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AJAC's Ottawa-Montreal Eco-Run concludes at Polytechnique Montreal

MONTREAL, June 6, 2013 /CNW/ - University students at Polytechnique Montreal had a double treat this morning as they were visited at their downtown workshop by a cadre of automotive journalists, a fleet of 22 new high-tech "green" vehicles, and a Formula One driver, Jean-Eric Vergne.

[caption id="attachment_2777" align="aligncenter" width="256"] Formula One driver Jean-Eric Vergne poses for a photo as he signs an electric vehicle created by a Polytechnique Montréal student during the final stop of the 2013 AJAC Eco-Run event in Montreal on Thursday, June 6, 2013. (Michelle Siu for AJAC) (CNW Group/Automobile Journalists Association of Canada)[/caption]

The journalists were taking part in the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada's (AJAC's) second annual Eco-Run, which began three days ago in Ottawa and concluded today at Polytechnique Montreal.

Eco-Run's purpose is to demonstrate to consumers a broad array of "green" technologies and vehicles currently available to help save money on fuel and also help the environment. The event also educates consumers that driving habits are just as important as the vehicle when it comes to fuel efficiency.

The technologies spotlighted in the Eco-Run include a full range of powerplants, from pure battery electric, plug-in hybrid and basic gasoline-hybrid combinations to advanced conventional gasoline and diesel engines. They also feature such fuel-saving features as automatic stop-start systems and automatic cruise control.

Proving that fuel-efficient technologies can be found in any size and type of vehicle that may suit one's needs, the Eco-Run fleet covers the range from a smart electric and Ford Focus EV to a Porsche Cayenne Diesel SUV and high-efficiency Ram pickup truck.

Jean-Eric Vergne's visit not only reinforced the need for eco-friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles but the importance of driving safety.

As a second-year Formula One driver, for the Toro Rosso team, 23-year-old Vergne, from France, is a rising star on the F1 circuit. Going into Sunday's Canadian Grand Prix, he has scored two top-ten finishes in the season's first six races - most recently eighth on the streets of Monaco.

Vergne has been racing since the age of four, starting in karts and progressing through Europe's ladder of single-seater Formula-cars to GP3 and Renault Formula 3.5, before earning a full-time seat with Toro Rosso in 2012. So he knows the importance of safety.

To that end, he demonstrated some of the FIA's 10 Golden Rules of Safety to the Polytechnique Montreal students in a driving simulator at their workshop. The FIA is the world's governing body of automobile racing, including Formula One.

He also reviewed both the Eco Run vehicles and the students' various project cars, congratulating their Solar Car team on earning an invitation to compete with it in Australia next month. Vergne signed their car for good luck and presented each of the team members with T-shirts.

AJAC journalist Michel Deslauriers presented the final 'Green Jersey' to Michael Bettencourt for being the most fuel-efficient driver throughout the three-day event.

[caption id="attachment_2778" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Formula One driver Jean-Eric Vergne poses for a photo with Polytechnique Montréal students during the final stop of the 2013 AJAC Eco-Run event in Montreal on Thursday, June 6, 2013. (Gerry Frechette for AJAC) (CNW Group/Automobile Journalists Association of Canada).[/caption]

For further information:

Siobhan Duffield, cell: 519.563.8417, E: siobhan@ajac.ca
Susan Elliott, cell: 416.726.2403, E: susan.elliott@elliott-com.com

Photos and videos of the Eco-Run have been posted to the AJAC Eco-Run web site  www.ajac.ca/eco-run

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Hj2NV-bfy0 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWs-iOJjBEY

OTTAWA, June 4th, 2013 – Canadians continue to be concerned over the high costs to fuel their vehicles, but feel there’s little they can do to find relief. In fact, there are ways to ease the pain at the pump and AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada) is set to demonstrate remedies we all can use.

A team of 22 AJAC journalists gathered today, Tuesday, June 4/13, 10 a.m., at Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) head office, 580 Booth St., Ottawa, for the start of the second annual AJAC Eco-Run. Following opening ceremonies highlighted by an announcement by Natural Resources Canada Minister Joe Oliver, the Eco-Run convoy set out on a three-day drive to Montreal using 22 new vehicles that represent the most advanced fuel-efficient and eco-friendly technologies available in today’s automotive marketplace. Participating vehicles range from compacts and family sedans to premium full-size SUVs and pickups. The types of powertrains include pure electrics and plug-in hybrids, gas/electric hybrids and a variety of high-efficiency gas- and diesel-fuelled engines. Not only does this event highlight the latest advances by manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency and reduce the impact on our fragile environment, the journalists will be using driving techniques we all can adopt to reduce fuel consumption – and fuel costs – regardless of the age of our vehicles.

The AJAC Eco-Run is not a competition – there will be no winners. The various entries will demonstrate, however, that consumers have numerous choices when looking for a new, fuel-efficient vehicle, regardless of the size, type and price range they’re seeking. To help consumers make informed decisions, NRCan, which has again partnered with AJAC for this event, will be monitoring, in partnership with CrossChasm, the vehicles’ energy use throughout the Eco-Run to demonstrate the fuel efficiencies attainable in a real-world driving situations. Results of the monitoring will be posted on the AJAC website, www.ajac.ca, following the conclusion of the run.

The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) is also returning as a partner for this event – in fact, the Eco-Run has stopped at CAA’s annual general meeting at the Chateau Laurier hotel so delegates can view the vehicles and interact with the drivers.

Schneider Electric, another returning partner, will not only be providing charging stations for use during the event, it will also be donating a charging unit for installation at l’École Polytechnique in Montreal, where the Eco-Run will conclude on Thursday, June 6. A Formula One driver, in Montreal for the weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix activities, will be joining us at the École Polytechnique workshop.

The Eco-Run will spend Wednesday at the PMG Technologies facilities in Blainville, Que., where the vehicles and drivers will be featured as part of Performance Innovation Transport’s (PIT) fifth anniversary celebration.

The public can follow the day-to-day progress of the Eco-Run on the AJAC website, Facebook and Twitter #ecorun. They are also invited to join the drivers and check out the vehicles at our stops en route, where they can also get driving tips and expert advice from the CAA, NRCan and the AJAC journalists.

For even more in-depth tips on altering your driving techniques to reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions, Stantec Consultants, another Eco-Run partner, is introducing an online tutorial for consumers that has been developed in conjunction with NRCan. The Eco-driving course is part of Stantec’s Learning Solutions program. 

2nd Annual AJAC Eco-Run itinerary (All times are approximate and subject to change.)

June 4th, 2013:

9:45 a.m. – Eco-Run convoy assembles at NRCan offices, 580 Booth St., Ottawa

10 a.m. – Opening ceremonies; address by NRCan Minister Joe Oliver and official start of Eco-Run

11:00 a.m. – Convoy departs for Chateau Laurier and CAA AGM. Eco-Run vehicles will be on display on the fifth floor of the hotel parking garage

2:00 p.m. – Convoy departs Chateau Laurier for Montebello, Que.

June 5th, 2013:

8:30 a.m. – Convoy departs Montebello, heading for PMG Technologies facilities in Blainville, Que.

10:00 a.m. – Arrive at PMG for in PIT (Performance Innovation Transport) fifth anniversary celebrations.

3:30 p.m. –Depart for overnight stop in Saint-Eustache, Que.

June 6th, 2013:

9:00 a.m. – Depart Saint-Eustache for École Polytechnique in Montreal

10:00 a.m. – Arrive at École Polytechnique workshop at 210 Rue Bridge for special event featuring Formula One driver, followed by closing ceremonies.

AJAC Eco-Run Vehicle Fleet:

Chevrolet Cruze Diesel, Chevrolet Volt, Ram 1500 HFE, Ford C-MAX Hybrid, Ford Focus EV, Ford Fusion Energi, Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Infiniti M35 Hybrid, Kia Rio LX Eco five-door, Lexus ES 300h, Mazda3, Mazda6, Mazda CX-5, Mercedes-Benz B 250, Mercedes-Benz GLK 250 BlueTEC, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Porsche Cayenne Diesel, smart fortwo electric, Toyota Prius v, Subaru Forester, Volkswagen Jetta Turbo Hybrid

For more information, contact:

Siobhan Duffield, cell: 519.563.8417, E: siobhan@ajac.ca

Susan Elliott, cell: 416.726.2403, E: susan.elliott@elliott-com.com

Photos and videos of the Eco-Run have been posted to the AJAC Eco-Run web site: www.ajac.ca/eco-run.

This press release was distributed by the CNW Group: AJAC’s official newswire service.

Did CAA come to your rescue after a flat tire? Did you experience exceptional service from a one of our travel agents? We want to hear your stories!

For CAA National’s 100th anniversary, we are reminiscing on the remarkable, exceptional and memorable moments CAA has shared with our members.

If you have a compelling story to share, contact Kristine Simpson at ksimpson@national.caa.ca. You will be asked to do up a short video telling your CAA story. 

CAA will pick a handful of videos to display at their Annual General Meeting.

If your video is picked you get a free CAA Premier membership.

Remember, you are not limited to just talking about roadside assistance. We want to hear all the stories from travel, to insurance to the amazing discounts you may have gotten with your CAA membership.

If you have any further questions, contact Kristine Simpson, Manager, Public Affairs, CAA National, at 613-247-0117 ext. 2006 or ksimpson@national.caa.ca.

Ottawa – The last of the snow is melted, and Canadian drivers are eager to hit the road this spring and enjoy some much-needed warmer weather. Before you put the pedal to the metal, however, it’s important to treat your vehicle to a spring tune up to help it operate as safely as possible, according to representatives from the Automotive Industries Association (AIA) of Canada through its Be Car Care Aware program, and the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA).

 “May is Car Care Month - a time for drivers to invest in the safety of their vehicles to protect themselves and those that they will share the road with this spring and summer,” said Marc Brazeau, President and CEO, AIA Canada.

 Maintenance and repairs are becoming increasingly important as Canadians drive their vehicles longer. The average age of a vehicle in Canada was 9.3 years in 2011, with the average vehicle now being retired at 320,000 kilometres, according to AIA Canada’s 2012 Outlook Study, produced by DesRosiers Automotive Consultants Inc.

 Fortunately, according to another study conducted by DesRosiers, 85.6% of Canadians are prioritizing vehicle servicing and repairs. Reasons for maintaining their vehicles included avoiding large repairs in the future, increasing family safety, enhancing environmental performance of their vehicles, and protecting resale value.

 “Safety is paramount when out on the road,” according to Jeff Walker, Vice President, Public Affairs at CAA. “And, if Canadians can keep their vehicles as safe as possible, and protect their investment at the same time, it’s a win-win scenario.”

 Below are some tips to get your vehicle ready for the spring season:

 Check your fluid levels.  There are several fluids that require attention, including engine oil; power steering, brake and transmission fluids; and windshield washer solvent. Fluids are typically inexpensive and easy to change, but without them, vehicle reliability and functions may be affected, which can lead to expensive repair costs and pose safety risks.

 Change oil and oil filters. Changing the oil and the oil filter as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual is one of the best ways to keep the engine running trouble free. Neglecting to replace engine oil can result in poor engine performance, higher fuel consumption and even severe engine damage.

 Replace your wiper blades. If they’re torn or cracked your wiper blades won’t do you much good in the middle of unrelenting spring showers when visibility is reduced.

 Check your lighting. Check all exterior and interior lighting to identify any problems. When your vehicle’s lighting is defective, other motorists may not get the message that you intend to stop or turn. The end result could be disastrous.

 Make vehicle maintenance a priority to protect yourself and prolong the life of your vehicle by taking it to a licensed automotive service professional for a spring tune-up today!

 For more tips on how to improve the safety of your vehicle, you can visit: www.BeCarCareAware.ca

 About AIA

 AIA is the national trade association representing the automotive aftermarket industry in Canada. The aftermarket is a $19.4 billion industry that employs 420,000 people. The industry is composed of companies that manufacture, distribute and install automotive replacement parts, accessories, tools, and equipment. As part of its mandate, AIA works to promote preventative maintenance through its Be Car Care Aware consumer education program.

 

About CAA

CAA is a federation of nine clubs providing more than 5.8 million members with exceptional emergency roadside service, complete automotive and travel services, member savings and comprehensive insurance services. CAA also advocates on issues of concern to its members, including road safety, the environment, mobility, infrastructure and consumer protection.

 

For all media inquiries, please contact:

Stephanie Miksik

Toll-free: 800-808-2920 ext 233

Email:  Stephanie.Miksik@aiacanada.com

 

Governor’s Approval Today Resolves Situation for Canadian Drivers in Florida

OTTAWA – The Canadian Automobile Association is pleased that the state of Florida today officially repealed a law that made it mandatory for Canadian drivers to carry an International Driving Permit.

The repeal comes after interventions from CAA, other stakeholders and thousands of Canadian drivers caught unaware by the IDP law, which came into effect with no notice. CAA applauds the government of Florida for repealing the law, a process that ended today when Gov. Rick Scott signed the repeal bill.

“Effective immediately, Canadians in Florida can go back to doing what they have always been able to do – drive with peace of mind in the Sunshine State using their provincial driver’s license,” said Jeff Walker, CAA Vice President of Public Affairs. “CAA is pleased that the voices of its members and others were listened to by state officials, and that the state of Florida has removed any uncertainty.”

Florida lawmakers have admitted they never intended to include Canadian drivers under the law, which made it illegal to drive in Florida without a license issued by a U.S. state. The repeal process took several weeks and multiple votes in the Florida legislature. Governor Scott’s signature marks the official repeal.

CAA was the only Canadian non-governmental group invited to attend the signing ceremony in Tallahassee, the state capital, a recognition of our efforts on this issue. Auto Club South Inc., representing the interests of CAA, was the only witness at hearings at the Florida legislature on the repeal bill, and spoke strongly in favour of jettisoning the IDP law. CAA’s actions on this file included representations to the Governor and other top state lawmakers urging that the law be amended to exempt all Canadians.

When the law came to light in mid-February, Florida officials reacted to pressure from CAA and others within hours and said the state highway patrol would not enforce it pending a review. But it was unclear if all local law enforcement would follow suit, some Canadians were refused car rentals, especially in the first few days, and insurance companies would have been within their rights to refuse to honour policies in the event of an accident.

CAA is a federation of nine clubs providing more than 5.8 million Members with exceptional emergency roadside service, complete automotive and travel services, member savings and comprehensive insurance services. CAA also advocates on issues of concern to its members, including road safety, the environment, mobility, infrastructure and consumer protection.

For further information, please contact:

Kristine Simpson
Manager, Public Affairs
CAA National
613-247-0117 ext. 2006
613-796-9404
ksimpson@national.caa.ca
Ian Jack
Director of Communications and Government Relations
Office: 613-247-0117 ext. 2007
Cell: 613-863-2590
ijack@national.caa.ca