National Press Release

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Audatex North America Inc. today released the Winter 2009 volume of its industry trends publication, Audatex Directions.

The feature article in this latest issue provides an in-depth exploration of the factors that drive hybrid repair costs. Audatex vehicle and repair data shows that, on average in 2008, the Toyota Prius cost 8.4 percent more to repair than gasoline-powered economy imports, while hybrid vehicles that have gasoline counterparts averaged 3.8 percent more to repair than their counterparts.

Audatex data shows that design changes made by manufacturers in efforts to reduce hybrid vehicle weight or better accommodate the hybrid system can lead to cost increases in excess of $100 per part. Such modifications include dual-scroll air-conditioning compressors and radiators to support the hybrid system, as well as the incorporation of aluminum hoods and fenders, aluminum bumper rails, modified airbag control modules, and redesigned grills and head lamp/tail lamp assemblies. These subtle design differences can result in higher part prices, repair costs and limited alternative-part availability.

Also examined in Audatex Directions is the economy's impact on new vehicle sales and actual cash values. Audatex data reveals that from September to November 2008, actual cash values declined by 7.3 percent to a level that was down 5.9 percent compared to November 2007. Luxury supreme vehicles, full-size pickup trucks and large SUVs suffered the greatest declines in value.

Because efficient business processes are imperative in 2009, a new series of articles on Lean Six Sigma for collision repair is being introduced in this edition. The series outlines how proven Lean methodologies can help improve shop productivity, customer satisfaction and business-growth potential.

Other articles in the Winter 2009 issue explore:

    --  how electric vehicles may affect the market in the future
    --  the impact license-plate scanners are having on theft recovery rates
    --  the work Audatex and APU Solutions are doing to deliver integrated
        recycled-parts search and procurement functionality from within the
        Audatex Estimating system
    --  how the upcoming revamped Audatex online training center will make it
        easier than ever for users to unleash the power of their Audatex
        solutions
    --  total loss regulation updates in Oregon and Washington, as well as a new
        flex-rating program in New York
    --  the successful launch of the Audatex Technical Advisory Council
    --  Audatex's parent company's acquisition of the leading
        Brazilian provider of electronic-exchange solutions used for the
        purchase and sale of vehicle replacement parts, as well as the leading
        U.K. provider of used-vehicle history and data validation services

The publication is available for download at http://audatex.us/thinktank.aspx and will also be delivered electronically to the company's North American customers. A limited number of printed copies are available.

About Audatex

Audatex is the leading global claims solutions provider serving the automotive industry. Active today across six continents, Audatex provides world-class claims solutions that help customers automate their processes; managing millions of claims each year efficiently and effectively, and resolving billions in claims settlements. Beyond a leading presence in automotive claims, our growing footprint also extends into the property, automotive related financial services and medical claims solutions markets. As part of the Solera group of companies Audatex, Sidexa, Informex, ABZ, Hollander and IMS draw on unique global experience to develop and deliver the latest technologies, market intelligence and best practices on a local level. For more information, please refer to the Company's website at www.audatex.us.

SOURCE Audatex North America, Inc.