Short Lines (January 01, 2002)

Vancouver-based Ballard Power Systems has acquired the interests of DaimlerChrysler and Ford in XCELLSIS and Ecostar Electric Drive Systems. The firm, a leading developer of fuel cell technology, will continue to partner with DaimlerChrysler and Ford to commercialize vehicle fuel cells.

Glen Roy, Director of Sales for Mevotech Inc., has announced the appointment of Byron Young to the position of District Manager for Eastern Ontario and the Ottawa region. Byron brings to Mevotech over thirty years experience in the Automotive Aftermarket.

Service information provider Mitchell 1 and parts database creator CCITriad have announced an agreement to integrate CCITriad’s PartExpert database with Mitchell 1’s OnDemand5 Estimator and OnDemand5 Manager software. Mitchell 1 will retain responsibility for the firm’s OEM and NAPA parts catalogues, and will include CCITriad’s EZConnect connectivity software, allowing E-ordering of parts from stores and warehouses running CCITriad software.

Toyota Canada Inc. has announced that Kenji Tomikawa will assume the office of President and CEO. Tomikawa, 55, takes over from Yoshio Nakatani, who will become Chairman of TCI. No stranger to Toyota’s Canadian operations, Tomikawa was previously General Manager of the Americas Division of Toyota Motor Corporation. Nakatani had been President and CEO of TCI since 1995.

Costar Computer Systems of Edmonton Alberta, has been selected to supply bay management software to the Certigard franchise system. The Costar system will be implemented through the Summer, 2002.

Dave Jacombs, CASCAR team manager for the #88 Speedy Auto Service team passed away on December 1st, after a lengthy illness. Condolences may be sent to: Mrs. Jackie Teggart and Family, 834 Long Drive, Burlington, ON L7T 3J9.