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A Night to Support The Pacific Autism Family Centre

Chris Eastwood on January 25, 2017

OpenRoad Toyota Port Moody and Puzzled Jewelry have teamed up to present A Night to Support the Pacific Autism Family Centre on February 18, 2017. The second annual event will be filled with music, food, drinks, dancing and casino fun, all with the purpose of raising awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder.  

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a highly complex developmental condition that targets typical brain growth. ASD is characterized by communication difficulties, social behavioural challenges, and repetitive behaviour. ASD is believed to be a lifespan disorder that affects 1 in 68 children.

OpenRoad proudly supports the work of Patricia James, Keri Kennett and Debbie Sui, all of whom came together to create Puzzled Jewelry after autism diagnoses that affected each of their boys. Puzzled  Jewelry is a brand with a cause, offering unique puzzle piece jewelry designs that represent autism awareness, made with high quality sterling silver. Proceeds from the sales of their jewelry go towards the Pacific Autism Family Centre, which provides individuals and their families with resources for their children.

OpenRoad sees the importance in supporting organizations such as Puzzled Jewelry and working towards a common goal – to spread awareness and advance research for Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Each year Puzzled Jewelry creates a unique item to build awareness for autism. This year Puzzled Jewelry has released special sterling silver puzzle piece earrings available for sale at all London Drugs location throughout BC, and various locations in Alberta, from February 27th to March 31st 2017. All proceeds will go to the PAFC.

Tickets are limited and can be bought online, to purchase tickets for the event or to learn more about Puzzled Jewelry please click here: https://tricitiesbc.snapd.com/#/events/view/1015018 

OpenRoad Lexus Port Moody receives the Lexus Service Management Certificate!

Chris Eastwood on November 28, 2016

The OpenRoad Lexus Port Moody team is honored to be certified as a Platinum dealer under the “Lexus Service Management” standard.

This achievement of excellence is something our team has been striving for in all aspects of service and parts operations.

This also represents OpenRoad Lexus Port Moody’s ongoing commitment to providing the best car buying and ownership experience for Lexus owners. 

To learn more about the OpenRoad Lexus Port Moody Service & Parts Department, please click here. 

Canada's Newest VW Dealership Open For Business At OpenRoad Volkswagen Burnaby

Chris Eastwood on May 31, 2016

BURNABY, B.C. (May 26, 2016) – OpenRoad Auto Group is pleased to announce that OpenRoad Volkswagen, Canada’s newest Volkswagen dealership is officially open for business in Burnaby. The 45,000 square foot facility is the region’s largest and most modern VW dealership offering a flexible and transparent customer experience, along with modern, friendly hospitality. OpenRoad VW is also the new home of the very first VW Beetle to land in Canada in 1952, where it is currently on display.

“We are pleased to partner with the team at OpenRoad Auto Group for this exciting new landmark dealership,” said Maria Stenström, President and Chief Executive Officer of Volkswagen Group Canada Inc. “OpenRoad VW has set a new benchmark for our organization, and will undoubtedly be very well received by our Vancouver-Burnaby customer base.”

Upon entering the new dealership, guests are greeted by a large scale digital “Welcome Wall”, which is the first in a VW dealership in Canada. The wall displays messages in various languages, along with an array of VW images, video and promotional information. The spacious dealership features a large selection of new and pre-owned VW models in a showroom equipped with iPads available for customers to search for inventory and calculate payments. The large service area has 18 service bays, a detail centre, automated car wash, modern customer lounge and ample free parking.

Specialized OpenRoad VW dealership services include Solo Test Drive days, OpenRoad House Calls, Service Valet, free car washes and free equipment rental of items like bike racks and ski racks. The dealership will also be hosting regular non-sales related events for VW customers and enthusiasts, like the upcoming open house on Saturday, May 28th which will be a fun afternoon of German-inspired currywurst, drinks, and live entertainment.

“At OpenRoad Volkswagen Burnaby, we’re passionate about VW and are committed to offering a superior VW ownership experience for not only our customers but the community at large,” said Ben Lovie, General Manager of OpenRoad Volkswagen Burnaby. We’re excited about our future here and look forward to building many strong connections with VW fans for years to come.”

OpenRoad Volkswagen Burnaby will hold a private grand opening celebration on August 13 that will be attended by VIP guests including, Maria Stenström, President and Chief Executive Officer of Volkswagen Group Canada Inc and Christian Chia, President & CEO of OpenRoad Auto Group.

High resolution photos are available for download, upon request. For more information, visit the OpenRoad Volkswagen website.

About OpenRoad Auto Group
OpenRoad Auto Group is B.C.’s largest volume dealer group with more than 900 associates representing 14 quality automotive brands at 17 full-service car dealerships. Established In 2000, OpenRoad Auto Group offers car buyers and owners an experiential automotive retail service. With sales and service in multiple languages, OpenRoad Auto Group encourages a car buying experience based on openness, participation and expertise. OpenRoad is proud to be one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, a CADA Laureate, and the recipient of multiple Canadian Best Employer Awards. www.openroadautogroup.com

 

MEDIA CONTACT:
Tanis Sullivan
tanis@tanissullivan.com
(604) 230-8008

LIGHTS, $1.3m Porsche Supercar, and Action – Porsche Centre Langley's VIP Grand Opening

Chris Eastwood on May 10, 2015

Photos by Andrew Ling

 

In 2000, OpenRoad Auto Group formed to offer car buyers and owners an experiential automotive retail service.

One of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies, CADA Laureate and the recipient of multiple Canadian Best Employer Awards, OpenRoad celebrated the official grand opening of its latest dealership, Porsche Centre Langley, with an exclusive VIP event that showcased the premium culture and iconic heritage of the German sports car brand.

With the addition of Porsche Centre Langley, the OpenRoad team now comprises of over 800 associates representing 12 import brands at 15 dealership locations across British Columbia.

To celebrate the Fraser Valley’s first certified Porsche dealership, which is one of only two Porsche sales and service centres in the Greater Vancouver area, more than 400 VIP guests were in attendance on Wednesday May 6th, 2015, for the grand opening ceremony. 

Dignitaries included Mayor Ted Schaffer from the City of Langley; Alexander Pollich, President and CEO of Porsche Cars Canada; Christian Chia, President and CEO of OpenRoad Auto Group, and Aly Jiwani, General Manager of Porsche Centre Langley.

“We congratulate Porsche Centre Langley and its team for the opening of their new location and welcome them to the family,” said Alexander Pollich, President & CEO, Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd. “The greater Vancouver area is one of the markets around the country that has helped the brand grow substantially. As such, we are pleased to now offer our customers an address in Langley.”

Wednesday night’s event featured a private performance by Juno-award winning artist, LIGHTS, and featured live stallion horses, a line-up of vintage Porsche cars, as well as the sold-out limited edition $1.3 million Porsche 918 Spyder hybrid supercar – the fastest production road car in the world to have lapped the famed Nurburgring track.

“When we started to plan this event, I told our marketing team, ‘No matter what you do, just make sure that there is a lot of horse power’”, joked Christian Chia, President and CEO of OpenRoad.”I think they only heard the ‘horse’ part of my request”.

“We are thrilled to have been given the opportunity to partner with Porsche Canada to bring one of best brands in the world to the Fraser Valley,” added Chia. “Our goal is to offer more than just a great Porsche sales and service centre. We’re fully committed to creating new opportunities for motorsports enthusiasts in B.C. while building a unique community of people who are passionate about Porsche’s beautifully engineered, high performance cars and a best-in-class experience.”

If you have a chance, stop by and visit Porsche Langley’s 20 car showrooms at 6016 Collection Drive (corner of Glover Road and Langley Bypass). The 42,000 square-foot building features Porsche’s latest facility design concept and is part of the Langley Auto Collection, Canada’s only luxury auto mall.

Time Lapse video of the event:

More photos below:

Photos by Andrew Ling

 

Club OpenRoad party at the 2015 Vancouver International Auto Show

Chris Eastwood on April 3, 2015

Photos by Andrew Ling

This year’s Vancouver International Auto Show may have come and gone, but Club OpenRoad members will once again be able to look back upon it with fond memories.

What is Club OpenRoad?

Did you know that Club OpenRoad is OpenRoad Auto Group’s free membership program designed to help their customers enjoy great savings and perks beyond the vehicle ownership experience.

Launched on February 13, 2012 at all OpenRoad Auto Group stores in Metro Vancouver, there are two levels of Club OpenRoad Membership levels.

  1. Regular Membership is offered to all guests who service their vehicle at OpenRoad, and anyone interested in servicing their vehicle at OpenRoad.

  2. Elite Membership is offered to guests who purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle at any OpenRoad store.
     

Here’s how it works

Customers who service their vehicles at an OpenRoad dealership earn back 15% of their bill in rewards points baring a few exceptions such as fleet or commercial clients.

These points can then be redeemed for up to $2,500 off the purchase of a new or used car at any OpenRoad store.

Perks, Parties, Auto show tickets, and more!

Club OpenRoad members also receive exclusive invitations to OpenRoad new car launches, driving clinics, and other VIP perks, including free parking at Grouse Mountain.

As a special treat recently, Club OpenRoad Elite members enjoyed an exclusive invitation to the Cactus Club Café in Coal Harbour at Jack Poole Plaza on Wednesday and Thursday nights, March 25th and 26th.

In addition to great conversation, complimentary delicious appetizers and drinks, Elite members were also treated to tickets to the 2015 Vancouver International Autoshow next door at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

Find out how you can join this club and enjoy the member-only perks today!

More photos below:

OpenRoad Auto Group named one of Canada’s Best Managed companies

Chris Eastwood on March 10, 2015

Requalification gives OpenRoad exclusive category designation after three consecutive wins.

VANCOUVER, B.C. (March 10, 2015) – OpenRoad Auto Group is once again honoured to be named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies in 2015 for excellence in business performance. OpenRoad first won the award in 2012 and then again in 2013 & 2014, and has now requalified to maintain the Best Managed company status this year. The designation makes OpenRoad the only BC company in its category to receive the prestigious award three years in a row.

Sponsored by Deloitte, CIBC, National Post, Queen’s School of Business and MacKay CEO Forums, the Best Managed award recognizes Canadian owned and managed companies with revenues over $10 million for sustained growth, financial performance, management practices and the efforts of the entire organization.

“I would like to congratulate OpenRoad Auto Group and its entire workforce on their requalification as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies. Achieving this standard of excellence takes a united effort from a dedicated team, said Peter Brown, National Co-Leader of Canada’s Best Managed Companies Program and Senior Practice Partner, Deloitte.“ Best Managed companies achieve success because they have a clear vision and lead teams that are committed to growth and profitability.

In the competitive automotive category, OpenRoad Auto Group continues to demonstrate leadership in the areas of growth, profitability, and innovation by employing new technologies and programs that improve the overall customer experience and maintain one of the highest employee retention rates in the industry. In 2014, OpenRoad acquired Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, the BMW Store and Yaletown Mini. 2014 also saw the opening of Porsche Centre Langley, making the OpenRoad BC’s largest volume dealership group representing 12 import automotive brands at 15 dealerships.

Established in 1993, Canada’s Best Managed Companies is one of the country’s leading business awards programs that recognizes Canadian companies that have implemented world-class business practices and created value in innovative ways. Applicants are evaluated by an independent judging panel on how they address various business challenges, including new technologies, globalization, brand management, leadership, leveraging and developing core competencies, designing information systems, and hiring the right talent to facilitate growth.

“It is a great honour to be recognized once again with this prestigious award,” said Christian Chia, President and CEO of OpenRoad Auto Group. “Our team has worked hard to set a new standard for excellence in the automotive industry and we look forward to raising bar even higher with some exciting new initiatives we’ll be unveiling later this year.”

2014 winners of the Canada’s Best Managed Companies award, along with the Gold Standard winners, Requalified and Platinum Club members will be honoured at the annual Canada’s Best Managed Companies gala in Toronto on March 31, 2015. On the same date, the symposium will address leading-edge business issues that are key to the success of today’s business leaders.

A complete list of Best Managed winners, Requalified winners, Gold Standard winners, Gold Standard requalified winners and Platinum Club winners is available here: https://www.bestmanagedcompanies.ca/en/meetourwinners/Pages/Home.aspx

About Canada’s Best Managed Companies

Canada’s Best Managed Companies continues to be the mark of excellence for Canadian-owned and managed companies with revenues over $10 million. Every year since the launch of the program in 1993, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies have competed for this designation in a rigorous and independent process that evaluates their management skills and practices. The awards are granted on four levels: 1) Best Managed winner (one of the new winners selected each year); 2) Requalified member (repeat winners retain the Best Managed designation for two additional years, subject to annual operational and financial review); 3) Gold Standard winner (After three consecutive years of maintaining their Best Managed status, these winners have demonstrated their commitment to the program and successfully reapplied for the designation. Companies may requalify for two additional years, subject to annual operational and financial review; 4) Platinum Club member (winners that maintain Best Managed status for a minimum of six consecutive years). Program sponsors are Deloitte, CIBC, National Post, Queen’s School of Business and MacKay CEO Forums. For further information visit http://www.bestmanagedcompanies.ca

About OpenRoad Auto Group

In 2000, OpenRoad Auto Group formed to offer car buyers and owners an experiential automotive retail service. With sales and service in multiple languages, OpenRoad Auto Group encourages a car buying experience based on openness, participation and expertise. One of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, CADA Laureate and the recipient of multiple Canadian Best Employer Awards, OpenRoad is the largest volume dealership group in British Columbia with a team of over 800 associates representing 12 import brands at 15 dealership locations. Visit www.openroadautogroup.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Tanis Sullivan

(604) 230-8008

tanis@tanissullivan.com

 

https://www.canadas50best.com/en

Four accident avoidance technology systems in modern cars

Chris Eastwood on February 15, 2015

These days, cars are equipped with a plethora of passive safety features. Front, side, and curtain airbags all help to prevent serious injuries. With the development of passive safety features, vehicle safety has increased steadily over the past decades.

In addition to the systems, which mitigate the consequences of an accident, active systems for the prevention of accidents and the mitigation of their consequences have become increasingly important. After all, the best way to protect against injuries is to avoid accidents in the first place!

In the last few years, auto manufacturers have been introducing a whole host of Collision Mitigation technologies to help drivers stay out of crashes, and subsequently out of the hospital.

Let’s take a look at four of these systems.

1. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

ABS has been around for over three decades now. Originally implemented on airplanes to prevent them from skidding on the runway during landing, the modern car-based equivalent was first introduced in the 1970’s by Mercedes-Benz.

ABS may not seem like the latest technology nowadays as it is standard equipment on even non-luxury compact cars.  However, being able to brake hard and steer around an obstacle is something most people take for granted.

ABS has also undergone refinements with better sensors and computer algorithms that adjust for changing road (or off-road) conditions.

 

2. Adaptive Front Lighting

If you can’t see it, you can’t avoid it!

Adaptive front lighting is a generic term for headlamps that respond to driver steering. They’re usually fitted to cars with Xenon or LED headlamps and uses sensors to measure vehicle speed and steering angle.

Small electric motors turn the headlights accordingly to facilitate vision around a curve at night. The faster you go around a corner, the quicker they turn to literally allow you to see around corners.

3. Blind spot monitoring

Think of a blindspot monitoring system (aka side view assist) as your guardian angel that watches the sides of your car for you.

Most systems use two radar sensors, one in each corner of the rear bumper to scan a few metres behind and to the side of the vehicle. These areas are commonly known as the driver’s blind spots.

If a vehicle is detected in these areas, a warning light on the mirror or A-pillar is illuminated. If the driver activates a turn signal in the direction a vehicle has been detected, the warning light will flash and on some vehicles a warning tone will sound.

BMW’s blindspot warning systems will actually vibrate the steering wheel in order to get the driver’s attention!

4. Collision Mitigation Braking

Many cars, particularly in the luxury segment, are available with some sort of collision mitigation braking system.

This is a forward collision warning system that includes some or even full autonomous emergency braking to reduce the chance of a collision.

The system is usually an enhancement of an Adaptive Cruise Control system, which uses a radar sensor behind the front grille to maintain a particular speed and distance interval from traffic ahead, both of which are set by the driver.

With collision mitigation, the system will also provide visual and auditory warnings when speed and distance indicates risk of a crash with the leading car. If the driver does not respond by reducing speed, the system will tug at the seat belt, vibrate the steering wheel, or use other means in order to get the driver’s attention and begin braking to mitigate — but probably not prevent — the crash.

BMW’s Active Driving Assistant brings the latest safety technologies to drivers with their Frontal Collision Warning, City Collision Mitigation and Pedestrian Warning.

Frontal Collision Warning prevents collisions by warning the driver when approaching a vehicle ahead too quickly. The driver is alerted by an optical warning and an additional alarm. In addition, City Collision Mitigation helps prevents collisions by priming the brake system to reduce stopping distance. Pedestrian Warning has the same functionality but specifically prevents pedestrian collisions.

Infiniti also has a system that uses rear sonar sensors and rear facing radar to prevent collision with crossing objects (such as a wall, a child, or another vehicle). Here’s what their Backup Collision Intervention system looks like in practice!