biodiesel Conference

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:00:29 +0000

Hino Trucks Honored at National Biodiesel Conference

PR Newswire

NOVI, Mich., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- During a ceremony today at the National Biodiesel Conference in Orlando, Hino Trucks was recognized by the National Biodiesel Board with the 2012 "Eye on Biodiesel Impact Award."

The "I-Awards" represent the biodiesel industry's top honors, and are bestowed upon companies, groups or individuals who have helped carry the biodiesel torch, fostering understanding, mentoring others and encouraging broader use of this cleaner burning, sustainable fuel. Hino Trucks was nominated for an award this year for serving as a trailblazer among manufacturers as well as among hybrid truck manufacturers in supporting the use of B20 biodiesel blends.

Hino Trucks was honored in the Impact category by becoming the first manufacturer to support the use of B20 biodiesel blends in a hybrid-electric truck, as well as in its complete product line of class 6 and 7 conventional trucks. Not only will Hino's COE 195h hybrid truck be a part of the event's Biodiesel Vehicle Showcase, but Hino was invited to be a part of a general session OEM panel entitled "The Future is Unwritten: Energy Policy, Diesel Technology, and B20" as well as the technical session discussing "Biodiesel Engines of Today and the Future – Development of Super High Efficiency Diesel Engines."

All 2011 and later model conventional trucks powered exclusively with Hino's proprietary J-Series engines are approved to use B20 biodiesel blends that contain biofuel blend stock (B100) compliant to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D6751, and blended fuel compliant to ASTM D975. B20 biodiesel meeting these standards is also approved for use in Hino's newly announced diesel and diesel-electric hybrid cab overs due to enter the market late this summer.

"It is our strong commitment to design and assemble trucks that are at the forefront of environmental friendliness and that help to reduce our overall dependency on foreign oils," said Glenn Ellis, Vice President of Marketing and Dealer Operations for Hino Trucks. Hino offers the only class 6 and 7 conventional truck to meet the stringent 2010 EPA emission requirements without the use of credits. "By offering the class 5 market a diesel-electric hybrid cab over that can use up to B20 biodiesel, our customers now have an option for a commercially acceptable alternative fuel truck," added Ellis.

"Biodiesel, America's advanced biofuel, would not be what it is today without champions and supporters like the Eye on Biodiesel honorees," said Joe Jobe, CEO of the National Biodiesel Board. "We are proud to recognize these leaders from all facets of the biodiesel industry." Additional information about biodiesel is available online at www.biodiesel.org.

About Hino: Hino Trucks, a Toyota Group Company, assembles, sells, and services Class 4-7 conventional commercial trucks in the United States. The headquarters is located in Novi, Michigan and boasts a network of over 160 dealers nationwide committed to achieving excellence in customer service and support. Hino Trucks is the premier medium duty nameplate in the United States with a product lineup that offers the lowest total cost of ownership, superior fuel economy, industry-leading environmental friendliness, unmatched reliability and maneuverability, and the most comprehensive bundle of standard features in the market. For more information, visit our internet home page at www.hino.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

SOURCE Hino Trucks