ATA July / August 2022

auto CARS • TRUCKS • JOBBERS

C-STORES • INSTALLERS • RECYCLERS

& trucking

STEVE LEAL ON THE SUCCESSION FORMULA (STORY ON PAGE 32)

CARWASHES • SERVICE STATIONS DEALERS • GARAGES • BODY SHOPS

JULY / AUGUST 2022 $5.95

RETURN OF THE NS TRUCK CONVOY (PAGE 14)

THE WAY & WHY OF TRUCKING (PAGE 20)

INTEGRATING EVs INTO YOUR SHOP (SEE PAGE 38)

WIN PRIZES!!!

A RUST CHECK ONE TIME TREATMENT OR A STANLEY 123-PIECE SOCKET SET FROM NAPA!

PLANNING AHEAD, MANAGING MONEY

CROSSWORD GUESS & WIN

KEY TO DEALING WITH PRICES AT THE PUMP

DETAILS ON PAGES 45 AND 46!

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DEPARTMENTS Page 4

Page 16

THE ATLANTIC ROAD REPORT – P.E.I. partners with the Child Safety Link program to offer a child passenger safety course.

Page 38

ELECTRIC AVENUE – Dave Giles says the biggest misconception about capturing new EV service will be understanding what customers expect.

Page 40

MOTOR MATTERS – Finally! The Atlantic Truck Show returns to the Moncton Coliseum in October.

Page 44

COMMUNITY MATTERS - Sean Maddox on the beauty of those “other” convoys.

FEATURES Page 6

HABIT-CHANGING FUEL COSTS: Planning Ahead, Managing Money Key to Dealing with Prices at the Pump. Kristen Lipscombe on how the rising cost of fuel is changing our behaviours.

Page 12

‘TREAT PEOPLE LIKE YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE TREATED’ NAPA Auto Parts Clarenville, NL treats both customers and employees like family.

Page 20

THE WAY AND THE WHY OF TRUCKING – Respect starts within says contributor Dana Smith. If you don’t respect who you are, nobody else will either.

Page 23

NO DOGLEGGING HERE! Hunter’s innovations continue by combining two dependable products and elevating into a new standard in wheel alignment.

Page 26

CONSUMERS IN CANADA LAG U.S. ON EV CONSIDERATION STUDY FINDS – Over half of survey respondents unlikely to consider EV as a next purchase: report.

Page 32

THE SUCCESSION FORMULA – Steve Leal shows us how we can pass the baton to the next generation of body shop owners.

Page 36

FROM PARTS UNKNOWN – Not only has Covid has done a massive job of disrupting the automotive industry, it’s done a number on car parts too, writes Carter Hammett.

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EDITOR’S LETTER – The blind and people with low vision cautiously optimistic as a proposed new regulation by Transport Canada requires sound activators on all new EVs travelling at low speeds.

Page 45 Page 46

WIN BIG! A Rust Check free one-time rustproofing treatment, or a Stanley 123-Piece socket set from NAPA in our contests!! autoatlantic.com

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Letter from the Editor

THE SOUNDS OF SILENCE

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By Carter Hammett

GENERALLY DON’T LIKE TO USE THIS COLUMN AS A SPACE FOR TOOTING MY OWN HORN BUT ONE OF THE THINGS THIS MAGAZINE HAS DONE FAIRLY WELL DURING THE LAST DECADE HAS BEEN TO INCREASE THE PRESENCE OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES HERE. We’ve covered epilepsy, autism, ADHD and especially mental health and each one has a unique relationship with motive power.

Lately another group has been making the automotive pages: blind folks. That’s because of a proposed new Transport Canada regulation that would oblige all new electric and hybrid vehicles to have sound activators that would start when travelling at low speeds.

Lagging behind Europe and our neighbours to the south, Canada at present has no regulations governing the quiet motors of EVs. Vehicles lacking internal combustion engines tend to generate very little noise other than the sounds of tires moving. In a

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bustling city environment this can be virtually impossible for a person with blindness or low vision to detect. The results could be disastrous.

A proposal by Transport Canada in 2021 put in place a requirement for all hybrid and EVs to have sound emitters when travelling at slower speeds. The regulation is to take effect next year. Minimum standards will need to be met but manufacturers would be free to choose what type of sound they apply to their vehicle.

This strikes me as rather silly and potentially dangerous. Why not have a standardized sound applied across the board to alert all blind people that an EV’s oncoming? Combustion engines emit

enough noise for people with sight issues to distinguish what’s going on and proceed with safety. Not so with the sounds of near silence offered by EVs. For the record, many EVs on the road already have some kind of sound emission feature when driven at lower speeds, but this doesn’t apply to older vehicles.

This could be a potential boon for used EV dealers. Of course the regulations would also apply to buses, trucks and other forms of transporIn Over in Europe a number of studies of have been conducted, all of them concluding that EVs require additional sound to warn visually impaired people about approaching traffic. In 2013, a UK study found that the “number of accidents where pedestrians are injured by EVs/EHVs increased from 98 in 2012 to 151 in 2013, an increase of 54%.

This was a new high for electric vehicles at the time.

Finally in 2019, the European Union mandated EVs to release a noise for pedestrian safety when travelling 20 km an hour or while backing up. All new EVs had to be equipped to meet Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) by 2021. A Canadian equivalent can only be a good thing. Hopefully this fact will be noted during public consultations.

Oh, and for the record, Ottawa is introducing new regulations that will require pedestrian warning notifications on e-scooters, believed to be the first of its kind anywhere in the world.

One step forward…

At The Pumps

HABIT-CHANGIN

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NG FUEL COSTS PLANNING AHEAD, MANAGING MONEY KEY TO DEALING WITH PRICES AT THE PUMP

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By Kristen Lipscombe

UR DRIVING HABITS CAN HELP US BETTER MANAGE THE IMPACT OF SURGING FUEL COSTS ON OUR BUDGET, ACCORDING TO THE CANADIAN AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION. “We can do a lot of small things that (when combined) together can make a big difference,” said Steve Olmstead, director of social responsibility and advocacy for CAA Atlantic.

And drivers are looking to do just that, considering that as of June 25, prices at the pumps were averaging 203.8 cents per litre in Nova Scotia, 206.6 cents per litre in New Brunswick, 212.1

cents per litre on Prince Edward Island and a whopping 214.3 cents per litre in Newfoundland and Labrador on the CAA National website.

“We’ve seen escalating prices through the first two quarters of this year, and people are doing what they can to get their heads around that,” Olmstead said. “They are looking for ways to better manage the fuel they do have; that’s been the challenge for everyone.”

So how can we sharpen our driving habits to ensure we make the most effective and efficient use of our fuel?

For people who are travelling, it’s important to make gas prices “part of planning for the season,” Olmstead said. “That way your eyes are open and you’re not being surprised later.”

That being said, CAA hasn’t seen any indication that gas prices are preventing people from travelling, although it’s still early on in vacation season. In fact, as COVID-19 restrictions have lifted across the country, there has been a healthy appetite for a return to travel.

“We’re not hearing from people that they’re not doing road trips with their kids,” Olmstead said, “but they are looking for ways to better manage the fuel that they do have.”

However, according to a study released by BNN Bloomberg and RATESDOTCA in late March, 54 per cent of Canadians said they were driving less due to high gas prices, with 70 per cent of Atlantic Canadians changing their habits behind the wheel the autoatlantic.com

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most. It’s important to note that the online survey for this study conducted by Leger only had 1,515 respondents across the country, so it’s not clear how much those numbers clearly reflect what’s going on with drivers across the country.

What’s certain is that most Canadians are more cognizant of how their daily driving habits impact their bank accounts.

You may be seeing people ahead of you at drive-thru windows turning off their engines while they wait for their fast food, or notice fewer people on the roads giving their gas pedals the lead foot, for example.

“If you are around town, and you’re just getting around doing daily stuff, try and get as many of your errands done in one trip as you can,” Olmstead added. “It just prevents having to do a second trip.”

And yes, trying not to idle whenever possible, no matter how short a time it may seem, will help you save some cash in the long-run, he said.

“A big one is actually driving the posted speed limit,” Olmstead said. “We all tend to be a little heavy on the gas pedal.

If you drive consistently at the posted limit, it makes much more efficient use of your fuel than powering up 10 kilometres over the speed limit only to back off later.”

It also helps to reduce drag by taking “any extra heavy stuff out of your trunk” and removing unnecessary racks, although Olmstead noted that will be a less popular idea at this time of year, when people are getting outdoors for summer activities, which means hauling bikes, boats and other big toys around.

However, there’s still more drivers can do to reduce the amount they spend at gas stations. Another key tip is to take advantage of cruise control if your car has that option. “Right now there’s maybe nothing more important than that cruise control button,” Olmstead said.

“Whether you’re driving down the Valley, up to Cape Breton, over to P.E.I. or all the way to Toronto, say for a summer vacation, drive the posted limit and use the cruise control feature because that will help you manage your fuel better,” he said. “It’s technology that’s designed to help us do that… to manage our speed.”

And of course, ensuring “your engine’s in good operating condition” is also important, Olmstead said. “Any little glitch makes it less efficient,” he explained.

“Those are really incremental things that are hard to measure but … if you sharpen those habits, it pays off.”

Just as CAA notes it’s important for everyday drivers to plan ahead, it’s also vital for trucking companies to closely monitor how they’re spending on fuel costs.

For small-to-medium-sized companies, for example, “when it’s at these prices, let’s say you have five trucks, you fill those two or three times a week, there’s a significant cost increase,” he explained.

“So if you don’t have financial stability or access to more cash, you might not make it past a few months,” said JeanMarc Picard, Executive Director of the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association.

“Because you’re not going to get paid for those deliveries for 30 days.”

For those with fixed contracts and prices, surging gas prices can be a real challenge, Picard said. Combine that with increases in equipment and insurance costs and budgeting has become a real challenge for trucking companies.

“For the big fleets, we’re talking millions of dollars, so it’s all relative,” Picard said, but many mid-sized companies have sought out extra credit lines because their fuel freight is double what it was last year.

“We’re really busy, which helps,” Picard added.

Professional drivers may not even feel autoatlantic.com

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At The Pumps

the financial impact thanks to a need for more workers behind the wheel, combined with fuel surcharges on contracts, unless they’re owner-operators themselves. “Like anything else, as long as you manage your business well, then you should be fine.”

What it comes down to is that planning should be priority when it comes to handling gas prices.

“There’s a little bit more observance of budget,” Olmstead said. “And saying, instead of filling my car up at this rate, I’m going to manage by budget … I’ve only

got a couple of hundred dollars a month for fuel, it’s not a lot, so I am only going to fill up to $50.

“However much fuel that gives me, that’s what I get to spend,” he said. “I think people are just changing their habits right now.”

THE ARAAC CONVENTION IS BACK!

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HE AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLERS ASSOCIATION OF ATLANTIC CANADA (ARAAC) IS PLANNING ITS FIRST IN-PERSON GET TOGETHER IN THREE YEARS WITH THEIR RENEWED CONVENTION AND TRADE SHOW OCTOBER 1ST 2022 IN TRURO, N.S. As with many events, the annual meeting of the auto recycling industry was interrupted by the Pandemic. “We

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ran our annual meeting virtually for two years, and we tapped into national and international online training and webinars, but that’s not a substitute for being in the same room with fellow recyclers, vendors and sponsors,” said Andrew MacDonald, ARAAC President from Maritime Auto Parts.

The event will feature guest speaker Paul D’Adamo from Rebuilders Auto Supply and a noted industry motivational speaker, who has previously addressed ARAAC events.

In addition, speakers from the two major inventory management systems -

Car-Part and Hollander will be there providing the latest developments in production and sales management.

The past and current chairs of the national Automotive Recyclers of Canada (ARC) association will also be there, along with ARC’s managing director to provide industry updates from across Canada and around the world.

For more information or to register, go to www.araac.ca.

Photo - Paul D’Adamo generating some audience participation at the Halifax, NS 2018 ARAAC Convention.

Around the Atlantic

‘TREAT PEOPLE LIKE YOU LIKE TO BE TREATED’: DECKERS OF NAPA EMBRACE CUSTOMERS AND EMPLOYEES AS FAMILY

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By Kristen Lipscombe

HETHER IT’S THEIR CUSTOMERS OR EMPLOYEES, THE OWNERS O F N A PA A U T O PARTS IN CLARENVILLE, NFLD. (BELOW), ARE ALWAYS SURE TO TREAT EVERYONE LIKE FAMILY. “The golden rule I like to always use is ‘treat people like you like to be treated,’ ” said Rex Decker, who runs the warm and welcoming shop nestled on the heart of Newfoundland’s east coast alongside wife Carole Decker and their two sons, Grant Decker and Andrew Decker.

“Our hours may be on the door, but we’ve never closed,” Rex said, explaining that along with loyal customers that include local garages and do-it-yourselfers, the Deckers also have many long-time employees who have been working at the NAPA Auto Parts store since they first took it over in 2005.

“There was an old NAPA store and… the previous owner was ready to retire,” Rex recalled. “He was willing to sell and

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we were willing to buy and NAPA wanted a new store, so we built a new store in 2004.” The Deckers kept growing their family business, increasing shop size from 5,000 square-feet to double that size at 10,000 square-feet in 2012, then adding a drive-thru window during the pandemic, which is still used and has become a popular feature at the NAPA shop.

Their employees have been around just as long. “Nobody seems to want to leave,” Rex said.

“We’ve got a good staff,” Carole added. “We’ve basically held on to the same staff since Day One.” Before that, Rex and Carole worked at the local General Motors dealership, with him working as parts manager and her as office assistant.

Their sons have quite seamlessly followed in their footsteps at the NAPA store located on Manitoba Drive, with Grant focused on dealing with customers and Andrew running the office.

Grant agreed that the Decker crew likes to get to know their customers well, offering friendly service that’s also effective and efficient. “Everybody’s moving to online and phones, and we’re more hands-on than a lot of places.”

And whether you’re a hobby mechanic, heavy-duty operator or anything

in between, NAPA Auto Parts in Clarenville offers more than 50,000 quality parts that will help you get the job done.

“Our service would be our Number One thing,” Grant said.

In addition to building strong relationships with customers and employees alike, the Deckers themselves are all pretty close-knit, too. “You’ve got to be close and have a good relationship to be able to work together, which has never been a problem,” Grant said.

“We keep business, business and personal, personal,” Carole said with a chuckle, adding that in all seriousness, “our sons are really good to work with.” And now that Rex and Carole are semi-retired, the fact that their two boys have slid into their old roles means they can enjoy more time away from work.

“Both of them have an interest in it, which is a big plus for us,” Rex said. “It gives us free time.”

Grant said he and Andrew really do love what they do. “I get up in the morning and always look forward to coming to work,” he said. “It’s enjoyable and the people we work with make it that way.”

“We act like employees ourselves,” Carole added. “When you spend most of your day with them, yes they become family members.”

Around the Atlantic

COMMUNITY MATTERS

By Sean Maddox

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OT ALL C O N VOYS ARE ABOUT FICTIONAL PROTESTS! SOME, LIKE THE NOVA SCOTIA CONVOY EVEN HAVE DONE GREAT THINGS FOR THE COMMUNITY. TRUCK CONVOY: THE ORIGINAL Across the Atlantic provinces, truckers are busy making plans for their annual convoys in support of the Special Olympics. Don Mullens and his family launched the Nova Scotia Convoy in 2012. Since the humble beginning, the Nova Scotia Convoy has emerged as both the largest convoy in North America, by number of trucks participating and dollars raised.

Since 2012, the Atlantic provinces trucking industry has raised close to one million dollars.

The Special Olympics hope “sport will open hearts and minds towards people with intellectual disabilities and create inclusive communities all over the world.”

Along the way, they connect people from all walks of life. From the coaches and volunteers that put on the programs, from Bocce to powerlifting, to the athletes that give 100% in training and competition, the Special Olympics connect people and communities, changing everyone along the way.

John MacDonald, Director, Business Development and Marketing with Special Olympics Nova Scotia said, “the entire trucking industry throughout Nova Scotia is supportive” with a Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island Truck Convoy so far.

Participants range from long-time partner Atlantic Tiltload Ltd. to last year’s lead truck Edwin MacDonald, from Sheet Harbour, N.S., that works in the industry on the maintenance side. Edwin and his wife Rebecca watched one year, as hundreds of trucks rolled by in support of the Special Olympics and they got hooked. Lead truck is an honour held by the truck that raises the most money. They have been the lead truck for several years running and everyone around knows. John was not exaggerating when he spoke of industry support.

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to speak with Charity Sheehan, Executive Director, Special Olympics P.E.I.. She talked about the excitement the community shows every year upon the arrival of the trucks and truckers. Many athletes and truckers have built lasting relationships over the years. She said Bill Dole is a fan favourite, pulling a big yellow dump truck.

Bill recalls his daughter’s first Olympics vividly and how the Amherst-based woman socialized, laughed and competed with other athletes from all over. The dedication to the sport and experiences exhibited by athletes, coaches and other volunteers won Bill over that day and he got involved the next chance he had. Not just in the convoy either, but with other truck-

BILL DOLE AND MICHAEL MORRIS, ATHLETE AND TRUCK BUDDY. THEY HAVE BEEN ATTENDING G CONVOYS TOGETHER FOR MANY YEARS.

ers and industry partners who hold the annual Border Town Show and Shine for the Special Olympics in Amherst, N.S., the second Saturday in September every year (September 6th, 2022). You will find Bill with his close friend and trucker buddy Michael Morris driving the route as they have now for many years.

Edwin is a stellar example of how a simple letter can have a huge impact. Edwin borrowed a truck the first year and raised $500 by sending out a simple letter to close friends and family. Last year, with the match made by Atlantic Tiltload, Edwin raised $30,000 and was lead truck, a position he has held for four consecutive years. What is his secret? Edwin uses all his contacts from years in the industry to fundraise, growing his network of support and funds raised along the way. He still uses that simple letter, with some edits he said. On the event, Edwin noted, “every one of those truckers is a winner.”

Anne Butcher from Atlantic Tiltload was forthcoming in sharing their passion for the event and like Edwin, for the truckers. That passion is for both the event and the cause. Tiltload started donating to the Special Olympics five years before the first convoy. She spoke of how good it feels to see the “big red rigs with Tiltload in big letters giving support.” When asked why they continue to participate, she was quick to reply: “we’re a trucking company.” With their teams, they have raised more than $115,000 for the Special Olympics. They have had the lead truck and team for a number of years. They also support the Special Olympics in other ways including the annual gala.

The trucks are as diverse as the people are, from big rigs to dump trucks. With up to 200 trucks to choose from, there will be a colour, model and brand for everyone. When there, make sure to be ready to wave back at all the “truck buddies,” athletes that get to ride in those big rigs.

To learn more about Nova Scotia’s Truck Convoy go to www.specialolympcsns.ca, and for Prince Edward Island’s www.specialolympicspei.ca/pei It’s clear the trucking industry in Nova Scotia uses their creativity and tools for a cause dear to them. We would love to hear what ways you are working to support your communities using your own uniqueness, creativity, network, autos and/or trucks. Contact Auto and Trucking Atlantic to tell your story.

East Coast Road Report

THE ATLANTIC ROAD REPORT BITS AND PIECES OF NEWS COLLECTED FROM AROUND THE ATLANTIC NEWFOUNDLAND

Approximately 10 kilometres of roads on the Northern Peninsula will be improved following the awarding of a contract for road construction in the region.

A contract valued at $4.5 million has been awarded to Nortech Construction Co Ltd. to complete upgrades on Route 430, Northern Peninsula Highway, including 4.6 kilometres between Bear Cove and Green Island Cove, 2.8 kilometres south of Three Mile Rock, and 1.2 kilometres near the Route 430 intersection with Route 432.

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The contract also includes work on approximately one kilometre of Route 430-15, West Link Road.

The scope of work for all areas includes replacing culverts, clearing ditches, and paving.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure anticipates this work to be completed later this construction season.

Other work planned for Route 430 includes repairs to Bowing Brook Bridge and Castor River Bridge next construction season.

Information on tenders issued and

awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www. merx.com/govnl.

Information on active highway construction projects and repairs is also available by visiting nl511.ca and on the NL 511 mobile app.

“Paving rural highways is an investment in rural communities. It creates safer highways for everyone and increases the potential for tourism and economic growth.

We look forward to completing more work in this area in future years and remind everyone to drive cautious-

East Coast Road Report

ly through highway construction sites, said” Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

NEW BRUNSWICK

Marysville Bridge/Nashwaak River Bridge No. 2 In the summer of 2022, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure will begin repairs on the Marysville Bridge. Details of the bridge work are available below along with the status of each phase.

DTI wishes to advise the travelling public that during this time the bridge and approaches will be reduced to one lane of traffic. There may also be six occasions of bridge closures in the summer of 2022 for up to 12 hours to allow for the bridge to be lifted to install new bridge bearings.

The public will be notified ahead of the bridge closure dates. In 2023, the Marysville Bridge will be closed to all traffic for two, 72-hour periods to allow for the concrete deck pours to take place.

Any closures or additional traffic disruptions will be communicated to the public.

Work on this project is anticipated to

be complete before the end of November 2023. Once complete, the lifespan of the bridge will be extended by another 30 years.

Phase 1: Install traffic barriers, complete pier cap beam repairs including concrete replacement and crack injection, bearing replacement at each pier and beam strengthening.

Status: Phase 2: Complete deck rehabilitation in the westbound lane, concrete deck and sidewalk removal, replacement of barriers and portions of the abutments and installation of new lights.

Status: Phase 3: Complete deck rehabilitation in the eastbound lane, concrete deck and sidewalk removal and replacement of barriers and portions of the abutments and installation of a new wider barrier separated sidewalk to accommodate trail users as well as new lights.

Status: Phase 4: Installation of pier fibre wrap

Status: This can be done throughout the rehabilitation process of the bridge.

NOVA SCOTIA

Transfer of roads from the Province of Nova Scotia to the Halifax Regional Municipality As of June 1, 2022, approximately 300 lane kilometres of roads were transferred from the Province of Nova Scotia to the municipality in two areas (areas 1 and 4).

As of June 1, 2022, the municipality’s Public Works department is the new service provider for general and winter maintenance to new customers in these areas.

The first impacted area (area 1) includes roads within Boutiliers Point, Ingramport, Head of St Margarets Bay, Lewis Lake, Hubley and Upper Tantallon. The second area (area 4) includes roads within East Preston, Lake Echo, Mineville, and the Western areas of Lawrencetown.

On April 13, 2022, the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (NSUARB) approved the stormwater service boundary exchange to Halifax Water. Property owners in Areas 1 and 4 may become stormwater customers of Halifax Water as of June 1, 2022.

Halifax Water will notify all property owners whether they will become customers. New stormwater customers in these areas will not be billed by Halifax Water until early 2023. To learn more, visit halifaxwater.ca/stormwater-expansion.

Residents will experience no disruptions in services throughout the transfer period.

Background - sThrough the Municipal Reform (1994) Act, SNS 1994-95, c 7, a Road Transfer Agreement (HRM-01) was signed in 1996.

On November 29, 2019, the Minister of Nova Scotia Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal (NSTIR) — now Nova Scotia Public Works (NSPW) — provided the municipality with notice of the province’s intent to transfer approximately 300 lane kilometers of roads to the municipality by April 21, 2021.

As per Regional Council direction, a letter was sent from the Mayor to the Minister of NSTIR, requesting a deferral until at least June 1, 2022 to allow more time for both provincial and municipal staff to prepare for a seamless service transfer.

On September 15, 2020 the municipality received a letter from the Minister of

NSTIR granting the deferral of the road transfer until June 1, 2022.

A review of the municipal urban service boundary occurs periodically. As part of this review, population densities are assessed and, together with other factors, a determination is made about transferring responsibility for maintaining roads from the province to the municipality.

Various arrangements between the province and the municipality, including HRM-01, the guiding road transfer document, address the process of the transferring of roads.

As a result, the province transferred to the municipality the responsibility for roadway maintenance and related infrastructure for the two areas. For more information, visit: Halifax Water Stormwater Service Expansion | Halifax Water

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

Islanders invited to free car seat safety check The provincial government is partnering with IWK’s Child Safety Link (CSL) program to offer the Child Passenger Safety Course to highway safety staff.

The training will help staff in offering

car seat safety inspections to Island families and ensure the proper and safe use of car and booster seats in Prince Edward Island.

As part of the hands-on training certification, volunteers with car seats installed in their vehicles are needed to assist. Islanders interested in helping by getting a free car seat safety check on June 23 between 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm at 64 Park Street, Charlottetown can call 902-470-7036 or email ashley.holden@ iwk.nshealth.ca(link sends e-mail) to confirm an appointment time.

According to the Canadian Paediatric Society, motor vehicle collisions, are the leading cause of death among children under the age of 14. When used correctly, car seats reduce the risk of injury and death by as much as 70 per cent.

CSL is an injury prevention program at IWK Health dedicated to reducing the incidence and severity of unintentional injury to children and youth in the Maritimes.

CSL is committed to working with community organizations, governments and other partners to ensure children are as safe as necessary at home, on the road and at play.

The Mindful Trucker

THE WAY AND THE WHY OF TRUCKING ARE YOU A WAY THINKER OR A WHY THINKER?

By Dana Smith

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HAT COMES TO MIND WHEN YOU HEAR THE TERM, “THE WAY OF THE WORLD”? MAYBE YOU THINK OF THE WAY IT’S ALWAYS BEEN DONE. I HAVE HEARD THIS QUOTE MANY TIMES OVER THE YEARS. You’re talking to someone about something, and the other person says oh, “It’s just the way of the world.” Kind of like, “that’s the way the cookie crumbles”. But what does that even mean?

Let’s start with “the way of the world.” It’s a very general quote. It’s almost as if one has given up, and accepted that’s just the way it is, the way everyone has always done things. An example may be that you have worked for the same company within your trucking career for 20 years, and you may have had thoughts about changing that career, but you don’t! You will have that pension at the end, the security you think you need, and off you go into the sunset, with no fear of change. I call this the Golden Handcuffs.

Millions of people do this year-afteryear. You just keep plugging away at the same job, day-after-day. Many are unhappy, but they will not make that shift.

Is it money that drives them; is it fear of change, the unknown, have they settled for the status quo? Or could it be that it’s just “ the way of the world?”

Everyone has their own reasons for what they do, how they live their life, and following the path they take. Thankfully they do, as life would be pretty boring if we all did the same thing.

I have heard this quote in business as well. “We are doing it this way because that’s the way we have always done it”.

That may have worked well in the old way of thinking, but it is a different world we live in now. Running your trucking business has changed. Throughout the industrial age, people went to work in labour jobs, and typically stayed until they retired. It was just “the way of the world.”

Everyone seemed to want that job security. In trucking it was no different.

A big pool of drivers were there to pick from. They had the skill to do the job, and were willing to work hard and long hours to get the job done. Trucking is a hard lifestyle, on the road away from your fam20

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ily, eating and sleeping out of your truck, and so on. Ask an old school driver why they have been trucking for so long, and the answer is usually “it’s in my blood”, or because their father was a driver and that’s just “the way It was”. It was a natural fit as they fell into that career.

Now let’s talk about “the why of the world”. Fast forward to the 21st century, and here we have Covid-19. The average age of drivers now is around 55 years of age. A lot of those hard working professional drivers are still out there plugging away with millions of miles of experience under their belts.

The freight volumes come and go, and so do the drivers these days. But because a lot of drivers are reaching the age of retirement, that driver pool is becoming thinner and thinner as the days go by.

Companies are now looking at new and different alternatives for recruiting.

They are looking at international drivers, women, retired veterans, and younger adults to fill the roles. Anyone and everyone that owns a truck are looking for drivers. So, how does one compete in this environment in today’s trucking world?

One of the newer things I’m seeing today are sign on bonuses. These are great for the short-term, but are not a long-term solution. I use the analogy of dangling a carrot in front of someone with a big flashy number on it.

It’s not about fancy sign on bonuses, safety bonuses, benefits, and/or new equipment that you try and offer this new generation of drivers. Yes, drivers do have to make a living and they will always want more money, but it’s about your culture.

It’s about your “WHY”. Why do you do what you do everyday? What is your company all about? What is your mission and your vision for the future? What is the bigger picture? What is your purpose? This new generation of drivers wants to feel as though they are part of something bigger than just a company wanting more to make more money.

Trust, value, and family are the things that matter to today’s professional drivers. They are a generation that is working smarter, not harder. They aren’t interested in working 70 hours in seven days like we all did, which is ludicrous to begin with, and they aren’t always interested in being away from home for extended periods.

You may find some that are, and that’s great, but the majority want the same things the older drivers want. Not to work themselves to death, and to have more of a work/life balance. I hear a lot about respect in the industry, which goes both ways. Respect is something that people

think should just be there. Respect starts within yourself. If you don’t respect who you are and what you do, then don’t expect anyone else to. Think about that.

Everyone has a job to do. Please don’t undermine someone’s position, and what they do. We are all connected to the same thing. The owners have their missions and values that their company was built on, everyone on the team in the organization should help to lift people up to their high-

est potential, not suppress and control them.

So, think about your own company, or the team that you’re on. Are you a “way of the world” thinker or a “why of the world” thinker? It may be the difference in creating, and having the right team, the right culture, and sustainability within your driving force, for the long haul.

Read more of Dana’s articles at themindfultrucker.com

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21

Tech At The Talk Car byWash Hunter

NO DOGLEGGING HERE!

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By Carter Hammett

ROPER WHEEL ALIGNMENT IS PARAMOUNT FOR DRIVER SAFETY AND IMPROVING THE FLEET’S BOTTOM LINE. ALONG COMES A NEW PIECE OF TECHNOLOGY THAT MERGES EFFICIENCY WITH COST SAVINGS AND BOOSTS CREDIBILITY TO BOOT.

There can be no arguing about the importance of proper wheel alignment for your truck. Never mind the expense of tires, alignment is critical for keeping tires from developing uneven wear which can lead to early and unnecessary tire removals.

It wasn’t that long ago when some fleets based their alignment on age of the vehicle or amount of mileage. In some cases fleets only align their vehicles when the tires are displaying irregular wear.

The other variable to consider is stress on the driver. Already a lonely profession, if the driver has to wrestle with steering to maintain a stable line, this will only cause anxiety and may result in higher staff turnover. Fortunately, there are new and improved responses to problems like these. One of these is the Quick Check Commercial ® (QCC), introduced by Hunter Engineering (www.hunter.com) in November 2021.

Described as “the world’s first touchless heavy-duty alignment and tread depth inspection solution,” the QCC is actually a combination of two unmanned inspection products: Quick Check ® Heavy Duty and Quick Tread ™ Heavy Duty, says Product Manager of Inspection, Alex Smith.

“Both products use lasers and camera sensors to generate their measurements without labor,” says Smith. “Quick Check ® Heavy Duty highlights total toe and camber issues on steering axles, as well as tandem axle scrub. If not kept within manufacturer’s specifications, these three angles are responsible for premature tire wear and poor fuel economy. Quick Tread™ Heavy Duty automatically generates three-dimensional tread depth results in seconds, quickly providing a clear indication of the tire’s tread condition.”

By combining both products, QCC empowers fleet customers to increase fleet efficiency and operational safety while

HD repair facilities can identify profitable wheel service opportunities In terms of efficiency, manually inspecting a tractor-trailer’s alignment and tread depth typically takes a technician about 30 minutes. QCC does this with no labour in 15 seconds.

Back in 2011, the American Trucking Association’s Technology & Maintenance Council conducted a study showing a typically misaligned 18-wheeler suffered 2.2% worse fuel economy versus one kept within specifications. With current diesel prices pushing $6 per gallon in both the United States and across Europe, this equates to a yearly fuel savings of $20,000 dollars for every million miles. The larger the fleet, the more critical keeping track alignment condition becomes.

By measuring tread depth with Quick Tread™ Heavy Duty, fleet managers can avoid potential safety issues due to worn

camber and toe scrub.

According to Smith, one of chief catalysts for wear is Toe (Tandem) scrub. This is the angle formed by the intersection of horizontal lines drawn through each rear axle in a tandem axle pair. Excessive tandem scrub angle can cause decreased fuel economy and tire wear on every axle.

Camber is another thing to be aware of. This is the inward (negative), or outward (positive) tilt of the wheel. Excessive camber will prematurely wear tires and can cause a vehicle to drift left or right, causing driver fatigue over hundreds or thousands of miles.

Finally, tread depth – here defined as the depth of the tire’s grooves, measured from the surface of the tire to the bottom of the groove. “A lack of proper tread depth results in increased stopping distance. If one tire in a dually pair has more tread depth than the other, it will

tires and rotate tires to maximize the value of every millimeter of tread depth.

Another feature of the QCC is that it requires little upkeep. “Because there are very few moving parts, QCC requires very little maintenance,” Smith says. ”The only recurring maintenance most customers need is a simple glass wipe to the Quick Tread ™ Heavy Duty sensor camera glass.”

carry more weight and therefore generate more heat, which can lead to accelerated tire degradation and in extreme cases, tire blowouts,” says Smith.

When combined with the cutting edge sophistication of technology including 3D scanning and cameras that capture the most commonly-damaged parts of the vehicle, you are working with a system that generates piece of mind for fleet managers and ultimately impacts the bottom line in a positively substantial way.

COMMON WEAR-AND-TEAR CAUSES QCC can play a valuable role in detecting the effects of some of the more common causes of wear on tires.

Some of these include tread depth,

With every scan dollars are saved. It doesn’t get much better than that. autoatlantic.com

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Future Technologies

CONSUMERS IN CANADA LAG U.S. ON EV CONSIDERATION, STUDY FINDS MORE UNLIKELY TO CONSIDER AN EV; RANGE, COST AND CLIMATE STAND OUT AS MOST SIGNIFICANT OBJECTIONS

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OTH VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS AND GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS HAVE WORK TO DO AS CONSUMERS IN CANADA TRAIL THOSE IN THE UNITED STATES WHEN IT COMES TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE PURCHASE CONSIDERATION.

According to the inaugural J.D. Power Canada Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) Study, SM released in June, 53% of consumers in Canada say they are either “very unlikely” or “somewhat unlikely” to consider an electric vehicle (EV) for their next vehicle purchase.

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That number stands in contrast to the United States, where 59% of consumers say they are either “very likely” or “somewhat likely” to consider an EV for their next purchase.[1] “There are several unique systemic challenges in Canada upon which manufacturers and policymakers need to collaborate to effectively navigate the transition,” said J.D. Ney, director, automotive practice lead at J.D. Power Canada.

“The good news is that EV consideration increases dramatically across a number of metrics once consumers are either better informed on the capabilities of the newest EVs or, better yet, have personal experience with them.”

FOLLOWING ARE KEY FINDINGS OF THE 2022 STUDY:

Cost is a metric to watch: Six in 10 consumers (61%) who say they are unlikely to consider an EV cite purchase price as a factor. This compares with only 44% of consumers in America who say the same.

While those in Canada have access to an incentive program at the federal level, many provinces lack meaningful incentives to help bridge the significant gap between the purchase price of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and EVs. Range anxiety still a detriment: Limited driving distance per charge is cited by 65% of those who say

they are “somewhat unlikely” or “very unlikely” to consider an EV, compared with 44% of consumers in America with a similar consideration level. Canada’s colder climate also likely plays into this reticence, with 44% citing range performance in extreme temperatures as a barrier to consideration.

More information engenders more consideration: The more experience that consumers have with EVs, the more likely they are to consider an EV for their next vehicle purchase. Likelihood of EV consideration is just 15% among those who have had no experience with these vehicles. That number jumps to 22% among those who have been passengers in an EV and to 42% among those who have driven one.

Nearly half (49%) of those who own an EV will consider another EV for their next vehicle purchase.

EV consideration by geographic location: The rate of EV consideration is highest in Western Canada, with 59% of consumers in British Columbia indicating interest in EV ownership. Residents of Quebec (50%) and Ontario (47%) have middling interest in EV ownership, while the Prairie (38%) and Atlantic Canada residents (35%) show the least interest.

The Canada Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) Study will be utilized as an annual industry benchmark for gauging EV shopper consideration. Study content includes overall EV consideration by geography; demographics; vehicle experience and use; lifestyle; and psychographics. It also includes model-level consideration details such as cross-shopping and “why buy” findings, and analysis of reasons for EV rejection. The study measured responses from 3,701 consumers and was fielded in April-May 2022.

For more information about the Canada Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) Study, visit https://canada.jdpower.com/industries/ automotive/2022-canada-electric-vehicleconsideration-evc-study.

XC40 RECHARGE NAMED GREEN UTILITY VEHICLE OF THE YEAR The XC40 Recharge, the first fully electric vehicle from the Swedish carmaker, has been named Green Utility Vehicle of the Year by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).

Experts at AJAC recognize the industry’s rapid acceleration towards an electrified future and evaluate vehicles throughout the year in real-world Canadian conditions to help consumers and eco-conscious buyers better understand the number of available options and factors to consider when making the switch to a greener alternative.

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Future Technologies

Utility Vehicle of the Year award were scored on parameters that included recharge time, driving range, vehicle dynamics, market significance and overall value. The automaker’s overall sustainability efforts were also a determining factor for the Canadian Green Utility Vehicle of the Year award.

Powered by twin electric motors, one on the front and one on the rear axle, the XC40 Recharge features a 78 kWh battery that can be fast charged from 10 to 80 per cent in about 33 minutes. The zero tailpipe emission, all-wheel drive powertrain generates up to 402 hp and 486 lb. ft. of linear torque, can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in about 4.9 seconds and offers a range of up to 359 kilometres on a single charge. Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play are seamlessly integrated for a uniquely helpful and connected driving experience.

“At Volvo, sustainability is just as important as safety,” said Matt Girgis, managing director, Volvo Car Canada Ltd. “The XC40 Recharge earning the prestigious AJAC Green Utility Vehicle of the Year award confirms that we are on the right track. Additionally, with the XC40 recently being awarded TSP+ award, Volvo is now the most awarded TSP+ auto manufacturer, further showcasing our commitment to

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safety in tandem with sustainability.”

As Volvo Cars continues down its path toward electrification and a zero-emission future, the automaker aims for half of its global sales to be all-electric by 2025, with the rest being hybrids, and is committed to becoming a fully electric car company by 2030.

Volvo Cars climate plan goes beyond addressing tailpipe emissions through electrification; the company will also tackle carbon emissions in its manufacturing network, wider operations and supply chain. Volvo Cars will also make better use of valuable material and lower its carbon impact by embracing the circular economy. By mid-decade Volvo Cars aims to have 50 per cent of sales be fully electric vehicles, 50 per cent of sales come from online purchasing, and 40 per cent less CO2 lifecycle emissions.

To learn more about the Volvo Cars approach to environmental sustainability, please visit: www.volvocars.com/enca/v/sustainability

AIR CANADA CHAUFFEUR SERVICE, NOW ELECTRIFIED BY PORSCHE FRANÇAIS Air Canada recently announced that it has signed an agreement with Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd. to be the exclusive ve-

hicle supplier of the Air Canada Chauffeur Service at Toronto-Pearson, offered to select Signature Class customers connecting to Asia, Europe and South America. The Air Canada Signature Suite recently reopened at Toronto Pearson.

Eligible connecting International Signature Class customers arriving from within Canada will be met by a Concierge before being whisked away on the tarmac in a Porsche vehicle to the distinctive Air Canada Signature Suite. The fleet of vehicles will be electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, including the Porsche Taycan, Panamera and Cayenne, supporting Air Canada’s commitment to reach a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions throughout its global operations by 2050.

“We’re excited to re-launch another key dimension of our Signature Service for international customers, anchored by our industry-leading Air Canada Signature Suite in Toronto’s Pearson Airport. Thanks to our partnership with Porsche, customers flying in International Signature Class can now experience their exciting and uncompromising vehicles. As we continue to restart key international routes, we look forward to welcoming our customers at Toronto Pearson with this one-of-a-kind airport premium experience in Canada,

Future Technologies

in partnership with one of the world’s most iconic luxury car brands,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty & Product at Air Canada.

The service resumes April 21, 2022 on a surprise and delight basis for customers at Toronto Pearson. With the restart of many international routes in response to pent-up demand following border measures being eased worldwide, Air Canada has welcomed back International Signature Service customers to its exclusive Air Canada Signature Suite and its range of exceptional services, such as a menu curated by Chef David Hawksworth and exclusive wines selected by Véronique Rivest.

Following the re-opening of the Air Canada Signature Suite at Vancouver International Airport later this spring, the Air Canada Chauffeur Service in partnership with Porsche is planned to be introduced later in 2022.

NANOS: INCREASED SUPPLY CHAIN ANXIETY AMONG WOMEN AND THOSE OVER 55 Canadians are increasingly concerned about getting goods due to supply chain disruptions, especially women and those over 55 years old, according to a Nanos poll of the Canadian public commissioned by the Canadian Trucking Alliance.

The poll reveals that 85% of Canadians said they were either concerned/ somewhat concerned with their ability to get goods and products, with the supply of perishable goods like food causing the most anxiety. The levels of concern varied between age, gender and region.

This survey showed a heightened concern among those identified as over 55 years old, as well as women. While 77 per cent of all Canadians between 18-35 said they were concerned/somewhat concerned about getting goods due to the

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current state of the supply chain, those same feelings in Canadians over the age of 55 jumped to 90 per cent. As well, 89 percent of women said they were concerned/somewhat concerned versus 80 percent of male respondents.

Most Canadians report they experienced delays or shortages for basic perishable necessities such as food, with about two in three reporting this happens regularly (13%) or occasionally (55%).

Additionally, 63 percent of Canadians think labour shortages in the trucking industry are contributing to higher inflation. The Canadian trucking industry nearly has 23,000 truck driver job vacancies right now and is expecting to be short over 55,000 drivers by 2024.

Consequently, the Canadian Trucking Alliance believes that one of the keys to addressing Canadians’ concerns over supply chain bottlenecks and disruptions is to address the labour shortage in the trucking industry.

“CTA and the Government of Canada are working collaboratively within the Supply Chain Summit to address the systemic labour shortages in the trucking sector. CTA believes through more sustained driver training funding, immigration programs and enforcement of gross labour abuses through the Driver Inc. scheme we can help ease the concern of all Canadians,” said CTA president Stephen Laskowski.

Other important findings from the Nanos survey: Canadians continue to have a high degree of respect for the trucking industry and consider it vital to the health of the nation’s economy. Over three fourths of Canadians positively rated the industry’s contribution to the prosperity of Canada (77%), down slightly from November 2021 (88%). Considering the onslaught of nega-

tive media attention generated by the border and Ottawa protests earlier this year, the vast majority of Canadians continue to acknowledge how important the industry is to our society.

Some natural attrition was also expected from the unprecedented level of admiration the industry received from the public as it stepped to the forefront very early in Canada’s pandemic response strategy; Quebecers are most likely to associate labour shortages in trucking to inflation woes (69%), followed by Ontarians (62%) and BC (60%). Those aged 55 and over are most likely to believe there is a connection (68%), although over half of respondents in all other age categories also felt this way; The level of concern about the difficulty in getting goods was most pronounced in Ontario (86% were concerned or somewhat concerned– up from 83% last Nov.) At least 80% of respondents expressed some level of concern in every jurisdiction; Frequent and ‘regular’ shortages of basic perishable items appear to be most acute in BC, according to respondents (17%), followed by the Prairies (14%) and Ontario (13%). However, Atlantic respondents overwhelmingly reported the highest level of at least ‘occasional’ shortages (71%), followed by Ontario (58%) and BC (56%).

“The escalating shortage of professional truck drivers is having a negative impact on the supply chain and, by extension, the economic recovery of Canada,” says Laskowski. “Now is the time for action by government of all levels throughout the country. “It is critical we act quickly to alleviate the compounding economic stress on Canadians and the businesses they rely on to keep them safe, secure and to keep the economy moving.”

Passing the Torch

THE SUCCESSION FORMULA

By Steve Leal

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ASSING YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT GENERATION IS A CHALLENGING DISC USS ION . STE VE LEAL SHOWS HOW BODY SHOP OWNERS CAN PROTECT THEIR LEGACY. You’ve worked hard for many years to build a flourishing business, earned the goodwill of your customers and are now wondering what happens to your legacy when you retire. How do you put your hard-earned business into the right hands and retire peacefully?

If this is you, you are not the only one.

According to PWC’s 2021 US Family Business Survey, two-thirds of all family businesses in the US don’t have a robust and

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detailed succession plan in place. This just goes to show that succession planning is often the most overlooked part of a business strategy. Most entrepreneurs fail to include an exit strategy or succession planning when they start their business, until it is too late. As an increasing number of older business owners plan retirement, it is not uncommon for their children to show no interest in taking over the business.

In my opinion, succession planning is critical in uncertain times and should be part of your strategy from Day One. An early business succession plan delivers real life benefits – a defined path to successful retirement, more financial security, and greater protection when unplanned events occur.

In our network, there are quite a few family businesses that began many years ago and are now being run successfully by second- or even third-generation owners. How did they get there? The answer is

smart succession planning. These owners planned their retirement and prepared the next generation to take over months, and even years, in advance of retiring.

An effective business succession plan is an extremely well-written, detailed, and clear document prepared with the assistance of experienced financial and legal professionals. Here are some best practices to help you throughout the transition and beyond.

START THE CONVERSATION EARLY This may well be your most difficult dinner-table conversation with your family, but it is something that needs to be done. Pick a time and place convenient for everyone. Make sure everyone in the family is in the loop at every step of the process.

IRON OUT DIFFERENCES Disagreements are inevitable in family-run businesses. It will be up to you to

Tickets are going fast so call today!

Passing the Torch

determine the agreeable solutions where both the business and the family relationships are not threatened. It’s important to listen to everyone’s views to ensure there is a consensus on your ultimate decision.

INVOLVING YOUR TEAM Once you have found your successor, be sure to communicate your choice to the rest of your team so that your successor finds acceptance at the workplace. It is also wise that your successor shadows an experienced hand for a considerable

period, so they learn processes quickly.

PREPARATION AND MENTORING Running a body shop is not always easy and your nominee will require themselves to be prepared to run the show confidently after you retire. Be prepared to spend enough time teaching your successor all elements of the business.

STEP AWAY ENTIRELY Once the transition is completed and the new family member understands all

WE’RE BIG ON

SECOND CHANCES. Thrift Stores

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elements of the business, it is wise to step away and allow the new owner to take charge. The designated family member is responsible for all business decisions and for all profits and losses.

Succession planning may seem like a huge challenge when transitioning a family business from one generation to another. Prior planning and the right support (or the lack thereof) can ensure whether your legacy is in good hands or not.

Steve Leal is the President & CEO of Fix Network World.

Carter’s Corner

FROM PARTS UNKNOWN COVID AND ITS VARIOUS IMPACTS, SUPPLY CHAIN SHORTAGES AND

PRODUCTION DISRUPTIONS HAVEN’T JUST AFFECTED THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY, AUTO PARTS HAVE BEEN AFFECTED AS WELL.

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By Carter Hammett

ARLIER THIS YEAR THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY HE LD ITS COLLECTIVE BREATH AS THE BLOCKADE NEAR THE AMBASSADOR BRIDGE AT THE WINDSOR-DETROIT BORDER CROSSING ESSENTIALLY SHUT DOWN ALL MOVEMENT, OF GOODS BETWEEN CANADA AND THE U.S. Folks had good reason to utter that

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gasp: over $300 million in trade flows over the Ambassador Bridge daily, and $100 million of that is for the automotive industry.

The blockades were just the latest setback for an industry still reeling from COVID, followed by supply chain shortages. The overall damage included layoffs by the hundreds as well as months-long wait times for cars and unprecedented price increases even for used vehicles.

The biggest culprit of course, was the crippling shortage of microprocessors, used to control everything from infotainment systems to power trains to digital safety systems.

Most vehicles use up to 100+ microchips, which makes lack of access to them particularly disruptive. Following pandemic cuts, automotive manufacturers had to take a back seat to the strong demand for webcams, smart phones, TVs and other electronics from consumers during Covid lockdowns.

But it’s not just microprocessors that are in short supply. The problem has spread to plastics and even foam as the industry struggles to right itself.

“Supply chain issues have affected the industry and consumers in all channels,” says Jean-Francois Champagne, president of the Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA), which unites the entire automotive aftermarket supply and service chain under one umbrella.

“Our membership extends to more than 4,000 member locations across Canada employing professionals dedicated to providing quality parts and products as well as vehicle service and repairs to the country’s fleet of almost 26 million vehicles,” Champagne says.

And since both new and used cars are in short supply or priced out of many consumer hands, computer-savvy customers have been turning to online parts suppliers like NAPA, ebay and Amazon looking for auto parts to extend the life of their vehicles as they anxiously wait for the finished product to arrive.

AIA has conducted research into this topic and learned that Canadians most often look for the following components, which include motor oil, tires, wiper blades, windshield washer fluid and brake pads.

Parts that continue to remain in short supply include ABS brake modules, engine sensors, windshields and transmission control modules.

Pundits across various industry sectors anticipate the problem will last into next year. Fortunately the federal government has already started funnelling mon-

ies into the semiconductor sector, which is anticipated to be up and running before long. Along with various other initiatives, including funding for electric vehicles and reframing the use of some Ontario automotive manufacturers and the industry is slowly but steadily righting itself. Consumer spending habits and behaviours have been altered, however.

“Consumers will continue to buy on-

line creating an expectation on the part of automotive service providers to install these parts, creating challenges in the area of proper parts and warranty,” says Champagne.

That’s yet another change the industry will have to respond to, but for now, it looks as if Canada’s parts sector is slowly moving towards a healthy, pre-pandemic equilibrium.

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Electric Avenue

INTEGRATING ELECTRIC VEHICLE SERVICES INTO YOUR SHOP

By Dave Giles

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T SOME POINT ELECTRIC VEHICLES WILL BECOME THE NORM, NOT THE EXCEPTION. THIS MEANS SHOPS WILL NEED TO START ADAPTING FOR FUTURE NEEDS. WILL YOUR SHOP BE READY? With the increase of electric vehicles (EV) on the road, shops are pondering how they will adapt to EV servicing. Traditionally, service and maintenance were a necessity to keep your vehicle running and driving clean and safe.

With an electric vehicle many of the traditional components are now eliminated. Some of these include powertrain filters, oil changes, engine filters, transmission fluid and filters and ignition system components as well as the thousands of parts and hundreds of moving parts are now gone.

What about maintenance services such as tire rotations, brake service, alignments, and other vehicle related services?

With EVs these services are still required same as traditional gas-powered vehicles.

The biggest misconception in capturing new electric vehicle service will be under-

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standing what the customer expects from their electric vehicle.

In the past a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered vehicle customer would be in for regular service because the customer wanted to keep their car running and reliable. EV owners are as much concerned with efficiency and range.

Electric vehicle owners are all about how far they can travel and how much energy they are using to get there. So, this means some of the most important services on an EV are about maintaining the items that maximize this and understanding this will make adapting electric vehicles to your work bays easier. This also means it opens new services that are not typically found on gas-powered vehicles.

These would include underbelly pan service, battery health report and BMS resets among others.

Electric vehicles also have inherently higher wear on tires due to weight and torque. This means more frequent tire rotations, alignments, and suspension checks. EVs have lots of underbelly pans which can capture rocks and dirt, creating added weight, hanging belly pans and causing corrosion.

New services like battery health checks and BMS resets are added services as are specialized rust protection applications and protection services.

So, how do you prepare for these ser-

vices? The first thing is to ensure you are ready for proper procedures in basic services and maintenance.

Ensure you know what depth you want your shop to be involved in repair and service of EVs. I know many shops that don’t do engine rebuilds, transmission rebuilds or even head gasket repairs on gas- powered vehicles.

So, like engine rebuilding if you want to specialize than your level of equipment will have to be more than just doing tire rotations. Electric vehicles are no different. How many battery rebuilds will you do on a three-or four-year-old EV? How many electronics or drive units will need replacing in the next five,10 years and so on?.

Show that you’re ready and your technicians understand how the cars work and are confident in doing maintenance and servicing. Familiarize them with different brands and the OE requirements for services they need.

Some of this includes starting and driving the cars, component locations, safety and lifting cars. Make sure you have good information on the vehicles you service.

Then advertise these services. Social media and local radio are great outlets to help get the word out.

Having something new and unique is always a good news story for local news media. Consider installing charging stations on the outside of your building. A

customer getting a top-up after their service is always a positive note.

Today’s customers are different. They buy cars online, they shop online and have remote access through their smart phone to communicate every minute of their day with the world.

This means a shop needs to change as well to adopt and embrace electric vehi-

cles into their bays.

Many shops that have already integrated EV services have seen an increase with new customers on gas-powered vehicles commenting.

“If you can work on electric vehicles you definitely know about working on my gas car and my next car will definitely be electric””

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Carter’s Corner

MOTOR MATTERS AUTOMOTIVE NEWS COLLECTED FROM SOURCES NEAR AND FAR AIA CANADA PARTNERS WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO TO OFFER NEW ELECTRIC VEHICLE TRAINING The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada), in partnership with the Government of Ontario and St. Lawrence College, is delighted to announce a new and innovative automotive aftermarket industry training project.

Made possible through the Ontario Government’s Skills Development Fund, the goal of the program is to address two challenges facing Ontario’s automotive aftermarket industry: a shortage of automotive tradespeople and the need for automotive tradespeople to be upskilled so that they can service electric vehicles (EV).

Technology is changing the future of automotive repairs, including the type of work that automotive tradespeople do and the skills that they need. As vehicle technology evolves, continued investments into the skilled trades will be critical to meeting necessary upskilling requirements and securing gainful employment in the automotive aftermarket industry.

“It is important that industry, with government support, implement solutions to meet our industry’s labour needs, which includes ensuring that automotive tradespeople are properly trained to service electric vehicles and raising awareness to break stigma and attract more people to the industry,” said Jean-Francois Champagne, AIA President. “We are thrilled to be working with Minister McNaughton,

the Government of Ontario and St. Lawrence College on this initiative.”

The project will consist of the development and delivery of two training programs. The first is an EV upskilling training program open to incumbent workers and apprentices in the automotive trades.

The training will bridge the gap between what today’s curriculum offers, and the skills that tradespeople need to service modern vehicles. The second is an 8-week training program that gives job seekers an opportunity to explore a career in the automotive trades.

“For the first time in more than a decade, automotive manufacturing jobs are returning to Ontario as we position the province to be a leader in electric vehicles for generations to come,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development.

“That is why we are investing in innovative programs like this with AIA Canada, which will ensure workers have the skills to advance in their careers, earn bigger paycheques, and build better lives for themselves and their families. We will once again make Ontario’s automotive sector one of the most competitive in the world.”

Automotive tradespeople that work in the aftermarket industry provide Ontarians with essential vehicle repair and maintenance services that keep Ontario’s more than 10 million vehicles in road-safe condition. AIA Canada looks forward to continued collaboration with the govern-

ment and our post-secondary partners to ensure the industry is ready to service the vehicles of tomorrow.

SEAFORT CAPITAL ANNOUNCES INVESTMENT IN PARTS FOR TRUCKS SeaFort Capital announced June 1 that it has made a majority investment in Parts for Trucks, Inc. Based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Parts for Trucks is the largest independent heavy duty aftermarket parts distributor and provider of truck and equipment service in Atlantic Canada. The company operates a network of 16 locations across Atlantic Canada and in Ontario.

Corey Miller, CEO of Parts for Trucks, commented, “Our executive team chose to partner with SeaFort given their strong values and proven track record of successfully growing companies. We are very excited to work with the SeaFort team to pursue strategic growth, which will provide exciting opportunities for our staff and allow us to further enhance and broaden the strong support we currently provide to our valued customers”.

Rob Normandeau, SeaFort’s Managing Partner and President, commented, “This is the first platform investment for SeaFort Capital Fund II and represents the type of Canadian mid-market investment we target.

We are pleased to invest in a longestablished successful Atlantic Canadianbased business and excited to partner with a strong, proven management team

NGK CANADA ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF MARK GIBSON TO NATIONAL SALES MANAGER

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ARKHAM, ONTARIO – NGK SPARK PLUGS CANADA LTD. HAS ANNOUNCED THE APPOINTMENT OF MR. MARK GIBSON TO NATIONAL SALES MANAGER OF NGK SPARK PLUGS CANADA LTD., EFFECTIVE APRIL 1, 2022.

Gibson has over 20 years of diverse

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international experience in sales, marketing and operations. Most recently, Gibson served as the Business Development Manager at Direct Energy. NGK Canada is excited for the dynamic skill set that Gibson brings to the team.

Mark is taking over the role that has been vacated by Jeff Desveaux, who has been promoted to general manager of strategic growth and partnerships for the US and Canadian markets. In this newly

created role, Desveaux will be responsible for the creation, sourcing and development of new business opportunities. Desveaux began his career with NGK Spark Plugs Canada in 2003 and most recently held the position of general manager of NGK Spark Plugs Canada.

For any inquiries, please contact: Matt Otten 416 659 1124 motten@ngksparkplugs.ca.

Carter’s Corner

and company as they continue to execute on a well-delineated growth strategy.”

The partnership will focus on continuing Parts for Trucks’ growth strategy by introducing new products and services and pursuing expansion within Canada through greenfield initiatives and strategic acquisitions. The existing senior leadership team will continue to drive the business following the investment by SeaFort.

ATLANTIC TRUCK SHOW RETURNS THIS FALL TO N.B. The Atlantic Truck Show returns to the Moncton Coliseum Oct. 20-21 with a new name and broader focus as the Atlantic Transportation and Logistics Show.

The biennial event owned by the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association (APTA) and produced by Master Promotions was originally scheduled for this spring. But the new date aligns with APTA’s annual general meeting and conference.

The 2022 show is also going to include a “renewed focus” on trucks for all trades including construction and building supply vehicles, dump and forestry trucks, and logistical technology, the organizers say.

“We felt it was necessary to also incorporate the transportation and logistics side of our industry,” said national show manager Mark Cusack in a release. “This

event isn’t just about the fleet, but also the technology and equipment drivers need in order to successfully complete their trips.”

CADA REVEALS LAUREATE FINALISTS FOR 2022 This year the dealership community has faced unprecedented challenges, as well as opportunities, while navigating uncharted waters. The Canadian Automobile Dealers Association Laureate nominees this year were successful in overcoming obstacles, and are great examples of the resilience of the auto retail industry in Canada.

This exclusive designation of CADA Laureate is handed out to only three individuals per year, out of many hundreds of entrants submitted from across the country.

The Laureate award is unique, and has a rigorous nomination process. It is industry-wide, spanning all franchises and all geographic regions. Dealers, manufacturers, suppliers, and provincial associations participate in the confidential nomination process. Dealers can’t nominate themselves, so it is a true peer-driven award.

An independent industry panel selects 15 national finalists – five per category – from hundreds of nominations each year, based on criteria established by a special industry committee.

“The exceptionally strong group of

nominees we received made it more challenging than ever to choose the 15 finalists this year,” said Tim Reuss, CADA President and CEO. “The number and quality of nominees reflects the high level of talent, business acumen and community support shown by our industry in the face of a continued challenging retail environment.”

The Laureate recognizes the career achievements of one exceptional dealer in each of three categories - Ambassadorship, Business Innovation, and Retail Operations.

In the category of Ambassadorship, the 2022 CADA Laureate finalists include: Frank Howard, Capital Auto Group, St. John’s, NL and Peter MacDonald, MacDonald Auto Group, Charlottetown, PE The winning CADA Laureates will be revealed in a CADA Newsline article that will include a video announcement. The winners will then receive their CADA Laureate jackets at a special dinner to be held in their honour.

The CADA Laureate award is the most exclusive recognition a dealer can receive over the course of their career. Only three individuals among more than 3,200 new car and truck dealers across Canada are recognized annually.

Dealer Services has been the exclusive sponsor of the Laureate program since its inception in 2005.

EV READINESS DASHBOARD LAUNCH

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EADING AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS PUBLISHED AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE READINESS DASHBOARD JUNE 24 THAT IDENTIFIES THE CONSUMER INCENTIVE AND CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE GAPS THAT NEED TO BE ADDRESSED IF CANADA IS TO ACHIEVE ITS ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE SALES TARGETS. The analysis finds that Canada is not providing consumers with adequate purchase incentives to make the switch to electric vehicles (EVs) and is nearly 1.7 million EV chargers short of what is required to power an increasingly electrified vehicle fleet. The EV Dashboard was developed by the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association, the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Associa42

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tion, and Global Automakers of Canada, as part of a larger initiative aimed at helping Canadians and political leaders understand what is needed to succeed in the transformation to electrification. More information can be found at Roadto2035.ca.

“In order to have a chance of meeting the very ambitious electrification goals announced by the Federal Government, potential customers must have the certainty that they will be able to afford an EV and that they can charge their cars where they live, work & play.

This Readiness Dashboard will help them make those assessments and will help government officials understand where the gaps are,” stated Tim Reuss, President & CEO of the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association.

“Federal and provincial governments are not doing enough to put Canada on the path to achieving the 100% zero-emission vehicle sales target by 2035,” said Brian Kingston, President & CEO of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association. “Automakers are

investing billions of dollars to bring new EVs to the market, including right here in Canada. We need a comprehensive, long-term plan to address the consumer incentive and charging gap to help all Canadians make the switch to electric.”

“Automakers are here to partner with the federal government to meet the aggressive 2026, 2030 and 2035 zero-emission vehicle targets,” said David Adams, President & CEO of the Global Automakers of Canada.

“However, neither industry nor government controls the consumer and in order for this transition to take place, consumers need to see a comprehensive, transparent plan from the government to build out adequate fueling infrastructure, along with the assurance that federal and provincial incentives will not only remain but be adjusted to ensure that ZEVs remain a viable and affordable option for consumers looking to purchase a new vehicle.”

For more information, please contact: Sophie Normand snormand@cada.ca.

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ADVERTISER

PHONE

INTERNET

Adams Car Wash

1-902-497-7260

adams.carwash@ns.sympatico.ca 39

Arnott Industries

1-800-251-8993

arnottindustries.com

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Atlantic Autowash

1-506-459-8878

aautowash@nb.aibn.com

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ARAAC

1-519-858-8761

autorecyclers.ca

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Fix Network

1-800-INFO-FIX

fixauto.com

Fleet Brake Atlantic

1-902-468-1396

fleetbrake.com

Corrosion Defense

1-844-766-7878

corrosiondefence.com

Dominion Sure Seal

1-905-670-5411

dominionsureseal.com

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Gear Centre

1-877-277-4327

shop.gearcentre.com

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Hope For Wildlife

1-902-407-9453

hopeforwildlife.net

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Hunter Engineering

1-902-880-9401

hunter.com

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Hunter Engineering

1-902-880-9401

hunter.com

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Hunter Engineering

1-902-880-9401

hunter.com

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Ideal Equipment Ltd

1-506-458-9322

idealequipmentltd.com

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John Bean Canada

1-514-214-5373

johnbean.com/en-ca

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Maritime Auto Parts

1-800-565-7278

maritimeauto.com

4

Maritime Car Wash

1-902-861-4747

maritimecarwash.ca

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Maritime Pro Stock

1-902-873-2277

maritimeprostocktour.com

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Mevotech

1-902-476-9901

mevotech.com

26

NAPA Auto Parts

1-800-263-2111

napaonlinecanada.com

11

NAPA Auto Parts

1-800-263-2111

napaonlinecanada.com

13

NAPA Auto Parts

1-800-263-2111

napaonlinecanada.com

31

NAPA Auto Parts

1-800-263-2111

napaonlinecanada.com

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NLS Products

1-800-465-0500

nlsproducts.ca

8

NLS Products

1-800-465-0500

nlsproducts.ca

9

NGK Spark Plugs

1-877-2-SPARKY

ngksparkplugs.ca

Rhino Truck Lube

1-506-317-1038

rhinotrucklubecentre.com

19

Rust Check

1-888-RUSTIES

rustcheck.ca

29

SPCA of NS

1-844-835-4798

novascotiaspca.ca

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Special Olympics NS

1-902-429-2266

specialolympicsns.ca

22

Truck Stop+

1-506-317-1038

truckstopplus.ca

18

Worldpac Inc.

1-800-888-9982

worldpac.com

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A.T.A. 2022 SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNER

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HE AUTOMOTIVE TRADES ASSOCIATION IN HALIFAX, NS IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THAT TIA MITCHELL IS THIS YEAR’S A.T.A. SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNER. The annual scholarship is for $2000.00 and is awarded to any son or daughter of an A.T.A. member. Tia is the daughter of Shirley Mitchell, Coast Tire & Auto Service.

Tia is graduating from high school this month and enrolling at the University of New Brunswick in the Health Sciences program, majoring in radiology. In four years, she plans to attend Dalhousie University to specialize in ultrasound. Her aspiration is to become a specialized Radiological Technologist.

Congratulations Tia and all the best in your future endeavors.

We look forward to hearing about your career progression from your proud mom.!

Crossword Contest

CROSSWORD (ANSWERS IN THE NEXT AUTO & TRUCKING ATLANTIC)

Les Price of Miramichi, NB, is our latest Crossword Puzzle winner! Congratulations on winning your new Rust Check treatment. Deadline for entry is August 29th, 2022

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YOU TOO CAN WIN ONE FREE RUST CHECK ANNUAL SPRAY AT ANY RUST CHECK DEALER! ENTER FOR YOU CHANCE!

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CROSSWORD BY MURRAY JACKSON - THECROSSWORDGUY.COM

MAY 2022 WINNER!

IT’S SO EASY TO WIN! Fill out info below and send your Crossword to us at 608 - 56 Jacob Lane, Bedford, NS B3M 0H5, or Email us at: rob@autoatlantic.com NAME:

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ADDRESS:

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1. Crash cushions

1. One-way symbol

5. Ford pony car slang

2. Meet, car-wise (3,4)

8. Former Kia wagon

3. A lug nut shape

9. Really rural road type (3,4)

4. Trucker’s Halifax to Truro run

10. Mouseketeer hat-shape fastener (4,3)

LAST ISSUE’S CROSSWORD 1

(5,4,4)

11. Gas station sights

5. Big rig bunk area

12. Scotia Speedworld events (5,3,5)

6. Anti-theft device

15. “Trailer Park Boys” lad

7. Thick auto lubes

17. Roll crustacean

IT’S FUN! IT’S EASY!

12. Bug-eyed Austin-Healeys

20. CB radio OK (3,4)

13. Drivers’ pocket items (3,4)

21. ‘90s Isuzu SUV

14. Halifax historic site

22. Ski-Doos, slangily

16. Roof rack watercraft

23. Propels a 16-Down craft

18. Hot ____ & stroked engine 19. Vinyl-covered parts, once

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NAPA Guess & Win contest

NAPA GUESS & WIN! BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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ast Coast Race fans, we need to know the name of this Maritime race tour, and please, you can tell us more about the cars too. Details please and a FREE Stanley 1/4” and 3/8” Drive SAE 123pc Socket Set from NAPA is all yours! The more detail the better!

Send in your answer at autoatlantic.com/Contest.htm or Email us at rob@autoatlantic.com, and make sure to include your name, town, province and telephone number. Maybe this time it’ll be you! Deadline for entry is August 29th, 2022.

Best wishes go to Kris Figueroa of Da r t m ou t h , NS, who correctly answered “This is the 11,000 HP Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody Funny Car! It has speeds up to 515 km/h and generates 11,000 HP and 8,000 lb.-ft of torque” Thank you to all who entered our contest, keep trying, you could be next!

YOUR NAME: PHONE: ADDRESS: CITY / TOWN / VILLAGE: PROVINCE: POSTAL CODE: EMAIL: YOUR ANSWER:

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