The Unforeseen Dangers of a Device That Curbs Drunken Driving
Over the past decade, states have increasingly turned to a powerful tool to stop drunken driving before it starts: miniature breathalyzers, wired into a car’s electronics, that prevent the engine from starting unless the person behind the wheel is sober enough to drive.
These devices, called ignition interlocks, have been remarkably effective. One study found that states mandating them for all drunken-driving offenders had 15 percent fewer fatalities from alcohol-related car accidents.
But while interlocks have prevented thousands of crashes, they have also caused them. Rolling retests, occur at random. They require the driver to lift a hand off the wheel, pick up the device and blow — hard — into its mouthpiece for several seconds. If the driver fails or doesn’t comply, the car goes into panic mode: Its headlights flash and its horn honks until the driver turns off the engine.
Read the article at The New York Times.
2020 Set To Be Year Of The Electric Car, Say Industry Analysts
Europe’s carmakers are gearing up to make 2020 the year of the electric car, according to automotive analysts, with a wave of new models launching as the world’s biggest manufacturers scramble to lower the carbon dioxide emissions of their products.
Previous electric models have mostly been targeted at niche markets, but 2020 will see the launch of flagship electric models with familiar names, such as the Mini, the Vauxhall Corsa and the Fiat 500.
The number of electric vehicle (EV) models available to European buyers will jump from fewer than 100 to 175 by the end of 2020, according to data firm IHS Markit. By 2025 there will be more than 330, based on an analysis of company announcements.
Read the article at The Guardian.
Almost 300 people could be killed on the Roads Between Christmas and New Year’s Day, Safety Group Warns
Whether you’re driving home for Christmas or going out on the town for New Year’s Eve, buckle up and make sure your driver is sober.
A national safety group estimates that 278 people could be killed on U.S. roads during the holidays.
The National Safety Council, an Itasca, Ill.-based advocacy group, estimates that 115 people may be killed and 13,100 seriously injured on roadways between 6 p.m. on Dec. 24, and 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 25.
The group also estimates that beginning at 5 p.m. Dec. 31, and ending at 11:59 p.m. Jan. 1, 163 people could be killed and 18,600 seriously injured.
Read the article at MSN.
NTEA releases Vehicle Specification Process Guide
NTEA recently launched a Vehicle Specification Process Guide as a free resource to the work truck industry.
The specification development process encompasses a systematic and defined set of interactions between various stakeholders, including the vehicle user, fleet team and supply chain (comprised of chassis OEMs, truck dealers, body and truck-mounted equipment companies, vehicle upfitters and fleet management companies). NTEA’s specification development tool is intended to improve this process by applying leading techniques widely recognized by industry professionals. For those with more experience, it can serve as a guide — a checklist approach to confirm established processes are followed.
“For today’s increasingly complex equipment, creating effective commercial vehicle specifications requires a multifaceted approach that involves input and participation from various stakeholders. NTEA’s new Vehicle Specification Process Guide outlines leading techniques that can help the industry navigate these complexities,” said George Survant, NTEA senior director of fleet relations. “This tool is designed to ensure a predictable and well-crafted final product each and every time.”
NTEA’s new specification guide is available to the industry for free.
Holman Enterprises Announces Passing of Chairman Emeritus Joseph S. Holman
Holman transformed the family-owned business from a single Ford dealership in New Jersey into a diverse international automotive services organization
Holman Enterprises, a global automotive services organization, is saddened to announce the passing of Chairman Emeritus Joseph S. Holman on Thursday, December 12. Joseph (Joe) Holman, 93, led the evolution of the family-owned business, which was founded by his father Steward C. Holman, from a single Ford dealership in New Jersey into an international automotive services organization comprised of seven business units before eventually passing the torch to his daughter Mindy Holman..
“My father lived a vibrant, extraordinary life, embracing and enjoying each day to its fullest for more than 93 years. He will be deeply missed by many but his spirit will endure through the indelible stories and memories he leaves behind in all of us,” said Mindy Holman, Chairman of the Board, Holman Enterprises.
