State of the Union
December 16, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• If you were feeling sorry for the Canyon as the Colorado garners all the attention, weep no more. Autoweek has named the GMC Canyon Best of the Best Truck for 2015. Said Autoweek:
Yes, the Porsche Macan is fast and handles like a sports car. The Lincoln MKC is a beautiful piece—smooth, comfortable and refined—and it bodes well for the future of the brand. We loved them both, enough to choose them as finalists for our 2015 Best of the Best/Truck award.
But trucks speak to a different part of the brain than cars, where the desire for power and road chops meets the need for utility and good ol’-fashioned dirt-under-the-fingernails grunt. That’s part of the reason we’re giddy to give the 2015 GMC Canyon the award. It’s truly a truck in the most honest sense of the word—with a roughly 1,500-pound payload in all trims and up to 7,000 pounds of towing ability—but refuses to forego the requirements a modern buyer has in a vehicle: refinement, modern conveniences and amenities, high-quality build, practicality and style.
Perhaps more importantly, GMC puts all that trucky goodness into a palatably sized package. We hesitate calling it small; as one editor pointed out, the Canyon sports a longer wheelbase than a first-gen GMT800 Sierra. Nevertheless, it’s a far cry from the gargantuan half-ton trucks running around these days like mini-Macks. “To me, the Canyon is the right size for a truck,” said one tester. “Modern full-sizers often feel too big to be really useful both as commuters and as trucks.” Every staffer echoed the sentiment: The Canyon is the perfect size.
It also helps the Canyon’s cause that it’s one handsome truck, stylish yet still sturdy looking. Where the Chevy offers perhaps a bit more value, the GMC is brimming with a near-luxury experience. It’s startlingly quiet inside, with a lush feel about the cabin and rich appointments throughout.
For General Motors and for the wider buying public, the Canyon is as important an entry as we’ve seen in a long time. It marks the exciting return to the American compact-truck market, and we couldn’t be more pleased to call it a winner. “It’s truly a truck in the most honest sense…but refuses to forego the requirements a modern buyer has in a vehicle: refinement, modern conveniences and amenities, high-quality build, practicality and style,” said Autoweek’s editors, who also noted the Canyon is “brimming with a near-luxury experience.”
Autoweek’s annual Best of the Best awards are based on the evaluations of eight vehicle finalists selected for their performance, design, build quality, value and significance. A three-day test session at Michigan International Speedway by the editors determined the awards, which include one car and one truck.
“Of the hundreds of vehicles Autoweek tests each year, only a relative few truly stand out from the rest,” said Autoweek editor Wes Raynal. “The GMC Canyon is not only one of the best new vehicles on the market, it’s one of the most important, signaling an exciting return to the mid-sized truck segment.”
• FYI – We have been informed by management that team meeting this Friday, Dec. 19, will be taken 20 minutes prior to lunch at 10:10 to provide extra time for team dinners.
• The annual Chassis Christmas Party will be Friday, Dec. 19 at Maggie Malones after first shift. There will be free food, drink specials, prizes and live music as well as a visit from Santa! All are welcome so come and join us for an evening of fun and holiday cheer. For more info contact Susan Daniel (Picou) at column F-43 of the engine line.
• There is still one item left to cover from November sales results: field supplies. Van supplies overall dropped by nearly 1000 despite the tepid sales rate. Because of that rate the supply as measured in days rose to 62 from 56 days supply at the end of October. If you look at units in net field stock at the end of last November, supplies have dropped by about 6500 units, or 33%. Passenger vans are down 50% from then. And while it’s still very early on, the supply of the Colorado stand at 21 days, while the Canyon is at 34 days. Total stock for the two models is around 3000 units. Expect these numbers to fluctuate until the product pipeline gets filled.
• UAW President Dennis Williams held a press conference at Solidarity House Monday. Here are some of his remarks:
o On raises for traditional, or legacy workers: “In the Big Three, what we consider legacy employees have not had a general wage increase for many years and we will be addressing that.” And “If they want to go ahead and want to talk about wages, I am more than happy to sit down and talk about their salaries.”
o On bridging the gap between those workers and tier 2 workers: “We are very aware that the need to balance the wages is very important to our membership. None of it is going to be easy, but I have committed that we are going to start bridging that gap.” And "We want to keep the companies competitive at the same time we want our members to have a lifestyle that gives them a family life.”
o On maintaining competitiveness: “I often listen to companies about being competitive, and the only thing they ever talk about in the public is being competitive based on the backs of workers. That’s not the only way to do it.” And "It is about how we keep the companies competitive, and we are conscious of that. But general wage increases are important to our members, and it is important to us as a nation, to bring our standard of living up." But the union will “not repeat the sins of the past.”
o On the possibility of a strike: “Striking is a failure on both parties’ part. We don’t plan on failing, but we’re going to be prepared.” And "I never go into negotiations with the idea that we are preparing for a strike. That is the last thing we want to do as an organization."
o On organizing in the south: "We believe every time we organize in the South it is going to get more difficult, not easier. But I think that we have the right strategy."
o On right-to-work: "I don't think challenging right to work is going to be a priority right now. We are focused on the needs of the membership."
• GM was contacted after the press conference. According to the Detroit Free Press, GM said it is confident it will be able to reach a new agreement with the UAW next year, despite Williams' comments today. "We have a strong track record of creative problem-solving and are committed to working with our union partners to enable long-term success for the business and our employees," GM said in a statement.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
State of the Union December 10, 2014
December 10, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• Reminder: Friday, Dec. 12 is also the deadline for turning in resolutions for the upcoming National Negotiations in 2015. Forms are available from your committee person or at the Union Hall and you can return them to same. All resolutions (except duplicates) will be submitted for negotiations.
• The Body Shop bake sale netted $1007 for Adopt-A-Child! This money will be used to level gifts. Thanks to everyone once again for your generosity. We have a revised number for number of children adopted – 190! This is easily the highest total ever. To those who have adopted a child, please return your gifts (unwrapped) to the communications office no later than this Friday, Dec. 12. Gift distribution begins Monday, Dec. 15.
• FYI – employees cannot attend Apprentice Orientation sessions on company time.
• The annual Chassis Christmas Party will be Friday, Dec. 19 at Maggie Malones after first shift. There will be free food, drink specials, prizes and live music as well as a visit from Santa! All are welcome so come and join us for an evening of fun and holiday cheer. For more info contact Susan Daniel (Picou) at column F-43 of the engine line.
• The UAW has been certified as the representative of more than 45% of Volkswagen's workers in Chattanooga, Tenn., a major victory for the union, which has been trying to gain a foothold in the South and in foreign auto plants. The results of the independent audit of union membership clear the way for the union to meet regularly with management on workplace issues.
Gary Casteel, secretary-treasurer of the UAW, who heads the International Union’s Transnational Department, released the following statement regarding Volkswagen's verification of the membership of UAW Local 42: "We appreciate Volkswagen's timely response in verifying UAW Local 42’s substantial membership level, which exceeds a majority of workers at the plant. As anticipated, we surpassed the highest level under Volkswagen's new Community Organization Engagement policy, and the local leadership is ready to move forward with additional conversations with the company. In the initial conversations, the local union will remind Human Resources and the Chattanooga Executive Committee of the mutually agreed-upon commitments that were made by Volkswagen and the UAW last spring in Germany. Among those commitments: Volkswagen will recognize the UAW as the representative of our members. We believe Volkswagen made this commitment in good faith and we believe the company will honor this commitment. Additionally, the local union will present the Chattanooga plant management with the September letter of intent in which the Volkswagen Global Group Works Council expressed its desire for the Chattanooga plant to be a ‘UAW-represented facility.' With this in mind, we will be working toward the process of collective bargaining with the company.”
• From the Wall Street Journal: Workers at U.S. assembly plants for General Motors Co. and Ford Motor Co. are likely to get 2014 bonuses exceeding $6,000 each, capping a four-year labor contract under which profit-sharing checks have gone to factory employees in record amounts. But the United Auto Workers union, gearing up for negotiations with Detroit’s Big Three next summer, is prepared to argue that isn’t good enough.
After 10 years without hourly wage increases as well as an agreement by the union to accept lower pay for new hires, compensation is increasingly tied to the auto makers’ performance, which has been in a boom-or-bust cycle for decades. “Workers at GM, Ford and Chrysler have made painful sacrifices,” UAW Vice President Cindy
Estrada said in an interview. “Now it’s time for workers to share in the success, too.”
Ms. Estrada, entering her first contract talks as the lead GM negotiator, said it is too early to discuss specifics. “I don’t want to talk about bargaining now, because we’re not bargaining,” she added. Ms. Estrada also oversees UAW activities tied to auto-parts suppliers. She said “this bargaining is important for all,” noting that some auto jobs at U.S. parts makers pay less than $10 an hour, forcing workers to go on food stamps or work elsewhere.
In discussions with UAW officials in October, Ms. Estrada and UAW President Dennis Williams said two-tier wages must be addressed. Mr. Williams, who was elected in 2014, has consistently said he aims to “close the gap” between what legacy UAW workers—hired before the U.S. economic crisis—are paid and what new hires earn. One of the UAW’s rallying cries in months to come is expected to be “no more tiers.”
Officials working for Detroit auto makers anticipate coming to a solution on two-tier wages that will make the UAW more comfortable, people familiar with the strategy say. Pay increases are not off the table. But the companies plan to continue pursuing pay structures that are heavy on variable compensation so they can avoid the troubles they had when the economy skidded in 2007, according to people familiar with the negotiating strategy.
Citing hourly-pay flexibility as a big factor, GM, Ford and Chrysler have invested billions of dollars in U.S. plants and hired tens of thousands of workers in recent years. Ford, for instance, will have hired 14,000 by the end of 2015, 2,000 more than it initially committed to. Chrysler has pledged $5.3 billion in U.S. factory investments over the term, $800 million more than its initial commitment. To keep the money flowing, the UAW is seen as needing to continue to protect the Big Three from the consequences of a downturn by providing another contract laden with incentives that doesn’t drive up fixed costs.
Ms. Estrada said Detroit shouldn’t perceive labor as the source of its problems. “These companies didn’t go bankrupt because of their workers,” she said, adding that what “UAW workers did [to help bail out Detroit] was smart” and a template for how the union would respond in the face of crisis. “We have shown over and over that we will come to the table,” she said.
• Ford is no doubt still licking their wounds from the 3rd place finish for the F150 pickup in this year’s Motor Trend truck of the year contest. But a Car and Driver review of that pickup seems to validate the decision. Among other things, they point out that the truck they tested was 519 pounds lighter than its predecessor, not 700 (which makes the Ford only 150 to 200 pounds lighter than a comparable Silverado). They also say the cabin is “almost as quiet as the Silverado” and the brakes have a “touchy pedal that delivers no feedback.” Going inside the cab, they say, “the primary dash plastics are still relatively low-rent, and the fit and finish fall well behind what Chevrolet and Ram have achieved.” Focusing on price, “We drove a low spec, 4-dr XLT model with the 2.7 V6, cloth seats, rear wheel drive and few creature comforts that stickered at $42,875. Affordability is a problem…”.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• Reminder: Friday, Dec. 12 is also the deadline for turning in resolutions for the upcoming National Negotiations in 2015. Forms are available from your committee person or at the Union Hall and you can return them to same. All resolutions (except duplicates) will be submitted for negotiations.
• The Body Shop bake sale netted $1007 for Adopt-A-Child! This money will be used to level gifts. Thanks to everyone once again for your generosity. We have a revised number for number of children adopted – 190! This is easily the highest total ever. To those who have adopted a child, please return your gifts (unwrapped) to the communications office no later than this Friday, Dec. 12. Gift distribution begins Monday, Dec. 15.
• FYI – employees cannot attend Apprentice Orientation sessions on company time.
• The annual Chassis Christmas Party will be Friday, Dec. 19 at Maggie Malones after first shift. There will be free food, drink specials, prizes and live music as well as a visit from Santa! All are welcome so come and join us for an evening of fun and holiday cheer. For more info contact Susan Daniel (Picou) at column F-43 of the engine line.
• The UAW has been certified as the representative of more than 45% of Volkswagen's workers in Chattanooga, Tenn., a major victory for the union, which has been trying to gain a foothold in the South and in foreign auto plants. The results of the independent audit of union membership clear the way for the union to meet regularly with management on workplace issues.
Gary Casteel, secretary-treasurer of the UAW, who heads the International Union’s Transnational Department, released the following statement regarding Volkswagen's verification of the membership of UAW Local 42: "We appreciate Volkswagen's timely response in verifying UAW Local 42’s substantial membership level, which exceeds a majority of workers at the plant. As anticipated, we surpassed the highest level under Volkswagen's new Community Organization Engagement policy, and the local leadership is ready to move forward with additional conversations with the company. In the initial conversations, the local union will remind Human Resources and the Chattanooga Executive Committee of the mutually agreed-upon commitments that were made by Volkswagen and the UAW last spring in Germany. Among those commitments: Volkswagen will recognize the UAW as the representative of our members. We believe Volkswagen made this commitment in good faith and we believe the company will honor this commitment. Additionally, the local union will present the Chattanooga plant management with the September letter of intent in which the Volkswagen Global Group Works Council expressed its desire for the Chattanooga plant to be a ‘UAW-represented facility.' With this in mind, we will be working toward the process of collective bargaining with the company.”
• From the Wall Street Journal: Workers at U.S. assembly plants for General Motors Co. and Ford Motor Co. are likely to get 2014 bonuses exceeding $6,000 each, capping a four-year labor contract under which profit-sharing checks have gone to factory employees in record amounts. But the United Auto Workers union, gearing up for negotiations with Detroit’s Big Three next summer, is prepared to argue that isn’t good enough.
After 10 years without hourly wage increases as well as an agreement by the union to accept lower pay for new hires, compensation is increasingly tied to the auto makers’ performance, which has been in a boom-or-bust cycle for decades. “Workers at GM, Ford and Chrysler have made painful sacrifices,” UAW Vice President Cindy
Estrada said in an interview. “Now it’s time for workers to share in the success, too.”
Ms. Estrada, entering her first contract talks as the lead GM negotiator, said it is too early to discuss specifics. “I don’t want to talk about bargaining now, because we’re not bargaining,” she added. Ms. Estrada also oversees UAW activities tied to auto-parts suppliers. She said “this bargaining is important for all,” noting that some auto jobs at U.S. parts makers pay less than $10 an hour, forcing workers to go on food stamps or work elsewhere.
In discussions with UAW officials in October, Ms. Estrada and UAW President Dennis Williams said two-tier wages must be addressed. Mr. Williams, who was elected in 2014, has consistently said he aims to “close the gap” between what legacy UAW workers—hired before the U.S. economic crisis—are paid and what new hires earn. One of the UAW’s rallying cries in months to come is expected to be “no more tiers.”
Officials working for Detroit auto makers anticipate coming to a solution on two-tier wages that will make the UAW more comfortable, people familiar with the strategy say. Pay increases are not off the table. But the companies plan to continue pursuing pay structures that are heavy on variable compensation so they can avoid the troubles they had when the economy skidded in 2007, according to people familiar with the negotiating strategy.
Citing hourly-pay flexibility as a big factor, GM, Ford and Chrysler have invested billions of dollars in U.S. plants and hired tens of thousands of workers in recent years. Ford, for instance, will have hired 14,000 by the end of 2015, 2,000 more than it initially committed to. Chrysler has pledged $5.3 billion in U.S. factory investments over the term, $800 million more than its initial commitment. To keep the money flowing, the UAW is seen as needing to continue to protect the Big Three from the consequences of a downturn by providing another contract laden with incentives that doesn’t drive up fixed costs.
Ms. Estrada said Detroit shouldn’t perceive labor as the source of its problems. “These companies didn’t go bankrupt because of their workers,” she said, adding that what “UAW workers did [to help bail out Detroit] was smart” and a template for how the union would respond in the face of crisis. “We have shown over and over that we will come to the table,” she said.
• Ford is no doubt still licking their wounds from the 3rd place finish for the F150 pickup in this year’s Motor Trend truck of the year contest. But a Car and Driver review of that pickup seems to validate the decision. Among other things, they point out that the truck they tested was 519 pounds lighter than its predecessor, not 700 (which makes the Ford only 150 to 200 pounds lighter than a comparable Silverado). They also say the cabin is “almost as quiet as the Silverado” and the brakes have a “touchy pedal that delivers no feedback.” Going inside the cab, they say, “the primary dash plastics are still relatively low-rent, and the fit and finish fall well behind what Chevrolet and Ram have achieved.” Focusing on price, “We drove a low spec, 4-dr XLT model with the 2.7 V6, cloth seats, rear wheel drive and few creature comforts that stickered at $42,875. Affordability is a problem…”.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Monday, December 8, 2014
State of the Union December 6, 2014
December 6, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• The Body Shop Bake Sale will be Monday, Dec. 8 and held at column S-21. All proceeds will go to leveling gifts for Adopt-A-Child. Thanks in advance for your support of this great program. And speaking of that, please return your child’s gifts to the communications office no later than next Friday, Dec. 12. And remember to put the child information sheet with the gifts so we know who gets what (as always, do not wrap the gifts). This year over 160 children were adopted, an all-time high. Because of your generosity, many children will now have a great Christmas that otherwise would not. Thanks again!
• Friday, Dec. 12 is also the deadline for turning in resolutions for the upcoming National Negotiations in 2015. Forms are available from your committee person or at the Union Hall and you can return them to same. All resolutions (except duplicates) will be submitted for negotiations.
• FYI – to whom it may concern; the apprentice orientation letters have been mailed.
• The annual Chassis Christmas Party will be Friday, Dec. 19 at Maggie Malones after first shift. There will be free food, drink specials, prizes and live music as well as a visit from Santa! All are welcome so come and join us for an evening of fun and holiday cheer. For more info contact Susan Daniel (Picou) at column F-43 of the engine line.
• As you may remember, our van sales dipped again last month, but this is certainly not a function of a lack of orders. Here are the segment results for full-sized vans:
2014 2013 Change Share GM 5194 7311 - 29% 24.5% Ford Transit 4851 --- --- 22.9% Ford Econoline 4151 10,145 - 59.1% 19.6% Ram Promaster 3290 828 +297% 15.5% Mercedes Sprinter 2532 2010 +26% 12.0% Nissan NV 1141 990 +15.3% 5.4% And here’s a look at midsize truck sales for November: 2014 2013 Change Share Toyota Tacoma 13,018 12,601 + 3.3% 56.4% Nissan Frontier 6,332 6,003 + 5.5% 27.4% Chevy Colorado 2,336 --- --- 10.1% GMC Canyon 854 --- --- 3.7% Honda Ridgeline 535 1,353 - 60.5% 2.3%
• We’re still basking in the glow of Motor Trend’s unanimous decision to recognize the Colorado as the 2015 Truck of the Year. Editor-in-chief Ed Loh has stood defiant in the face of criticism that the Ford F150 should’ve gotten the award instead (it finished 3rd behind the Transit van). Scott Burgess, Motor Trend’s Detroit editor and one of the judges, weighed in with this:
It’s rare for any vehicle to get unanimous approval from Motor Trend editors. But the Chevrolet Colorado did just that winning the 2015 Motor Trend Truck of the Year in a landslide. For me, it wasn’t the nicely loaded Colorado Crew Cab Z71 that convinced me to vote for the Colorado. That’s a great pickup, riding high on those bouncy Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain tires with a promise of off-road hoopties. It was the least assuming truck out of the 10 vehicles we drove, tested, loaded and unloaded for nearly a week in Arizona. A very basic, extended cab Chevy work truck with a price tag of $23,300.
First, that’s something you rarely hear anymore: A pickup costing less than an addition to your house. This little truck is downright affordable. But it never felt cheap. Many editors noted the interior comfort, the quiet ride and how it seemed the right size for the right price at the right time.
In the Motor Trend story, I note the Texasification of pickups. It’s been an ongoing issue as fullsize pickups continue to grow larger– often out performing heavy-duty pickups from two decades ago. They are truly testaments to engineering capability. (Full disclosure, at one point, we drove the Colorado next to a ‘90s Chevy S-10 and were blown away at how big the Colorado looked.) But the world is not just one giant construction site or open country where someone needs to wrap chains around a rock and pull it somewhere. There are city streets to traverse, suburban neighborhoods to cruise down, Home Depot parking lots to squeeze into and fullsize pickups can be challenging in tight spaces. Fitting one in your garage can be a hassle if not a physical impossibility. Every time I got out of a fullsize truck and jumped into the Colorado, it was much easier to drive. In fact, it is downright fun with sharp steering feel, nice acceleration and a nimbleness that big rigs inherently don’t possess.
Of course, Truck of the Year testing is not a direct head-to-head comparison. The Colorado did not beat the Ford F-150 or the GMC HD 2500 in a showdown. In fact, if you’re looking to buy a fullsize pickup, the choices are nearly limitless with fantastic pickups from Ram, Ford and GM. But the Colorado did outperform everyone against the testing regiment Motor Trend has in place. Really, the Colorado is a big test for Chevrolet and consumers. The midsize pickup segment has been shrinking for decades. American pickup makers, Ford, GM and Ram have all said in the past that little trucks never made sense because their price point is too low, they steal business from the more profitable fullsize trucks and why would a person buy a midsize truck when they could get a fullsize truck for the same price.
My answer has always been: Because some people want a smaller truck. And make no mistake, the Colorado is the best midsize pickup in its class. Furthermore, the Colorado doesn’t pretend to be a midsize Silverado. It doesn’t tow as much, carry as much or weigh as much. It’s not supposed to. True pickup guys may grumble, but this pickup wasn’t made for them.
Designers took a lot of care to make sure they weren’t creating a baby Silverado. Instead, they designed an aggressive looking pickup and gave it all of those cool Silverado features such as the bumper step, cargo management system and plush interior. A smaller pickup means it will have a lot more versatility than its bigger counterparts. This is truly a lifestyle vehicle that could handle daily commutes without emptying the tank; weekend camping trips and the occasional run to the hardware store. You may not want to build a new house with this truck, but you can certainly fix the one you live in with it. Sure, a bigger rig can do many of those things, but downsizing one’s life can certainly include the vehicle you choose to keep in your driveway. Particularly this one, as it takes up a little less space, uses a little less gas and leaves a few more dollars in your wallet than its bigger counterparts.
So congratulations to the Chevrolet Colorado for winning Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year honors for 2015. To the engineers, designers, factory workers and executives who brought new life to a midsize pickup, it’s a well-deserved award for your tireless dedication and work. Every judge agrees, and that doesn’t happen often.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• The Body Shop Bake Sale will be Monday, Dec. 8 and held at column S-21. All proceeds will go to leveling gifts for Adopt-A-Child. Thanks in advance for your support of this great program. And speaking of that, please return your child’s gifts to the communications office no later than next Friday, Dec. 12. And remember to put the child information sheet with the gifts so we know who gets what (as always, do not wrap the gifts). This year over 160 children were adopted, an all-time high. Because of your generosity, many children will now have a great Christmas that otherwise would not. Thanks again!
• Friday, Dec. 12 is also the deadline for turning in resolutions for the upcoming National Negotiations in 2015. Forms are available from your committee person or at the Union Hall and you can return them to same. All resolutions (except duplicates) will be submitted for negotiations.
• FYI – to whom it may concern; the apprentice orientation letters have been mailed.
• The annual Chassis Christmas Party will be Friday, Dec. 19 at Maggie Malones after first shift. There will be free food, drink specials, prizes and live music as well as a visit from Santa! All are welcome so come and join us for an evening of fun and holiday cheer. For more info contact Susan Daniel (Picou) at column F-43 of the engine line.
• As you may remember, our van sales dipped again last month, but this is certainly not a function of a lack of orders. Here are the segment results for full-sized vans:
2014 2013 Change Share GM 5194 7311 - 29% 24.5% Ford Transit 4851 --- --- 22.9% Ford Econoline 4151 10,145 - 59.1% 19.6% Ram Promaster 3290 828 +297% 15.5% Mercedes Sprinter 2532 2010 +26% 12.0% Nissan NV 1141 990 +15.3% 5.4% And here’s a look at midsize truck sales for November: 2014 2013 Change Share Toyota Tacoma 13,018 12,601 + 3.3% 56.4% Nissan Frontier 6,332 6,003 + 5.5% 27.4% Chevy Colorado 2,336 --- --- 10.1% GMC Canyon 854 --- --- 3.7% Honda Ridgeline 535 1,353 - 60.5% 2.3%
• We’re still basking in the glow of Motor Trend’s unanimous decision to recognize the Colorado as the 2015 Truck of the Year. Editor-in-chief Ed Loh has stood defiant in the face of criticism that the Ford F150 should’ve gotten the award instead (it finished 3rd behind the Transit van). Scott Burgess, Motor Trend’s Detroit editor and one of the judges, weighed in with this:
It’s rare for any vehicle to get unanimous approval from Motor Trend editors. But the Chevrolet Colorado did just that winning the 2015 Motor Trend Truck of the Year in a landslide. For me, it wasn’t the nicely loaded Colorado Crew Cab Z71 that convinced me to vote for the Colorado. That’s a great pickup, riding high on those bouncy Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain tires with a promise of off-road hoopties. It was the least assuming truck out of the 10 vehicles we drove, tested, loaded and unloaded for nearly a week in Arizona. A very basic, extended cab Chevy work truck with a price tag of $23,300.
First, that’s something you rarely hear anymore: A pickup costing less than an addition to your house. This little truck is downright affordable. But it never felt cheap. Many editors noted the interior comfort, the quiet ride and how it seemed the right size for the right price at the right time.
In the Motor Trend story, I note the Texasification of pickups. It’s been an ongoing issue as fullsize pickups continue to grow larger– often out performing heavy-duty pickups from two decades ago. They are truly testaments to engineering capability. (Full disclosure, at one point, we drove the Colorado next to a ‘90s Chevy S-10 and were blown away at how big the Colorado looked.) But the world is not just one giant construction site or open country where someone needs to wrap chains around a rock and pull it somewhere. There are city streets to traverse, suburban neighborhoods to cruise down, Home Depot parking lots to squeeze into and fullsize pickups can be challenging in tight spaces. Fitting one in your garage can be a hassle if not a physical impossibility. Every time I got out of a fullsize truck and jumped into the Colorado, it was much easier to drive. In fact, it is downright fun with sharp steering feel, nice acceleration and a nimbleness that big rigs inherently don’t possess.
Of course, Truck of the Year testing is not a direct head-to-head comparison. The Colorado did not beat the Ford F-150 or the GMC HD 2500 in a showdown. In fact, if you’re looking to buy a fullsize pickup, the choices are nearly limitless with fantastic pickups from Ram, Ford and GM. But the Colorado did outperform everyone against the testing regiment Motor Trend has in place. Really, the Colorado is a big test for Chevrolet and consumers. The midsize pickup segment has been shrinking for decades. American pickup makers, Ford, GM and Ram have all said in the past that little trucks never made sense because their price point is too low, they steal business from the more profitable fullsize trucks and why would a person buy a midsize truck when they could get a fullsize truck for the same price.
My answer has always been: Because some people want a smaller truck. And make no mistake, the Colorado is the best midsize pickup in its class. Furthermore, the Colorado doesn’t pretend to be a midsize Silverado. It doesn’t tow as much, carry as much or weigh as much. It’s not supposed to. True pickup guys may grumble, but this pickup wasn’t made for them.
Designers took a lot of care to make sure they weren’t creating a baby Silverado. Instead, they designed an aggressive looking pickup and gave it all of those cool Silverado features such as the bumper step, cargo management system and plush interior. A smaller pickup means it will have a lot more versatility than its bigger counterparts. This is truly a lifestyle vehicle that could handle daily commutes without emptying the tank; weekend camping trips and the occasional run to the hardware store. You may not want to build a new house with this truck, but you can certainly fix the one you live in with it. Sure, a bigger rig can do many of those things, but downsizing one’s life can certainly include the vehicle you choose to keep in your driveway. Particularly this one, as it takes up a little less space, uses a little less gas and leaves a few more dollars in your wallet than its bigger counterparts.
So congratulations to the Chevrolet Colorado for winning Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year honors for 2015. To the engineers, designers, factory workers and executives who brought new life to a midsize pickup, it’s a well-deserved award for your tireless dedication and work. Every judge agrees, and that doesn’t happen often.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
State of the Union December 2, 2014
December 2, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• Reminder: You can order jackets now through Dec. 5 at the Union Hall. These are heavier weight, lined jackets and will come with logos on the front and the UAW wheel logo on the back (all embroidered). Cost is $85 ($90 if you want your name on the front). When placing your order a $45 deposit will be required with the balance due upon receipt. Expect 4+ weeks for delivery of the jackets.
• General Motors Co. dealers in the United States delivered 225,818 vehicles last month for the company’s best November sales in seven years. Total sales were up 6 percent compared to a year ago, retail sales were up 5 percent and fleet deliveries were up 11 percent. The Buick brand had its best November since 2003. GMC had its best November since 2001, and the GMC Sierra had its best November sales ever. At Chevrolet, the Spark, Cruze and Equinox also had their best November sales ever, Silverado had its best November since 2006 and Traverse had its best November since 2010. “The buzz around Black Friday helped drive strong showroom traffic but there was a lot more at work in the market,” said Kurt McNeil, U.S. vice president of Sales Operations. “More people have jobs and job security, their wages are starting to increase, household wealth is growing and low pump prices look like they’re here to stay through 2015. All of this helped deliver an exceptional month and it will help keep auto sales at very healthy levels going forward.”
Additional November Highlights (vs. 2013 except as noted)
Chevrolet: The Cruze was up 26 percent, Spark was up 64 percent, Sonic was up 3 percent. Silverado was up 24 percent, Tahoe was up 10 percent and Traverse was up 14 percent. Dealers delivered 2,366 all-new Colorados, ahead of plan, with a low retail days supply of 21 days. GMC: GMC was up 23 percent. The Sierra was up 57 percent and the Yukon was up 14 percent. The Terrain was up 13 percent and 854 all-new Canyons were delivered, which is ahead of plan. Buick: Buick was up 27 percent. Encore had a 72 percent sales increase, LaCrosse was up 71 percent and Verano was up 22 percent.
Cadillac: Cadillac Escalade deliveries were up 75 percent, with the retail days supply very tight at 16 days. Sales of the CTS sedan increased 18 percent. Average Transaction Prices (ATPs): GM has now posted 26 consecutive months of year-over-year average transaction price (ATP) increases on the strength of new pickup trucks, SUVs and Cadillacs. ATPs were a record $35,600, according to J.D. Power PIN mid-month estimates, up $790 per unit compared to October and up $3,100 versus a year ago. GM’s November incentive spending as a percentage of ATPs was 10.4 percent, down 1.2 points month over month, while industry average spending was 9.6 percent of ATP, down 0.1 points.
Fleet and Commercial: Fleet sales were up 11 percent. Van sales totaled 5194, down 29% vs. last November.
• Now that most every automotive media outlet has done a review of the Colorado/Canyon (which have been overwhelmingly positive) it’s time for the inevitable comparisons to our competitors to begin. First out of the gate is Motor Trend, who did a 3-truck comparison with the Colorado Z71, the Tacoma TRD and the Frontier Pro 4X, all with V6 engines. The magazine article quickly dispatched the Frontier, choosing not to waste valuable print space, saying, “for more on the 3rd place finishing Nissan, visit motortrend.com”.
Going head to head with the long-time segment leading Tacoma, the first evaluation dealt with the powertrains and issues like acceleration, fuel economy and overall refinement. Doing the testing were three editors: Benson Kong, Kim Reynolds and Jason Udy. About the Toyota, “The engine note sounds as if it has half the cylinders it actually has," Reynolds observed of the Tacoma's powertrain, whereas Udy declared: "Great low-end torque. Loud exhaust, didn't like to rev, and sounded slightly strained." Turning to the Colorado, Udy again: "Initially I didn't like the sound and feel of the powertrain. It felt sluggish and didn't sound like it wanted to rev. Not as much low-end torque as the competitors' larger engines. By the end of the second day, the powertrain felt livelier. Smoothest revving engine and shifted smoothly." Acceleration times proved the superiority of the Colorado, which was quicker 0-60 mph (7.4 vs. 7.7) and in the ¼ mile. And Motor Trend’s “real fuel economy” measurement showed the Chevy topping the Toyota by 2 mpg combined. Round 1 to the Colorado.
Next up was ride and handling. Tests were done with loaded (880 lbs) and unloaded versions. Able to measure vertical movement, tests showed the Colorado registered the smallest difference between loaded and unloaded beds. Udy asserted the Bowtie truck has the "best handling feel" with its cab-isolating ride. Reynolds on the Colorado: "Its ride is more car-like than truck-like. Its smaller-than-full size results in a dramatic improvement in nimbleness. Full-size trucks can be quite ponderous." About the Tacoma, Kong wrote: “the hydraulically assisted power steering weighting would suddenly become heavy as the steering wheel passed true center.” To top it off the Chevy was quicker through the figure-eight and needed 12 less feet to stop from 60-0. Round 2 to the Colorado.
Interior features, quality and design was the final phase. Kong wrote, “There wasn't much of a contest with the interior accommodations either, with everyone preferring the Chevrolet's vastly more modern cabin as a place to spend time in.” After fiddling with each trucks' sound systems, Udy said: "Inside, the Colorado had the most comfortable seats. The materials and power lumbar helped. Best rear seat space and visibility. Nicest infotainment system, though no real nav. Best storage cubbies." The Tacoma drew scorn from Kong: “At initial inspection, some of the Tacoma's switches and the surfaces on the dashboard, panels, and headliner look like they're shared with a mid-1990s Camry.” Udy jotted down for the Toyota: "Harder to see over front headrests from back seat. Infotainment system and dash layout seemed old." Cabin noise as measured in sones was also lower in the Colorado (24.7 to 27.1). Round 3 to the Colorado.
At the end of the day, the Colorado was the unanimous winner. "Its power is smoothly delivered (almost car-like), and its steering points into a corner quite well for a truck," Reynolds determined of the matchup-winning truck. "What's not to like? If I absolutely had to have one this would be it."
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• Reminder: You can order jackets now through Dec. 5 at the Union Hall. These are heavier weight, lined jackets and will come with logos on the front and the UAW wheel logo on the back (all embroidered). Cost is $85 ($90 if you want your name on the front). When placing your order a $45 deposit will be required with the balance due upon receipt. Expect 4+ weeks for delivery of the jackets.
• General Motors Co. dealers in the United States delivered 225,818 vehicles last month for the company’s best November sales in seven years. Total sales were up 6 percent compared to a year ago, retail sales were up 5 percent and fleet deliveries were up 11 percent. The Buick brand had its best November since 2003. GMC had its best November since 2001, and the GMC Sierra had its best November sales ever. At Chevrolet, the Spark, Cruze and Equinox also had their best November sales ever, Silverado had its best November since 2006 and Traverse had its best November since 2010. “The buzz around Black Friday helped drive strong showroom traffic but there was a lot more at work in the market,” said Kurt McNeil, U.S. vice president of Sales Operations. “More people have jobs and job security, their wages are starting to increase, household wealth is growing and low pump prices look like they’re here to stay through 2015. All of this helped deliver an exceptional month and it will help keep auto sales at very healthy levels going forward.”
Additional November Highlights (vs. 2013 except as noted)
Chevrolet: The Cruze was up 26 percent, Spark was up 64 percent, Sonic was up 3 percent. Silverado was up 24 percent, Tahoe was up 10 percent and Traverse was up 14 percent. Dealers delivered 2,366 all-new Colorados, ahead of plan, with a low retail days supply of 21 days. GMC: GMC was up 23 percent. The Sierra was up 57 percent and the Yukon was up 14 percent. The Terrain was up 13 percent and 854 all-new Canyons were delivered, which is ahead of plan. Buick: Buick was up 27 percent. Encore had a 72 percent sales increase, LaCrosse was up 71 percent and Verano was up 22 percent.
Cadillac: Cadillac Escalade deliveries were up 75 percent, with the retail days supply very tight at 16 days. Sales of the CTS sedan increased 18 percent. Average Transaction Prices (ATPs): GM has now posted 26 consecutive months of year-over-year average transaction price (ATP) increases on the strength of new pickup trucks, SUVs and Cadillacs. ATPs were a record $35,600, according to J.D. Power PIN mid-month estimates, up $790 per unit compared to October and up $3,100 versus a year ago. GM’s November incentive spending as a percentage of ATPs was 10.4 percent, down 1.2 points month over month, while industry average spending was 9.6 percent of ATP, down 0.1 points.
Fleet and Commercial: Fleet sales were up 11 percent. Van sales totaled 5194, down 29% vs. last November.
• Now that most every automotive media outlet has done a review of the Colorado/Canyon (which have been overwhelmingly positive) it’s time for the inevitable comparisons to our competitors to begin. First out of the gate is Motor Trend, who did a 3-truck comparison with the Colorado Z71, the Tacoma TRD and the Frontier Pro 4X, all with V6 engines. The magazine article quickly dispatched the Frontier, choosing not to waste valuable print space, saying, “for more on the 3rd place finishing Nissan, visit motortrend.com”.
Going head to head with the long-time segment leading Tacoma, the first evaluation dealt with the powertrains and issues like acceleration, fuel economy and overall refinement. Doing the testing were three editors: Benson Kong, Kim Reynolds and Jason Udy. About the Toyota, “The engine note sounds as if it has half the cylinders it actually has," Reynolds observed of the Tacoma's powertrain, whereas Udy declared: "Great low-end torque. Loud exhaust, didn't like to rev, and sounded slightly strained." Turning to the Colorado, Udy again: "Initially I didn't like the sound and feel of the powertrain. It felt sluggish and didn't sound like it wanted to rev. Not as much low-end torque as the competitors' larger engines. By the end of the second day, the powertrain felt livelier. Smoothest revving engine and shifted smoothly." Acceleration times proved the superiority of the Colorado, which was quicker 0-60 mph (7.4 vs. 7.7) and in the ¼ mile. And Motor Trend’s “real fuel economy” measurement showed the Chevy topping the Toyota by 2 mpg combined. Round 1 to the Colorado.
Next up was ride and handling. Tests were done with loaded (880 lbs) and unloaded versions. Able to measure vertical movement, tests showed the Colorado registered the smallest difference between loaded and unloaded beds. Udy asserted the Bowtie truck has the "best handling feel" with its cab-isolating ride. Reynolds on the Colorado: "Its ride is more car-like than truck-like. Its smaller-than-full size results in a dramatic improvement in nimbleness. Full-size trucks can be quite ponderous." About the Tacoma, Kong wrote: “the hydraulically assisted power steering weighting would suddenly become heavy as the steering wheel passed true center.” To top it off the Chevy was quicker through the figure-eight and needed 12 less feet to stop from 60-0. Round 2 to the Colorado.
Interior features, quality and design was the final phase. Kong wrote, “There wasn't much of a contest with the interior accommodations either, with everyone preferring the Chevrolet's vastly more modern cabin as a place to spend time in.” After fiddling with each trucks' sound systems, Udy said: "Inside, the Colorado had the most comfortable seats. The materials and power lumbar helped. Best rear seat space and visibility. Nicest infotainment system, though no real nav. Best storage cubbies." The Tacoma drew scorn from Kong: “At initial inspection, some of the Tacoma's switches and the surfaces on the dashboard, panels, and headliner look like they're shared with a mid-1990s Camry.” Udy jotted down for the Toyota: "Harder to see over front headrests from back seat. Infotainment system and dash layout seemed old." Cabin noise as measured in sones was also lower in the Colorado (24.7 to 27.1). Round 3 to the Colorado.
At the end of the day, the Colorado was the unanimous winner. "Its power is smoothly delivered (almost car-like), and its steering points into a corner quite well for a truck," Reynolds determined of the matchup-winning truck. "What's not to like? If I absolutely had to have one this would be it."
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
State of the Union November 11, 2014
November 11, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• From Chairman Mike Bullock: Management announced last week the operating hours for Wentzville Assembly Center when we go to three shifts. A start date of 3rd shift has not yet been finalized, but will be late in 1st quarter of 2015.
A ‘Special Application” for Shift Preference/63b transfers will tentatively be distributed November 12 to all employees. A 63b transfer is a transfer to a different classification in the plant than what you currently have, it could be in the same department or in a different department. There will be 19 different classifications available to choose from. Keep in mind if choosing a different classification it may not be available on the shift you chose. Special applications for 63b transfers and shift preferences were distributed in Paint and Body last week. We started with Paint and Body because of the long lead time necessary to train on some operations in Paint and Body.
All employees who will have seniority by December 23, 2014 are eligible to apply for a Shift Preference and Par. 63b transfer. Almost all classifications in the plant will be open for bid. The repair openings in Final Process were bid 30 days ago and filled, but there are additional openings for Utility Roll Test and Utility Drivers. The number of openings in each classification is on the back of the application next to the classification. When bidding on a classification keep in mind a shift cannot be guaranteed. Indicate on the application in priority order (1,2,3) which classification you want to transfer to, however the shift cannot be guaranteed. If your seniority will get you to the shift you prefer, it will be granted, otherwise you will go to your next priority preference. All 63b openings will be filled by those applicants wanting to change classification in seniority order.
Shift preferences are also on this application. If you wish to stay in your current department and classification you can request a change in shift on this application. If you want to go to a different classification and shift, indicate that on the special application. Those wishing to go to 3rd shift in the same department and classification will be offered those openings in seniority order before the 63b’s are offered. Again a shift cannot be guaranteed, only if your seniority will get you to an opening, and can hold the shift with your seniority date.
On both 63b transfers and shift preferences, indicate your choice by priority, i.e. 1, 2, 3. An employee’s shift choice will take priority over a classification change. For example, an employee puts in for Material and Quality. Their shift priority is 1st shift first, 3rd shift second, 2nd shift third. His/Her seniority will hold 1st shift in Material but not Quality, he/she will have their transfer to Material honored.
• Happy Veterans Day to all of our veterans here! Nearly 1000 past and current employees here are veterans. They all deserve our respect and gratitude for their service to our country. Our Veterans Day observance will be Friday, Nov. 14. Thursday Nov. 13 is a holiday pay qualifying day and a VR blackout day. Monday Nov. 17 is a VR blackout day.
• Reminder: The deadline for non-seniority employees and non-GM people to submit requests for information and qualify for the random drawing for the Apprentice Program is this Friday, Nov. 14. All requests must be postmarked by then.
• There will be a Civil Rights Committee meeting Wednesday, Nov. 12 between shifts in the cafeteria. There will be a Community Services Committee meeting Thursday, Nov. 13 between shifts in the cafeteria. There will also be a Veterans Committee meeting Thursday, Nov. 13 between shifts at the Union Hall. Anyone wishing to attend any of these meetings is welcome.
• The “Poppy Drive” to support Veteran’s activities is off to a great start - $2335 was collected at the first shift gate drive! Thanks to everyone who gave so generously
• From the Women’s Committee: Thanks to everyone who donated or purchased items at the bake sale yesterday. We collected over $1000 for Habitat for Humanity – the largest sum ever for a bake sale! We still need donations of baskets or items for a basket. You can bring them to the Suggestions office. Thanks for all your support.
• From UAW President Dennis Williams: I want to thank all the members of the UAW who took the time to go vote last week. Our union has faced many challenges over the past several years and we will face many more in the future and voting is the surest way to change the environment in our states and nation. The stark fact that so many others stayed home and did not vote is a reflection that too many Americans are being left out of an economy that promotes the success of a few, while leaving the rest of us behind. While the Republicans now have gained control of the U.S. Senate and House they also have gained responsibility for representing all Americans, not just the wealthiest among us, but also those who spoke through their silence last Tuesday. If not, they misread the Election returns and will pay a price in 2016 as the loudest voice this election was the silence of many frustrated voters who stayed home. For those of you who volunteered, did GOTV (get out the vote), knocked on doors, dropped leaflets and did tireless work a special thank you and please don't be discouraged. For every valley there is a mountaintop. See you there in 2016!
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• From Chairman Mike Bullock: Management announced last week the operating hours for Wentzville Assembly Center when we go to three shifts. A start date of 3rd shift has not yet been finalized, but will be late in 1st quarter of 2015.
A ‘Special Application” for Shift Preference/63b transfers will tentatively be distributed November 12 to all employees. A 63b transfer is a transfer to a different classification in the plant than what you currently have, it could be in the same department or in a different department. There will be 19 different classifications available to choose from. Keep in mind if choosing a different classification it may not be available on the shift you chose. Special applications for 63b transfers and shift preferences were distributed in Paint and Body last week. We started with Paint and Body because of the long lead time necessary to train on some operations in Paint and Body.
All employees who will have seniority by December 23, 2014 are eligible to apply for a Shift Preference and Par. 63b transfer. Almost all classifications in the plant will be open for bid. The repair openings in Final Process were bid 30 days ago and filled, but there are additional openings for Utility Roll Test and Utility Drivers. The number of openings in each classification is on the back of the application next to the classification. When bidding on a classification keep in mind a shift cannot be guaranteed. Indicate on the application in priority order (1,2,3) which classification you want to transfer to, however the shift cannot be guaranteed. If your seniority will get you to the shift you prefer, it will be granted, otherwise you will go to your next priority preference. All 63b openings will be filled by those applicants wanting to change classification in seniority order.
Shift preferences are also on this application. If you wish to stay in your current department and classification you can request a change in shift on this application. If you want to go to a different classification and shift, indicate that on the special application. Those wishing to go to 3rd shift in the same department and classification will be offered those openings in seniority order before the 63b’s are offered. Again a shift cannot be guaranteed, only if your seniority will get you to an opening, and can hold the shift with your seniority date.
On both 63b transfers and shift preferences, indicate your choice by priority, i.e. 1, 2, 3. An employee’s shift choice will take priority over a classification change. For example, an employee puts in for Material and Quality. Their shift priority is 1st shift first, 3rd shift second, 2nd shift third. His/Her seniority will hold 1st shift in Material but not Quality, he/she will have their transfer to Material honored.
- Shift preferences honored will be locked in until August 10, 2015
- Par. 63b transfers honored will be locked in until August 10, 2015
- Shift preference applications will be frozen from November 19th until April 1, 2015.
- If you have shift referenced since May 19th, you are ineligible to shift preference until after April 1, 2015
- If you have moved per Par. 63b since May 19th you are ineligible to apply for a Par. 63b transfer until after November 19th.
- Job selection on 3rd shift is by seniority, you cannot follow your job from 1st shift or 2nd shift to 3rd shift., unless seniority permits.
- Time limits on Par. 63b transfers, Primary bids, secondary bids, and shift preferences have been suspended
- When an employee’s shift preference application is honored under these provisions it is ounderstood that it will be to the shift of the employee’s choice, without refusal, provided the employee would otherwise be eligible for such shift in the new classification and/or department under the terms of the Local Shift Preference Agreement.
- Some manpower moves may be made out of line of seniority, all attempts will be made so as no employee is disadvantaged.
• The following rules have been established for this special application per Document 70 of the National Agreement:
• Happy Veterans Day to all of our veterans here! Nearly 1000 past and current employees here are veterans. They all deserve our respect and gratitude for their service to our country. Our Veterans Day observance will be Friday, Nov. 14. Thursday Nov. 13 is a holiday pay qualifying day and a VR blackout day. Monday Nov. 17 is a VR blackout day.
• Reminder: The deadline for non-seniority employees and non-GM people to submit requests for information and qualify for the random drawing for the Apprentice Program is this Friday, Nov. 14. All requests must be postmarked by then.
• There will be a Civil Rights Committee meeting Wednesday, Nov. 12 between shifts in the cafeteria. There will be a Community Services Committee meeting Thursday, Nov. 13 between shifts in the cafeteria. There will also be a Veterans Committee meeting Thursday, Nov. 13 between shifts at the Union Hall. Anyone wishing to attend any of these meetings is welcome.
• The “Poppy Drive” to support Veteran’s activities is off to a great start - $2335 was collected at the first shift gate drive! Thanks to everyone who gave so generously
• From the Women’s Committee: Thanks to everyone who donated or purchased items at the bake sale yesterday. We collected over $1000 for Habitat for Humanity – the largest sum ever for a bake sale! We still need donations of baskets or items for a basket. You can bring them to the Suggestions office. Thanks for all your support.
• From UAW President Dennis Williams: I want to thank all the members of the UAW who took the time to go vote last week. Our union has faced many challenges over the past several years and we will face many more in the future and voting is the surest way to change the environment in our states and nation. The stark fact that so many others stayed home and did not vote is a reflection that too many Americans are being left out of an economy that promotes the success of a few, while leaving the rest of us behind. While the Republicans now have gained control of the U.S. Senate and House they also have gained responsibility for representing all Americans, not just the wealthiest among us, but also those who spoke through their silence last Tuesday. If not, they misread the Election returns and will pay a price in 2016 as the loudest voice this election was the silence of many frustrated voters who stayed home. For those of you who volunteered, did GOTV (get out the vote), knocked on doors, dropped leaflets and did tireless work a special thank you and please don't be discouraged. For every valley there is a mountaintop. See you there in 2016!
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
State of the Union November 5, 2014
October is typically one of the slowest months of the year for van sales and this year was no different. Here's how the segment fared, minus the smaller entries like the Transit connect:
Field supplies as measured in units was largely unchanged, but measured in days supply went up due to the lower daily sales rate, going from 44 days at the end of September to 56 days at the end of October. Here's a look at the midsize pickup segment as October was our first full month of sales, albeit with very limited supply:
In a couple of months we will start to include market share calculations and field supplies. We will also be including sales from the Honda Ridgeline, which is more or less a competitor for the same buyers.
Below are the average new vehicle transaction prices for October.
•From the Women’s Committee: The annual Habitat for Humanity of St Charles County’s Celebration of the Trees Gala is Saturday, November 22nd, 2014 at the Ameristar Casino Resort and Spa. In order to ensure the success of this very important fundraiser, we are seeking donations to our Silent Auction held that night. For the last 14 years General Motors Wentzville employees have supported this event. We are asking you to help make this year the best ever. Generous donors like you are the key to our success and make it possible for Habitat for Humanity to provide families in need of housing the opportunity to have a home. We are counting on you for your support to help us and Habitat. Your donation will be listed in the event program.
There are several options: you can make a monetary donation to Habitat; build a basket yourself to be auctioned off on Sat. Nov., 22; make a monetary donation and have us build a basket on your behalf. We have to have our list complete and forwarded to Habitat by Nov. 13. Please help up support the good work of Habitat for Humanity, they help the deserving families in our community by helping them build a home. You can also attend the event if you wish. Tickets are $80 and includes an elegant dinner, live and silent auctions as well as a viewing of their beautiful professionally decorated Christmas trees. For more information go to habitatstcharles.org and click on events and celebration of trees. To purchase a ticket, reserve a table, or get sponsorship information, contact Lauren Grotegeers at lauren@habitatstcharles.org. If you have any questions please contact Becky Schieffer, Pat Wyse, Marsha Steele, Marybeth Natoli, Angela Harper or Tammy Lockhart. Thanks in advance for your support! Becky Schieffer, Pat Wyse, Marsha Steele
• Another way to support the Habitat for Humanity fundraiser is to donate and/or consume baked goods at the Bake Sale, which will be Monday, Nov. 10 at the Suggestions office. You can drop off your donations there.
• Here is another Colorado/Canyon review, this time from Karl Brauer, Kelly Blue Book analyst and editor: Bold ad campaigns and creative positioning are all well and good, but if a vehicle doesn’t offer real advantages in today’s competitive environment it’s destined to fail. To GM’s credit, the new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon have a wide array of segment-first features and advanced technology. After driving both trucks I can confirm their advantages in the areas of performance, design, build quality, refinement and innovative features. For example, the base engine for either truck is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that offers 200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque. Those horsepower and torque numbers beat the competition from Nissan and Toyota by sizable margins while still matching them in overall fuel efficiency. Interior design, as reflected in the Colorado and Canyon’s functionality, material quality and space, is another area where GM’s trucks have it all over the competition. Advanced features, including up to 4 USB ports, optional 4G LTE connectivity, a standard rear camera, optional lane departing warning and forward collision alert, plus an available 8-inch touchscreen, set a new technology standard in the midsize truck category. The Colorado and Canyon also proved quieter than their competitors at highway speeds due to the triple-sealed, inlaid door design and the use of wheelhouse liners and under floor sound insulation. After spending quality time in the new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon (as well as their competition) it was obvious GM has set a new benchmark in the midsize truck category. Nissan’s Frontier and Toyota’s Tacoma will both receive updates in the next two years, but until then GM’s offerings have a clear advantage. Nissan’s Frontier and Toyota’s Tacoma will both receive updates in the next two years, but until then GM’s offerings have a clear advantage.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
| 2014 | 2013 | Change | Share | |
| GM | 6601 | 7552 | -12.6% | 35.4% |
| Ford Econoline | 4712 | 9508 | -50.4% | 25.3% |
| Ford Transit | 2257 | --- | --- | 12.1% |
| Mercedes Sprinter | 2140 | 2038 | +5% | 11.5% |
| Ram ProMaster | 1723 | 570 | +202% | 9.2% |
| Nissan NV | 1220 | 1006 | +21.3% | 6.6% |
Field supplies as measured in units was largely unchanged, but measured in days supply went up due to the lower daily sales rate, going from 44 days at the end of September to 56 days at the end of October. Here's a look at the midsize pickup segment as October was our first full month of sales, albeit with very limited supply:
| 2014 | 2013 | Change | Share | |
| Toyota Tacoma | 13,010 | 12,351 | +5.3% | |
| Nissan Frontier | 6,568 | 5,242 | +25.3% | |
| Chevy Colorado | 1,491 | |||
| GMC Canyon | 667 | |||
| Honda Ridgeline | 802 | 1,239 | -35.3% |
In a couple of months we will start to include market share calculations and field supplies. We will also be including sales from the Honda Ridgeline, which is more or less a competitor for the same buyers.
Below are the average new vehicle transaction prices for October.
•From the Women’s Committee: The annual Habitat for Humanity of St Charles County’s Celebration of the Trees Gala is Saturday, November 22nd, 2014 at the Ameristar Casino Resort and Spa. In order to ensure the success of this very important fundraiser, we are seeking donations to our Silent Auction held that night. For the last 14 years General Motors Wentzville employees have supported this event. We are asking you to help make this year the best ever. Generous donors like you are the key to our success and make it possible for Habitat for Humanity to provide families in need of housing the opportunity to have a home. We are counting on you for your support to help us and Habitat. Your donation will be listed in the event program.
There are several options: you can make a monetary donation to Habitat; build a basket yourself to be auctioned off on Sat. Nov., 22; make a monetary donation and have us build a basket on your behalf. We have to have our list complete and forwarded to Habitat by Nov. 13. Please help up support the good work of Habitat for Humanity, they help the deserving families in our community by helping them build a home. You can also attend the event if you wish. Tickets are $80 and includes an elegant dinner, live and silent auctions as well as a viewing of their beautiful professionally decorated Christmas trees. For more information go to habitatstcharles.org and click on events and celebration of trees. To purchase a ticket, reserve a table, or get sponsorship information, contact Lauren Grotegeers at lauren@habitatstcharles.org. If you have any questions please contact Becky Schieffer, Pat Wyse, Marsha Steele, Marybeth Natoli, Angela Harper or Tammy Lockhart. Thanks in advance for your support! Becky Schieffer, Pat Wyse, Marsha Steele
• Another way to support the Habitat for Humanity fundraiser is to donate and/or consume baked goods at the Bake Sale, which will be Monday, Nov. 10 at the Suggestions office. You can drop off your donations there.
• Here is another Colorado/Canyon review, this time from Karl Brauer, Kelly Blue Book analyst and editor: Bold ad campaigns and creative positioning are all well and good, but if a vehicle doesn’t offer real advantages in today’s competitive environment it’s destined to fail. To GM’s credit, the new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon have a wide array of segment-first features and advanced technology. After driving both trucks I can confirm their advantages in the areas of performance, design, build quality, refinement and innovative features. For example, the base engine for either truck is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that offers 200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque. Those horsepower and torque numbers beat the competition from Nissan and Toyota by sizable margins while still matching them in overall fuel efficiency. Interior design, as reflected in the Colorado and Canyon’s functionality, material quality and space, is another area where GM’s trucks have it all over the competition. Advanced features, including up to 4 USB ports, optional 4G LTE connectivity, a standard rear camera, optional lane departing warning and forward collision alert, plus an available 8-inch touchscreen, set a new technology standard in the midsize truck category. The Colorado and Canyon also proved quieter than their competitors at highway speeds due to the triple-sealed, inlaid door design and the use of wheelhouse liners and under floor sound insulation. After spending quality time in the new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon (as well as their competition) it was obvious GM has set a new benchmark in the midsize truck category. Nissan’s Frontier and Toyota’s Tacoma will both receive updates in the next two years, but until then GM’s offerings have a clear advantage. Nissan’s Frontier and Toyota’s Tacoma will both receive updates in the next two years, but until then GM’s offerings have a clear advantage.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
State of the Union October 22, 2014
October 22, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• The Bargaining Committee is accepting resolutions for upcoming national negotiations now through December 12. Forms are available from your committee person or at the Union Hall and can be turned back into same. All resolutions (except redundant ones) will be submitted to the International Union.
• The Community Services Committee is holding a raffle to level the gifts for the annual Adopt-A-Child Program. Prizes are a $200 Ameristar Gift Card, a $100 Bear Creek golf club gift card and a $50 gas card. Tickets are $5 apiece or 3 for $10 and can be purchased from any committee member. Drawing will be Oct. 29 at 8 pm in the cafeteria.
• The Civil Rights Committee is having a meeting Wednesday, Oct. 22 between shifts in the cafeteria.
• The November production schedule is out and it features daily overtime (9.6 hours off the K-line) as well as two Saturdays – Nov. 8 and 22. Remember, all production schedules are subject to change. Tuesday, Nov. 4 is a holiday (election day) and Friday, Nov. 14 is the Veterans Day observance day. The Thanksgiving holiday is Thursday, Nov. 27 and Friday, Nov. 28.
• GM will be reporting 3rd quarter earnings this Thursday, Oct. 23, beginning at 7:30 am. To date we have accumulated $1750 in profit share. The concensus among analysts for GM’s 3rd quarter earnings is for slightly better earnings than last year’s 3rd quarter, which was $2.2 billion in North America. If the analysts are correct, then we could get another $2000 in profit share. While these analysts are often wrong (though never in doubt) GM did report their highest 3rd quarter sales since 1980 and had the highest average transaction prices in the US ever, lending credence to projections of improved financial performance.
• Our pickups are now showing up in dealer inventory, and are available for purchase with your employee discount. And how much is that discount? Here’s an example: A Colorado 2-wheel drive LT crew cab with the V6, 17” aluminum wheels, backup camera, 8” touchscreen, OnStar with 4GLTE, leather tilt/telescoping steering wheel, towing package and positrack that stickers for $30,805 is employee priced at $28,283.
• From President Van Simpson: We will be conducting phone banks at the UAW Local 2250 Union Hall and Region 5 for the upcoming elections. The phone banks will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 3:00-7:00 PM and on Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM this week and next week. We would greatly appreciate your participation! Please call the hall at (636) 327-5796 to let us know when you will be available to work to help get our Labor Friendly Candidates elected on November 4, 2014! We look forward to hearing from you!
• From Edmunds.com: Special-edition models, distinctive accessories and the possibility of performance parts are part of the business plan to woo buyers to the redesigned 2015 Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck. Sandor Piszar, Chevrolet's truck marketing director, told Edmunds that special-edition models, a successful formula for the Camaro over the past years, will be applied once or twice a year during the Colorado's lifecycle to keep a buzz on the truck. "A lot of the folks on my [truck] team were working on the Camaro special-edition models and that certainly applies to trucks," Piszar said during a recent interview. "We have an enthusiastic owner base, you have a lot of competitive activity going on, and special-edition models are a great way to keep what we call 'new news' going in the showroom."
Piszar said a good example is the successful Rally Edition package available on the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado pickup. The package adds a body-color grille with a black bowtie, black mirror caps and door handles, two wide black rally stripes on the hood and other equipment. Silverado pickups equipped with that package are hot commodities, selling within 20 days of arrival at a dealership. "There is a lot of excitement around it," Piszar said. "The dealers get excited. We are going to do the exact same thing with Colorado."
Duncan Aldred, Buick-GMC sales and marketing vice president, told Edmunds the 2015 GMC Canyon will follow a similar path. "We believe that is an important part of the lifecycle management for a truck in this space," Aldred said. "We will be doing that."
Piszar said Chevrolet is considering a wide range of performance parts for the Colorado, including intake and exhaust systems, brake kits and suspension systems. "These are all things that a lot of consumers consider or add when they buy a truck so we think there is an opportunity there for us to help them with that customization, right from the showroom floor," he said. No timetable was given as to when the performance parts might be offered.
However, both the Colorado and Canyon at launch are available with about 50 accessories that are specially designed for the pickups. For example, there are four different styles of assist steps, two separate tonneau covers, plus ladder racks, fender flares, and other equipment. "This is really the first truck that we have aligned our accessory offerings right at launch," Piszar said.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• The Bargaining Committee is accepting resolutions for upcoming national negotiations now through December 12. Forms are available from your committee person or at the Union Hall and can be turned back into same. All resolutions (except redundant ones) will be submitted to the International Union.
• The Community Services Committee is holding a raffle to level the gifts for the annual Adopt-A-Child Program. Prizes are a $200 Ameristar Gift Card, a $100 Bear Creek golf club gift card and a $50 gas card. Tickets are $5 apiece or 3 for $10 and can be purchased from any committee member. Drawing will be Oct. 29 at 8 pm in the cafeteria.
• The Civil Rights Committee is having a meeting Wednesday, Oct. 22 between shifts in the cafeteria.
• The November production schedule is out and it features daily overtime (9.6 hours off the K-line) as well as two Saturdays – Nov. 8 and 22. Remember, all production schedules are subject to change. Tuesday, Nov. 4 is a holiday (election day) and Friday, Nov. 14 is the Veterans Day observance day. The Thanksgiving holiday is Thursday, Nov. 27 and Friday, Nov. 28.
• GM will be reporting 3rd quarter earnings this Thursday, Oct. 23, beginning at 7:30 am. To date we have accumulated $1750 in profit share. The concensus among analysts for GM’s 3rd quarter earnings is for slightly better earnings than last year’s 3rd quarter, which was $2.2 billion in North America. If the analysts are correct, then we could get another $2000 in profit share. While these analysts are often wrong (though never in doubt) GM did report their highest 3rd quarter sales since 1980 and had the highest average transaction prices in the US ever, lending credence to projections of improved financial performance.
• Our pickups are now showing up in dealer inventory, and are available for purchase with your employee discount. And how much is that discount? Here’s an example: A Colorado 2-wheel drive LT crew cab with the V6, 17” aluminum wheels, backup camera, 8” touchscreen, OnStar with 4GLTE, leather tilt/telescoping steering wheel, towing package and positrack that stickers for $30,805 is employee priced at $28,283.
• From President Van Simpson: We will be conducting phone banks at the UAW Local 2250 Union Hall and Region 5 for the upcoming elections. The phone banks will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 3:00-7:00 PM and on Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM this week and next week. We would greatly appreciate your participation! Please call the hall at (636) 327-5796 to let us know when you will be available to work to help get our Labor Friendly Candidates elected on November 4, 2014! We look forward to hearing from you!
• From Edmunds.com: Special-edition models, distinctive accessories and the possibility of performance parts are part of the business plan to woo buyers to the redesigned 2015 Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck. Sandor Piszar, Chevrolet's truck marketing director, told Edmunds that special-edition models, a successful formula for the Camaro over the past years, will be applied once or twice a year during the Colorado's lifecycle to keep a buzz on the truck. "A lot of the folks on my [truck] team were working on the Camaro special-edition models and that certainly applies to trucks," Piszar said during a recent interview. "We have an enthusiastic owner base, you have a lot of competitive activity going on, and special-edition models are a great way to keep what we call 'new news' going in the showroom."
Piszar said a good example is the successful Rally Edition package available on the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado pickup. The package adds a body-color grille with a black bowtie, black mirror caps and door handles, two wide black rally stripes on the hood and other equipment. Silverado pickups equipped with that package are hot commodities, selling within 20 days of arrival at a dealership. "There is a lot of excitement around it," Piszar said. "The dealers get excited. We are going to do the exact same thing with Colorado."
Duncan Aldred, Buick-GMC sales and marketing vice president, told Edmunds the 2015 GMC Canyon will follow a similar path. "We believe that is an important part of the lifecycle management for a truck in this space," Aldred said. "We will be doing that."
Piszar said Chevrolet is considering a wide range of performance parts for the Colorado, including intake and exhaust systems, brake kits and suspension systems. "These are all things that a lot of consumers consider or add when they buy a truck so we think there is an opportunity there for us to help them with that customization, right from the showroom floor," he said. No timetable was given as to when the performance parts might be offered.
However, both the Colorado and Canyon at launch are available with about 50 accessories that are specially designed for the pickups. For example, there are four different styles of assist steps, two separate tonneau covers, plus ladder racks, fender flares, and other equipment. "This is really the first truck that we have aligned our accessory offerings right at launch," Piszar said.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Friday, October 17, 2014
October 16, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• The Bargaining Committee is accepting resolutions for upcoming national negotiations now through December 12. Forms are available from your committee person or at the Union Hall and can be turned back into same. All resolutions (except redundant ones) will be submitted to the International Union.
• Beginning today and running through Monday, Oct. 20, you can submit an entry for the flu shot lottery (form located on back). Please fill out the form entirely and drop it in one of the Suggestion boxes located at the entrances. The plan is to create a schedule from the entries and begin giving out flu shots as soon as possible. We have 450 shots available, so that number of entries will be drawn in the lottery.
• The Community Services Committee is holding a raffle to level the gifts for the annual Adopt-A-Child Program. Prizes are a $200 Ameristar Gift Card, a $100 Bear Creek golf club gift card and a $50 gas card. Tickets are $5 apiece or 3 for $10 and can be purchased from any committee member.
• Davis Vision will be the provider of vision benefits for retirees through the VEBA trust. According to a statement from Davis, retirees will have coverage that will include eye exams and eyewear. No other details were available.
• The Detroit News recently had a wide ranging interview with UAW President Dennis Williams. The following are excerpts from that interview:
o In preparation for national negotiations, “We're shaking it up a little bit. We're actually restructuring internally. We know we have a lot to do — but we don't want to put so much on our plate that we can't achieve nothing."
o Regarding negotiations on wages, "We have to be focused on bridging that gap (between tier 2 and traditional employees). The companies need to recognize the fact that the (veteran employees) haven't had a raise”….. At the same time, Williams says, the union has to be "mindful that we are in a global economy with real competition."
o Speaking about meetings with the CEOs of the Big 3, they haven't been a "deep dialogue," he says. Rather, he characterized them as sessions to get to know each other.
o Williams said a strike is not inevitable next year in contract negotiations, despite suggestions by some observers. "We don't want to have a confrontation unnecessarily. I just think there's too much at stake for any of us to pick a fight with one another," he said. "We have big issues — there's no doubt about it — but I think, realistically, companies have to know... our members have sacrificed. I think that new people coming in want a higher standard of living and I don't think that's unreasonable. We'll find out when we get to the table."
o About the upcoming option for Michigan UAW members’ ability to opt out of the Union at the end of the current agreement because of the state’s right to work status, "This is new to our members, this is new to the state of Michigan — so we'll deal with it, but it's not going to be a total focus of mine." He said that in other right-to-work states, the union has been successful in retaining the vast majority of its members. "I've always believed that if you do your job representing people, that people will be there to support you."
o On organizing efforts at foreign transplants, "We're not going to give up on organizing. In fact, actually we have more organizing going on right now than we've had for a long time — but we're going to approach it in a different way.” Williams cited parts companies, the gaming industry and higher education as potential areas for new members. "The UAW has a great opportunity to grow," he said.
Official Flu Shot Lottery Entry Form
Flu shots are for regular active hourly and salaried employees. Please fill out the form below and place it in one of the Suggestions boxes located at the entrances no later than Oct. 20. Please enter only once. Lottery winners will be notified by their department advisors/supervisors. Shots will be given in the Medical Department.
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY
NAME________________________________________________________________
DEPARTMENT NAME/NUMBER_________________________________________
GMIN_________________________________________________________________
SHIFT ________________________________________________________________
PLEASE CHECK ONE: Salaried Employee ( ) OR Hourly Employee ( )
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• The Bargaining Committee is accepting resolutions for upcoming national negotiations now through December 12. Forms are available from your committee person or at the Union Hall and can be turned back into same. All resolutions (except redundant ones) will be submitted to the International Union.
• Beginning today and running through Monday, Oct. 20, you can submit an entry for the flu shot lottery (form located on back). Please fill out the form entirely and drop it in one of the Suggestion boxes located at the entrances. The plan is to create a schedule from the entries and begin giving out flu shots as soon as possible. We have 450 shots available, so that number of entries will be drawn in the lottery.
• The Community Services Committee is holding a raffle to level the gifts for the annual Adopt-A-Child Program. Prizes are a $200 Ameristar Gift Card, a $100 Bear Creek golf club gift card and a $50 gas card. Tickets are $5 apiece or 3 for $10 and can be purchased from any committee member.
• Davis Vision will be the provider of vision benefits for retirees through the VEBA trust. According to a statement from Davis, retirees will have coverage that will include eye exams and eyewear. No other details were available.
• The Detroit News recently had a wide ranging interview with UAW President Dennis Williams. The following are excerpts from that interview:
o In preparation for national negotiations, “We're shaking it up a little bit. We're actually restructuring internally. We know we have a lot to do — but we don't want to put so much on our plate that we can't achieve nothing."
o Regarding negotiations on wages, "We have to be focused on bridging that gap (between tier 2 and traditional employees). The companies need to recognize the fact that the (veteran employees) haven't had a raise”….. At the same time, Williams says, the union has to be "mindful that we are in a global economy with real competition."
o Speaking about meetings with the CEOs of the Big 3, they haven't been a "deep dialogue," he says. Rather, he characterized them as sessions to get to know each other.
o Williams said a strike is not inevitable next year in contract negotiations, despite suggestions by some observers. "We don't want to have a confrontation unnecessarily. I just think there's too much at stake for any of us to pick a fight with one another," he said. "We have big issues — there's no doubt about it — but I think, realistically, companies have to know... our members have sacrificed. I think that new people coming in want a higher standard of living and I don't think that's unreasonable. We'll find out when we get to the table."
o About the upcoming option for Michigan UAW members’ ability to opt out of the Union at the end of the current agreement because of the state’s right to work status, "This is new to our members, this is new to the state of Michigan — so we'll deal with it, but it's not going to be a total focus of mine." He said that in other right-to-work states, the union has been successful in retaining the vast majority of its members. "I've always believed that if you do your job representing people, that people will be there to support you."
o On organizing efforts at foreign transplants, "We're not going to give up on organizing. In fact, actually we have more organizing going on right now than we've had for a long time — but we're going to approach it in a different way.” Williams cited parts companies, the gaming industry and higher education as potential areas for new members. "The UAW has a great opportunity to grow," he said.
Official Flu Shot Lottery Entry Form
Flu shots are for regular active hourly and salaried employees. Please fill out the form below and place it in one of the Suggestions boxes located at the entrances no later than Oct. 20. Please enter only once. Lottery winners will be notified by their department advisors/supervisors. Shots will be given in the Medical Department.
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY
NAME________________________________________________________________
DEPARTMENT NAME/NUMBER_________________________________________
GMIN_________________________________________________________________
SHIFT ________________________________________________________________
PLEASE CHECK ONE: Salaried Employee ( ) OR Hourly Employee ( )
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Monday, October 13, 2014
State of the Union October 13, 2014
October 13, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• Beginning today and running through Monday, Oct. 20, you can submit an entry for the flu shot lottery (form located on back). Please fill out the form entirely and drop it in one of the Suggestion boxes locate at the entrances. The plan is to create a schedule from the entries and begin giving out flu shots as soon as possible. We have 450 shots available, so that number of entries will be drawn in the lottery.
• If you have questions about the Apprentice Program, the Apprentice Committee will be at the Union meetings this week to answer any questions. Meeting times are 15 minutes after the longest 2nd shift line time from Tuesday, and Wednesday at 7:15 am, 1 pm and 15 minutes after the longest 1st shift line time
• National Diversity Day is this Wednesday, Oct. 15. Anyone interested in donating items for a 1-day display (German, French, Italian and Native American) can see Denise Black – 1st shift quality at 89 repair – or Larry Mosby on 2nd shift frame line.
• The Community Services Committee is holding a raffle to support the annual Adopt-A-Child Program. Prizes are a $200 Ameristar Gift Card, a $100 Bear Creek golf club gift card and a $50 gas card. Tickets are $5 apiece or 3 for $10 and can be purchased from any committee member.
• You may recall that van sales for September showed another healthy gain year over year. Once again we topped Ford in van sales, the 4th month in a row. Here’s how the rest of the players did:
• Looking at van field supplies, overall net field stock was virtually the same, going up only 27 units. As measured in days, the supply stands at 44, compared to 31 days supply at the end of August. Within those numbers, Chevy passenger vans dropped to only 566 units, a 13 day supply, while GMC cargo vans increased by 400 units. All other categories were basically flat. Looking at pickup sales, there were actually 47 deliveries of the Colorado/Canyon last month. Toyota sold 11,993 Tacomas, up 4.5% while Nissan sold 6853 Frontiers, up 47%. Both Toyota and Nissan have been more aggressive with incentives lately as we launch the pickups, and their increased sales reflect that.
• National Right to Work advocates are angered over “scab lists” that have been published both at UAW Local 31 (Fairfax, Kansas) and UAW Local 1853 (Spring Hill, Tennessee). Local 31 lists non-dues paying members on its website while a list was distributed at the Spring Hill plant, according to the Washington Free Beacon. “The following individuals are NON-dues paying workers. They have chosen to STOP paying Union Dues and still reap the rewards of your negotiated benefits,” the Tennessee “Scab Report” said. “If you work near one of these people listed please explain the importance of Solidarity and the power of collective bargaining.” Tennessee union President Tim Stannard contended that the list was meant to encourage dialogue between union members and their non-union colleagues.
Official Flu Shot Lottery Entry Form
Flu shots are for regular active hourly and salaried employees. Please fill out the form below and place it in one of the Suggestions boxes located at the entrances. Please enter only once. Lottery winners will be notified by their department advisors/supervisors. Shots will be given in the Medical Department.
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY
NAME_________________________________________________________________
DEPARTMENT NAME/NUMBER_________________________________________
GMIN_________________________________________________________________
SHIFT ________________________________________________________________
PLEASE CHECK ONE: Salaried Employee ( ) OR Hourly Employee ( )
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• Beginning today and running through Monday, Oct. 20, you can submit an entry for the flu shot lottery (form located on back). Please fill out the form entirely and drop it in one of the Suggestion boxes locate at the entrances. The plan is to create a schedule from the entries and begin giving out flu shots as soon as possible. We have 450 shots available, so that number of entries will be drawn in the lottery.
• If you have questions about the Apprentice Program, the Apprentice Committee will be at the Union meetings this week to answer any questions. Meeting times are 15 minutes after the longest 2nd shift line time from Tuesday, and Wednesday at 7:15 am, 1 pm and 15 minutes after the longest 1st shift line time
• National Diversity Day is this Wednesday, Oct. 15. Anyone interested in donating items for a 1-day display (German, French, Italian and Native American) can see Denise Black – 1st shift quality at 89 repair – or Larry Mosby on 2nd shift frame line.
• The Community Services Committee is holding a raffle to support the annual Adopt-A-Child Program. Prizes are a $200 Ameristar Gift Card, a $100 Bear Creek golf club gift card and a $50 gas card. Tickets are $5 apiece or 3 for $10 and can be purchased from any committee member.
• You may recall that van sales for September showed another healthy gain year over year. Once again we topped Ford in van sales, the 4th month in a row. Here’s how the rest of the players did:
| 2014 | 2013 | Change | Share | |
| GM | 7544 | 6055 | +24.6% | 39.7% |
| Ford Econoline | 5549 | 8925 | -37.8% | 29.2% |
| Mercedes Sprinter | 2208 | 2152 | +2.6% | 11.6% |
| Ram Promaster | 1408 | ---- | ---- | 7.4% |
| Ford Transit | 1225 | ---- | ---- | 6.4% |
| Nissan NV | 1061 | 945 | +12.3% | 5.6% |
| Ford Transit connect | 4132 | 3188 | +29.6% | ---- |
| Nissan NV200 | 1040 | 475 | +119% | ---- |
• Looking at van field supplies, overall net field stock was virtually the same, going up only 27 units. As measured in days, the supply stands at 44, compared to 31 days supply at the end of August. Within those numbers, Chevy passenger vans dropped to only 566 units, a 13 day supply, while GMC cargo vans increased by 400 units. All other categories were basically flat. Looking at pickup sales, there were actually 47 deliveries of the Colorado/Canyon last month. Toyota sold 11,993 Tacomas, up 4.5% while Nissan sold 6853 Frontiers, up 47%. Both Toyota and Nissan have been more aggressive with incentives lately as we launch the pickups, and their increased sales reflect that.
• National Right to Work advocates are angered over “scab lists” that have been published both at UAW Local 31 (Fairfax, Kansas) and UAW Local 1853 (Spring Hill, Tennessee). Local 31 lists non-dues paying members on its website while a list was distributed at the Spring Hill plant, according to the Washington Free Beacon. “The following individuals are NON-dues paying workers. They have chosen to STOP paying Union Dues and still reap the rewards of your negotiated benefits,” the Tennessee “Scab Report” said. “If you work near one of these people listed please explain the importance of Solidarity and the power of collective bargaining.” Tennessee union President Tim Stannard contended that the list was meant to encourage dialogue between union members and their non-union colleagues.
Flu shots are for regular active hourly and salaried employees. Please fill out the form below and place it in one of the Suggestions boxes located at the entrances. Please enter only once. Lottery winners will be notified by their department advisors/supervisors. Shots will be given in the Medical Department.
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY
NAME_________________________________________________________________
DEPARTMENT NAME/NUMBER_________________________________________
GMIN_________________________________________________________________
SHIFT ________________________________________________________________
PLEASE CHECK ONE: Salaried Employee ( ) OR Hourly Employee ( )
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Friday, October 3, 2014
State of the Union October 2, 2014
October 2, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
FROM CHAIRMAN MIKE BULLOCK:
I am proud to announce the start of the process to indenture apprentices at Wentzville Assembly center. Wentzville will be the pilot location for the return of the apprenticeship program at GM manufacturing.
The process is governed by Federal and State law and by the UAW/GM 2011 contract. It consists of 6 separate parts.
1) ANNOUNCEMENT: A posting at all the entrances and in Personnel for 30 days that GM/UAW will be accepting “requests for information” of an apprentice program opportunity. The dates for accepting the request are in the first posting. This posting will also be sent to the outreach locations listed below in the St. Louis area for non-seniority, non-GM candidates.
2) REQUEST FOR INFORMATION: For seniority employees, including anyone who will have attained their 90 days by December 19, 2014, requests will be available at the entrances starting November 3, 2014 and will be received through November 26, 2014. There will be drop boxes at the entrances for GM/UAW seniority employees. For non-seniority/non-GM employees, requests will be available at the below listed outreach locations or the entrances and received from November 3 through November 14, 2014 by mail.
3) ORIENTATION: For all UAW/GM seniority employees and for the 100 non-seniority/ non-GM candidates selected by DDI who requested information, you will be sent a notice of an orientation session that will tentatively be between December 16-19, 2014. You must attend the orientation session on the date and time you are scheduled for. If you miss this orientation session you will have to start the process over again from the beginning. At the orientation session you will be given your testing date and time, tentatively in January 2015. Also at the orientation session you will be given the web address and password of a website that will give you further information on the apprentice program and a study guide on taking the test. This web address and password will only be accessible after you attend the orientation and your password will only be available a limited time.
4) TESTING: The testing will be conducted by DDI. No one, but DDI, has access to the test, will have seen the test or have your test scores. The test consists of two parts: “reading prints and drawings” and “work judgement, style and experience”.
5) INTERVIEW: Interviews are rigidly structured like the test. All interview questions are basically the same although some may be trade specific.
6) SELECTION: Your name will be placed on a selection list using you total score from testing and interviews as a ranking.
GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE
The GM/UAW Wentzville Skilled Trades Apprenticeship Program
Non-Seniority /.Non-GM Employees -
OPENS: NOVEMBER 3, 2014 CLOSES: NOVEMBER 14, 2014
For Seniority Employees -
OPENS: NOVEMBER 3, 2014 CLOSES: NOVEMBER 26, 2014
WHAT IS THE APPRENTICESHIP PROCESS?
Skilled tradespeople at General Motors are highly trained men and women who build, operate and maintain our complex machinery and plant facilities. They use precision tools, instruments, and state-of-the-art methods to produce quality products. Skilled tradespeople are vital members of the movement toward high technology in industry today. Their jobs require a wide range of knowledge, as well as maturity and independence of judgment.
The GM/UAW Wentzville skilled trades include occupations such as; Diemaker, Electrician, Millwright, Machine Repair, Pipefitter, Stationary Engineer, and Toolmaker. Each trade is unique and important to the overall success of our operation and can be achieved by completing the Apprenticeship for the trade desired. To complete the apprenticeship requires 4 years of On the Job Training totaling (7328) hours plus College Related Classroom Courses totaling (576) hours. Courses Consist of: Math, Science, Shop, Drawing (Blueprint) & Safety.
Development Dimensions International (DDI) plays a key role in assisting local plants with the actions of the Request for Information, Orientation Session, Testing Session and Interviewing guidelines to ensure the efficiency, fairness and effectiveness of the Apprenticeship Program.
The apprenticeship process differs between GM/UAW Seniority Employees and Non-Seniority/Non-GM Employees.
Request for Apprenticeship Information: Seniority Employees fill out a Request for Apprenticeship Information (RFI) to receive an invitation to an Orientation Session and are guaranteed the opportunity to test.
Non-Seniority /.Non-GM Employees must follow the instructions found on an Information Request Envelope (IRE) sheet to receive information about the GM-UAW Wentzville Standard Apprentice Plan for Skilled Trades and qualify for the first random selection process of 250 (IREs). Non-Seniority / Non-GM Employees are subject to a second random selection process of up to one hundred, selected by DDI and then they will receive an invitation to an Orientation Session.
Orientation Session: It is very important that you attend the Orientation Session. If you fail to attend the Orientation session you will have to re-apply. At the Orientation Session, a presentation about the apprenticeship program is shown and time is provided for questions. Applicants are also given a testing date and time.
Testing: The apprentice test is divided into two sections. First is the Reading Prints and Drawings.” It will ask you to use drawings and charts to solve math problems much like apprentices use each day. The second part is the “Work Judgment, Style and Experience” and will ask you questions about your reactions to common work situations and your prior experiences in actual work situations. The maximum points you can receive for testing is 36. Your test score is what qualifies you for an interview.
Interview: The interview is rigidly structured like the test. All applicants are asked the same basic questions, although trade-specific questions may vary. The maximum points you can receive for interviewing is 21.
Selection: After the interview, your name will be placed on a selection list using your total score as ranking.
You will stay on that list for ten years or until placed into the apprenticeship program. If you have a change of address, you must contact us so that we can update your contact information.
General Motors LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer (E.O.E.)
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
SPECIAL EDITION
FROM CHAIRMAN MIKE BULLOCK:
I am proud to announce the start of the process to indenture apprentices at Wentzville Assembly center. Wentzville will be the pilot location for the return of the apprenticeship program at GM manufacturing.
The process is governed by Federal and State law and by the UAW/GM 2011 contract. It consists of 6 separate parts.
1) ANNOUNCEMENT: A posting at all the entrances and in Personnel for 30 days that GM/UAW will be accepting “requests for information” of an apprentice program opportunity. The dates for accepting the request are in the first posting. This posting will also be sent to the outreach locations listed below in the St. Louis area for non-seniority, non-GM candidates.
2) REQUEST FOR INFORMATION: For seniority employees, including anyone who will have attained their 90 days by December 19, 2014, requests will be available at the entrances starting November 3, 2014 and will be received through November 26, 2014. There will be drop boxes at the entrances for GM/UAW seniority employees. For non-seniority/non-GM employees, requests will be available at the below listed outreach locations or the entrances and received from November 3 through November 14, 2014 by mail.
3) ORIENTATION: For all UAW/GM seniority employees and for the 100 non-seniority/ non-GM candidates selected by DDI who requested information, you will be sent a notice of an orientation session that will tentatively be between December 16-19, 2014. You must attend the orientation session on the date and time you are scheduled for. If you miss this orientation session you will have to start the process over again from the beginning. At the orientation session you will be given your testing date and time, tentatively in January 2015. Also at the orientation session you will be given the web address and password of a website that will give you further information on the apprentice program and a study guide on taking the test. This web address and password will only be accessible after you attend the orientation and your password will only be available a limited time.
4) TESTING: The testing will be conducted by DDI. No one, but DDI, has access to the test, will have seen the test or have your test scores. The test consists of two parts: “reading prints and drawings” and “work judgement, style and experience”.
5) INTERVIEW: Interviews are rigidly structured like the test. All interview questions are basically the same although some may be trade specific.
6) SELECTION: Your name will be placed on a selection list using you total score from testing and interviews as a ranking.
GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE
The GM/UAW Wentzville Skilled Trades Apprenticeship Program
Non-Seniority /.Non-GM Employees -
OPENS: NOVEMBER 3, 2014 CLOSES: NOVEMBER 14, 2014
For Seniority Employees -
OPENS: NOVEMBER 3, 2014 CLOSES: NOVEMBER 26, 2014
WHAT IS THE APPRENTICESHIP PROCESS?
Skilled tradespeople at General Motors are highly trained men and women who build, operate and maintain our complex machinery and plant facilities. They use precision tools, instruments, and state-of-the-art methods to produce quality products. Skilled tradespeople are vital members of the movement toward high technology in industry today. Their jobs require a wide range of knowledge, as well as maturity and independence of judgment.
The GM/UAW Wentzville skilled trades include occupations such as; Diemaker, Electrician, Millwright, Machine Repair, Pipefitter, Stationary Engineer, and Toolmaker. Each trade is unique and important to the overall success of our operation and can be achieved by completing the Apprenticeship for the trade desired. To complete the apprenticeship requires 4 years of On the Job Training totaling (7328) hours plus College Related Classroom Courses totaling (576) hours. Courses Consist of: Math, Science, Shop, Drawing (Blueprint) & Safety.
Development Dimensions International (DDI) plays a key role in assisting local plants with the actions of the Request for Information, Orientation Session, Testing Session and Interviewing guidelines to ensure the efficiency, fairness and effectiveness of the Apprenticeship Program.
The apprenticeship process differs between GM/UAW Seniority Employees and Non-Seniority/Non-GM Employees.
Request for Apprenticeship Information: Seniority Employees fill out a Request for Apprenticeship Information (RFI) to receive an invitation to an Orientation Session and are guaranteed the opportunity to test.
Non-Seniority /.Non-GM Employees must follow the instructions found on an Information Request Envelope (IRE) sheet to receive information about the GM-UAW Wentzville Standard Apprentice Plan for Skilled Trades and qualify for the first random selection process of 250 (IREs). Non-Seniority / Non-GM Employees are subject to a second random selection process of up to one hundred, selected by DDI and then they will receive an invitation to an Orientation Session.
Orientation Session: It is very important that you attend the Orientation Session. If you fail to attend the Orientation session you will have to re-apply. At the Orientation Session, a presentation about the apprenticeship program is shown and time is provided for questions. Applicants are also given a testing date and time.
Testing: The apprentice test is divided into two sections. First is the Reading Prints and Drawings.” It will ask you to use drawings and charts to solve math problems much like apprentices use each day. The second part is the “Work Judgment, Style and Experience” and will ask you questions about your reactions to common work situations and your prior experiences in actual work situations. The maximum points you can receive for testing is 36. Your test score is what qualifies you for an interview.
Interview: The interview is rigidly structured like the test. All applicants are asked the same basic questions, although trade-specific questions may vary. The maximum points you can receive for interviewing is 21.
Selection: After the interview, your name will be placed on a selection list using your total score as ranking.
You will stay on that list for ten years or until placed into the apprenticeship program. If you have a change of address, you must contact us so that we can update your contact information.
General Motors LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer (E.O.E.)
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
State of the Union September 24, 2014
September 24, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• From the Veteran’s Committee: The 9th Annual SOS (Support our Soldiers) Poker Run is this Saturday, Sept. 27. Registration at the Union Hall begins at 10 am with last bike out by noon. Cost is $10 per bike/cage and $5 for each extra hand. All bikes and cages welcome. There will also be a 50/50 raffle. Ride ends at the Tatooed Lady in Moscow Mills. Last bike in at 7 pm. Ride will be approximately 90 miles. Proceeds benefit Operation H.E.R.O.E.S. Care. If you have any questions contact Steve Melson at 636-262-1234.
• Also: There will be a Gate Drive this Thursday, Sept. 25 before the shifts to benefit H.E.R.O.E.S. Care.
• There will be a Blood Drive at the plant Wednesday, October 1. Signups will be taken Wed. September 24 and Thur. September 25 in the cafeteria.
• The third United Way drawing will be held Thursday, Sept. 25 on first shift in the cafeteria at lunch time. You can qualify by either signing up as a new donor, increasing your donation, or changing the designation for your donations to this area. Prizes will be a Black and Decker drill and a Mega Kitchen System. Go to the Socrates home page (google “my Socrates” and click on the first result to log in) and use the United Way link to sign up or change your profile.
• The nominees for the North American Truck of the Year were announced yesterday. Both the Colorado and Canyon made the short list. The other competitors are: Audi Q3, Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford F-150, Lexus NX, Lincoln MKC, Mercedes-Benz GLA class, Nissan Murano, Porsche Macan, Subaru Outback and Toyota Highlander.
• Forbes did an article revealing which 2015 vehicles they recommended avoiding. Among them was the pseudo pickup otherwise known as the Honda Ridgeline. Said Forbes: “Not so much a pickup truck as a midsize crossover SUV with an open cargo hold; rendered irrelevant by the new Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon midsize pickups.”
• First drive reviews of the Colorado and Canyon are starting to appear. We intend to cover every one of them for you. We’ll start with the Edmunds review. Here’s some of what they had to say about the Canyon (read the full review)
o No one will miss the outgoing 185-horsepower 2.9-liter four-cylinder base engine. Its 2.5-liter replacement makes 200 hp and delivers 90 percent of its peak torque at just 2,000 rpm. Better still, the unloved 3.7-liter five-cylinder that made 242 hp and a like amount of torque is stepping aside in favor of a smooth-running 3.6-liter V6 that makes 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque.
o Like the Chevrolet Colorado, the Canyon's 3.6-liter V6 comes to life with little fanfare, and it settles into a calm idle that's accompanied by a tiny amount of mechanical engine sound.
o There's plenty of grunt when we roll gently onto the gas, and it pulls strongly when we press harder. The six-speed automatic is smooth and sure as it goes up through the gears, and there isn't much wind or road noise as we settle in at 70 mph.
o The steering has enough heft and on-center definition to make straight-ahead cruising a relaxing pursuit, and it turns in accurately when corners enter the mix. The response is a little slower than we'd like, but not by much. There's less overall body roll than the last Tacoma we drove, and it leans in more gradually. We could easily spend all day behind the wheel of one of these. It's clearly better than the Canyon of old, and it feels more grown up than the competition.
o GM engineers have found the Goldilocks zone. The ride is neither too hard over bumps, nor too floaty and bouncy when the pavement gets wavy. Yes, a lone occupant hauling nothing but Grade-A air might notice a little firmness, but that's par for the course when it comes to an empty pickup. Mostly, the Canyon shrugs off bumps and potholes with little aftertaste. The stiffness of the underlying structure is clearly helping the suspension do its job more effectively. The attractive bucket seats offer good support, and they certainly take the edge off coarser road inputs.
o The cab of the new Canyon is simply a nice place to be. It feels much more up to date and manages to translate the feel and atmosphere of GMC's full-size Sierra 1500 to a smaller package. GMC's 8-inch IntelliLink screen occupies a prominent and easy-to-reach spot in the middle of the dash, and the buttons and knobs that control it are clearly separated from the climate control array that sits a respectful distance below. Convincing stainless-steel accents set the whole thing off nicely.
Though it doesn't necessarily look it from the outside, the backseat of the crew cab offers a smidge over 2 inches more legroom than a Nissan Frontier and just over 3 inches more than a Toyota Tacoma.
o All V6-powered Canyons come with a 3.42-to-1 final drive ratio. There are no optional choices, so the same truck that can tow the maximum of 7,000 pounds can also achieve the rated fuel economy when empty. If only full-size tow ratings were this simple. A 2015 Toyota Tacoma can tow 6,500 pounds. Aside from the V6 engine, the only options necessary to achieve the max are the locking rear differential and the Z82 Trailering package (hitch and integrated seven-pin wiring). On paper there's ample power and torque, and the V6 engine comes with a Tow/Haul mode switch that has proven to be very effective in past towing tests with other six-speed-equipped GM trucks. We're pretty confident that we'll like what we see when we take a Canyon to our favorite test grade.
o The bed looks good, primarily because it's so deep: 2 more inches, according to GM. A long tailgate makes for a longer platform length when it's folded down, which is how 8-foot lumber can fit in the 6-foot 2-inch bed without hanging over.
o This Canyon has enough capability for all but the most demanding tasks of the average truck owner. It's also easier to park, gets better mileage and is more likely to fit neatly into your garage than the full-size GMC Sierra.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• From the Veteran’s Committee: The 9th Annual SOS (Support our Soldiers) Poker Run is this Saturday, Sept. 27. Registration at the Union Hall begins at 10 am with last bike out by noon. Cost is $10 per bike/cage and $5 for each extra hand. All bikes and cages welcome. There will also be a 50/50 raffle. Ride ends at the Tatooed Lady in Moscow Mills. Last bike in at 7 pm. Ride will be approximately 90 miles. Proceeds benefit Operation H.E.R.O.E.S. Care. If you have any questions contact Steve Melson at 636-262-1234.
• Also: There will be a Gate Drive this Thursday, Sept. 25 before the shifts to benefit H.E.R.O.E.S. Care.
• There will be a Blood Drive at the plant Wednesday, October 1. Signups will be taken Wed. September 24 and Thur. September 25 in the cafeteria.
• The third United Way drawing will be held Thursday, Sept. 25 on first shift in the cafeteria at lunch time. You can qualify by either signing up as a new donor, increasing your donation, or changing the designation for your donations to this area. Prizes will be a Black and Decker drill and a Mega Kitchen System. Go to the Socrates home page (google “my Socrates” and click on the first result to log in) and use the United Way link to sign up or change your profile.
• The nominees for the North American Truck of the Year were announced yesterday. Both the Colorado and Canyon made the short list. The other competitors are: Audi Q3, Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford F-150, Lexus NX, Lincoln MKC, Mercedes-Benz GLA class, Nissan Murano, Porsche Macan, Subaru Outback and Toyota Highlander.
• Forbes did an article revealing which 2015 vehicles they recommended avoiding. Among them was the pseudo pickup otherwise known as the Honda Ridgeline. Said Forbes: “Not so much a pickup truck as a midsize crossover SUV with an open cargo hold; rendered irrelevant by the new Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon midsize pickups.”
• First drive reviews of the Colorado and Canyon are starting to appear. We intend to cover every one of them for you. We’ll start with the Edmunds review. Here’s some of what they had to say about the Canyon (read the full review)
o No one will miss the outgoing 185-horsepower 2.9-liter four-cylinder base engine. Its 2.5-liter replacement makes 200 hp and delivers 90 percent of its peak torque at just 2,000 rpm. Better still, the unloved 3.7-liter five-cylinder that made 242 hp and a like amount of torque is stepping aside in favor of a smooth-running 3.6-liter V6 that makes 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque.
o Like the Chevrolet Colorado, the Canyon's 3.6-liter V6 comes to life with little fanfare, and it settles into a calm idle that's accompanied by a tiny amount of mechanical engine sound.
o There's plenty of grunt when we roll gently onto the gas, and it pulls strongly when we press harder. The six-speed automatic is smooth and sure as it goes up through the gears, and there isn't much wind or road noise as we settle in at 70 mph.
o The steering has enough heft and on-center definition to make straight-ahead cruising a relaxing pursuit, and it turns in accurately when corners enter the mix. The response is a little slower than we'd like, but not by much. There's less overall body roll than the last Tacoma we drove, and it leans in more gradually. We could easily spend all day behind the wheel of one of these. It's clearly better than the Canyon of old, and it feels more grown up than the competition.
o GM engineers have found the Goldilocks zone. The ride is neither too hard over bumps, nor too floaty and bouncy when the pavement gets wavy. Yes, a lone occupant hauling nothing but Grade-A air might notice a little firmness, but that's par for the course when it comes to an empty pickup. Mostly, the Canyon shrugs off bumps and potholes with little aftertaste. The stiffness of the underlying structure is clearly helping the suspension do its job more effectively. The attractive bucket seats offer good support, and they certainly take the edge off coarser road inputs.
o The cab of the new Canyon is simply a nice place to be. It feels much more up to date and manages to translate the feel and atmosphere of GMC's full-size Sierra 1500 to a smaller package. GMC's 8-inch IntelliLink screen occupies a prominent and easy-to-reach spot in the middle of the dash, and the buttons and knobs that control it are clearly separated from the climate control array that sits a respectful distance below. Convincing stainless-steel accents set the whole thing off nicely.
Though it doesn't necessarily look it from the outside, the backseat of the crew cab offers a smidge over 2 inches more legroom than a Nissan Frontier and just over 3 inches more than a Toyota Tacoma.
o All V6-powered Canyons come with a 3.42-to-1 final drive ratio. There are no optional choices, so the same truck that can tow the maximum of 7,000 pounds can also achieve the rated fuel economy when empty. If only full-size tow ratings were this simple. A 2015 Toyota Tacoma can tow 6,500 pounds. Aside from the V6 engine, the only options necessary to achieve the max are the locking rear differential and the Z82 Trailering package (hitch and integrated seven-pin wiring). On paper there's ample power and torque, and the V6 engine comes with a Tow/Haul mode switch that has proven to be very effective in past towing tests with other six-speed-equipped GM trucks. We're pretty confident that we'll like what we see when we take a Canyon to our favorite test grade.
o The bed looks good, primarily because it's so deep: 2 more inches, according to GM. A long tailgate makes for a longer platform length when it's folded down, which is how 8-foot lumber can fit in the 6-foot 2-inch bed without hanging over.
o This Canyon has enough capability for all but the most demanding tasks of the average truck owner. It's also easier to park, gets better mileage and is more likely to fit neatly into your garage than the full-size GMC Sierra.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
State of the Union September 10, 2014
September 10, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• This Saturday, Sept. 13, is the annual Union Picnic, to be held at the Union Hall. It will run from 1 pm to 5 pm and feature snack stations and a food buffet. Entertainment and activities will include a DJ, obstacle course, rock wall, giant slide, little bit zone and arts and crafts displays. Bring a lawn chair and your badge or Union card to get into the picnic.
• August was another big month for van sales as our vans outsold the Ford Econoline/Transit combined by over 4000 units. Here’s how the rest of the segment shook out:
2014 2013 Change Share GM 12,069 9346 +29.1% 49.0%
Ford Econoline 6,702 8631 -22.3% 27.2%
Mercedes Sprinter 1,880 1390 +35.3% 7.6%
Nissan NV 1,227 1027 +19.5% 5.0%
Ram Promaster 1,658 --- --- 6.7%
Ford Transit 1,099 --- --- 4.4%
Ford Transit connect 3,923 3925 even ---
Nissan NV200 1,223 514 +138% ---
Combined, the rest of the entire full-size van offerings only outsold GM by 497 units. In addition, we sold around 1700 passenger vans compared to Ford’s 460. Regarding field supplies, overall they were essentially flat compared with last month, staying at 31 days supply. Looking at midsize trucks, Toyota sold 14,338 Tacomas, down 5.8%. Tacoma sales are down 6.9% for the year. Nissan sold 6770 Frontiers, up 2.8%. Frontier sales are up 16.8% this year.
• Speaking of the new full-size Transit van, Ford was crowing about landing their biggest fleet order for the eurovan. According to TruckTrend, “Ford just landed its first large-volume fleet purchase of Transit vans with 800 units by Connecticut-based Charter Communications, a cable, phone, and internet provider servicing customers in 29 states across the country.” To quote Church Lady, “Well isn’t that special!” Charter’s order consists of low-roof, short-wheelbase cargo vans, meaning they’ll most likely be gas models with the 3.7L V-6 Duratec. In other words, keep your overpriced, raised-roof, ecoboost van. Kinda pales in comparison to our 10,500 unit U-Haul order….
• From Automotive News: Chevrolet dealer Mike Maheras can't wait for a dozen Colorado midsize pickups to arrive at his two stores next month, although he's disappointed he couldn't get more. "I'd have taken as many as they could give me," says Maheras, dealer principal at Phillips Chevrolet of Lansing, Ill., and general manager at the group's Frankfort store south of Chicago. "This is a market that we've been missing since the Colorado went away" in 2012. Maheras' order is one among a surge of requests from dealers for the redesigned 2015 Colorado and its sibling, the GMC Canyon, which return to showrooms in October after a two-year absence. GM says dealers ordered 28,000 Colorados and another 14,000 Canyons during the first 30 days after it began taking orders, more than five times its forecast. Dealers commonly go big on initial orders of newly launched models, when eager buyers are lined up. Still, GM views the reception as a sign that dealers believe in the market for smaller pickups, even as many skeptics question the company's strategy. The launch of the Colorado and Canyon is among the most closely watched in years for GM, and may serve as a bellwether of consumers' pickup preferences. GM is counting on the smaller trucks to give Chevy and GMC lineups that no rival can match: a midsize pickup, plus full-size offerings in the both light- and heavy-duty segments. GM last week announced EPA fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city/26 highway/21 combined for models with the 3.6 liter V-6 engine, which should be the volume model. That should easily lead the segment, ahead of the 17 city/21 highway/19 combined rating of the Toyota Tacoma's V-6. Maheras is happy that his salespeople will be able to boast segment-leading fuel economy. He's not worried about comparisons to full-size trucks. "There are plenty of other factors the midsize buyer looks at," he says. "They'll like the smaller package and the design."
• From Nooga.com: Coordinators of an employee-created union called American Council of Employees at Volkswagen are accelerating their organizing efforts. Last week, Volkswagen worker Mike Burton, who led anti-United Auto Worker efforts during February's election, announced he was starting the new union at the local plant. The move is an effort to oppose Local 42, which is a local UAW chapter. Establishing Local 42 is another route for the UAW to be recognized by Volkswagen. On the topic of Burton's new efforts, UAW leaders told Reuters that American Council of Employees didn't have much chance at succeeding. According to the article:
Gary Casteel, secretary-treasurer of the UAW, told Reuters on Tuesday he does not see how Burton's union stands much of a chance because VW and the UAW "have a consensus" that the company will recognize Local 42. Casteel said it is up to VW whether it will recognize the new union if Burton is successful in creating one at the VW plant, which has about 1,500 hourly workers.
But American Council of Employees said via the new organization's website that UAW leaders continue to use the word "consensus," but the site notes that VW leaders haven't said anything about that. "Not once has VW acknowledged ANY relationship with the UAW," according to the site. "Curious how some twist misrepresentation until it looks like the truth." Burton said he has about 150 signatures now in support of American Council of Employees, and he needs to get 415. "We hope to announce in the next week or so that we are moving ahead with the blessing from over 30 percent of the hourly and the salaried employees," he said via the site. "That’s 30 percent each." After they do that, American Council of Employees leaders will petition the National Labor Relations Board to be recognized as an employee union, then they will ask Volkswagen officials to be "recognized and voted on by Chattanooga VW employees," according to the site.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• This Saturday, Sept. 13, is the annual Union Picnic, to be held at the Union Hall. It will run from 1 pm to 5 pm and feature snack stations and a food buffet. Entertainment and activities will include a DJ, obstacle course, rock wall, giant slide, little bit zone and arts and crafts displays. Bring a lawn chair and your badge or Union card to get into the picnic.
• August was another big month for van sales as our vans outsold the Ford Econoline/Transit combined by over 4000 units. Here’s how the rest of the segment shook out:
2014 2013 Change Share GM 12,069 9346 +29.1% 49.0%
Ford Econoline 6,702 8631 -22.3% 27.2%
Mercedes Sprinter 1,880 1390 +35.3% 7.6%
Nissan NV 1,227 1027 +19.5% 5.0%
Ram Promaster 1,658 --- --- 6.7%
Ford Transit 1,099 --- --- 4.4%
Ford Transit connect 3,923 3925 even ---
Nissan NV200 1,223 514 +138% ---
Combined, the rest of the entire full-size van offerings only outsold GM by 497 units. In addition, we sold around 1700 passenger vans compared to Ford’s 460. Regarding field supplies, overall they were essentially flat compared with last month, staying at 31 days supply. Looking at midsize trucks, Toyota sold 14,338 Tacomas, down 5.8%. Tacoma sales are down 6.9% for the year. Nissan sold 6770 Frontiers, up 2.8%. Frontier sales are up 16.8% this year.
• Speaking of the new full-size Transit van, Ford was crowing about landing their biggest fleet order for the eurovan. According to TruckTrend, “Ford just landed its first large-volume fleet purchase of Transit vans with 800 units by Connecticut-based Charter Communications, a cable, phone, and internet provider servicing customers in 29 states across the country.” To quote Church Lady, “Well isn’t that special!” Charter’s order consists of low-roof, short-wheelbase cargo vans, meaning they’ll most likely be gas models with the 3.7L V-6 Duratec. In other words, keep your overpriced, raised-roof, ecoboost van. Kinda pales in comparison to our 10,500 unit U-Haul order….
• From Automotive News: Chevrolet dealer Mike Maheras can't wait for a dozen Colorado midsize pickups to arrive at his two stores next month, although he's disappointed he couldn't get more. "I'd have taken as many as they could give me," says Maheras, dealer principal at Phillips Chevrolet of Lansing, Ill., and general manager at the group's Frankfort store south of Chicago. "This is a market that we've been missing since the Colorado went away" in 2012. Maheras' order is one among a surge of requests from dealers for the redesigned 2015 Colorado and its sibling, the GMC Canyon, which return to showrooms in October after a two-year absence. GM says dealers ordered 28,000 Colorados and another 14,000 Canyons during the first 30 days after it began taking orders, more than five times its forecast. Dealers commonly go big on initial orders of newly launched models, when eager buyers are lined up. Still, GM views the reception as a sign that dealers believe in the market for smaller pickups, even as many skeptics question the company's strategy. The launch of the Colorado and Canyon is among the most closely watched in years for GM, and may serve as a bellwether of consumers' pickup preferences. GM is counting on the smaller trucks to give Chevy and GMC lineups that no rival can match: a midsize pickup, plus full-size offerings in the both light- and heavy-duty segments. GM last week announced EPA fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city/26 highway/21 combined for models with the 3.6 liter V-6 engine, which should be the volume model. That should easily lead the segment, ahead of the 17 city/21 highway/19 combined rating of the Toyota Tacoma's V-6. Maheras is happy that his salespeople will be able to boast segment-leading fuel economy. He's not worried about comparisons to full-size trucks. "There are plenty of other factors the midsize buyer looks at," he says. "They'll like the smaller package and the design."
• From Nooga.com: Coordinators of an employee-created union called American Council of Employees at Volkswagen are accelerating their organizing efforts. Last week, Volkswagen worker Mike Burton, who led anti-United Auto Worker efforts during February's election, announced he was starting the new union at the local plant. The move is an effort to oppose Local 42, which is a local UAW chapter. Establishing Local 42 is another route for the UAW to be recognized by Volkswagen. On the topic of Burton's new efforts, UAW leaders told Reuters that American Council of Employees didn't have much chance at succeeding. According to the article:
Gary Casteel, secretary-treasurer of the UAW, told Reuters on Tuesday he does not see how Burton's union stands much of a chance because VW and the UAW "have a consensus" that the company will recognize Local 42. Casteel said it is up to VW whether it will recognize the new union if Burton is successful in creating one at the VW plant, which has about 1,500 hourly workers.
But American Council of Employees said via the new organization's website that UAW leaders continue to use the word "consensus," but the site notes that VW leaders haven't said anything about that. "Not once has VW acknowledged ANY relationship with the UAW," according to the site. "Curious how some twist misrepresentation until it looks like the truth." Burton said he has about 150 signatures now in support of American Council of Employees, and he needs to get 415. "We hope to announce in the next week or so that we are moving ahead with the blessing from over 30 percent of the hourly and the salaried employees," he said via the site. "That’s 30 percent each." After they do that, American Council of Employees leaders will petition the National Labor Relations Board to be recognized as an employee union, then they will ask Volkswagen officials to be "recognized and voted on by Chattanooga VW employees," according to the site.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
State of the Union September 3, 2014
September 3, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• Teams still needed: The Annual Women’s Committee benefit golf tournament will be held this Saturday, Sept. 6 at Country Lake golf course in Warrenton. It is a 3-person scramble with a 1:30 pm shotgun start. Cost is $210 per team/$70 per person and includes prize money for the first 3 places in 3 flights, longest drive and closest to the pin contests as well as Food and beer that will be served after the tournament. Entry forms are available at the entrances. Proceeds will benefit the St. Louis Crisis Nursery which serves children and families of St. Charles, Warren, Lincoln, Pike, Franklin and Jefferson Counties as well as St. Louis City and County and East St. Louis.
• September is going to be a busy month for Local 2250 activities. In addition to this weekend’s golf tournament, next Saturday (9/13) is the annual Union Picnic at the Union Hall. The following Saturday (9/20) is the second work day for the Habitat for Humanity home in St. Peters. And Saturday, the 27th, is the SOS ride. More details for all the activities will be forthcoming.
• From the Benefits Department: If you are 60 or older, you can receive free shingles shots. We recommend that you get this from your doctor, but if you can’t there is reimbursement for shots from a pharmacy. See your benefits representative if you have any questions.
• From Automotive News: Chevrolet dealers requested nearly 30,000 Colorado pickups in the month since General Motors began taking orders for the all-new midsize truck -- about five times more than the company had forecast. "The dealers' enthusiasm for the Colorado is off the charts," Chevrolet U.S. chief Brian Sweeney told Automotive News on Monday. GM began taking orders for the 2015 Colorado in early August. The pickup, which is being built at GM's assembly plant in Wentzville, Mo., is expected to reach showrooms in October or early November. The launch of the Colorado and its sibling, the GMC Canyon, is among the most closely watched in years for GM. Skeptics question whether the demand is there to warrant a new generation of the pickups, which were phased out in 2012. GM is counting on the smaller trucks to give Chevy and GMC truck lineups that no rival can match: Offerings in the heavy-duty and light-duty segments with the Silverado and Sierra, and the midsize Colorado and Canyon. Ford dropped its Ranger small pickup in the U.S. in 2011, while Ram discontinued the Dakota that same year. The surge in early orders is "a sign that the dealers really believe in this product," said Sweeney, who oversees sales and marketing for Chevy in the U.S. Forecasts for combined sales of the Colorado and Canyon next year, by IHS Automotive, AutoPacific and LMC Automotive, range from 73,000 to 91,400 trucks. In comparison, GM sold 664,803 Silverados and GMC Sierras last year.
General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 272,423 vehicles in the United States in August, led by an 18 percent increase in truck sales compared to a year ago, a 10 percent increase in GMC deliveries and a 30 percent increase in commercial sales.
Total deliveries were down 1 percent compared with last August, which was GM’s best sales month of 2013. Retail deliveries, which are sales to individual consumers, declined 4 percent. Fleet deliveries were up 9 percent compared with a year ago.
On a selling day adjusted basis, GM’s total sales were up 2 percent, with retail sales essentially equal to a year ago and fleet up 13 percent.
Incentive spending as a percentage of average transaction prices (ATPs) was 10.4 percent, the lowest of all domestic automakers by a significant margin, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates. GM spending was down a full percentage point compared with both August 2013 and July 2014. “Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac had an outstanding month with trucks. Cars and crossovers like the Buick Encore and GMC Acadia, and the Chevrolet Sonic, Cruze and Traverse, were also strong,” said Kurt McNeil, U.S. vice president of Sales Operations.
“We see a strong fall selling season ahead for GM and the industry, which sets the stage for the launches of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Car-buying fundamentals like employment and energy prices are in good shape, consumer confidence has reached a post-recession high and business investment is increasing.”
Nearly 28,000 dealer orders have been placed for the Chevrolet Colorado, along with 14,000 orders for the GMC Canyon, which both began production this week and arrive in showrooms this fall. Chevrolet and GMC will soon be the only brands offering mid-size pickups, as well as light- and heavy-duty full-size pickups.
Light vehicle sales for the year are now expected to be near the high-end of GM’s full-year outlook set in January, which was for 16.0 million – 16.5 million units.
August Sales Highlights (vs. 2013 except as noted)
• GM’s ATPs in August were the highest in company history at about $33,750, according to PIN. ATPs were up $500 per unit compared with July, and they were up about $2,900 from a year ago. GM’s gains in the commercial segment were driven by pickup and van sales, which were up 23 percent and 19 percent, respectively. Sales to rental customers were up about 3 percent. Sales to government customers were up about 14 percent. GM’s fleet mix in August was 22 percent. Calendar year to date, GM’s fleet mix is 25 percent
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• Teams still needed: The Annual Women’s Committee benefit golf tournament will be held this Saturday, Sept. 6 at Country Lake golf course in Warrenton. It is a 3-person scramble with a 1:30 pm shotgun start. Cost is $210 per team/$70 per person and includes prize money for the first 3 places in 3 flights, longest drive and closest to the pin contests as well as Food and beer that will be served after the tournament. Entry forms are available at the entrances. Proceeds will benefit the St. Louis Crisis Nursery which serves children and families of St. Charles, Warren, Lincoln, Pike, Franklin and Jefferson Counties as well as St. Louis City and County and East St. Louis.
• September is going to be a busy month for Local 2250 activities. In addition to this weekend’s golf tournament, next Saturday (9/13) is the annual Union Picnic at the Union Hall. The following Saturday (9/20) is the second work day for the Habitat for Humanity home in St. Peters. And Saturday, the 27th, is the SOS ride. More details for all the activities will be forthcoming.
• From the Benefits Department: If you are 60 or older, you can receive free shingles shots. We recommend that you get this from your doctor, but if you can’t there is reimbursement for shots from a pharmacy. See your benefits representative if you have any questions.
• From Automotive News: Chevrolet dealers requested nearly 30,000 Colorado pickups in the month since General Motors began taking orders for the all-new midsize truck -- about five times more than the company had forecast. "The dealers' enthusiasm for the Colorado is off the charts," Chevrolet U.S. chief Brian Sweeney told Automotive News on Monday. GM began taking orders for the 2015 Colorado in early August. The pickup, which is being built at GM's assembly plant in Wentzville, Mo., is expected to reach showrooms in October or early November. The launch of the Colorado and its sibling, the GMC Canyon, is among the most closely watched in years for GM. Skeptics question whether the demand is there to warrant a new generation of the pickups, which were phased out in 2012. GM is counting on the smaller trucks to give Chevy and GMC truck lineups that no rival can match: Offerings in the heavy-duty and light-duty segments with the Silverado and Sierra, and the midsize Colorado and Canyon. Ford dropped its Ranger small pickup in the U.S. in 2011, while Ram discontinued the Dakota that same year. The surge in early orders is "a sign that the dealers really believe in this product," said Sweeney, who oversees sales and marketing for Chevy in the U.S. Forecasts for combined sales of the Colorado and Canyon next year, by IHS Automotive, AutoPacific and LMC Automotive, range from 73,000 to 91,400 trucks. In comparison, GM sold 664,803 Silverados and GMC Sierras last year.
General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 272,423 vehicles in the United States in August, led by an 18 percent increase in truck sales compared to a year ago, a 10 percent increase in GMC deliveries and a 30 percent increase in commercial sales.
Total deliveries were down 1 percent compared with last August, which was GM’s best sales month of 2013. Retail deliveries, which are sales to individual consumers, declined 4 percent. Fleet deliveries were up 9 percent compared with a year ago.
On a selling day adjusted basis, GM’s total sales were up 2 percent, with retail sales essentially equal to a year ago and fleet up 13 percent.
Incentive spending as a percentage of average transaction prices (ATPs) was 10.4 percent, the lowest of all domestic automakers by a significant margin, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates. GM spending was down a full percentage point compared with both August 2013 and July 2014. “Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac had an outstanding month with trucks. Cars and crossovers like the Buick Encore and GMC Acadia, and the Chevrolet Sonic, Cruze and Traverse, were also strong,” said Kurt McNeil, U.S. vice president of Sales Operations.
“We see a strong fall selling season ahead for GM and the industry, which sets the stage for the launches of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Car-buying fundamentals like employment and energy prices are in good shape, consumer confidence has reached a post-recession high and business investment is increasing.”
Nearly 28,000 dealer orders have been placed for the Chevrolet Colorado, along with 14,000 orders for the GMC Canyon, which both began production this week and arrive in showrooms this fall. Chevrolet and GMC will soon be the only brands offering mid-size pickups, as well as light- and heavy-duty full-size pickups.
Light vehicle sales for the year are now expected to be near the high-end of GM’s full-year outlook set in January, which was for 16.0 million – 16.5 million units.
August Sales Highlights (vs. 2013 except as noted)
- Sales of Chevrolet and GMC large SUVs were up 38 percent.
- Cadillac Escalade deliveries increased 64 percent, for the vehicle line’s best August since 2007.
- Chevrolet Silverado deliveries were up 13 percent and GMC Sierra sales were up 10 percent, and ATPs improved from July, according to PIN. This was the best August for GM pickups since 2008.
- The Chevrolet Express van had its best August sales since 2007, with deliveries up 23 percent. The GMC Savana saw a 70 percent increase. Total van sales were 12,069.
- Chevrolet Sonic deliveries were up 13 percent for the vehicle’s best August ever.
- Sales of the Buick Encore small crossover were up 13 percent and Regal deliveries were up 29 percent.
- In the medium crossover segment, sales of the Chevrolet Traverse were up 11 percent and GMC Acadia deliveries were up 5 percent.
- Retail deliveries of the Chevrolet Cruze increased 23 percent and Camaro retail deliveries were up 2 percent.
• GM’s ATPs in August were the highest in company history at about $33,750, according to PIN. ATPs were up $500 per unit compared with July, and they were up about $2,900 from a year ago. GM’s gains in the commercial segment were driven by pickup and van sales, which were up 23 percent and 19 percent, respectively. Sales to rental customers were up about 3 percent. Sales to government customers were up about 14 percent. GM’s fleet mix in August was 22 percent. Calendar year to date, GM’s fleet mix is 25 percent
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
State of the Union August 12, 2014
August 12, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• There will be an Education Committee meeting Wednesday, August 13 between shifts in the cafeteria. As always, anyone interested in attending and becoming a member is welcome.
• The Annual Women’s Committee benefit golf tournament will be held Saturday, Sept. 6 at Country Lake golf course in Warrenton. It is a 3-person scramble with a 1:30 pm shotgun start. Cost is $210 per team/$70 per person and includes prize money for the first 3 places in 3 flights, longest drive and closest to the pin contests as well as Food and beer that will be served after the tournament. Entry forms are available at the entrances. Proceeds will benefit the St. Louis Crisis Nursery which serves children and families of St. Charles, Warren, Lincoln, Pike, Franklin and Jefferson Counties as well as St. Louis City and County and East St. Louis.
• From the Detroit News: General Motors Co.’s Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant will halt production for three weeks starting Aug. 18 due to lower than anticipated market demand for the luxury cars built there, according to two people familiar with GM’s plans. Production is set to resume Sept. 8, according to one person with knowledge of the company’s plans. The plant builds the Cadillac ATS and CTS sedans. Cadillac ATS sales are down nearly 21 percent through July this year, while CTS sales are flat year-to-date. But sales of the CTS — redesigned for the 2014 model year — in July fell more than 29 percent from July 2013. The compact ATS was all new as a 2013 model and won North American Car of the Year that year. The CTS took home Motor Trend Car of the Year honors for 2014. “We don’t share our production schedules with outside parties,” GM spokesman Bill Grotz said. “We build to market demand.” Lansing Grand River employs about 1,600 workers, including about 1,400 hourly employees who are represented by UAW Local 652. The plant, which runs two shifts, is set to begin building Cadillac’s new 2015 ATS Coupe this fall.
• Consumer Reports, who gave the Tesla Model S the highest test score ever awarded, is now reporting on how the ($89,650) car has held up during continued testing. The short answer - not very well. Here is a brief recitation of things gone wrong or replaced/repaired in the first 15,743 miles: center screen (which controls virtually every function) went blank and needed a “hard” reset; broken 3rd row seat buckle; front bumper carrier hardware; 12 volt battery; HVAC filter housing; powertrain battery coolant pump; decklid release inop; charger adapter came apart; passenger side roof pillar “creak”; malfunctioning retracting door handles. CR said they “might” have to lower the car’s reliability ratings.
• From Automotive News: Skeptics of General Motors' decision to revive its smaller pickups say GM is headed down a dead-end road: Buyers simply prefer to pay a bit more and get a bigger truck, the thinking goes. But an Automotive News review of more than a decade of pricing, inventory and sales data shows that market dynamics have shifted in the years since compact pickups (now commonly called mid-sized) fell out of favor. The pricing delta between the smaller trucks and their bigger showroom siblings has widened considerably in recent years, creating more breathing room for mid-sized offerings priced from $20,000 to the low $30,000s.
The data suggest that GM's contrarian move to re-enter the segment this fall with the new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon comes at an opportune time. The move is still a gamble -- one that GM's main truck rivals see no reason to take for now -- given the epic collapse of the smaller-pickup market during the past 15 years. Smaller trucks such as the Ford Ranger and Chevy S-10 were the rage in the 1990s, outselling full-sized pickups in some years. Then, steep discounts on the bigger trucks, lubricated by overproduction, shortened the pricing ladder between the two segments. Encouraged by cheap gasoline prices, buyers opted for more truck. As a result, U.S. sales of compact pickups shriveled to just 227,111 trucks last year, from more than 1 million in 2000, according to the Automotive News Data Center.
But in recent years, restrained production and insatiable demand for content and features on full-sized pickups have tamed discounts and pushed prices to gaudy highs. Net prices -- average transaction prices that factor in incentives such as lease subsidies and cheap financing -- hit a record $37,568 in the first half of the year, Edmunds data prepared for Automotive News show. From 2011 through the first half of 2014, net prices on full-sized pickups were 43 percent higher on average than on mid-sized trucks. That's a sizable jump from the nine-year period from 2002 to 2010, when they were 34 percent higher on average. The gap could grow in coming years as Ford leads what is likely a broader transition to more-expensive aluminum bodies to improve fuel economy. Ford is raising prices for its 2015 aluminum F-150 pickup by as much as $3,615. "We've seen [full-sized] truck prices rise so much in recent years, it does leave a void in the market for smaller trucks with decent content and amenities," Edmunds senior analyst Jessica Caldwell says. "The timing is as good as it's been in at least a decade."
It was a different story when GM launched the first-generation Colorado and Canyon in 2004, as successors to the popular S-10 and GMC Sonoma. Back then, a top-trim 2005 Colorado Z71 crew cab was $28,550, about $6,200 cheaper than a Silverado Z71 crew cab. For 2015, the gap between those models is more than $11,000. Rick Cantalini, general manager at Vandergriff Chevrolet in Arlington, Texas, was on a dealer advisory committee for the first Colorado. He says it was a decent truck but never sold well because "the way Silverado was priced, they were stepping all over each other." Today, GM has "stayed restrained on Silverado rebates" for the redesigned truck, Cantalini says. "They've preserved that space for Colorado."
GM must maintain that discipline to avoid the price blurring of the past, says AutoPacific Inc. product analyst Dave Sullivan. He believes having an adequate price spread is crucial to GM's strategy of being the only automaker to offer all three flavors of pickups: mid-sized, and full-sized trucks in both light- and heavy-duty versions. For now, forecasters are taking a cautious view of GM's mid-sized truck gambit.
Forecasts for combined sales of the Colorado and Canyon next year, by IHS Automotive, AutoPacific and LMC Automotive, range from 73,000 to 91,400 trucks. That is well below the historical volume of the Toyota Tacoma, which has accounted for about two-thirds of mid-sized sales in recent years, and a fraction of the combined 664,803 Silverados and Sierras sold last year. GM officials won't provide a sales target.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• There will be an Education Committee meeting Wednesday, August 13 between shifts in the cafeteria. As always, anyone interested in attending and becoming a member is welcome.
• The Annual Women’s Committee benefit golf tournament will be held Saturday, Sept. 6 at Country Lake golf course in Warrenton. It is a 3-person scramble with a 1:30 pm shotgun start. Cost is $210 per team/$70 per person and includes prize money for the first 3 places in 3 flights, longest drive and closest to the pin contests as well as Food and beer that will be served after the tournament. Entry forms are available at the entrances. Proceeds will benefit the St. Louis Crisis Nursery which serves children and families of St. Charles, Warren, Lincoln, Pike, Franklin and Jefferson Counties as well as St. Louis City and County and East St. Louis.
• From the Detroit News: General Motors Co.’s Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant will halt production for three weeks starting Aug. 18 due to lower than anticipated market demand for the luxury cars built there, according to two people familiar with GM’s plans. Production is set to resume Sept. 8, according to one person with knowledge of the company’s plans. The plant builds the Cadillac ATS and CTS sedans. Cadillac ATS sales are down nearly 21 percent through July this year, while CTS sales are flat year-to-date. But sales of the CTS — redesigned for the 2014 model year — in July fell more than 29 percent from July 2013. The compact ATS was all new as a 2013 model and won North American Car of the Year that year. The CTS took home Motor Trend Car of the Year honors for 2014. “We don’t share our production schedules with outside parties,” GM spokesman Bill Grotz said. “We build to market demand.” Lansing Grand River employs about 1,600 workers, including about 1,400 hourly employees who are represented by UAW Local 652. The plant, which runs two shifts, is set to begin building Cadillac’s new 2015 ATS Coupe this fall.
• Consumer Reports, who gave the Tesla Model S the highest test score ever awarded, is now reporting on how the ($89,650) car has held up during continued testing. The short answer - not very well. Here is a brief recitation of things gone wrong or replaced/repaired in the first 15,743 miles: center screen (which controls virtually every function) went blank and needed a “hard” reset; broken 3rd row seat buckle; front bumper carrier hardware; 12 volt battery; HVAC filter housing; powertrain battery coolant pump; decklid release inop; charger adapter came apart; passenger side roof pillar “creak”; malfunctioning retracting door handles. CR said they “might” have to lower the car’s reliability ratings.
• From Automotive News: Skeptics of General Motors' decision to revive its smaller pickups say GM is headed down a dead-end road: Buyers simply prefer to pay a bit more and get a bigger truck, the thinking goes. But an Automotive News review of more than a decade of pricing, inventory and sales data shows that market dynamics have shifted in the years since compact pickups (now commonly called mid-sized) fell out of favor. The pricing delta between the smaller trucks and their bigger showroom siblings has widened considerably in recent years, creating more breathing room for mid-sized offerings priced from $20,000 to the low $30,000s.
The data suggest that GM's contrarian move to re-enter the segment this fall with the new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon comes at an opportune time. The move is still a gamble -- one that GM's main truck rivals see no reason to take for now -- given the epic collapse of the smaller-pickup market during the past 15 years. Smaller trucks such as the Ford Ranger and Chevy S-10 were the rage in the 1990s, outselling full-sized pickups in some years. Then, steep discounts on the bigger trucks, lubricated by overproduction, shortened the pricing ladder between the two segments. Encouraged by cheap gasoline prices, buyers opted for more truck. As a result, U.S. sales of compact pickups shriveled to just 227,111 trucks last year, from more than 1 million in 2000, according to the Automotive News Data Center.
But in recent years, restrained production and insatiable demand for content and features on full-sized pickups have tamed discounts and pushed prices to gaudy highs. Net prices -- average transaction prices that factor in incentives such as lease subsidies and cheap financing -- hit a record $37,568 in the first half of the year, Edmunds data prepared for Automotive News show. From 2011 through the first half of 2014, net prices on full-sized pickups were 43 percent higher on average than on mid-sized trucks. That's a sizable jump from the nine-year period from 2002 to 2010, when they were 34 percent higher on average. The gap could grow in coming years as Ford leads what is likely a broader transition to more-expensive aluminum bodies to improve fuel economy. Ford is raising prices for its 2015 aluminum F-150 pickup by as much as $3,615. "We've seen [full-sized] truck prices rise so much in recent years, it does leave a void in the market for smaller trucks with decent content and amenities," Edmunds senior analyst Jessica Caldwell says. "The timing is as good as it's been in at least a decade."
It was a different story when GM launched the first-generation Colorado and Canyon in 2004, as successors to the popular S-10 and GMC Sonoma. Back then, a top-trim 2005 Colorado Z71 crew cab was $28,550, about $6,200 cheaper than a Silverado Z71 crew cab. For 2015, the gap between those models is more than $11,000. Rick Cantalini, general manager at Vandergriff Chevrolet in Arlington, Texas, was on a dealer advisory committee for the first Colorado. He says it was a decent truck but never sold well because "the way Silverado was priced, they were stepping all over each other." Today, GM has "stayed restrained on Silverado rebates" for the redesigned truck, Cantalini says. "They've preserved that space for Colorado."
GM must maintain that discipline to avoid the price blurring of the past, says AutoPacific Inc. product analyst Dave Sullivan. He believes having an adequate price spread is crucial to GM's strategy of being the only automaker to offer all three flavors of pickups: mid-sized, and full-sized trucks in both light- and heavy-duty versions. For now, forecasters are taking a cautious view of GM's mid-sized truck gambit.
Forecasts for combined sales of the Colorado and Canyon next year, by IHS Automotive, AutoPacific and LMC Automotive, range from 73,000 to 91,400 trucks. That is well below the historical volume of the Toyota Tacoma, which has accounted for about two-thirds of mid-sized sales in recent years, and a fraction of the combined 664,803 Silverados and Sierras sold last year. GM officials won't provide a sales target.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Thursday, July 17, 2014
State of the Union July 17, 2014
July 17, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• From the Veteran’s Committee: There are sign-up sheets posted at all three entrances for those interested in helping out with the SOS Ride on September 27, 2014. We will need people to work at the Hall and at each check-point along the ride. Anyone interested in joining the UAW 2250 Motorcycle Riders Club see Steve Melson.
• The CAP Committee would like to thank everyone who bought raffle tickets to support V-CAP. The winners are: 1st prize (Microsoft Surface tablet) – George Ferguson; 2nd prize (wireless sound cube) – Zach Luechtefeld; 3rd prize ($50 gas card) – Mike Bridgins.
• As you would expect following another big sales month, van field supplies fell again. Net field stock as measured in days dropped to 27 from 32 at the end of May. At just under 14,000 units, this is the lowest number of vans in the field since we’ve been reporting this metric. Cargo vans in particular are in short supply with only 26 days of Chevy cargos and 18 days of GMC cargos (for comparison sake, last June there were 10,239 Chevy cargo vans in the field – this year there are 5,170). Passenger vans have fallen below 700 total while cutaways are roughly the same as May.
• Spy photographs have surfaced of what appears to be a midsize pickup that is believed to be a Fiat Chrysler product for the Ram truck division. Speculation, based on the photographs taken, is that it is a version of the Fiat Strada pickup built in Brazil and sold overseas. If that is the case it would follow a familiar playbook where a Fiat truck product is modified to be sold in the U.S. (think Ram ProMaster full size van, based on the Fiat Ducato). The Strada is decidedly smaller than our pickup and is a unibody vehicle. The current powertrains for the Strada are all 4 cylinder engines ranging from the 1.3 liter turbodiesel to the 1.8 liter gas engine. A recent test drive of a Strada with the diesel by the website Autoblog gave the specifications for engine as 94 horsepower and 148 pound feet of torque. This propels the truck from 0-60 mph in a leisurely 13 seconds and produces a top speed of 99 mph. No word from Fiat Chrysler on if, or when, they may make this trucklet available in the U.S.
The UAW announced the formation of UAW Local 42, a new local union providing representation for employees at the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga.
Organized by Volkswagen employees, Local 42 offers workers the opportunity for a voice in the workplace through the German automaker’s “works council” approach to employee engagement. Volkswagen’s business model is premised on employee representation, and Local 42 will represent any interested employees who join the local as members. No employees will be required to join.
“Earlier this year, the UAW was gratified to earn the confidence and support of many Volkswagen team members,” said Dennis Williams, president of the UAW. “At that time, we said we would not give up on these committed and hard-working employees. We’re keeping our promise.”
Gary Casteel, the UAW’s secretary-treasurer, who previously served as director of UAW Region 8 covering the South, emphasized: “Local 42 will be run by, and for, the employees at Volkswagen.”
“We’ve had ongoing discussions with Volkswagen and have arrived at a consensus with the company,” Casteel said. “Upon Local 42 signing up a meaningful portion of Volkswagen’s Chattanooga workforce, we’re confident the company will recognize Local 42 by dealing with it as a members’ union that represents those employees who join the local. As part of this consensus, the UAW is committed to continuing its joint efforts with Volkswagen to ensure the company’s expansion and growth in Chattanooga.”
UAW officials reiterated the reasoning for recently withdrawing objections to the February election at the plant, which was tainted by outside interference. “As Volkswagen’s works council partner, the UAW’s role is to encourage job creation and promote job security so that Volkswagen employees can achieve the American dream and Chattanooga’s economy can prosper,” Casteel said. “We withdrew objections to end the controversy and put the focus where it belongs: obtaining the economic incentives necessary to ensure the growth of Volkswagen in Chattanooga and the addition of a new product line.”
Volkswagen employees formally announced Local 42 at an afternoon news conference, and immediately began communicating with fellow team members and with the plant’s management about next steps in advancing the works council partnership.
“Being part of the creation of an American-style works council is a chance to do something new and different,” said Michael Cantrell, a Volkswagen paint technician. “This is about securing good jobs for the future of the plant and Chattanooga, and building lasting partnerships between management and team members.”
Additionally, Local 42 members pledged to get involved in the community — as UAW members have done in other communities across the country — to support charitable causes, youth programs and other local needs. “I see Local 42 as an opportunity to give back to Chattanooga and southeast Tennessee,” said Myra Montgomery, a quality inspector in the Volkswagen plant. “As our membership grows, people are going to see us very active in this community.”
Local 42 members declared workforce development to be a top priority, and said they would work with Volkswagen and the UAW to organize job-training opportunities so that employees can continually expand their skills as new technologies emerge and manufacturing processes change.
“Having access to the UAW’s expertise and support will keep the plant competitive and will keep our workforce on the cutting edge of productivity and quality,” said Jonathan Walden, who works in the Volkswagen plant’s paint department. “The members of Local 42 are ready to roll up our sleeves and focus on the future.”
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
• From the Veteran’s Committee: There are sign-up sheets posted at all three entrances for those interested in helping out with the SOS Ride on September 27, 2014. We will need people to work at the Hall and at each check-point along the ride. Anyone interested in joining the UAW 2250 Motorcycle Riders Club see Steve Melson.
• The CAP Committee would like to thank everyone who bought raffle tickets to support V-CAP. The winners are: 1st prize (Microsoft Surface tablet) – George Ferguson; 2nd prize (wireless sound cube) – Zach Luechtefeld; 3rd prize ($50 gas card) – Mike Bridgins.
• As you would expect following another big sales month, van field supplies fell again. Net field stock as measured in days dropped to 27 from 32 at the end of May. At just under 14,000 units, this is the lowest number of vans in the field since we’ve been reporting this metric. Cargo vans in particular are in short supply with only 26 days of Chevy cargos and 18 days of GMC cargos (for comparison sake, last June there were 10,239 Chevy cargo vans in the field – this year there are 5,170). Passenger vans have fallen below 700 total while cutaways are roughly the same as May.
• Spy photographs have surfaced of what appears to be a midsize pickup that is believed to be a Fiat Chrysler product for the Ram truck division. Speculation, based on the photographs taken, is that it is a version of the Fiat Strada pickup built in Brazil and sold overseas. If that is the case it would follow a familiar playbook where a Fiat truck product is modified to be sold in the U.S. (think Ram ProMaster full size van, based on the Fiat Ducato). The Strada is decidedly smaller than our pickup and is a unibody vehicle. The current powertrains for the Strada are all 4 cylinder engines ranging from the 1.3 liter turbodiesel to the 1.8 liter gas engine. A recent test drive of a Strada with the diesel by the website Autoblog gave the specifications for engine as 94 horsepower and 148 pound feet of torque. This propels the truck from 0-60 mph in a leisurely 13 seconds and produces a top speed of 99 mph. No word from Fiat Chrysler on if, or when, they may make this trucklet available in the U.S.
The UAW announced the formation of UAW Local 42, a new local union providing representation for employees at the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga.
Organized by Volkswagen employees, Local 42 offers workers the opportunity for a voice in the workplace through the German automaker’s “works council” approach to employee engagement. Volkswagen’s business model is premised on employee representation, and Local 42 will represent any interested employees who join the local as members. No employees will be required to join.
“Earlier this year, the UAW was gratified to earn the confidence and support of many Volkswagen team members,” said Dennis Williams, president of the UAW. “At that time, we said we would not give up on these committed and hard-working employees. We’re keeping our promise.”
Gary Casteel, the UAW’s secretary-treasurer, who previously served as director of UAW Region 8 covering the South, emphasized: “Local 42 will be run by, and for, the employees at Volkswagen.”
“We’ve had ongoing discussions with Volkswagen and have arrived at a consensus with the company,” Casteel said. “Upon Local 42 signing up a meaningful portion of Volkswagen’s Chattanooga workforce, we’re confident the company will recognize Local 42 by dealing with it as a members’ union that represents those employees who join the local. As part of this consensus, the UAW is committed to continuing its joint efforts with Volkswagen to ensure the company’s expansion and growth in Chattanooga.”
UAW officials reiterated the reasoning for recently withdrawing objections to the February election at the plant, which was tainted by outside interference. “As Volkswagen’s works council partner, the UAW’s role is to encourage job creation and promote job security so that Volkswagen employees can achieve the American dream and Chattanooga’s economy can prosper,” Casteel said. “We withdrew objections to end the controversy and put the focus where it belongs: obtaining the economic incentives necessary to ensure the growth of Volkswagen in Chattanooga and the addition of a new product line.”
Volkswagen employees formally announced Local 42 at an afternoon news conference, and immediately began communicating with fellow team members and with the plant’s management about next steps in advancing the works council partnership.
“Being part of the creation of an American-style works council is a chance to do something new and different,” said Michael Cantrell, a Volkswagen paint technician. “This is about securing good jobs for the future of the plant and Chattanooga, and building lasting partnerships between management and team members.”
Additionally, Local 42 members pledged to get involved in the community — as UAW members have done in other communities across the country — to support charitable causes, youth programs and other local needs. “I see Local 42 as an opportunity to give back to Chattanooga and southeast Tennessee,” said Myra Montgomery, a quality inspector in the Volkswagen plant. “As our membership grows, people are going to see us very active in this community.”
Local 42 members declared workforce development to be a top priority, and said they would work with Volkswagen and the UAW to organize job-training opportunities so that employees can continually expand their skills as new technologies emerge and manufacturing processes change.
“Having access to the UAW’s expertise and support will keep the plant competitive and will keep our workforce on the cutting edge of productivity and quality,” said Jonathan Walden, who works in the Volkswagen plant’s paint department. “The members of Local 42 are ready to roll up our sleeves and focus on the future.”
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
State of the Union June 19, 2014
June 19, 2014 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
• From the Women’s Committee: This Saturday is our workday for Habitat for Humanity. You can still fill out a form to participate and we will even take walkups Saturday. There will be two shifts that you can choose to work, 8am to noon or noon to 4pm. Please indicate on the form which time frame you would like to work and a contact number. Give your completed form to a Women’s Committee member of drop it in the Suggestion box. The address for the build is 112 Clinton Court at the Enclaves Subdivision. Take Hwy 70 to Hwy 79 and head south toward Salt Lick Rd/Birdie Hills. You will cross over Mexico Rd. About ½ mile past Church on the Rock, turn right on Eisenhower Dr. Clinton Court will be the first left. Hope to see you there.
• Recently there have been a number of audits regarding the use of the Employee Vehicle Purchase program. These are done on a periodic basis to ensure compliance with the rules of the program, typically to verify that people receiving the employee discount are actually eligible. The responsibility always rests with the employee/retiree that purchases made with their discount are valid. However, there have been some cases where personal information is conveyed at the dealership to obtain an authorization number that is apparently used again, without the employee/retiree’s consent, to complete deals with buyers that are not eligible for the discount. When these issues are uncovered in an audit, the employee/retiree will be contacted and requested to make up the monetary difference the employee discount provides – usually thousands of dollars. In addition, these people are suspended from the program for a period of 3 to 5 years. So the message is: never give your personal information to a salesman at a dealership to obtain an authorization number. You should have this with you before you go to purchase a vehicle. The numbers are good for 6 months so there is no need to wait until the last minute. Also, any communication from GM should always be reviewed, be it an email or a letter. Every time an authorization number is generated with your information, a letter is sent to your address of record indicating that. If you do not look at this letter you will have no idea your information is being used improperly. Yet you will be held liable for the difference if you cannot prove the dealer was using your information without your consent. That is the purpose of the notification letter.
• From Automotive News: Ford Motor Co. faces new challenges to its ambitious effort to become the industry's fuel economy leader after revising mpg numbers downward on six models this week. Affected models are the 2014 Ford Fiesta; the 2013 and 2014 hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the Fusion and C-Max (2nd downgrade); and the 2013 and 2014 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Jim Seavitt, owner of Village Ford in Dearborn, Mich., said he cleared out most of his C-Max inventory in the last couple of weeks with the help of a Ford incentive. Seavitt said he doubts he will be stocking any more anytime soon with this latest news. O.C. Welch, a Ford-Lincoln dealer in Hardeeville, S.C., said: "That's the No. 1 thing hybrid and Energi customers are complaining about. They ask: 'How do you get it to get the mileage on the window stickers?'" Welch said last summer's C-Max restatement virtually stopped sales of the vehicle on his lot. "I've got 24 C-Maxs in stock," he said. "We took half of them and made service loaners out of them. Those things have been grazing on the grass 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for eight, nine, 10 months." Ford said this week it had identified an error in its testing procedures and notified the EPA and worked with the agency to revise the ratings. Ford announced it will make payments to about 200,000 affected customers ranging from $125 to $1,050, depending on the model and whether a customer leased or purchased the vehicle. The company would not estimate the total cost of the reimbursement program.
• From the N.Y. Times: Federal regulators disclosed on Wednesday that they were conducting a review of all the major automakers for ignition-switch problems similar to the safety defect that G.M. has linked to at least 13 deaths. The review, by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, has turned up potential problems in at least one company so far. The agency announced that it had opened investigations into about 1.2 million Chrysler vehicles over concern that jostling the ignition key could accidentally cut power in a moving car and disable the air bags — a flaw strikingly similar to the one that has thrown G.M. into turmoil and forced it to recall millions of small cars. A review of complaints filed to the N.H.T.S.A. by drivers of cars made in the last 10 years showed that reports of stalls of moving cars related to ignition-switch problems were not limited to vehicles made by G.M. and Chrysler; such complaints existed for a variety of vehicles. One filed in June 2005 about a 2004 Toyota Solara indicated that the car repeatedly shut off “while driving 25 mph, 55 mph, 65 mph, and other speeds.” The driver brought the car to several dealers near Deforest, Wis., according to the complaint. None could duplicate or fix the problem. Another driver of a 2004 Honda Accord wrote in July 2004, alarmed that the car had shut off on an expressway in Yardley, Pa., while going 65 miles an hour. After coasting to the side of the road, “I was able to start the car up and then realized that the ignition key had slipped forward into the off position while I was driving,” the driver wrote.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
• From the Women’s Committee: This Saturday is our workday for Habitat for Humanity. You can still fill out a form to participate and we will even take walkups Saturday. There will be two shifts that you can choose to work, 8am to noon or noon to 4pm. Please indicate on the form which time frame you would like to work and a contact number. Give your completed form to a Women’s Committee member of drop it in the Suggestion box. The address for the build is 112 Clinton Court at the Enclaves Subdivision. Take Hwy 70 to Hwy 79 and head south toward Salt Lick Rd/Birdie Hills. You will cross over Mexico Rd. About ½ mile past Church on the Rock, turn right on Eisenhower Dr. Clinton Court will be the first left. Hope to see you there.
• Recently there have been a number of audits regarding the use of the Employee Vehicle Purchase program. These are done on a periodic basis to ensure compliance with the rules of the program, typically to verify that people receiving the employee discount are actually eligible. The responsibility always rests with the employee/retiree that purchases made with their discount are valid. However, there have been some cases where personal information is conveyed at the dealership to obtain an authorization number that is apparently used again, without the employee/retiree’s consent, to complete deals with buyers that are not eligible for the discount. When these issues are uncovered in an audit, the employee/retiree will be contacted and requested to make up the monetary difference the employee discount provides – usually thousands of dollars. In addition, these people are suspended from the program for a period of 3 to 5 years. So the message is: never give your personal information to a salesman at a dealership to obtain an authorization number. You should have this with you before you go to purchase a vehicle. The numbers are good for 6 months so there is no need to wait until the last minute. Also, any communication from GM should always be reviewed, be it an email or a letter. Every time an authorization number is generated with your information, a letter is sent to your address of record indicating that. If you do not look at this letter you will have no idea your information is being used improperly. Yet you will be held liable for the difference if you cannot prove the dealer was using your information without your consent. That is the purpose of the notification letter.
• From Automotive News: Ford Motor Co. faces new challenges to its ambitious effort to become the industry's fuel economy leader after revising mpg numbers downward on six models this week. Affected models are the 2014 Ford Fiesta; the 2013 and 2014 hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the Fusion and C-Max (2nd downgrade); and the 2013 and 2014 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Jim Seavitt, owner of Village Ford in Dearborn, Mich., said he cleared out most of his C-Max inventory in the last couple of weeks with the help of a Ford incentive. Seavitt said he doubts he will be stocking any more anytime soon with this latest news. O.C. Welch, a Ford-Lincoln dealer in Hardeeville, S.C., said: "That's the No. 1 thing hybrid and Energi customers are complaining about. They ask: 'How do you get it to get the mileage on the window stickers?'" Welch said last summer's C-Max restatement virtually stopped sales of the vehicle on his lot. "I've got 24 C-Maxs in stock," he said. "We took half of them and made service loaners out of them. Those things have been grazing on the grass 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for eight, nine, 10 months." Ford said this week it had identified an error in its testing procedures and notified the EPA and worked with the agency to revise the ratings. Ford announced it will make payments to about 200,000 affected customers ranging from $125 to $1,050, depending on the model and whether a customer leased or purchased the vehicle. The company would not estimate the total cost of the reimbursement program.
• From the N.Y. Times: Federal regulators disclosed on Wednesday that they were conducting a review of all the major automakers for ignition-switch problems similar to the safety defect that G.M. has linked to at least 13 deaths. The review, by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, has turned up potential problems in at least one company so far. The agency announced that it had opened investigations into about 1.2 million Chrysler vehicles over concern that jostling the ignition key could accidentally cut power in a moving car and disable the air bags — a flaw strikingly similar to the one that has thrown G.M. into turmoil and forced it to recall millions of small cars. A review of complaints filed to the N.H.T.S.A. by drivers of cars made in the last 10 years showed that reports of stalls of moving cars related to ignition-switch problems were not limited to vehicles made by G.M. and Chrysler; such complaints existed for a variety of vehicles. One filed in June 2005 about a 2004 Toyota Solara indicated that the car repeatedly shut off “while driving 25 mph, 55 mph, 65 mph, and other speeds.” The driver brought the car to several dealers near Deforest, Wis., according to the complaint. None could duplicate or fix the problem. Another driver of a 2004 Honda Accord wrote in July 2004, alarmed that the car had shut off on an expressway in Yardley, Pa., while going 65 miles an hour. After coasting to the side of the road, “I was able to start the car up and then realized that the ignition key had slipped forward into the off position while I was driving,” the driver wrote.
Tom Brune
UAW Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
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