ELK GROVE, Calif., Nov. 6, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- ALLDATA(r) and Chief Automotive Technologies(r) recently announced at the 2007 International Autobody Congress & Exposition (NACE) in Las Vegas, Nevada, the integration of ALLDATA Collision(tm) data with selected Chief computerized measuring systems.
Branded as the Chief "VIP" (Vehicle Information Portal) solution and exclusively available to ALLDATA and Chief customers, this innovative product allows collision shops quick and convenient access to the valuable original equipment manufacturer (OEM) information needed to make efficient, high-quality estimates and repairs on today's complex vehicles.
"It's virtually impossible to correctly repair today's vehicles without knowing exactly what systems, materials, specifications and procedures are included," explained Randy Gard, President of Chief Automotive Technologies. "Our integration with ALLDATA enables Chief to provide this information not only to shop estimators, production managers and parts order personnel, but also to the measuring system sitting next to the vehicle being repaired."
Gard adds, "Having this invaluable OEM data both in the front of the shop and at the technician's 'point-of-use' is huge! The result will be a tremendous improvement on shop and technician efficiency as they both will now know exactly how that vehicle needs to be repaired and, with Chief Design-Based Repair Systems, will have the necessary tools to do so."
The ALLDATA-Chief integration represents a landmark opportunity for collision shops to effectively streamline and advance their estimation and repair processes. In addition to detailed collision repair data and procedures, the Chief VIP product will also provide subscribers access to ALLDATA's extensive mechanical diagnostic and repair database.
"ALLDATA is very excited about our product integration with Chief Automotive Technologies," remarks ALLDATA President Jeff Lagges. "Along with our association with one of the premier brands and companies in the collision industry, we've had the opportunity to work closely with their team and experience first-hand their commitment to excellence. ALLDATA's mission for over 20 years has been to improve our customers' ability to perform their jobs and maximize their business opportunities. Chief is committed to the same vision, and together we feel that we have a powerful solution to get this done."
About AutoZone's ALLDATA
ALLDATA is the leading provider of automotive repair information and solutions to the Professional Automotive Service Industry. Professional automotive repair shops across North America depend on ALLDATA for their automotive repair information needs, and purchase AutoZone parts from more than 2,000 AutoZone Commercial program locations.
The ALLDATA(r) subscription, available online and on DVD, provides comprehensive, factory-correct repair information. Also available are: ServiceCenter(sm) ELITE strategic shop management system; ProCarCareZone(sm) web-based shop marketing tools to bring in new and repeat business; ALLDATA CollisionConnect(sm), the only comprehensive source of OEM collision information, delivering factory-correct, unedited and regularly updated information for structural repairs and more; and the AZ Parts(sm) Catalog and AZ PartsConnect(sm) programs for aftermarket parts estimating and electronic ordering. ALLDATA(r) DIY provides consumers with repair articles, factory technical service bulletins, and illustrations for a specific vehicle, along with a link to ALLDATA-approved repair shops. Visit www.alldata.com for more information.
About Chief Automotive Technologies, Inc.
Chief Automotive Technologies, Inc. is the world's largest manufacturer of high quality collision repair products and services, including frame pulling equipment, vehicle anchoring systems, computerized measuring systems, vehicle frame specifications and comprehensive training on structural analysis repair and collision theory.
Headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska, USA, Chief also operates a number of facilities throughout the world, and is a key provider of collision repair equipment in more than 48 countries globally.
About AutoZone
As of August 25, 2007, AutoZone sells auto and light truck parts, chemicals and accessories through 4,056 AutoZone stores in the United States, Puerto Rico and Mexico. AutoZone also sells the ALLDATA brand automotive diagnostic and repair software. On the web, AutoZone sells diagnostic and repair information and auto and light truck parts through www.autozone.com.