Park Place – Page 53 – Park Place Dealerships

February 5, 2016February 5, 2016

Meet the Man Behind the Wheel of Park Place Motorcars Grapevine

Vince Lombardi said it best, “Individual commitment to a group effort – that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.” Working together as a team is paramount for Robert Hinkle, General Manager of Park Place Motorcars Grapevine.

Starting his career as an Accountant, Robert eventually got tired of sitting behind a desk and set his sights on the car-business. A friend, who was already working for Park Place, talked highly about the company, the atmosphere and the culture at Park Place Dealerships.

“I really liked the idea of running my own business, so to speak,” said Hinkle. “When you are selling cars everything is up to you.”

Robert joined Park Place in 2000 as a pre-owned sales consultant at Park Place Motorcars Bedford (which later relocated to Grapevine).

In September 2002, he was promoted to Finance Business Manager and then promoted to pre-owned sales director in July 2003. Hinkle has been general manager of Park Place Motorcars Grapevine since 2007. Being at the helm of one of the top Mercedes-Benz stores in the nation for nearly a decade, he continuously strives to strengthen and empower his team to achieve excellence.

“I do have high expectations, but I would never ask something of a member (employee) that I would not be willing to do myself,” said Hinkle. “I’m a firm believer if you do the right thing consistently, you will always succeed and opportunities will come your way.”

There are many moving pieces in car sales; from sales, to service, to greeters, to porters, all of which are equally important and all are part of a single unit working together toward the same common goal- they’re the Park Place Motorcars Grapevine TEAM.

“I have always compared it [car sales] to team sports. The practice time, dedication, and sweat it takes to have a winning team is not easy but very rewarding,” said Hinkle.

Robert’s dedication to his team, customer service, and Park Place is evident in the various awards and accolades. He has twice received a Gold Achievement Salesman of the Year Award, has been ranked top ten in the nation for pre-owned Sales for Mercedes-Benz, and Park Place Motorcars Grapevine has been named “Best of the Best” by Mercedes-Benz numerous times.

Outside all things cars, Robert enjoys spending time with his family and fishing. He’s also passionate about pet adoption. “It breaks my heart to see the way these animals are abused and neglected,” says Robert. “Please adopt a pet.”

For 2016, Robert’s focus remains on his Park Place Motorcars Grapevine team. “I would like to see us all return to what got us here and that is all the departments working very closely and as a strong TEAM. Taking care of each other and providing the best client experience possible.”

February 3, 2016February 3, 2016

Park Place Dealerships Entrepreneurs’ Lecture Series Kicks Off

The Fort Worth and Dallas chapters of Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), a global, peer-to-peer network, recently teamed up to kick off its 2016 Entrepreneurs’ Lecture Series at AT&T Stadium. Park Place Dealerships has been the title sponsor of the lecture series in Dallas for the past four years and has become the title sponsor in Fort Worth this past year. Retired United States Air Force pilot Rob Shallenberger was the guest speaker who shared his experiences as an F-16 pilot and challenged the guests to create a flight plan for life.

Pictured left to right: Don Lamont, President of the Fort Worth EO chapter; Rob Sumner, Director of Marketing for Park Place Dealerships; and Stephen LaMure, President EO Dallas.

Following the presentation, the 150 guests were treated to a self-guided tour of the Dallas Cowboys locker room and the opportunity to kick a field goal on the field. The group had a great time networking and sharpening their skills, but at the end of the evening determined Dallas Cowboys place kicker Dan Bailey had nothing to worry about for challengers in the upcoming season.

Ken Schnitzer founded Park Place Dealerships in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn in Dallas. Today, Park Place operates 18 full-service dealerships representing the top luxury brands.

January 25, 2016

Meet the Man Behind the Wheel of Park Place Porsche

Growing up in Kansas, Patrick Huston never imagined that one day he’d be behind the wheel of the top Porsche dealership in the nation. And a racing team? That was something you only saw on TV, and a dream at best.

The path to success for Patrick started at the age of 12 while working alongside his dad at the family’s auto-parts shop. He enjoyed being around cars, helping clients, learning from his dad and serving the small Kansas community. As he got older, he continued working in the industry for several years before making the life-changing move to Dallas.

In December 2003 Patrick received a call from Park Place Porsche, asking him to join their team as a Pre-Owned Manager, which he eagerly accepted.
“The reputation that Park Place built as a leader in the industry, as well as the opportunity to represent a brand such as Porsche is what drew me in,” said Huston.

He instantly took the Pre-Owned department to #1 in the country, where it has remained since 2004.

“Initially it was about the cars, “said Huston, “But I soon learned, when I shifted to the sales side of the business, that it was about the people. I enjoyed creating a relationship and fulfilling the client’s needs. It isn’t about the instant gratification of a one-time sale.”

Patrick’s relentless drive to win and dedication to the team at Park Place propelled him to his biggest role yet- General Manager of Park Place Porsche.

Perhaps Patrick’s leadership style is something he picked-up while working alongside his dad.

“I lead by example,” said Huston, “My team knows that I will do whatever it takes to help facilitate them in their position. I think most people have worked for the individual who micromanages, therefore the members (employees) respect an individual who rows the boat with them any time it’s needed.”

Seven years later, Park Place Porsche continues to set records and enjoy tremendous success and recognition as a Porsche Premier dealer, Porsche Exclusive dealer, Top 5 dealer in new-car sales for the last 5 years.

Furthermore, Patrick also serves on the National Sales & Marketing Porsche Roundtable. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg for Patrick.

Four-years ago, he successfully merged Park Place Porsche with IMSA GTD Professional Racing, creating the Park Place Motorsports team, led by professional driver Patrick Lindsey. This is the highest possible level of manufacturer participation.

(Left to Right) Spencer Pumpelly, Patrick Huston, Patrick Lindsey

At the end of the day, the key to Patrick’s success is simple. “Patience,” he says, “And understand, that as a career it can be rewarding provided you put in the time.”

January 21, 2016

Lexus LC 500 Is Already an Award Winner

Lexus has received high accolades for the all-new LC 500 luxury coupe. The Lexus LC 500 was named 2016 EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence – Production Car and EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence – Interior Design at the 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Designed by Lexus Design in Toyota City, Japan, the LC 500 represents the future direction of exhilarating and progressive design for Lexus. The Lexus designers were challenged to work closely with engineers to take the LF-LC show car and make it a reality. They were seeking new ways to redefine the Lexus design style with dynamic design and advanced technology, yet remain within reach for luxury buyers.

“I am so honored to receive the EyesOn Design awards for best interior design and design excellence for the LC 500 from our designer peers,” said Tadao Mori, chief designer of the LC 500. “The LC 500 is a clear result of the passion, hard work and collaboration between the designers and engineers for the future chapter of Lexus.”

The NAIAS 2016 EyesOn Design Awards honor the best production and concept vehicles making their worldwide auto show debut at NAIAS. The awards are selected by active and retired design heads of automotive manufacturers and transportation design chairs from top art schools.

January 19, 2016January 23, 2016

Bentley Dallas’ Special Day with a Special Hometown WW II Veteran

Bentley Dallas was bestowed with the ultimate honor of driving and escorting Tuskegee Airman Staff Sergeant Homer Hogues and his family in the annual Martin Luther King Day parade.
We met the 88-year-old young man and his family on a sunny yet chilly morning in South Dallas. He arrived to the awaiting 2016 Bentley Continental GTC via Dallas Police escort.

Two officers helped him get settled in, while he took it all in. He didn’t say much, but his big smile said everything.

Staff Sergeant Hogues was truly amazed and impressed. He looked around, feeling the beautiful intricately stitched burgundy leather seats.

Brian Simmons, sales experience manager at Bentley Dallas, was his driver and escort for the parade.

Brian made sure to adjust the seats for Staff Sergeant Hogues, and did everything necessary to make sure he enjoyed the day in ultimate luxury and comfort.

Staff Sergeant Hogues’ story is as intriguing as the man himself. While sitting in the Bentley, awaiting the start of the parade he was greeted by countless admirers including Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, Dallas City Council members, ROTC cadets, as well as members of the military. They stopped by to shake his hand, salute him, say hello, and thank him for his service.

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson stopped by to say hello to Staff Sergeant Hogues.

Staff Sergeat Hogues’ career with the Tuskegee Airmen started shortly after graduating high school. He was drafted into the military, and saw this as an opportunity to better himself and serve his country.

He was assigned to the famous 99th Fighter Squadron 332nd Fighter Group at Lockbourne Air Force Base in Columbus, Ohio as an airplane mechanic. During this time Benjamin O. Davis Jr, the first African-American general officer in the U.S. Air Force, was the commanding officer. He was also Staff Sgt. Hogues’ teacher, who became a mentor, and now the two men worked together. Benjamin O. Davis Jr. a 4-Star General went on to work at the White House, in the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Staff Sgt. Hogues, worked on P-47 Thunderbird planes, with pilots like “Chappy” James, who helped win World War II. He was proud of what he did, and says when the Tuskegee Airmen pilots would return from missions, mechanics and ground crew awaited with tremendous pride.

Hogues returned to Texas in 1949 and applied for a job at Braniff airlines. Despite his experience as an airplane mechanic, he was told by Braniff that if he wanted a job, he could clean planes, sweep floors, or pick up trash. At this time, he regretted leaving the Air Force.

In 2008, President George W. Bush awarded a Congressional Medal of Honor to the Tuskegee Airmen.

“We (the family) didn’t find out he (Staff Sergeant Hogues) was an Airman until 2009, after the medals were given out in Washington D.C.” said daughter Barbara Hogues. “We run into a lot of families with the same story,” continued Barbara, “Daddy said when he got out of the military and everyone acted like nothing special had been done, then he thought no one wanted to know about the Tuskegee Airmen. He didn’t talk about the military. At our schools, they didn’t teach us about the Tuskegee Airmen. That’s why I’m so glad God blessed him to live long enough to see this day. Even though he wasn’t a pilot, his duty of airplane mechanic was just as important. I take him out now for all the Airmen who didn’t get a chance to see this day.”

After retiring in 1995, Staff Sergeant Hogues continues being recognized for his service.

He also participates in events and speaking engagements representing the US Air Force and Tuskegee Airmen, his love and pride for family and country is immeasurable.

Being a Tuskegee Airman, Staff Sgt. Hogues has been invited by US Presidents to be participate in parades, including the Presidential Inaugural Parade for President Harry S. Truman in 1949. President Obama also extended a personal invite to Staff Sgt. Hogues to be in a parade, which Hogues gladly accepted. Hogues says the biggest difference in the two parades decades apart is how he and the African-Americans were treated. The Tuskegee Airmen, the first all African-American squadron in the US Military, were put up to sleep in a plane hangar when in town for President Truman’s parade. Hogues said, “It was so so so cold!” as he hugged himself and shivered.

Staff Sergeant Hogues and his family were also invited to dinner at the Governor’s mansion by former Texas Governor Rick Perry.

After the MLK Parade, Staff Sergeant Hogues and his family spent time with the team at Park Place Premier Collection.

Park Place Premier Collection General Manager Heath Strayhan with Staff Sergeant Hogues.

Park Place Premier Collection General Manager Heath Strayhan and Sales Experience Manager Brian Simmons with Staff Sergeant Hogues.

Park Place Premier Collection Sales Experience Manager Brian Simmons with Staff Sergeant Hogues.

It was a real treat to hear his stories and spend the day with this incredible man, his wife, and daughter! Thank you for your service Staff Sergeant Hogues.

For more information about Bentley or to schedule a test drive, please contact:
Malcolm Gage at Bentley Dallas 844-745-8538 or MGage@10.2.54.33

January 11, 2016

Volvo XC90 Wins North American Truck of the Year – Again

The Volvo XC90 has won the prestigious North American Truck of the Year 2016 Award from a field of strong contenders for the second time. The North American Truck of the Year Award is one of few in North America based on a jury of independent automotive journalists. The 2016 jury, consisting of 53 journalists from the United States and Canada, singled out the XC90 for its blend of innovative technology, superb comfort and driving dynamics and its outstanding design. “We are absolutely thrilled that the XC90 has won this prestigious and most respected award,” said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO of Volvo Car USA, “and there is a lot more to come. By 2019 Volvo will have a totally renewed product portfolio. By then the all-new XC90 will be the oldest car in the showroom.”

Volvo’s XC90 comes with an array of innovative technology aimed at making life easier and more enjoyable for drivers and passengers alike. Apart from launching a whole new design strategy for the iconic Swedish brand, the Volvo XC90 also comes with a range-topping T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid powertrain that takes it to the top of its class as a 7-seater. The T8 Twin Engine delivers a combination of outstanding performance and extreme efficiency unmatched in the premium SUV segment. On the inside the Volvo XC90 has set a new standard in interior design with an inspirational approach to progressive design and the use of natural materials. The XC90’s tablet-like touch display takes centre court in the dashboard and delivers a multitude of native applications and services, whilst also providing smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay.

The Bowers & Wilkins top of the range sound system with its signature ‘tweeter on top’ is a fresh approach to audio design in the premium segment.

A world class safety system is standard in the Volvo XC90. City Safety, which is Volvo’s name for its auto brake functionality, provides coverage in many different accident scenarios including potential collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists – day and night. The XC90 was the first Volvo to launch with a low-speed semi-autonomous drive feature called Pilot Assist. This function is now being expanded in the new S90 to work at motorway speeds of up to 130 km/h. Volvo’s leadership in the field of safety is enabling autonomous drive functionality and reflects the Swedish brand’s commitment to eliminating serious injury or deaths in its cars by the year 2020.

For more information or to schedule a test drive, please contact:

Donny Lambrecht, New Car Director at Park Place Volvo, (214) 956-5516, DLambrecht@10.2.54.33

January 11, 2016January 11, 2016

2017 Lexus LC 500 Sports Coupe Makes Bold Statement About Lexus’ Future

The all-new 2017 Lexus LC 500 brings together provocative and alluring design with an engaging yet seductive atmosphere for the driver in the cabin. The expressively designed luxury coupe defines a new era for Lexus. “The LC 500 has been an important product for Lexus and me personally,” said Akio Toyoda, Chief Branding Officer and Master Driver for Lexus. “A few years ago, we decided to guide the future of the brand with products that had more passion and distinction in the luxury market. This flagship luxury coupe’s proportions, stunning design and performance make a strong statement about our brand’s emotional direction and will grow the Lexus luxury appeal globally.”

For Lexus, the LC 500 project became much more than simply the development of a new coupe. The LC 500, with the shift in engineering processes and design ideologies it represents, symbolizes the beginning of a new phase for the Lexus brand.

“Design and engineering sides worked together on issues and obstacles that were overcome one by one. I feel we achieved something greater than simply preserving the spirit of the concept’s design,” said Chief Engineer Koji Sato.

The LC 500’s visual appeal is defined by an athletic aerodynamic shape. It features sensual curves, emotional forms, an available flowing carbon-fiber roof (glass roof standard), helping create a low, wide imposing stance that comes together for a highly functional, passionate package.

The LC 500’s front fascia features a powerful interpretation of Lexus’ distinctive grille, bordered by chrome on three sides and a radical new 3D mesh design that varies its visual tension. The “L”-shaped daytime running lights rest below a new Triple LED headlamp unit, specially designed to include one of the industry’s thinnest projectors enabling a low hood with a short front overhang. Functional venting also plays into the LC 500’s exterior design to help improve aerodynamic stability and cooling.

The car’s athletic profile is characterized by its fast, sloped roofline, its wind-cutting silhouette, a long (113 inches) wheelbase with compact front and rear overhangs and low hood height. A rear diffuser and available active rear spoiler also help manage airflow during performance driving.

Helping power transfer to the rear wheels is a newly developed 10-speed automatic transmission—the first ever in a luxury automobile—with shift times rivaling those of a dual-clutch transmission. The vehicle targets a 0 to 60 mph time of less than 4.5 seconds.

The LC 500 is the first Lexus to use the brand’s all-new, premium rear-wheel-drive luxury platform and is part of the new corporate global architecture for luxury vehicles (GA-L). In an effort to sharpen the car’s handling, the LC 500’s engineers focused on the platform’s fundamentals by placing most of the mass, including the engine and the occupants, in a position more centralized and lower in the chassis to improve the center of gravity.

The heart of the new LC 500 is derived from the proven, high-revving 5.0-liter V8 that is found in the RC F and GS F. The all-aluminum, 32-valve V8’s output targets 467 HP and 389 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine in the LC 500 uses a dual intake inlet that help improve breathing and allow the engine to produce its fantastic sound. The new coupe features an active exhaust that opens baffles in Sport mode to help give the car a more aggressive exhaust note even in start-up. During acceleration, a Sound Generator involving tuned acoustic plumbing enhances the engine’s raucous melody into an aural thunder that helps distinguish the LC 500 in its competitive segment.

The interior design of the LC 500 is influenced by the dynamic luxury theme of the exterior with a layout that is both cockpit-focused and elegant.

The coupe’s driving position was calibrated to invite spirited, sporting driving, and help develop easier confidence with a more intuitive control layout.

This flagship coupe will debut the 2017 Lexus Multimedia package that will feature updated, faster, more flexible software enabling future enhancements and a more inviting graphic user interface. The LC 500 also will boast Lexus’ renowned safety technology, Lexus Safety System +. Coming to Park Place Lexus Grapevine and Lexus Plano in 2017.

January 8, 2016January 23, 2016

Meet the Man Behind the Wheel of Park Place Premier Collection

A corner office with a view is great, but Heath Strayhan prefers an office with a view of high-end European luxury vehicles. Originally from Calgary, Canada, he now calls Texas home and is the General Manager of Park Place Premier Collection.

Heath’s high-energy leadership style and high-expectations from his team are befitting of the Premier Collection’s brands and the clients they serve. “Our members (employees) know what is expected of them and are given the autonomy to execute at a high level,” says Heath.

From Bentley and Rolls-Royce to McLaren and Maserati, the Premier Collection is home to high-end vehicles that exude an air of exclusivity. It’s also the premier destination for clients who want the best of the best, and Heath and his team are ready to deliver.

Getting to where he is today took a lot of hard work and dedication. After graduating from SMU with a degree in Economics with Financial Applications, Heath was recruited by Nissan to work as a collections representative. Shortly thereafter, he went to work for Mercedes-Benz Credit Corp as an analyst.

Having been immersed in the automotive industry for a while, Heath turned his attention to Park Place Dealerships. He saw the company as “a forward-thinking organization that was becoming more involved in internet sales,” and he saw a lot of potential for the future.

Starting in sales at Mercedes-Benz, he quickly transitioned to Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and Maserati in 2005 when they introduced their new models. “I have a passion for our brands and this business” says Heath, “and the fact that the parent manufacturers have continued to invest in these brands has helped foster the growth of our organization.”

Seventeen years later, he is behind the wheel of the most prestigious dealership in DFW. With Heath on board, Park Place Premier Collection has won numerous awards including the top honors of 2014 McLaren International Dealer of the Year and 2013 Rolls-Royce North American Dealer of the Year.

2013 Rolls-Royce North American Dealer of the Year Award Recipient

In the Summer of 2015, Park Place Premier Collection received National attention when Heath and his team, along with Make A Wish, and Bugatti granted a 7-year-old boy his wish to ride in a $3-Million Bugatti Veyron.

Read the Bugatti Make-A-Wish story here.

Furthermore, Heath is the North American representative on Bentley Academy Dealer Board and the Southern Region representative on Rolls-Royce Dealer Board.

In his free time he plays men’s league hockey on a team called the Beavers. Family time includes attending volleyball and lacrosse tournaments with his wife and 3 children. Working on home improvement project also helps him unwind. And, Heath is a supporter of the March of Dimes, as his daughters were born premature.

So what’s the secret to Heath’s success? “Park Place is a standout organization in our industry. In that, you should be prepared to engage in your career at an incomparable level and understand that what works for others may not work for us.”

January 7, 2016January 8, 2016

Victory is Swede! Volvo Wins Most Safety Awards

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the XC90, S80, S60, V60 and XC60 its 2016 Top Safety Pick+ Award – the most among any luxury car company. Every Volvo model tested by IIHS in the last year has received the Top Safety Pick+ Award, the highest possible award for safety in the United States.

“Our vision is that no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by the year 2020. Our recognition as the luxury automaker with the most IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus awards is another milestone in the journey toward that vision,” said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America.

Volvo’s ‘Vision 2020’ is a guiding principle behind the company’s engineering, development and operating philosophy, which is focused on safety, improving the environment and reducing traffic congestion in major metropolitan areas. This vision has resulted in a new, ultra-efficient engine strategy, world-leading advancements in autonomous and semi-autonomous drive and an unparalleled safety benchmark for the automotive industry.

The IIHS safety awards cap the end of a successful year for Volvo. The company last week also debuted the 2017 S90, a completely new luxury sedan that will be available at Park Place Volvo this summer.

2017 Volvo S90

IIHS 2016 Top Safety Pick+ Award winners:

2016 Volvo S80

2016 Volvo XC60

2016 Volvo XC90

2016 Volvo S60

2016 Volvo V60

For more information or to schedule a test drive, please contact:

Donny Lambrecht, New Car Director at Park Place Volvo, (214) 956-5516, DLambrecht@10.2.54.33

January 6, 2016January 6, 2016

The Lexus NX Just Got a Lot Cooler

Driving on ice has taken on a whole new meaning for Lexus, which has crafted the world’s first set of working wheels and tires made from ice.

True to its mission of “creating amazing” and inspired by the craftsmanship that goes into every vehicle it makes, Lexus commissioned a team of ice sculpture specialists to explore how ice could be used in place of conventional alloy metal and rubber. After three months’ research, design and testing, the finished wheels were fitted to a Lexus NX for the ultimate ice drive. The car itself was deep-frozen, stored for five days at -30°C (it started first time) before being driven off down a London road.

For the Lexus commission – the first of its kind – genuine NX wheels and tires were laser scanned and replicated using computer design and numerical control techniques. The result was an unprecedented fusing of art and engineering. The addition of in-wheel LED lighting added an extra dramatic dimension to the cutting-edge contemporary styling of the NX.

Four sculptors worked for 36 hours to produce each wheel. The millimeter-perfect finish was achieved with hand-crafting, using Japanese steel chisels and shaping tools. Even the tread patterns on the tires were faithfully reproduced.

The ice was made from softened water taken from a moving flow to ensure it was perfectly clear when taken from the freezer. Acrylic inserts were added to ensure the wheels could take the load of the Lexus NX.

“Creating Amazing is what Lexus is about. Projects such as our hoverboard, the origami-inspired cardboard car and now a dazzling set of fully functioning ice wheels, demonstrate how we use advanced technologies and the best craftsmanship traditions to achieve outstanding results. That’s not just for eye-catching one-off projects, but for the cars we deliver to our customers, too,” said Lexus Director, Richard Balshaw.

Take a behind the scenes look at how the ice wheels were made.

The project was undertaken by Hamilton Ice Sculptors, a London-based business established for more than 35 years with world-leading experience in producing innovative and large-scale works.

For more information on the Lexus NX or to schedule a test drive, please contact:

Patrick Jaccar at Park Place Lexus Plano, (972) 738-8078, PJaccar@10.2.54.33

Charles Owen at Park Place Lexus Grapevine, (817) 416-3130, COwen3@10.2.54.33