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Charlotte, N.C.— The Charlotte Regional Limousine Association (CRLA) held its monthly meeting on January 28, and much like other limousine associations, Uber and apps like it are the most pressing of discussion topics.
First and foremost on the CRLA’s agenda was to announce that on Thursday, February 13, the Charlotte City Council will be holding a Safety Committee meeting to address the various concerns that rouge apps raise. CRLA hopes for a large turnout to show support for the black car industry in the Charlotte area, and the association wants to make the committee aware that the livery industry, as a whole, is concerned with safety as well.
The meeting will take place in the Charlotte Government Building, room 280.
CRLA is also trying to combat all of the other rogue apps—also known as transportation network companies (TNCs)—with their Passenger/Vehicle for Hire Board (PVHB) which is managed by the Charlotte Police Department. CRLA and PVHB are attempting to squash all TCNs in the Charlotte area by enforcing the long-standing transportation laws already in place in the state of North Carolina. The final point of interest that was discussed was the penultimate question of what vehicle should replace the Lincoln Town Car in Charlotte area fleets (yes, it’s still an issue). A list of suitable replacements will be presented to the licensing authorities for approval. The list will include all the cars that are currently being shown at the various industry shows and events (e.g., Toyota Avalon, Cadillac XTS, Lincoln MKT, etc.).
Visit mycrla.org for more information.
2/14
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Moorpark, Calif.— Chosen Payments, a leading provider of electronic payment processing and merchant services, has been named to First Data’s President’s Club for the second year in a row. Chosen Payments is honored to be ranked among the top payment processing companies and grateful to the amazing clients and partners who have helped them achieve this milestone.
“Chosen Payments is extremely honored and excited to make First Data’s President’s Club for the second straight year,” says Chosen Payments CEO Jeff Brodsly. “Our talented team worked hard to help partners and clients achieve success, and this award symbolizes their excellence.”
The First Data ISO Clients President’s Club is the company’s highest sales distinction, reserved for its top producing clients. Chosen Payments ranked in the top three of all companies for year-over-year growth with the largest processor in the world, First Data.
Visit chosenpayments.com for more information.
2/14
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Woodcliff Lake, N.J.— BMW, the German manufacturer of premium automobiles, recently expanded its Limousine and Hotel Shuttle Program offerings this February 1 to include the 5 Series Sedan models. They join the already popular 5 Series GT (Gran Turismo) and 7 Series Sedan Long Wheel base models, which have been part of the program since its inception. BMW announced its Limousine and Hotel Shuttle Program in March 2012 and was immediately well accepted throughout the industry.
One of the highlights of the 5 Series is its low fuel consumption. The 528i has an estimated MPG of 23 city/34 highway, which can help livery operators significantly reduce fuel costs. The 4-cyclinder, 240-horsepower engine delivers plenty of power, while the 5 Series interior exudes luxury and comfort for the passenger. Other models in the series feature available 6-cylinder and V-8 Twin Turbo engines, as well as all-wheel drive with its xDrive models.
At the Chauffeur Driven Show in November 2013, BMW launched its optional Livery Extended Service Contract, which provides coverage for 3 years/150,000 miles. This new warranty product is also available for the 5 Series Sedan. Every BMW also comes standard with a comprehensive 4 years/50,000 miles maintenance package, which can be upgraded to 6 years/100,000 miles.
“With the newest addition, BMW increases its product portfolio to further satisfy the needs of the livery industry by offering a more affordable classic sedan to livery providers nationwide,” says Key Account Manager, Marco Schneider. “This is the first BMW livery vehicle with a price point under $45,000 and is a strong competitor to vehicles like the Cadillac XTS.”
Currently Livery pricing starts from $42,500 (BMW 528i) plus dealer fees (Dealer Fees include Destination Fee ($925), Training Fee ($180) and MACO (~$400).
Special livery pricing, extended warranties, and enhanced maintenance packages are available on these models to livery companies enrolled in the Limousine and Hotel Shuttle Program. To enroll or for more information about the program, contact Marco Schneider at Marco.R.Schneider@bmwna.com or call 201.307.4465.
Visit bmwusa.com for more information.
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