Bethesda, MD — July 15, 2008 — Responding to interest and concern about the rising use of telematics and its potential impact on the automotive aftermarket, "Telematics Primer – The Aftermarket's Role in the Telematics Future" has been created by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) and is now available.

The 101-page study is divided into three sections, providing a comprehensive introduction to telematics language and applications, an outline of opportunities and threats to the aftermarket industry, and a telematics business case with conclusions and recommendations.

"AAIA believes that aftermarket companies will not only have a major role in the telematics future, but will be the primary drivers of many all-new product and service opportunities for both the consumer and commercial vehicle markets," said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO. "We see telematics as an industry-changing technology that can open all new markets for our members and we want to play an active role in helping them connect with its potential. This study is the first step at establishing AAIA as the 'go-to' resource for telematics planning."

The study was funded by proceeds from a four-day cycling Tour d' AAPEX last year from southern California to Las Vegas, organized by Interamerican Motor Corp and sponsored by other members of the Auto International Association (AIA), a segment of AAIA.

The "Telematics Primer" is available free to AAIA members and costs $1,250 for non-members. For more information, call 301-654-6664 or visit www.aftermarket.org.

About AAIA
AAIA is a Bethesda, Md.-based association whose more than 23,000 member and affiliates manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, service, tool, equipment, materials and supplies. Through its membership, AAIA represents more than 100,000 repair shops, parts stores and distribution outlets.