New Era: Boyd Group Services announces CEO Succession Plan

Winnipeg, Manitoba — The Boyd Group announced today that, effective May 14, 2025, Chief Executive Officer Timothy O’Day will step down from his current role, to be succeeded by Brian Kaner, current President and Chief Operating Officer of Boyd. These changes are planned to be effective as of the date of the Annual General Meeting […]

EV/AV Report: Mercedes-Benz develops solar paint to charge electric vehicles; while emergency vehicle lights may interrupt autonomous vehicle driving systems

Toronto, Ontario — In this weekly electric and autonomous vehicle report, Mercedes-Benz is reportedly developing a solar paint that could charge electric vehicles; while new research from Ben-Gurion University indicates that emergency vehicle lights may interrupt autonomous vehicle driving systems. Solar start-ups Mercedes-Benz has announced that it is developing a solar paint designed to charge […]

Reconsideration Refusals: NHTSA refuses to reconsider final ruling on mandatory AEB systems despite industry pushback

Toronto, Ontario — Last week, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced that the final rule on making automated emergency braking (AEB) technology standard on new vehicles will continue despite industry pushback. This decision was originally made in 2016, with the NHTSA officially issuing a new Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard in April 2024. […]

A Crime-Stopping Connection: Government of Canada partners with INTERPOL to help prevent continued auto thefts

Ottawa, Ontario — On November 25, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs announced up to $3.5 million in funding for project “Drive Out,” a joint initiative with INTERPOL to help combat transnational organized vehicle theft. According to a government statement, the recent funds will be distributed over the […]

Insurance Increases: Ontario continues with consultation process on ability to sell automobile insurance products at dealerships

Ottawa, Ontario — On November 22, the Ontario Ministry of Finance announced that it is proceeding with the plan—first announced in Ontario’s 2024 Budget—to give the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) the power to initiate a pilot project permitting the sale of automobile insurance products by auto dealers, manufacturers and finance companies at motor vehicle […]

Can You Believe This?! Cars go for dog-centric drives, go drifting and more

Toronto, Ontario — This last Can You Believe This?! video of the month is prepping for the holiday season. From vehicles spinning out on frosty roads, to carrying loads that even Santa would be proud of, why not start your December off right by tuning in for some weekend wackiness. The post Can You Believe This?! […]

Bumper Bounces: Ford files patent application for a retractable bumper assembly

Toronto, Ontario — Ford has filed a patent application for a retractable bumper assembly system intended to help vehicles avoid coming into direct contact with pedestrians. The patent—which was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on May 19, 2023, and was published on November 21, 2024—specifically notes that “some vehicles, such […]

Among the Stars: CARSTAR hosts Restore the Star summit in Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida — CARSTAR’s Restore the Star meeting in Miami this week brought together franchise owners, managers, corporate leaders, and industry partners to discuss key challenges, share insights, and develop strategies to propel the industry forward. Profitability was key to the two-day agenda which gave the group ample time for sharing and discussion. Also discussed […]