NACE | CARS Releases Schedule for Innovation, Technology & Telematics Forum

As the NACE | CARS event draws closer, the Automotive Service Association (ASA) encourages anyone involved in the industry to attend the Auto Alliance Innovation Technology & Telematics Forum, an essential automotive repair program. The Forum will begin with a morning forum discussion titled, “Where is Vehicle Technology Headed and What Does It Mean for Sustainable Transportation, Vehicle Owners, and the Modern Repair Shop?” The panel will feature prominent auto industry leaders including:

•             Frank Weith, general manager, Connected Car Services

VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA

•             Steve Coker, head, Uconnect Operations

CHRYSLER GROUP LLC

•             Alan Prescott, attorney

FORD MOTOR COMPANY

•             Bob Stewart, general manager, customer care & aftersales

ACDelco/GENERAL MOTORS

•             Eric Berkobin, vice-president, engineering

VERIZON TELEMATICS

•             Jules Polonetsky, executive director

FUTURE OF PRIVACY FORUM

•             Roger Saul Ph.D., director, vehicle research & test center

NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION

The panel discussion will highlight the following topics:

•             What is “connected car” technology and what are the possibilities?

•             What does the evolution of this technology mean for professional repair technicians?

•             What are some of the challenges facing the industry?

•             What are the implications of future technologies such as automated vehicles, V-to-V, V-to-I, etc.?

•             How are third-parties providing services?

•             What role should governments play?

Following the discussion, members of the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions about the future of the industry.

ASA is also pleased to announce that OnStar’s chief operating officer, Terry Inch, will deliver the keynote address during a luncheon following the panel. Inch has been with OnStar since 2002. Prior to his role as chief operating officer, Inch served as vice-president of OnStar marketing and new business development as well as director of OnStar service delivery operations.

The Forum will conclude with a workshop featuring technical presenters from various auto manufacturers including Toyota, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz USA and others. 

The program will be held Friday, August 1st, in Detroit, Michigan at the Cobo Center. The program begins at 8:30 a.m.  For more information about NACE | CARS 2014, visit: www.NACEexpo.com or www.CARSevent.org.