What’s New: In Brief (February 04, 2008)

The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) is now offering a New Vehicle Replacement Plus program, which allows a vehicle to be written off if the damage exceeds 50% of its market value.
Program members suffering a write-off would receive a new version of their vehicle or the cash equivalent.
“Many new car owners don’t want a vehicle back that has had major repairs, so we are providing these customers with another option,” said Kellee Irwin, vice-president of underwriting at ICBC. “We’ve lowered the threshold for New Vehicle Replacement Plus customers to give them the peace of mind in knowing that if they get in a major crash they are still going to have a brand new vehicle.”

Dave Lush is the new chief operating officer of CARSTAR Automotive Canada.
The new position was created to ensure the company is poised for its next phase in growth and long-term sustainability, CARSTAR noted.
Lush will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence and execution of business strategies and the strategic plan for CARSTAR.
In addition, he will be responsible for developing and leading the 40 corporate management team members. He will continue to work closely with CARSTAR’s key stakeholders, including franchisees, insurers and suppliers.
“I am pleased to welcome Dave to this new position,” Sam Mercanti, president and CEO of CARSTAR, said in a release. “His many years of experience in the Canadian automotive industry will not only benefit CARSTAR, but also its many partners and stakeholders.”