3M Launches Mobile Training Vehicle

3M has unveiled its state-of the art, 40-foot rolling classroom. The Mobile Training Vehicle is designed to deliver hands-on installer training at locations throughout the U.S. By making education more accessible, 3M aims to help more installers learn the skills needed to grow their businesses.

The mobile unit is equipped with a classroom and various application surfaces. The setup allows installers to hone installation techniques and learn about industry best practices.

“We want to provide a convenient, comprehensive and hands-on education that the students can use every day,” said Kimberly Tostrud, product marketer with 3M Commercial Solutions. “One of the greatest benefits of the 3M Mobile Training Vehicle is the hands-on experience trainees will receive, with 80 percent of instruction time dedicated to product application by the students.”  www.3M.com/InstallationPrograms.

3M’s new Mobile Training Vehicle delivers hands-on training in key cities nationwide. To become proficient at installing, installers are taught product-installation techniques, use of proper tools, and industry best practices.

FenderBender Management Conference To Focus On Business-Building Strategies

The upcoming FenderBender Management Conference will feature a full complement of programs and activities aimed at providing attendees with strategies to boost their business and maintain a competitive edge. Key among them: roundtable discussions, small-group strategy sessions, product information and training sessions. The conference also includes a Kickoff & Awards Party, multiple networking events, and a pre-conference meet and greet on September 16.

Slated for September 17-19 at the Westin Lombard in Chicago, the event is open to PDR and collision-industry professionals, including owners, managers, estimators and other decision makers, no matter the size of the operation. www.fenderbenderconference.com.

Car Care Express, a newly launched division of Car Keys Express, offers mobile reconditioning services.

Car Keys Express Introduces Mobile Reconditioning Division

Car Keys Express has announced the launch of Car Care Express. The new division offers mobile vehicle reconditioning services for both businesses and consumers. The initial service offering, paintless dent repair, is now available at locations in Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, Indianapolis and Louisville, KY. The company plans to roll out additional services—paint touch up and headlight restoration, as well as wheel, windshield and interior repairs—and expand into other key markets. www.CarCareExpress.com.

First Look At Jeep Scrambler Concepts

The word on the street is that the new Jeep® pickup—likely named the Scrambler—will include an optional ragtop. Thanks to the creative folks at jeepscramblerforum.com, who gave us permission to post photos of their design concepts, here’s a sneak peek at what they envision the new convertible pickup will look like based on spy photos and insider tips.  www.jeepscramblerforum.com.

The folks at jeepscramblerforum.com took at stab at rendering their take on the new Jeep® Scrambler ragtop, shown here in Sarge Green and Hella Yella. Photos courtesy of jeepscramblerforum.com.

Industry Veteran Tom Corton Announces Retirement

Tom Corton, whose automotive career spanned more than three decades, has retired from his position as sales manager for Signature Automotive Products and Roadwire Leather. Corton, who launched his automotive career in 1984 with American Honda, later assumed the position of national sales manager for American Sunroof Corporation (ASC). In 2004, Corton joined the sales team at Inalfa Sunroofs, subsequently renamed Signature Automotive Products. For the past 14 years, he served as sales manager for Signature and Roadwire Leather, both Roadwire Inc. subsidiaries.

“Tom has had a very rewarding history with Roadwire and a deep history in the sunroof industry,” stated Dave Edmondson, senior VP of Roadwire Inc. and its subsidiaries, which also includes Distinctive Industries and Classic Soft Trim. “Tom has been instrumental in growing the businesses of many restylers throughout his tenure, and has also become a friend and mentor to countless others. On behalf of the Roadwire organization, we wish Tom and his family much happiness as he pursues the next phase of his journey in life.” 

Tom Corton, who recently retired from his position as sales manager for Roadwire Leather and Signature Automotive Products, spent more than three decades in the aftermarket industry. www.roadwire.com.

Tint World Teams Up With Modagrafics

Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers has partnered with Modagrafics to launch a nationwide solution for custom vehicle graphics. The partnership will introduce Modagraphics’ line of fleet graphics to all Tint World franchises.

Tint World, which offers a full range of auto enhancement products as well as detailing, reconditioning and other services, has been in operation for 35 years. Modagrafics has provided vehicle branding products and services for 40-plus years, specializing in fleet and company vehicle graphics.

“We never stop seeking new and beneficial partnerships, and finding a partnership that provides a solution to an existing need for both our customers and franchisees is a huge win,” said Tint World CEO Charles Bonfiglio. “Partnering with Modagrafics will create a quality, uniform experience for Tint World customers in need of visual branding and automotive graphics services.”