NAFA Connection
NAFA Fleet Management Association
For more than 50 years, NAFA's mission has been focused on quality fleet management education and training. Just announced, NAFA will soon divide the CAFM curriculum into two tiers (upper and lower), each covering four of the eight fleet management disciplines currently required to earn a CAFM designation. Certified Automotive Fleet Supervisor, or CAFS, is the new designation that will offer certification opportunity for those professionals striving to enter into and/or develop their career path in fleet management.
"NAFA is pleased to offer the CAFS certification for fleet professionals as a stepping stone towards achieving a CAFM," said NAFA President Gayle Pratt. "It allows fleet professionals to see tangible results much sooner as they progress through the curriculum and earn their CAFS. Meanwhile, the CAFM designation clearly remains the highest and most comprehensive certification to attain."
This change is being made to meet market demand for a lower-tier certification of CAFM participants as they progress toward earning the CAFM designation. An added benefit to people enrolling in the program is that they can see tangible results much sooner as they progress through the curriculum and earn the CAFS.
The new two-tier program equally divides disciplines. The four disciplines covered in the lower-tier will be: Fleet Information Management, Maintenance Management, Professional Development and Vehicle Fuel Management. The upper-tier will encompass Asset Management, Business Management, Financial Management, and Risk Management.
Successful completion of the lower-tier program will earn the all-new CAFS designation. Successful completion of the upper-tier, which will only be possible after completing the lower-tier, will earn the participant the CAFM designation. Of course, participants may opt to bypass the tier system and earn only the CAFM designation.
Who is eligible?
The CAFS program will be open to any individual with at least one year experience as a fleet manager, assistant fleet manager, fleet supervisor, or other fleet-related position, as well as those enrolled in a college or university program in a fleet-related discipline.
Please note that anyone enrolled in the "revised" CAFM program since 2006 will be eligible to be awarded the lower-tier CAFS designation, even if the credits have been earned prior to this announcement. The first CAFS designations will be awarded in the Spring of 2009.
As an added bonus, NAFA anticipates that those who attain the CAFS designation will be able to apply for college credits from Ferris State University as part of NAFA's strategic partnership with that institution.
NAFA believes the new lower-tier CAFS program will be inviting to many future CAFM graduates, as well as many future fleet managers...and many new NAFA leaders! We hope you will join in our enthusiasm and help us spread the word about this terrific new service.
The Law Enforcement Fleet Community lost a dear friend in our industry with the passing of Rodney "Bruce" Wiley on Dec. 27, 2008. Bruce was the "go-to" guy for all of us when it involved any GM vehicle designed for law enforcement. Bruce was an extremely knowledgeable individual that worked diligently to resolve any issues we may have had with any of their products and always made you feel more like a friend than the customer. He will be sorely missed by all of us who have had the pleasurable opportunity to meet and work with him. The NAFA family extends our heartfelt condolences, thoughts and prayers to Bruce's family and friends!
NAFA's highly successful Fleet Management Seminar will be held Feb. 4 - 6, 2009, in Orlando, Fla. NAFA's Fleet Management Seminar is designed to provide comprehensive education to fleet managers and professionals who seek the fundamental principles and practices of successful fleet management. This seminar is the most comprehensive course of its kind, and what better way to learn about your field than from your peers and associates? Sign up by Jan. 15 for the Feb. 4 - 6 FMS and save $25! Click here to register now!
Attention CAFM Participants: If you are enrolled in the CAFM program, you will be able to test upon the conclusion of the Seminar. An exam application is available at www.nafa.org/exams. Please note that a separate registration for the exams is required to gain access to the testing area. Register today!
Don't wait too long, because all of our past seminars have sold out! Attention: Hotel Cut-Off for Group Rate Extended Until Friday, Jan. 16, 2009 at the Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel in Orlando. To contact the Renaissance Orlando Airport Hotel call 407-240-1000. If calling directly, use group code "nafnafa." If you have any questions regarding the Fleet Management Seminar, please contact Gladys Reyes at 609-986-1051 or greyes@nafa.org. Click here to register.
On Friday, April 24, NAFA's Masters' Seminar: Carbon Footprint Calculation and Management, will provide an explanation of the contribution of vehicle emissions to greenhouse gases, as well as an examination of GHG emissions reduction strategies, including fuel conservation and the impact of alternative fuel substitutions.
The Seminar's expert panel – all with invaluable environmental and fleet management experience – will provide a demonstration of the EDF-NAFA carbon emission calculator, and provide an explanation of U.S. EPA fleet mandates.
Don't miss this must-attend event - space is limited so register now! The seminar takes place the day before NAFA's 2009 Institute & Expo begins. The Masters' Seminar requires a separate fee for materials and seminar attendees will receive lunch. To register, use the Institute & Expo registration form at www.nafaiande.org. You do not have to register for the expo to attend the seminar; however, space is limited, so interested fleet managers should sign up in advance.
To register online, click here.
To download a registration form, click here.
NAFA's I&E is the one conference that has it all for you!
"NAFA's Institute & Expo is the fleet conference that offers premier training and educational programs for all fleet managers, whether your fleet is small or large, government or commercial, owned or leased, domestic or international," said Patti Earley, CAFM, chair of NAFA's I&E Curriculum Committee. "No matter if you are just starting out as a fleet manager or have been in the industry for decades, NAFA's I&E has something for you. With 50 courses to choose from offering 65 hours of training and professional development and the largest expo in the fleet industry, the I&E is a 'must attend' event for fleet professionals."
There's so much happening at I&E in 2009 that we've created a special Web site. www.nafaiande.org is a user-friendly, cutting-edge I&E Web site, featuring all the information you need for this year's I&E! Browse effortlessly through pages of vital I&E information while experiencing a touch of that "N'awlins" feeling.
From the I&E site, you can easily:
- Register online or download the registration form
- Locate information whether you're an attendee, exhibitor, or sponsor
- Discover what's new and exciting at I&E this year (visit our "What's New" page to keep you updated on the latest I&E information)
- Find out how you can participate in NAFA's Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Project
- Reserve your hotel room and learn more about New Orleans
- Read up on essential "inside" New Orleans tips including how to buy tickets for Jazz Fest, review local restaurants and things to do, traveling around the city, coupons, and maps
Take advantage of the workshops specifically geared towards global fleets. Global Fleet Procurement, offered Monday, April 27 from 9:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., will offer valuable information on how to prepare for a global fleet consolidation initiative from an organizational, political, tactical and financial perspective. A panel of experts representing the OEM and Fleet Management Companies will offer their valuable insights on how to achieve a successful global fleet negation, agreement, implementation/compliance plan. In addition, attendees will learn geographical similarities and differences in managing fleets around the world, how best to leverage global economics of scale, and the latest global context and trends – international client requirements, market legislations, and supplier developments. Click here for more information on Global Fleet Procurement.
NAFA is offering even more information on global fleets on Tuesday, April 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with the workshop, Global Fleet Management Peer Exchange. Learn how other companies tackle global fleet management, listen to a question and answer session with experienced fleet leaders who will offer their insight and best practices. In addition, attendees will learn how fleet procurement and operations are similar, and yet different, for the regions of the world and the nuances of global fleet management. Click here for more information on Global Fleet Management Peer Exchange.
Mastering Negotiation Skills, offered Tuesday, April 28 from 9:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., will help you understand how to flex your approach when dealing with different types of negotiators and how to ensure negotiations stay on a principled track. Be a more confident and effective negotiator by gaining the tools you need to handle any negotiation situation with ease. Click here for more information.
Fuel Hedging and Procurement Strategies Workshop, offered Tuesday, April 28 from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., will walk you through the hedging process, and explain the features & benefits of specific price risk management programs. The objective is to arm you with ways to help minimize exposure to risk, and manage your fuel costs in today's volatile market, in order to meet your long-term financial goals. Click here for more information.
In 2009, make your mark by lending a hand with NAFA's I&E Habitat for Humanity project. With the help of many different groups and communities, New Orleans is coming back stronger than ever, and now NAFA has a chance to help in that transformation!
Now NAFA Members and I&E attendees are signing up to help! How can you help? Plan to arrive a day early and join with other NAFA community 
volunteers to assist in a New Orleans Habitat for Humanity community project. On Friday, April 24, 2009, Team NAFA will partner and work with Habitat for Humanity on a local project. The work day schedule is from 7:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., and buses will depart from the Hilton New Orleans Riverside and Doubletree New Orleans Hotels at 7 a.m.
If you would like to be part of the Habitat for Humanity team, just fill out your I&E Registration Form or register online and check the "Habitat For Humanity" box to participate. Exhibitors may consult their service kit for more information. For additional information on New Orleans Habitat for Humanity, visit www.habitat-nola.org.
In addition to the team of NAFA volunteers and their contribution, NAFA Fleet Management Association is making a contribution to help continue Habitat for Humanity projects after I&E leaves the crescent city.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to give not only to the fleet management community, but also to the New Orleans community. We are grateful for your support!
The New Orleans Hilton Riverside will serve as the headquarters hotel, and registrants are encouraged to make their hotel reservations early, as the I&E takes place the same time as New Orleans' famous Jazz Fest! Make sure to book early, just in case! Early hotel reservations can be made through NAFA's I&E Web site at www.NAFAIandE.org. For hotel information, online reservations and forms, visit the Hotel and Travel page.
Make Your Hotel Reservations A.S.A.P!
NAFA has blocked rooms at two hotels. The Hilton New Orleans Riverside, which is next to the New Orleans Morial Convention Center, offers group rates of $226 - $276. Online reservations can be made at http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/MSYNHHH-AFA-20090418/index.jhtml.
The DoubleTree New Orleans is four blocks from the New Orleans Morial Convention Center and offers a group rate of $226. Online reservations can be made at http://www.hilton.com/en/dt/groups/personalized/MSYTCDT-AFA-20090419/index.jhtml.
The first night's room rate is required as an advance deposit for all reservations. Credit cards will be charged at the same time that the reservation is made.
The cutoff date for reservations is April 1, 2009. NAFA will be providing shuttle service between the hotels and convention center.
NAFA Affiliates and Exhibitors: You still have time to secure a prime location at the largest fleet management event under one roof anywhere! To connect with fleet management buyers at all levels – from corporate and public service fleet managers to fleet maintenance managers – exhibit at NAFA 2009 Institute & Expo.
Here are the forms you will need to reserve your booth space today:
2009 NAFA Institute & Expo Floor Plan
2009 NAFA I & E Exhibit Space Application
Look at the vendors already signed up!
To reserve your booth or request more information, contact
Mark Miller at 703-934-4700, ext. 1107,
or exhibits@nafa.org.
NAFA INSTITUTE & EXPO IS THE MARKETPLACE THAT MATTERS MOST!
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Access to the best prospects for your products in all industry segments.
- Networking opportunities with your current customers, potential buyers, and industry leaders. Conference programming that draws buyers.
- Complimentary registrations (one conference and three exhibitors per every 100 square feet).
- Listings in the Official Show Guide, which acts as a year-long buyers guide for attendees, as well as online.
- Join the Green Zone to showcase your "green" product or service, at no extra cost!
Become an I&E Sponsor Today! March 31 Sponsorship Deadline Approaching
I&E sponsorship packages are designed with maximum return on investment in mind. We have designed valuable sponsorship packages that consider budgets of all sizes. From pre-event marketing exposure to extensive on-site visibility, to post-event press coverage and extensive online visibility, sponsoring NAFA's 2009 Institute & Expo is the ideal way to reach the largest gathering of fleet managers this year. Take advantage of the networking opportunities – the I&E is a great place to not only find new customers, but also build long-standing relationships.
Become a sponsor! Contact Mark Miller at 703-934-4700, ext. 1107, or exhibits@nafa.org.
As 2009 rang in with new hopes, General Motors and Chrysler LLC were given the first tranche of $4 billion from the Federal Government in an effort to support the automaker's viability plan.
Late last month, President George Bush offered GM and Chrysler $13.4 billion in short-term financing from the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) and an additional $4 billion to be available around February. Though both automakers submitted plans of sustainability, if they do not attain viability by March 31 of this year the loan will be called and all funds returned to the Treasury Department.
Under Bush's plan, the automakers have to come to an agreement with the United Auto Workers union, limit executive compensation, allow the government to examine their books and records, comply with Federal fuel efficiency and emissions requirements and provide warrants for non-voting stocks.
Ford Motor Company welcomed action by the Administration to provide emergency funding for General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC even though Ford is claiming they're in a different position.
"As we told Congress, Ford is in a different position. We do not face a near-term liquidity issue, and we are not seeking short-term financial assistance from the government," Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally said. "But all of us at Ford appreciate the prudent step the Administration has taken to address the near-term liquidity issues of GM and Chrysler. The U.S. auto industry is highly interdependent, and a failure of one of our competitors would have a ripple effect that could jeopardize millions of jobs and further damage the already weakened U.S. economy."
Ford recently submitted to Congress its comprehensive business plan, which details the company's plan to return to pre-tax Automotive profitability by 2011. In the plan, Ford said the transformation of its North American automotive business will continue to accelerate through aggressive restructuring actions and the introduction of more high-quality, safe and fuel-efficient vehicles – including a broader range of hybrid-electric vehicles and the introduction of advanced plug-in hybrids and full electric vehicles.
"Ford has a comprehensive transformation plan that will ensure our future viability – as evidenced by our profitability in the first quarter of 2008," Mulally said. "While we clearly still have much more work to do, I am more convinced than ever that we have the right plan that will create a viable Ford going forward and position us for profitable growth."
Ford is asking for access to a line of credit of up to $9 billion in bridge financing, but reiterated that it hopes to complete its transformation without accessing a government loan.
Ford reiterated that it is continuing aggressive actions to reduce costs and improve automotive gross cash to fund its product-led transformation plan, despite the continued weakness in the global automotive market and economic environment. Ford said it is more committed than ever to deliver more of the safe, affordable, high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles that consumers want and value.
North Carolina – The state issued a smoking ban inside state-operated vehicles. City and county governments also will have authority to approve similar motor-fleet restrictions.
California – The state is enforcing law SB 28, which coincides with the cell phone law of 2007 and prohibits text messaging with a cell phone or other text-based communications while driving a vehicle.
Washington State - All 2009 model vehicles must meet Washington clean air standards to be registered, leased, rented or sold for use in the state. If a car is purchased out of state, it may be required to meet Washington state clean air standards.
Minnesota – The state passed a $6.6 billion transportation bill that increases the gas tax by 8.5 cents over the next five years to fund road and bridge repairs.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced a new rule to place stricter safety requirements on all newly registered trucking and bus companies. This final rule raises the compliance standards for passing new entrant safety audits, while ensuring that safety deficiencies are corrected before a new motor carrier is granted permanent registration with the agency.
The final rule issued by the FMCSA establishes that a newly registered trucking or bus company will automatically fail its safety audit if it violates any one of 16 essential federal regulations during the 18-month safety monitoring period. These essential regulations cover controlled substances and alcohol testing, hours-of-service, driver qualifications, vehicle condition and carrier financial responsibility.
If a company fails its new entrant safety audit, it may result in revocation of a carrier's registration with the agency, unless the carrier takes necessary corrective action within a specified time period established by FMCSA. The rule would also require that if, during the 18-month safety monitoring period, certain violations are discovered during roadside inspections, the new entrant may be subjected to a new entrant expedited safety audit or, in the case of serious safety violations, a more comprehensive compliance review, which can result in fines and penalties.
Due to the rapid decline in global automotive production and uncertain industry conditions, Johnson Controls, Inc. announced it was withdrawing its 2009 financial guidance.
"Global automotive production is significantly worse than just two months ago," said Johnson Controls Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Stephen A. Roell. "Our customers continue to announce production reductions and plant shutdowns on a weekly basis. Every region of the world is down by a double-digit rate, with virtually every automotive customer affected. The ongoing uncertainties and rapid changes in the automotive industry make it difficult to provide meaningful financial guidance for the upcoming year."
On Oct. 14, 2008, Johnson Controls issued financial guidance based on 2009 assumptions of 12.3 million vehicles in North America and 21.2 million in Europe. The company's latest production estimates for 2009 are 9.3 million units in North America and 16.2 million units in Europe.
The company also announced that it expected to report a loss in its 2009 first quarter, which ended Dec. 31, 2008. The first fiscal quarter is traditionally the company's weakest and generates the smallest portion of its annual profitability.
The loss in the first quarter will primarily result from the impact of the dramatically lower automotive production levels on the company's Automotive Experience business. The company said it was reducing its 2009 capital expenditure forecast from $975 million to $600 to $650 million. This reduction primarily reflects the elimination of automotive capacity expansion investments. Johnson Controls said its cost structure improvement actions and the performance of the company's Building Efficiency and Power Solutions businesses should enable the company to remain profitable in 2009.
Chrome Systems Inc., a subsidiary of DealerTrack Holdings, Inc., was recently selected by Nissan to deliver a robust vehicle comparison tool, and within a short time frame delivered a customized version of its Chrome Construct web services solution that significantly enhanced the automaker's Web site.Chrome Construct allows automakers to access accurate content about their vehicles and their competitors' vehicles, and to create comprehensive consumer-facing vehicle presentations, with the option of customization to highlight the best features of their products.
In Nissan's case, Chrome was able to quickly develop a customized solution that performs side-by-side vehicle comparisons spanning hundreds of features and technical specifications, automatically selecting and presenting the advantages of Nissan's vehicles relative to other brands chosen by the consumer.
"We are pleased to provide Nissan with this new functionality, which can be very helpful in increasing consumer interest and driving sales in the current challenging environment," said Pete Batten, general manager of Chrome Systems. "Chrome's ability to create this solution from the ground up, integrate it with the existing Web site, and host it on a turnkey basis, enabled Nissan to dramatically reduce its time-to-market with the upgraded site."
FMCSA Rejects California Petition
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has announced the rejection of a petition for preemption of California laws and regulations requiring employers to provide employees with meal and rest breaks. FMCSA found that petition does not satisfy the threshold requirement for preemption under 49 U.S.C. 31141(c) because the provisions at issue are not ''laws and regulations on commercial motor vehicle safety,'' but rather laws and regulations applied generally to California employers.
GROUPS Write Opposing Higher Ethanol Blends
A coalition of industry and environmental groups — including the National Petrochemical and Refiners Association, the American Lung Association, the Sierra Club, and the Engine Manufacturers Association — have written to the EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson opposing a possible increase in the ten percent limit on ethanol in gasoline. The groups urged EPA not to take action on raising the limit without giving due considerations to environmental and consumer safety protections with respect to the use of mid-level ethanol blends. Some environmental groups maintain that air pollution and greenhouse gas emission concerns need to be addressed. Other industry groups have expressed concerns about the harmful effects of ethanol on machinery. The congressionally mandated renewable fuels standard requires 36 billion gallons of ethanol or other renewable fuel in gasoline and diesel fuel by 2022.
U.S. Treasury to Make Loans to Auto Industry
President Bush has announced that the Treasury Department will make loans available from the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) to assist the domestic auto industry in becoming financially viable. The terms and conditions of this financing are intended to facilitate the restructuring of the domestic auto industry, prevent disorderly bankruptcies during a time of economic difficulty, and protect the taxpayer by ensuring that only financially viable firms receive assistance.
These auto manufacturers will be provided with $13.4 billion in short-term financing from the TARP. An additional $4 billion would be made available in February, contingent upon drawing down the final tranche of TARP funds. The companies must use these funds to become financially viable. A company will only be considered viable if it has a positive net present value, taking into account all current and future costs, and can fully repay the government loan. In the event that a company has not attained viability by March 31, 2009, the loan will be called and all funds returned to the Treasury Department.
Government of Canada Invests in Multiple Green Transportation Projects
In December 2008, the Federal Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, John Baird, announced that the Government of Canada will be investing in a total of 11 projects across Canada in support of green transportation.
The projects, which support a number of programs run by community groups and non-governmental organizations, will receive up to $421,000 under the Moving on Sustainable Transportation (MOST) program.
The MOST program has been implemented in order to help diminish the impact of transportation on the environment. Minister Baird reiterated the government's commitment to provide tangible results for Canadians.
The principle behind the MOST program is to present Canadians with realistic information and opportunities to innovatively integrate green transportation into their everyday lives.
A number of projects that will support environmentally friendly transportation have been identified in several provinces across Canada:
British Columbia
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Better Environmentally Sound Transportation in Vancouver will receive a contribution of up to $75,000 for a project to encourage families in two British Columbia municipalities to change their transportation behaviour.
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DreamRider Theatre Society of Port Moody will receive a contribution of up to $50,000 for a project to create an educational musical play for elementary schools about energy consumption.
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The Fraser Basin Council, based in Vancouver, will receive up to $45,000 for a project to coordinate the development and delivery of green transportation by local governments in small and mid-sized communities.
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Smart Growth BC in Vancouver will receive a contribution of up to $75,000 for a project to help citizens and elected officials in Prince George create a sustainable development plan focusing on alternative transportation planning, green infrastructure and land use.
New Brunswick
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Bathurst Sustainable Development will receive a contribution of up to $21,000 for a project to update the Bathurst Transportation Master Plan.
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Projet Éco-Touristique de la Baie de Bouctouche Inc. will receive a contribution of up to $10,000 for a project to study the feasibility of a public transit service between Bouctouche and Moncton, and to consider the ecotourism potential of such a service.
Nova Scotia
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Dalhousie University will receive up to $15,000 for a project to reduce single car occupancy travel to and from campus, and to identify ways to increase the use of bicycles.
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TRAX: Ecology Action Centre in Halifax will receive a contribution of up to $30,000 for a project to partner with planning staff in three Nova Scotia communities to assist them in developing the sustainable transportation component of their integrated community sustainability plans.
Ontario
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Durham Sustain Ability in Brougham will receive a contribution of up to $30,000 for a project to encourage local employers and their employees to use green transportation.
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Grand River CarShare in Kitchener will receive a contribution of up to $20,000 for a project to study the feasibility of car sharing and carpooling.
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Green Communities Canada in Peterborough will receive a contribution of up to $50,000 for a project to support local communities in creating public spaces where people choose active and green transportation.
Financial Support Announced for the Canadian Auto Industry
Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty have announced that the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario will provide $4 billion in loans payable to General Motors of Canada Limited and Chrysler Canada Inc. This financial support is being provided to assist Canadian operations.
Prime Minister Harper highlighted that this unfortunate, but essential step, is needed to help protect the Canadian economy. The money will be used to revitalize and renew the automotive industry and ensure that Canada maintains its current production share of the North American market.
As one of various conditions, every stakeholder in the automotive industry will be expected to participate in the reduction of structural costs and ensure a feasible auto industry in Canada.
The automotive industry is the country's largest industry within the manufacturing sector, representing 14 per cent of the country's manufacturing output, 23 per cent of manufactured exports, and directly employing over 150,000 Canadians.
The Annual Energy Outlook 2009 (AEO2009) reference case released by the Energy Information Administration presents updated projections for U.S. energy consumption and production through 2030.
Oil Use and Import Dependence: For the first time in more than 20 years, the new AEO reference case projects virtually no growth in U.S. oil consumption, reflecting the combined effect of recently enacted CAFE standards, requirements for increased use of renewable fuels, and an assumed rebound in oil prices as the world economy recovers.
Natural Gas Use and Import Dependence: The reference case raises EIA's projection for U.S. production and consumption of natural gas, reflecting increased availability of resources and higher demand for electric power generation. With growing production of natural gas from unconventional onshore sources the net import share of total natural gas use also declines, from 16 percent in 2007 to less than 3 percent in 2030.
Total Primary Energy Use and Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions: Efficiency policies and higher energy prices in AEO2009 slow the rise in U.S. energy use, which is projected to grow from 101.9 quadrillion Btu in 2007 to 113.3 quadrillion Btu in 2030.
Oil Prices: In 2007 dollars, the world crude oil price, averaging near $60 in 2009, rises as the global economy rebounds and global demand once again grows more rapidly than non-OPEC liquids supply. In 2030, the average real price of crude oil is $130 per barrel in 2007 dollars ($189 per barrel in nominal dollars).
Renewable Energy Use: Total consumption of marketed renewable fuels — including wood, municipal waste, and biomass in the end use sectors; hydroelectricity, geothermal, municipal waste, biomass, solar, and wind for electric power generation; ethanol for gasoline blending; and biomass-based diesel — grows by 3.3 percent per year in the AEO2009 reference case.
Vehicle Characteristics: A sharp increase in the sale of unconventional vehicle technologies, such as flex-fuel, hybrid, and diesel vehicles, and a significant decline in the new light-truck share of total light-duty vehicle sales are projected. Hybrid vehicle sales (all varieties) increase from 2 percent of new light-duty vehicle sales in 2007 to 38 percent in 2030. By 2030, PHEVs account for 2 percent of new light vehicle sales.
Modeling Methodology: The AEO2009 reference case assumes no changes in current laws and regulations. However, it reflects the behavior of investors and regulators who, in their investment evaluation process, are implicitly (or explicitly) adding a cost to many proposed power plants that employ GHG-intensive technologies.
Administrative Services CO-OP (ASC), the largest taxicab cooperative in the Western United States, has begun procuring new, clean-burning CNG-powered taxis for deployment by ASC member Long Beach Yellow Cab.
In addition to this Long Beach area franchise, ASC operates four other taxi companies in the Los Angeles area — Los Angeles Yellow Cab, South Bay Yellow Cab, Fiesta Taxi, and United Checker Cab — which together serve the region with nearly 1,200 taxis. Clean Energy Fuels Corp. provides fuel for all of ASC's current CNG cabs at its local network of strategically located public access stations. Funding for the new Long Beach CNG cabs was provided by a grant from the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee (MSRC) and the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD).
"ASC taxi fleets will soon include at least 100 clean-burning CNG cabs, and, over the next four years, we expect to replace up to 100 more of our conventional gasoline-powered cabs with fuel-efficient models, including the more desirable CNG models, which will help us reduce our carbon footprint," said Bill Rouse, General Manager, Long Beach Yellow Cab and VP of the Taxicab Limousine & Paratransit Association.
As part of the National Governors Association's (NGA) Securing a Clean Energy Future Initiative (SCEF Initiative), four governors met in Florida to discuss advancing alternative fuels and clean vehicles in the United States, release the first SCEF Initiative publication "A Call to Action," and announce a clean energy partnership between NGA and Discovery Communications.
NGA Chair Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, SCEF Task Force Member Florida Gov. Charlie Crist, SCEF Initiative Co-Chair Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, and SCEF Task Force Member Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer highlighted the opportunities and challenges governors face when developing and using alternative transportation fuels, infrastructure and vehicles in their states.
"Kansas is making great strides in the production, consumption, and promotion of biofuels," said Gov. Sebelius. "I look forward to working with governors across the country to reduce our nation's dependence on foreign oil."
At a press conference following their discussion, the governors released the SCEF Initiative's "A Call to Action," a report declaring America's current energy path unacceptable because of escalating economic risk and serious environmental consequences. The report compels the nation's governors to act now to solve America's energy challenges by taking several actions including: dispelling myths associated with increasing alternative energy sources, breaking our oil addiction, meeting surging electricity demand, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
NGA also announced a partnership with Discovery Communications – home to the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet and other notable television programming – to motivate individuals across the country to embrace clean energy in their everyday activities. The PSA will begin airing on Discovery's networks in 2008. This is the first of three summits planned by NGA's SCEF Initiative.
The Air Resources Board announced today $5.5 million first-round grant monies from the Lower-Emission School Bus Program to schools within air districts for replacement and retrofit projects. These grants will affect 123 buses in 41 school districts throughout California, cutting toxic diesel 
particulate matter and smog-forming nitrogen oxide emissions.
Since the program was established in 2000, over $100 million has been provided to replace 600 of the oldest school buses in the state and retrofit an additional 3,800 buses. With the additional Proposition 1B funds, it is anticipated that a 1,000 school buses will be replaced with new, cleaner buses and 3,500 in-use school buses will be retrofitted with diesel particulate filters, thereby reducing children's exposure to diesel exhaust emissions.
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm signed legislation that will advance the state's efforts to expand the production and use of renewable fuels in Michigan. The 11 bills were part of a series of recommendations from the state's Renewable Fuels Commission, established in 2006. The legislation includes five additional renewable energy renaissance zones, creation of a Renewable Fuels Fund to promote the production and use of alternative fuels, and new tax incentives for the purchase of equipment capable of harvesting biomass and the conversion of existing gasoline pumps to pumps capable of delivering ethanol, biodiesel or other forms of renewable fuels.
Public Act 329 of 2008, sponsored by Representative Frank Accavitti (D-Eastpointe), adds five additional renewable fuels renaissance zones in Michigan, bringing the total to 15. Renaissance zones are specific geographic areas designated as tax exempt to encourage economic development. Additionally, the new law requires that five of the state's renewable fuels renaissance zones be designated for facilities that focus primarily on cellulosic biofuel production.
Public Acts 314, 332 and 334 of 2008 create tax incentives for the use of agricultural machinery that can harvest both grain and biomass. These bills encourage farmers to invest in equipment that will allow them to harvest their crops while also collecting biomass residue from the crop or grain that can be used in alternative fuel production.
California began an effort, starting January 1, that requires every 2009 model year and newer car, built for sale in that state, to carry a label that clearly ranks the vehicle's environmental impact.
The label will show the simple ranking system that provides consumers practical information that can help them choose the most environmentally friendly vehicle that still meets their transportation needs.
The environmental performance label will have two scores on a scale of 1-10, a Smog Score and a Global Warming Score. The average new car will score five on both scales. The higher the score, the more environmentally friendly the car is.
To help reduce air pollution at the busiest container seaports in the United States, Southern California Gas Co. (The Gas Company) -- joined by officials from the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles and the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) -- launched a 12-month demonstration of the nation's first clean-burning compressed natural gas-fueled drayage trucks to transport containers off-loaded from ships.
Four heavy-duty CNG trucks will move containers between the San Pedro Bay ports to nearby freight-consolidation yards. The trucks are expected to reduce nitrogen-oxide (NOx) emissions -- a precursor to smog -- by 80 percent, as compared with the cleanest diesel truck. In an unprecedented environmental program to clean up pollution from diesel big rigs by 80 percent by 2010, the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, working with trucking companies and other stakeholders, launched the Clean Trucks Program Oct. 1.
"The groundbreaking work in creating cleaner, better technologies such as these CNG drayage trucks raises the bar for all manufacturing and our hope is that other sectors make air quality a priority, as we did," said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Geraldine Knatz, Ph.D.
Cal Cartage, the largest motor carrier operating at the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, will operate the natural gas-powered trucks, which are manufactured by Autocar and powered by Cummins Westport ISL G engines.
Following the initial 12-month demonstration project, The Gas Company hopes to then further reduce emissions from the CNG drayage trucks by switching the fuel from CNG to a CNG/hydrogen blend.
The Project Driveway program began in Oct. 2007 and will run through the end of 2010. More than 3,400 individuals have driven the fuel cell Equinox - either in short drives at media programs or special events, or as part of longer loan.
Prior to Project Driveway, no one had ever put more than 100 fuel cell vehicles on the road. In the U.S., the vehicles are being placed with media, public policy leaders, business partners, celebrities and "regular" customers who have raised their hands via the internet.
Save up to 25% on NAFA's Driver Transportation Options e-Download & Softback Version
Driver Transportation Options
e-Download & Softback Versions Available
This 154-page compilation of information was developed for a manager's review and evaluation of providing business transportation to employees. Should business drivers be assigned a fleet vehicle or be required to provide his or her own business transportation? (An updated version of the former Driver Reimbursement Option.) PLEASE NOTE: Once your transaction is processed, your e-download will be available to you on the NAFA Web site, under the Store tab on the My Documents page once you log in to the site.
To download a catalog of current products, click here.
NAFA has provided space in each issue of the FleetFOCUS for companies and organizations to advertise career opportunities in the fleet industry. Members can also market themselves to potential employers. If you're interested in this oppertunity, make your listings 200 words or fewer. Links to complete job descriptions on the company's own Web site are suggested. Please note all of the materials a candidate must supply in order to be considered for the position (e.g., resume, salary history, municipal application, etc.). To take advantage of this service, e-mail your ad to Patrick McCarren at pmccarren@nafa.org.
Job Wanted Listings Provide New Networking Opportunities!
Are you looking for a new job or a motivated, hard-working employee? NAFA's Job Wanted Listings is an exclusive benefit for members and affiliates who are looking to make a career change. At the most recent board meeting, the trustees approved this new opportunity to assist both NAFA members and NAFA affiliates with career changes. PLEASE NOTE: This new and exclusive benefit is FREE! To take advantage of this service, e-mail your Job Wanted posting to Patrick McCarren at pmccarren@nafa.org.
January Job Postings
Resume Bank
NAFA is going one step further to help those in the industry gain employment. For a small fee, NAFA will send resumes to any prospective employer who places an ad on the Career Network Section of the NAFA Web site. Employers will be provided with new, up-to-date resumes that fit the job for a small cost.
There is still no charge to submit a resume to the Resume Bank. To be included in the Resume Bank, please send a current version of your resume to Maureen Smith, NAFA, 
Inc., 125 Village Blvd., Suite 200, Princeton, NJ 08540, or fax it to 609-452-8004. Resumes can also be e-mailed to Maureen Smith at msmith@nafa.org. Also, if you would like to include a generic cover letter to be sent to potential employers, please include that as part of your resume. Make sure your home address, home phone or cell phone, and personal e-mail address are included on your resume. Potential employers will contact you directly. NAFA has a number of fleet-related job openings on the Jobs Wanted/Available page (click here).
Industry Calendar
Click here
January is a busy month for NAFA Chapters! Chapter meetings will take place, including:
January 14, 2009
Old Dominion Chapter – Annual Business Meeting and Introduction of NFPA Standards
Location: Singer Associates Registration & Networking, Chester, Virginia
Contact: Ken Bernard, 540.853.2108 or 540.400.9894, ken.bernard@roanokeva.gov
RSVP by noon on Friday, January 9, 2009
January 20, 2009
North Central Chapter – Business Meeting & Fleet Continuity
Location: Holiday Inn Select, Bloomington, MN
Contact: Dave Schiller, 651.259.5497, dave.schiller@dnr.state.mn.us
January 20, 2009
Mid-America Chapter – Meeting
Location: Ameristar, Kansas City, MO
Contact: Becky Hanna, 816.274.4288, bhanna1@hallmark.com
RSVP by January 16, 2009
January 21, 2009
New England Chapter - Annual Business Mtg. and Trustee Presentation
Location: Holiday Inn, Mansfield, MA
Contact: Karen Kearns, 401.392.1000 ext. 2060 or karen.kearns@gtech.com
January 23, 2009
Michigan Chapter - International Auto Show & Business Meeting
Location: Compuware Headquarters, Detroit, MI
Contact: Joel Neumeyer, joel.neumeyer@vpsiinc.com
January 28, 2009
St. Louis Gateway Chapter – Meeting
Location: Holiday Inn Select, St. Louis, MO
Contact: Bob Hornsey, 314.615.5333, RHornsey@stlouisco.com
Which new colleagues and suppliers might you benefit from? Welcome new NAFA Members and new NAFA Affiliates. Click here to view.
Have you been promoted? Is your company moving? Did you get a new job? Are you retiring? Remember to notify NAFA about these and other changes.
If you are retiring, please contact NAFA, as you may be eligible to become a NAFA alumnus and stay in touch with your NAFA colleagues and friends.
There are two easy ways to both help your colleagues keep in touch and make changes to your membership record: 1) click on "My Profile" on the NAFA homepage and submit changes, or 2) e-mail info@nafa.org.