EXHIBIT 10.1
[AUDI LOGO]
AUTOMOBILE DEALER
SALES AND SERVICE
AGREEMENT
AUDI DEALER AGREEMENT [AUDI LOGO]
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1. APPOINTMENT. Audi of America, Inc., a division of Volkswagen of
America, Inc. ("Audi"), having a place of business at 0000 Xxxxxx Xxxx, Xxxxxx
Xxxxx, XX 00000, appoints XXXXXXX, ("Dealer"), doing business under the
fictitious name, XXXXXXX, having its place of business at XXXXXXX, as an
authorized dealer in Audi brand motor vehicles and genuine parts and accessories
therefor. Accordingly, the parties agree as follows:
2. STANDARD PROVISIONS. The Dealer Agreement Standard Provisions (the
"Standard Provisions"), the Dealer Operating Plan (the "Operating Plan"), the
Audi Business Basics (the "Business Basics"), the Audi Retail Capacity Guide
(the "Retail Capacity Guide"), and the Audi Business File are part of this
Agreement. Any term not defined in this Agreement has the meaning given such
term in the Standard Provisions or Recommendations.
3. OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT. To induce Audi to enter into this
Agreement, Dealer represents that the persons identified in the Statement of
Ownership and Management, which is attached as Exhibit A, are Dealer's Owners
and Executives. Audi is entering into this Agreement in reliance upon these
representations, and upon the continued provision by such persons of their
personal services in fulfillment of Dealer's obligations under this Agreement.
Accordingly, Dealer agrees there will be no change in Dealer's Owners without
Audi's prior written consent, and no change in Dealer's Executives without prior
notice to Audi.
4. MINIMUM FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS. Dealer agrees to comply and maintain
compliance with the minimum financial requirements established for Dealer from
time to time in accordance with the Operating Plan or Recommendations.
Throughout the term of this Agreement those minimum financial requirements are
subject to revision by Audi, after review with Dealer, in light of operating
conditions and the development of Dealer's business and business potential.
5. DEALER'S PREMISES. Audi has approved the location of Dealer's
Premises as specified in the Dealer Premises Addendum, attached as Exhibit B.
Dealer agrees that, without Audi's prior written consent, it will not (a) make
any major structural change in any of Dealer's Premises, (b) change the location
of any of Dealer's Premises or (c) establish any additional premises for
Dealer's Operations.
6. EXCLUSION OF WARRANTIES. EXCEPT FOR AUDI'S WARRANTIES, AND EXCEPT AS
PROVIDED IN ARTICLE 9 (1) OF THE STANDARD PROVISIONS, THERE ARE NO EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR OBLIGATIONS OF THE MANUFACTURER OR AUDI AS TO THE QUALITY
OR CONDITION OF AUTHORIZED PRODUCTS, OR AS TO THEIR MERCHANTABLITY OR FITNESS
FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, DEALER WILL
EXCLUDE ANY AND ALL SUCH WARRANTIES AND OBLIGATIONS IN ITS SALES OF AUTHORIZED
PRODUCTS.
7. TERM. The term of this Agreement begins on the date of its delivery
to Dealer or on XXXXXX, whichever is later. This Agreement shall continue in
effect until terminated by either party or superseded by a new Dealer Agreement
with Audi.
8. GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement will be construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of XXXXXX. Should the performance of any obligation under
this Agreement violate any valid law of such jurisdiction, then this Agreement
shall be deemed modified to the minimum extent necessary to comply with such
law.
9. TERMS AND CONDITIONS. The Addenda attached hereto as Exhibits A
through X are part of this Agreement and are incorporated into this Agreement by
this reference.
AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.
BY: DATE:
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NAME: XXXX XXXXX
TITLE: NETWORK DEVELOPMENT TEAM LEADER
DEALER
BY: DATE:
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NAME: XXXXXX
TITLE: XXXXXX
EXHIBIT A
AUDI DEALER AGREEMENT
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
1. Dealer legal Name: XXXXXXX
2. Principle Place of Business: XXXXXXX
3. Dealer is a (proprietorship, Partnership, LLC, Corporation), (incorporated,
formed, registered) on (date), under the laws of the State of XXXX.
4. The following person(s) is/are the beneficial and record owner(s) of
Dealer:
Name and Address If a corporation, Percentage of
of Each Record and Number and Class Ownership of
Beneficial Owner of Shares Record in Dealer
------------------ ----------------- ----------------
XXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXXXXX XXX
5. The following persons are Dealer's Officers:
Name and Address: Title
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6. The following person functions as General Manager of Dealer. As such he or
she is an agent of Dealer and is authorized, and Audi is entitled to rely
on their authority, to make all decisions on behalf of Dealer with respect
to Dealer's Operations:
Name and Address: Signature
XXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXX -------------------------
XXXXXXXXXX
Dealer hereby certifies that the foregoing information is true and complete as
of the date below. Audi has entered into this Agreement in reliance upon the
qualifications, and the continued provision of personal services in the
ownership and management of Dealer by the persons identified above.
This Exhibit cancels any prior Statement of Ownership and Management.
AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.
BY: DATE:
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NAME: XXXX XXXXX
TITLE: NETWORK DEVELOPMENT TEAM LEADER
DEALER
BY: DATE:
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NAME: XXXXXX
TITLE: XXXXXX
EXHIBIT B
AUDI DEALER AGREEMENT
DEALER PREMISES ADDENDUM
1. Dealer legal Name: XXXXXXX
2. Audi has approved the location of the following premises, and no others,
for the Dealer's Operations:
a. Sales Facilities:
XXXXXX
b. Authorized Automobile Storage Facilities:
c. Service Facilities:
d. Genuine Parts Storage Facilities:
e. Used Car Lot:
Dealer hereby certifies that the foregoing information is true and complete as
of the date below. This exhibit cancels any prior Dealer Premises Addendum.
AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.
BY: DATE:
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NAME: XXXX XXXXX
TITLE: NETWORK DEVELOPMENT TEAM LEADER
DEALER
BY: DATE:
------------------------------ --------------------------
NAME: XXXXXX
TITLE: XXXXXX
Audi Dealer
Standard Provision
[PHOTO}
[AUDI LOGO]
STANDARD PROVISIONS
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ARTICLE 1
BASIC OBLIGATIONS OF AUDI
SUPPLY OF AUTHORIZED PRODUCTS
(1) Audi will sell and deliver Authorized Products to Dealer in accordance with
this Agreement.
ASSISTANCE
(2) Audi will actively assist Dealer in all aspects of Dealer's Operations
through such means as Audi considers appropriate, including:
(a) Annual reviews of Dealer's compliance with this Agreement, the Business
Basics, the Retail Capacity Guide, the Operating Standards;
(b) Recommendations; and
(c) Schools, special training and meetings for Dealer's personnel.
COMPLIANCE WITH ETHICAL STANDARDS
(3) In the conduct of its business, Audi will:
(a) Safeguard and promote the reputation of Authorized Products and the
Manufacturer;
(b) Refrain from all conduct which might be harmful to the reputation or
marketing of Authorized Products or inconsistent with the public
interest; and
(c) Avoid all discourteous, deceptive, misleading, unprofessional or
unethical practices.
ARTICLE 2
BASIC OBLIGATIONS OF DEALER
SALES, SERVICE AND PARTS SUPPLY
(1) Dealer assumes the responsibility in Dealer's Area for the promotion and
sale of Authorized Products and for the supply of Genuine Parts and customer
service for Authorized Products. This Agreement does not give Dealer any
exclusive right to sell or service Authorized Products in any area or territory.
COMPLIANCE WITH ETHICAL STANDARDS
(2) In the conduct of its business, Dealer will:
(a) Safeguard and promote the reputation of Authorized Products, the
Manufacturer and Audi;
(b) Refrain from all conduct which might be harmful to the reputation or
marketing of Authorized Products or inconsistent with the public
interest; and
(c) Avoid all discourteous, deceptive, misleading, unprofessional or
unethical practices.
BUSINESS BASICS, BUSINESS FILE, RETAIL CAPACITY GUIDE AND OPERATING PLAN
(3) The Business Basics, Business File, Retail Capacity Guide and Operating Plan
are part of this Agreement and are incorporated herein by this reference.
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DISCLAIMER OF FURTHER LIABILITY BY AUDI
(4) Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, Audi is not liable for any
expenditure made or liability incurred by Dealer in connection with Dealer's
performance of its obligations under this Agreement.
ARTICLE 3
GENERAL MANAGEMENT AND FACILITY REQUIREMENTS
DEALER'S GENERAL MANAGEMENT
(1) In the conduct of its business, Dealer will have the following minimum
staff:
(a) An Authorized Representative (provided, that such Authorized
Representative may be one of Dealer's Owners).
(b) Such additional department managers and other employees as set forth in
the Business Basics or Operating Plan.
DEALER'S PREMISES
(2) Dealer's Premises, in sales, service and parts, will conform to the
requirements of this Agreement, the Retail Capacity Guide, the Operating Plan
and such other reasonable standards as Audi may prescribe from time to time,
after review with Dealer.
(3) Unless otherwise agreed by Audi in writing, Dealer will operate Dealer's
Premises during the customary business hours of the trade in Dealer's Area.
ARTICLE 4
IDENTIFICATION; ADVERTISING
USE OF AUTHORIZED TRADEMARKS
(1) Audi will supply Dealer, from time to time, with trademark standards to
assist Dealer in the proper usage of Authorized Trademarks. Dealer will use
Authorized Trademarks only in connection with the promotion and sale of new
Authorized Products and customer service for Authorized Products pursuant to
this Agreement, and only in the manner and for the purposes Audi specifies.
Dealer will not use any Authorized Trademark as part of its corporate or
business name without the prior written consent of Audi. Dealer also may use
Authorized Trademarks in connection with the sale of used automobiles if Dealer
complies fully with Audi's requirements relating to used car sales under the
Authorized Trademarks. If Dealer does not comply fully with these requirements,
Dealer may not use any Authorized Trademarks in connection with its used car
sales, except that Dealer may use the word "Audi" to describe Authorized
Automobiles, if this word appears in characters and colors different from those
usually employed by the Manufacturer, Audi and authorized dealers of Audi. This
Agreement does not grant Dealer any license or permission to use Authorized
Trademarks except as mentioned herein, and Dealer has no right to grant any such
permission or interest.
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SIGNS
(2) Dealer will display conspicuously at Dealer's Premises such Authorized Signs
at such locations as Audi reasonably may require. Dealer will use its best
efforts to obtain all governmental approvals necessary for such display. If
Dealer transfers any of Dealer's Premises to another location, Dealer
immediately will remove all Authorized Signs and other references to Authorized
Products displayed at or around the prior location.
STATIONERY
(3) All stationery and business forms used in Dealer's Operations will be
prepared in accordance with Recommendations. Dealer's use of Authorized
Trademarks on stationery and business forms will be in accordance with trademark
standards supplied by Audi.
ADVERTISING
(4) Dealer will advertise Authorized Products and customer service for
Authorized Products only in accordance with reasonable guidelines and policies
established by Audi. Dealer will refrain from all false, deceptive, misleading
or unlawful advertising. Dealer's advertising will include, among other things,
a listing in a principal local classified telephone directory in Dealer's Area.
Authorized Trademarks will be used for identification in all product and
customer service advertising, in accordance with the provisions of this
Agreement. Audi will provide or sell to Dealer sufficient quantities of all
legally required brochures, as well as all current sales, service and parts
literature and promotional materials, and Dealer shall prominently display them
and make them readily available.
ARTICLE 5
SALES
SALES PROMOTION
(1) Dealer will use its best efforts to promote the sale of Authorized
Automobiles in Dealer's Area, through regular contacts with owners, users, and
prospective owners and users of Authorized Products; through promotion,
prospecting, and follow-up programs; and through such means and at such levels
as may be indicated from time to time by the Business Basics, Operating Plan and
Recommendations.
SALES PERFORMANCE
(2) Dealer will achieve the best sales performance possible in Dealer's Area for
each model and type of Authorized Automobile. The measurement for Dealer's
yearly sales performance will be the objective established in the applicable
annual Operating Plan.
SALES OUTSIDE AREA
(3) Subject to Dealer's performance of its obligations under Article 5(2), Audi
does not restrict Dealer's sale of Authorized Products within the 00 Xxxxxx
Xxxxxx. Audi hereby informs Dealer, however, that Audi has no authority to sell
any products for distribution outside the United States, and it is Audi's policy
not to do so. Dealer acknowledges its understanding that this is intended to
preserve the integrity of the orderly worldwide distribution network for the
products supplied to Audi, and to maximize customer satisfaction by ensuring
that Authorized Products meet the certification and operational standards to
which they were designed. Dealer therefore is authorized to sell new Authorized
Products only in the 00 Xxxxxx Xxxxxx, and is not authorized to, and agrees it
will not, sell any new Authorized Product for sale or use elsewhere.
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DEFECTIVE OR DAMAGED AUTHORIZED PRODUCTS
(4) If any Authorized Product sold by Audi to Dealer should become defective or
damaged prior to its delivery by Dealer to a customer, Dealer agrees to repair
such defect or damage so that such Authorized Product is placed in first-class
salable condition prior to such delivery. Dealer immediately will notify Audi of
any substantial defects or damage and will follow such procedures for making
damage claims as Audi may establish from time to time. Audi shall have the
option to repurchase any Authorized Products with substantial defects or damage
at the price at which they were originally sold by Audi, less any prior refunds
or allowances made by Audi and less any insurance proceeds received by Dealer in
respect of such defect or damage. Audi will make an equitable adjustment with
respect to damage which Dealer can demonstrate occurred prior to the time of
delivery to Dealer. Audi will disclose to Dealer as may be required any damage
which Audi repaired before delivering an Authorized Automobile to Dealer. Dealer
will properly disclose such repair prior to delivering such Authorized
Automobile to a customer, and will hold Audi harmless from any claims that
required disclosure was not made.
CHANGES BY DEALER TO AUTHORIZED PRODUCTS
(5) Audi may request Dealer to make changes, or not to make changes, to
Authorized Products, and Dealer agrees to comply promptly with such requests.
Dealer also agrees to take such steps as Audi may direct it to take to comply
with any law or regulation pertaining to safety, emissions, noise, fuel economy
or vehicle labeling. Audi will reimburse Dealer at the then-current rate of
reimbursement specified by Audi for Dealer for Genuine Parts and for labor which
may be used by Dealer in making such required changes on Authorized Products.
Parts and other materials necessary to make such changes may be shipped to
Dealer without Dealer's authorization and Dealer will accept them. Dealer will
receive credit for parts so shipped which prove unnecessary, provided they are
returned or disposed of in accordance with Audi's instructions. If the laws of
the state in which Dealer is located or a vehicle is to be registered require
motor vehicles to carry equipment not installed or supplied as standard
equipment by the Manufacturer or Audi, upon Audi's request Dealer will, prior to
selling any Authorized Automobiles on which such installation is required,
properly install at its own or its customers' expense equipment conforming to
such laws and to Audi's standards. Dealer agrees to indemnify the Manufacturer
and Audi and hold them harmless from any and all liabilities that may arise out
of Dealer's failure or alleged failure to comply with any obligation assumed by
Dealer in this paragraph.
PRODUCT CHANGES BY DEALER NEITHER REQUESTED BY AUDI NOR REQUIRED BY LAW
(6) If Dealer installs on a new Authorized Automobile any equipment, accessory
or part other than a Genuine Part; sells any new Authorized Automobile which has
been modified; or sells in conjunction with a new Authorized Automobile a
service contract not offered or specifically endorsed in writing by Audi, then
Dealer will advise the customer of the identity of the warrantor of such
modification, equipment, accessory or part, or, in the case of a service
contract, of the identity of the provider of its coverage. Dealer will indemnify
Audi against claims that may be asserted against Audi in any action by reason of
such modification, equipment, accessory, part or service contract. ANY
UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATION TO AUTHORIZED PRODUCTS BY DEALER WHICH ADVERSELY
AFFECTS THE SAFETY OR EMISSIONS OF AN AUTHORIZED AUTOMOBILE WILL BE A VIOLATION
OF THIS AGREEMENT AND CAUSE FOR TERMINATION PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 14(2).
USED CAR OPERATIONS
(7) Dealer will use its best efforts to acquire, promote, and sell at retail
used Authorized Automobiles and other used automobiles. Dealer's used car
operations will conform to the requirements of the Business Basics, Retail
Capacity Guide, Operating Plan, Recommendations and such other reasonable
standards as Audi may prescribe, after review with Dealer.
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ARTICLE 6
PARTS
PARTS PROMOTION
(1) Dealer will use its best efforts to promote the sale of Genuine Parts in
Dealer's Area, through regular contacts with owners, users, and prospective
owners and users of Authorized Products; through promotion, prospecting and
follow-up programs; and through such means as may be indicated from time to
time by Recommendations.
PARTS DEPARTMENT
(2) Dealer's parts department will conform to the requirements of the Business
Basics, Retail Capacity Guide, Operating Plan and such other reasonable
standards as Audi may prescribe, after review with Dealer.
SALE OF NON-GENUINE PARTS
(3) Dealer will not sell any parts which are not equivalent in quality and
design to Genuine Parts, if such parts are necessary to the mechanical operation
of Authorized Automobiles. Dealer will not represent as new Genuine Parts any
parts which are not new Genuine Parts. If Dealer sells a part or accessory which
is not a Genuine Part, Dealer will advise the customer of the identity of the
warrantor of such part or accessory.
PARTS INVENTORY
(4) Dealer will maintain an inventory of Genuine Parts which is sufficient to
perform reasonably anticipated warranty service and wholesale trade requirements
in Dealer's Area for Genuine Parts. Audi will make Recommendations for Dealer's
inventory of Genuine Parts based on particular conditions in Dealer's Area, and
Dealer will give due consideration to such Recommendations.
ARTICLE 7
SERVICE
QUALITY AND PROMOTION OF SERVICE
(1) Dealer will provide the best possible customer service for all owners of
Authorized Automobiles and automobiles of the same make formerly sold by Audi,
and will use its best efforts to promote its customer service. Dealer's service
facilities, equipment, and personnel will conform to the requirements of the
Business Basics, Retail Capacity Guide, Operating Plan and such other reasonable
standards as Audi may prescribe, after review with Dealer.
TOOLS
(2) Special tools and general workshop equipment meeting Audi's standards shall
be available at Dealer's Premises in working condition. Audi's minimum standards
shall be found in the Business Basics and the Operating Plan, which will be
updated from time to time.
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USE OF NON-GENUINE PARTS
(3) Dealer will not use in the repair or servicing of Authorized Automobiles
any parts which are not equivalent in quality and design to Genuine Parts, if
such parts are necessary to the mechanical operation of such Authorized
Automobiles. Dealer will use only Genuine Parts in performing warranty service
on Authorized Automobiles. Dealer will not represent as new Genuine Parts any
parts used by it in the repair or servicing of Authorized Automobiles which are
not new Genuine Parts.
OWNER'S DOCUMENTS
(4) Upon delivering a new Authorized Automobile to a customer, Dealer will
provide the Owner's Documents supplied by Audi for such Authorized Automobile,
properly completed by Dealer. Dealer will take all steps required prior to
delivery of the Authorized Automobile, and, in particular, will perform properly
the pre-delivery services specified by Audi.
MAINTENANCE AND OTHER SERVICES WITHOUT CUSTOMER CHARGE
(5) In accordance with bulletins issued from time to time by Audi and Audi's
Warranties, certain maintenance services and other repairs following delivery of
a new Authorized Automobile may be free of charge to the customer. Upon
presentation of an appropriate Owner's Document, Dealer will perform properly
the services required, whether or not the Authorized Automobile to be serviced
was sold by Dealer. Upon the submission of appropriate claims, Audi will
reimburse Dealer for performing such services at the then current rate of
reimbursement specified by Audi for Dealer. Audi will establish procedures for
submitting and processing such claims and transmitting reimbursements to
Dealer. Dealer agrees to comply with these procedures.
REPEATED REPAIRS
(6) Dealer will notify Audi in writing or by electronic mail of repairs to
Authorized Automobiles pursuant to Audi's Warranties under each of the following
circumstances:
(a) The Authorized Automobile has been brought to Dealer a specified number
of times for the same complaint; or
(b) The Authorized Automobile has been in Dealer's custody for all repairs
pursuant to Audi's Warranties a specified number of days.
Such notification shall be made at the times and by the means Audi may have
instructed in any then-current dealer warranty manual issued by Audi.
ARTICLE 8
DEALER'S PURCHASES AND INVENTORIES
PURCHASE PRICES
(1) Audi will sell Authorized Products to Dealer at prices and upon terms
established by Audi from time to time. If Audi increases its established prices,
Dealer may cancel all orders for Authorized Products affected by the increase
which are unfilled at the time Dealer receives notice of the increase, by giving
Audi written notice of cancellation within ten days from the time Dealer
receives notice of the price increase.
ORDERS AND ACCEPTANCE
(2) Dealer will transmit orders for Authorized Products to Audi electronically,
at the times and for the periods, that Audi reasonably requires. With each
order, Dealer represents that it is solvent. Audi may accept orders in whole or
in part. Except as otherwise expressly provided in Article 8(1), all orders of
Dealer will be binding upon it until they are rejected in writing by Audi;
however, in the event of a partial acceptance by Audi, Dealer will not be bound
by the portion of the order not accepted.
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INVENTORIES
(3) Dealer will maintain in inventory at all times the assortment and quantity
of Authorized Products required by the Operating Plan, Business Basics or
Recommendations.
PRODUCT ALLOCATION
(4) Dealer recognizes that certain Authorized Products may not be available in
sufficient supply from time to time because of factors such as product
importation, consumer demand, component shortages, manufacturing constraints,
governmental regulations, or other causes. Audi will endeavor to make a fair and
equitable allocation and distribution of the Authorized Products available to
it.
TAXES
(5) Dealer is responsible for any and all sales taxes, use taxes, excise taxes
(including luxury taxes) and other governmental charges imposed, levied, or
based upon the sale of Authorized Products by Audi to Dealer. Dealer represents
and warrants, as of the date of the purchase of each Authorized Product, that
all Authorized Products purchased from Audi are purchased by Dealer for resale
in the ordinary course of Dealer's business and that Dealer has complied with
all laws relating to the collection and payment of all sales taxes, use taxes,
excise taxes (including luxury taxes) and other governmental charges applicable
to the purchase of such products and will furnish evidence thereof upon request.
If any Authorized Products are put to taxable use by Dealer, or are purchased by
Dealer for purposes other than resale in the ordinary course of Dealer's
business, Dealer will make timely return and payment to the appropriate taxing
authorities of all applicable taxes and other governmental charges imposed,
levied, or based upon the sale of such Authorized Products by Audi to Dealer and
will hold Audi harmless with respect thereto.
PAYMENTS TO DEALER OR DEALER'S PERSONNEL
(6) From time to time, Audi may conduct incentive programs which involve
payments to Dealer or to Dealer's personnel. Dealer acknowledges that regardless
of the nature of such programs or payments, Dealer's personnel are not
employees, contractors or agents of Audi. All matters relating to the employment
of retention of Dealer's personnel are solely Dealer's responsibility. In the
case of payments by Audi to Dealer, Dealer alone will be responsible for the
payment of any and all applicable taxes. In the case of payments to Dealer's
personnel, Audi will make appropriate information or other returns to
appropriate taxing authorities. In the event Dealer does not want Audi to make
direct payments to Dealer's personnel, Dealer will notify Audi to that effect in
writing. After receiving such written notice, Audi will pay directly to Dealer
any subsequent payments coming due Dealer's personnel. Dealer represents and
warrants that it will pass such payments directly through to Dealer's personnel
as intended; that it will make any necessary returns to any taxing authority;
and that it will hold Audi harmless from any claims whatsoever that such
payments were not received by the intended recipients or that appropriate
withholdings were not made. In the event it is determined by any taxing
authority that Audi should not have made payments to Dealer's personnel or that
Audi should have collected taxes in respect of such payments, then Audi will be
responsible for such taxes.
PAYMENT BY DEALER
(7) Dealer will pay for Authorized Products in the manner, at the time, and upon
the conditions specified in the terms of payment established from time to time
by Audi. Delivery of instruments of payment other than cash will not constitute
payment until Audi has collected the full amount in cash. Dealer will pay all
collection charges, including reasonable attorney's fees, and costs of exchange,
if any, incurred in connection with its payments.
PASSING OF TITLE; SECURITY INTEREST
(8) Title to Authorized Products will remain with Audi until Audi has collected
their full purchase price in cash. Dealer will execute and deliver, and Audi is
authorized to execute and deliver on behalf of Dealer or, to the extent
permitted by law, to file without the signature of Dealer, all financing
statements and other instruments which Audi may deem necessary to evidence its
ownership of such Authorized Products. Dealer hereby grants Audi a purchase
money security interest in all Authorized Products for
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which Audi has not collected in full, authorizes Audi to take such steps as
Audi deems necessary to perfect such security interests, and agrees to
cooperate fully with Audi in connection therewith. Audi may take possession at
any time of Authorized Products to which it has title.
PASSING OF RISKS
(9) Authorized Products will be at Dealer's risk and peril from the time of
their delivery to Dealer or Dealer's agent. It will be up to Dealer to insure
such risks for its benefit and at its expense.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE
(10) Audi assumes responsibility for the quality and condition of Authorized
Products, to the extent of (a) defects caused by its own negligence and (b)
damage caused or repaired prior to delivery of the Authorized Products to Dealer
or Dealer's agent. Audi will make any required disclosure thereof to Dealer. If
Audi has insured against such defects in or damage to Authorized Products,
Audi's liability to Dealer for such damage will be limited to the amount
actually paid by the insurance carrier to Audi by reason of such defect of
damage, together with any deductible amount applicable to such claim. Dealer may
decline to accept any Authorized Products delivered to Dealer in damaged
condition or with respect to which Audi has notified Dealer that Audi has
repaired damage; however, should Dealer accept such Authorized Product Dealer
will, subject to the provisions of Article 5(5), repair all such defects and
damage fully as required by Audi before any defective or damaged Authorized
Product is delivered to a customer. Dealer will make any required disclosure to
Dealer's customers of damage or repairs, and will hold Audi harmless with
respect thereto. Audi will notify Dealer promptly of the amount thereof, or any
other amount due from Audi pursuant to this paragraph, following Dealer's
submission of such proof of repair as Audi may require.
CLAIMS FOR INCOMPLETE DELIVERY
(11) Dealer will make all claims for incomplete delivery of Authorized Products
(including the delivery of Authorized Products with damage) in writing not later
than three business days after Dealer's receipt of shipment; provided, however,
that Dealer will make claims as to Genuine Parts within the period specified in
policies established by Audi from time to time; and provided, further, that
Dealer will note claims for visible damage to Authorized Automobiles on the
delivery receipt.
CHANGES OF SPECIFICATIONS
(12) Audi will deliver Authorized Products to Dealer in accordance with
specifications applicable at the time of their manufacture. In the event of any
change or modification with respect to any Authorized Products, Dealer will not
be entitled to have such change or modification made to any Authorized Products
manufactured prior to the introduction of such change or modification. Audi
expressly reserves, and Dealer acknowledges, the right to make such changes and
modifications, and Dealer's only right in such event shall be the cancellation
of any orders, not yet accepted by Audi, for Authorized Products affected by the
change or modification.
FAILURE OF OR DELAY IN DELIVERY BY AUDI
(13) Audi will not be liable to Dealer for failure of or delay in delivery under
orders of Dealer accepted by Audi, other than failure or delay resulting from
willful misconduct or gross negligence of Audi.
RETURN OR DIVERSION ON DEALER'S FAILURE TO ACCEPT
(14) If Dealer fails or refuses for any reason to accept delivery of any
Authorized Products ordered by Dealer (except as permitted under Article 8(11)),
Dealer will be liable to Audi for all expenses incurred as a result of such
failure or refusal, and will store such Authorized Products at no charge to Audi
until Audi can arrange for their removal. Dealer's liability pursuant to this
paragraph will be in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other liabilities
which may arise from Dealer's failure or refusal to accept delivery.
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ARTICLE 9
WARRANTY TO CUSTOMERS
AUDI'S WARRANTIES
(1) Audi warrants each new Authorized Product as set forth in Audi's Warranties.
INCORPORATION OF AUDI'S WARRANTIES IN DEALER'S SALES
(2) Dealer will make all sales of Authorized Automobiles and Genuine Parts in
such a way that its customers acquire all rights in accordance with Audi's
Warranties and, to the extent permitted by law, no other express or implied
warranties. Dealer will make the text of Audi's Warranties part of its contracts
for the sale of Authorized Products and will display the text of the warranties
of all products it sells in customer contact areas where Authorized Products are
offered.
WARRANTY PROCEDURES
(3) Dealer agrees to comply with the provisions of the various dealer warranty
manuals which Audi may issue from time to time, and will follow the procedures
established by Audi for processing warranty claims and returning and disposing
of defective Genuine Parts. Dealer will also comply with all requests of Audi
for the performance of services pursuant to warranty claims and will maintain
detailed records of time and parts consumption and any other records used as the
basis for submitting warranty claims. Dealer will submit warranty claims to Audi
electronically, and in accordance with procedures established by Audi. Upon
Dealer's compliance with such requests and maintenance of such records, Audi
will reimburse Dealer within a reasonable time for warranty claims at the
then-current rate of reimbursement specified by Audi for Dealer. Strict
adherence to the procedures and means established for processing warranty claims
is necessary for Audi to process such claims fairly and expeditiously. Audi will
be under no obligation with respect to warranty claims not submitted
electronically and not made strictly in accordance with such procedures.
ARTICLE 10
DEALER'S RECORD KEEPING AND REPORTS; INSPECTION OF DEALER'S OPERATIONS
DEALER'S FORMS, BUSINESS MACHINES, OFFICE EQUIPMENT AND BOOKKEEPING
(1) Dealer will use accounting, sales, bookkeeping and service workshop forms;
business machines; data processing and transmission equipment; and other
office equipment which meets specifications, and which enables Dealer and Audi
to communicate electronically for all purposes and which otherwise provides
information and functions in the manner prescribed by Audi and its affiliates in
the Business Basics, the Operating Plan and by other means. Audi will advise
Dealer, or ensure that suppliers to Audi advise Dealer, periodically of the
hardware and software requirements, communications protocols, and other
specifications which Dealer's data processing and transmission equipment must
meet in order to satisfy the requirements of this paragraph, and Dealer will
timely adhere to such requirements, protocols and specifications. Dealer will
keep accurate and current records in accordance with Audi's uniform accounting
system and with accounting practices and procedures reasonably satisfactory to
Audi, in order to enable Audi to develop comparative data and to furnish Dealer
business management assistance.
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TO BE SUPPLIED BY DEALER
(2) Dealer will transmit to Audi (a) on or before the tenth day of each
calendar month, in such form and by such methods as Audi reasonably may require,
a financial and operating statement reflecting the consolidated operations of
Dealer for the preceding month and from the beginning of the calendar year to
the end of the preceding month and (b) within three and one-half months after
the close of Dealer's fiscal or calendar year, a consolidated balance sheet and
profit and loss statement of Dealer, which documents shall be certified by a
certified public accountant if so requested by Audi at least 30 days prior to
the close of Dealer's fiscal or calendar year. DEALER'S FAILURE TO PROVIDE
FINANCIAL AND OPERATING STATEMENTS IN THE FORMAT AND BY THE METHOD REQUIRED
BY AUDI MAY RESULT IN THE REVOCATION OF DEALER'S OPEN PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
ACCOUNT.
REPORTS TO BE SUPPLIED BY DEALER
(3) Dealer will furnish to Audi, on such forms and by such methods as Audi
reasonably may require, accurate timely reports of Dealer's sales and transfers
of new Authorized Automobiles. Dealer also will furnish to Audi, on a timely and
accurate basis, such other reports and financial statements as Audi reasonably
may require.
INSPECTION OF DEALER'S OPERATIONS AND RECORDS
(4) Until the expiration or termination of this Agreement, and thereafter until
consummation of all transactions referred to in Article 15, Audi, through its
employees and other designees, at all reasonable times during regular business
hours, may inspect Dealer's Operations, Dealer's Premises and the methods,
records and accounts of Dealer relating to Dealer's Operations.
ARTICLE 11
DEALER PERFORMANCE REVIEW
EVALUATION AND ASSISTANCE
(1) Each year, Audi will prepare objectives for Dealer and will use them as a
basis for evaluating Dealer's performance of its obligations in each of the
areas described in this Article 11 and in the Business Basics, the Retail
Capacity Guide and the Operating Plan. Audi may evaluate Dealer's performance
during the year through periodic reviews. Audi will review its evaluations with
Dealer, so that Dealer may take prompt action, if necessary, to improve its
performance to such levels as Audi reasonably may require. Any written comments
received from Dealer on Audi's evaluation of Dealer will become a part of such
evaluation.
EVALUATION OF DEALER'S VEHICLE SALES, SERVICE AND PARTS PERFORMANCE
(2) Audi will evaluate the effectiveness of Dealer's vehicle sales, service and
parts performance in accordance with factors and measures set forth in the
Business Basics, the Operating Plan and Recommendations.
EVALUATION OF DEALER'S PREMISES
(3) Audi will evaluate Dealer's performance of its responsibilities pertaining
to Dealer's Premises, analyzing both separately and collectively Dealer's sales
facilities, service facilities, parts facilities, administrative offices,
storage, parking and signage. In making such evaluation, Audi will consider the
factors set forth in the Business Basics, the Retail Capacity Guide, the
Operating Plan and Recommendations.
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EVALUATION OF DEALER'S CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
(4) Audi will evaluate Dealer's performance of its responsibilities pertaining
to customer satisfaction, analyzing both separately and collectively the
satisfaction of customers with Dealer's sales activities and service
activities. In making such evaluation, Audi will utilize a uniform measure
of customer satisfaction, which will be disclosed to Dealer, and will
consider the factors set forth in the Business Basics, the Operating Plan
and Recommendations.
ARTICLE 12
SUCCEEDING DEALERS
PROCEDURE
(1) If Dealer chooses to transfer its principal assets or change owners, Audi
has the right to approve the proposed transferees, the new owners and executives
and, if different from Dealer's, their premises. Audi will consider in good
faith any such written proposal Dealer may submit to Audi during the term of
this Agreement. In determining whether the proposal is acceptable to it, Audi
will take into account factors such as the personal, business and financial
qualifications of the proposed new owners and executives as well as the
proposal's effect on competition. In such evaluation, Audi may consult with the
proposed new owners and executives on any aspect of the transaction of their
proposed dealership operations. Notwithstanding anything set forth in this
paragraph to the contrary, Audi shall not be obligated to consider such proposal
if it previously had notified Dealer in writing that it would not appoint a
succeeding dealer in Dealer's Area; provided, however, that such notice shall be
given only if there is good cause for discontinuing representation of Authorized
Automobiles in Dealer's Area.
APPROVALS
(2) Audi will notify Dealer in writing of the approval or disapproval of a
proposal by Dealer for transfer of principal assets or change of owners within
45 business days, or the exercise by Audi of its right of first refusal under
Article 12(3) within 30 calendar days, after Dealer has furnished to Audi all
applications and information reasonably requested by Audi to evaluate such
proposal. If Audi approves Dealer's proposal, Audi shall be obligated to grant
the proposed transferees only a Dealer Agreement in substantially the same form
as this Agreement. If Audi had previously notified Dealer in writing that Audi
would not appoint a succeeding dealer in Dealer's Premises, then Audi's approval
of Dealer's proposal may be conditioned on the proposed transferees agreeing to
provide different facilities for their dealership operations. Upon the
consummation of Dealer's approved proposal, Dealer will deliver to Audi Audi's
form of voluntary termination of this Agreement and general release in favor of
Audi.
RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL
(3) Whenever Dealer proposes to transfer its principal assets or change owners
of a majority interest, Audi shall have the right to purchase such assets or
ownership interest, as follows:
(a) Audi may elect to exercise its purchase right by written notice to
Dealer within 30 calendar days after Dealer has furnished to Audi all
applications and information reasonably requested by Audi to evaluate
Dealer's proposal.
(b) If Dealer's proposed sale or transfer was to a successor approved in
advance by Audi, to any of Dealer's Owners, to Dealer's employees as a
group or to Dealer's spouse, children or heirs, then Dealer may
withdraw its proposal within 30 calendar days following receipt of
Audi's notice of election of its purchase right.
(c) Audi's right under this Article 12(3) shall be a right of first
refusal, permitting Audi to (i) assume the proposed transferee's rights
and obligations under its agreement with Dealer and (ii) cancel this
Agreement and all rights granted Dealer hereunder. Except to the extent
specifically inconsistent with the terms of this Agreement, the price
and all other terms of Audi's purchase
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shall be as set forth in any bona fide written purchase and sale
agreement between Dealer and its proposed transferee and in any
related documents.
(d) Dealer shall furnish to Audi copies of all applicable liens,
mortgages, encumbrances, leases, easements, licenses or other
documents affecting any of the property to be transferred, and shall
assign to Audi any permits or licenses necessary for the continued
conduct of Dealer's Operations.
(e) Audi may assign its right of first refusal to any party it chooses,
but in that event Audi will remain primarily liable for payment of
the purchase price to Dealer.
(f) If Audi exercises its purchase right, Audi will reimburse Dealer's
proposed transferee for reasonable documented actual expenses which
such proposed transferee incurred through the date of such exercise
which are directly and solely attributable to the transaction Dealer
proposed.
(g) Nothing contained in this Article 12(3) shall require Audi to
exercise its right of first refusal in any case, nor restrict any
right Audi may have to refuse to approve Dealer's proposed transfer.
SUCCESSION
(4) Article 14(l)(a) notwithstanding, in the event of the death of any of
Dealer's Owners, Audi will not terminate this Agreement by reason of such death
if:
(a) The owner's interest in Dealer passes directly as specified in any
Successor Addendum to this Agreement, or
(b) The owner's interest in Dealer passes directly to his or her
surviving spouse or children, or any of them, and (i) Dealer's
Authorized Representative remains as stated in the Statement of
Ownership and Management or (ii) within 90 days after the death of
such owner Dealer appoints another qualified individual as Dealer's
Authorized Representative; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that in this event
Audi will evaluate Dealer's performance during the 12 months
following the owner's death. After the expiration of this 12-month
period and Audi's evaluation of the performance of Dealer's
management during such period, Audi will review with Dealer the
changes, if any, in the management or equity interests of Dealer
required by Audi as a condition of extending this Dealer Agreement
with Dealer. Any new Dealer Agreement entered into pursuant to this
paragraph will be in substantially the same form as the Dealer
Agreements then currently offered by Audi to its dealers in
Authorized Automobiles generally.
MODIFICATION OF TERMS OF PAYMENT
(5) Upon receipt of an application for a replacement dealer agreement, Audi may
modify its terms of payment with respect to Dealer to the extent Audi deems
appropriate, irrespective of Dealer's credit standing or payment history.
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ARTICLE 13
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
GENERAL POLICY
(1) Audi and Dealer agree as a general matter to work together to minimize
disputes between them.
WHILE UNDERSTANDING THAT CERTAIN FEDERAL AND STATE COURTS AND AGENCIES MAY BE
AVAILABLE TO RESOLVE ANY DISPUTES, AUDI AND DEALER AGREE THAT IT IS IN THEIR
MUTUAL BEST INTERESTS TO ATTEMPT TO RESOLVE CERTAIN CONTROVERSIES FIRST THROUGH
ARBITRATION. AUDI AND DEALER THEREFORE AGREE THAT THE DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCESS
OUTLINED IN THIS ARTICLE SHALL BE USED BEFORE SEEKING LEGAL REDRESS IN A COURT
OF LAW OR BEFORE AN ADMINISTRATIVE AGENCY, FOR ALL DISPUTES ARISING UNDER THE
FOLLOWING: ARTICLE 9(3) (WARRANTY PROCEDURES), ARTICLE 12 (SUCCEEDING DEALERS),
ARTICLE 14 (TERMINATION), ARTICLE 15 (RIGHTS AND LIABILITIES UPON TERMINATION)
AND PAYMENTS TO DEALER IN CONNECTION WITH AUDI INCENTIVE PROGRAMS. In the event
that a dispute arises in connection with any other provision of this Agreement,
Audi and Dealer may mutually agree to first submit the dispute to arbitration,
in accordance with the provisions of this Article. Both Audi and Dealer agree
that the ultimate mutual goal of arbitration is to obtain a fair hearing and
prompt decision of the dispute, in an efficient and cost-effective manner, and
both agree to work toward that goal at all times hereunder.
INVOLUNTARY NON-BINDING ARBITRATION
(2) Upon the written request of either Audi or Dealer, a dispute arising in
connection with this Agreement may be submitted to non-binding arbitration.
VOLUNTARY BINDING ARBITRATION
(3) As an alternative to Article 13(2) above, upon the written request of
Dealer, a dispute arising in connection with this Agreement will be submitted to
binding arbitration.
RULES OF CONDUCT
(4) Arbitrations will be adjudicated under the auspices and in accordance with
the rules of the American Arbitration Association or another mutually acceptable
arbitration service, as well as the following provisions:
(a) Written requests for arbitration shall set forth a clear and complete
statement of the nature of the claim and its basis; the amount involved,
if any, and the remedy sought.
(b) The place of arbitration shall be the state in which Dealer's Premises
are located, or such other place as may be agreed upon by the parties.
(c) Both parties shall make every reasonable attempt to agree upon one
arbitrator, but if they are unable to agree each shall appoint an
arbitrator and these two shall appoint a third arbitrator.
(d) Expenses of arbitration shall be divided equally between the parties.
The prevailing party shall not be entitled to reasonable attorneys fees.
(e) The arbitrator(s) shall pass finally upon all questions, both of law and
fact, and his or her (or their) findings shall be conclusive.
(f) Pre-arbitration discovery shall be available to both parties and shall
be governed by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Information
obtained by either party during the course of discovery shall be kept
confidential, shall not be disclosed to any third party, shall not be
used except in connection with the arbitration proceeding, and at the
conclusion of the proceeding, shall be returned to the other party. Both
Dealer and Audi shall make their agents and employees available upon
reasonable times and places for pre-trial depositions without the
necessity of subpoenas or other court orders. Such discovery may be used
as evidence in the arbitration proceeding to the same extent as if it
were a court proceeding.
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TIME FOR DECISION
(5) Unless Audi and Dealer specifically agree to the contrary, and subject to
the rules and procedures of the arbitration service chosen, the arbitration
hearing shall be concluded not more than 60 days after the date of the written
request to arbitrate, and the arbitration decision shall be rendered not more
than 90 days after the written request to arbitrate.
PROVISIONAL REMEDIES
(6) Either Audi or Dealer may, without prejudice to the above procedures, file a
complaint if in its sole judgment such action is necessary to avoid irreparable
damage or to preserve the status quo. Despite such action the parties will
continue to participate in good faith in the procedures specified in this
Article 13.
TOLLING STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS
(7) All applicable statutes of limitation and defenses based upon passage of
time shall be tolled while the procedures specified in this Article 13 are
pending. The parties will take such action, if any, required to effectuate such
tolling.
PERFORMANCE TO CONTINUE
(8) Audi and Dealer agree to continue to perform their respective obligations
under this Agreement pending final resolution of any dispute arising out of or
relating to this Agreement.
ARTICLE 14
TERMINATION
IMMEDIATE TERMINATION BY AUDI
(1) Except to the extent a greater notice period is required by any applicable
statute, Audi has the right to terminate this Agreement for cause, with
immediate effect, by sending notice of termination to Dealer, if any of the
following should occur:
(a) Death of any of Dealer's Owners or any change, whether voluntary or by
operation of law, in the record or beneficial ownership of Dealer
without Audi's prior written consent; any change in Dealer's Executives
without prior notice to Audi; or the failure of Dealer's Executives to
continue to manage Dealer's Operations;
(b) Dissolution or liquidation of Dealer, if a partnership or corporation;
(c) Insolvency of Dealer or voluntary institution by Dealer of any
proceeding under the Bankruptcy Act or state insolvency law; or the
involuntary institution against Dealer of any proceeding under the
Bankruptcy Act or state insolvency law which is not vacated within ten
days from the institution thereof; or the appointment of a receiver or
other officer having similar powers for Dealer or Dealer's business who
is not removed within ten days of his appointment; or any levy under
attachment, execution or similar process which is not within ten days
vacated or removed by payment or bonding.
(d) Any attempted transfer of this Agreement by Dealer, in whole or in part,
without Audi's prior written consent;
(e) Any change in the location of any of Dealer's Premises or the
establishment of any additional premises for Dealer's Operations without
Audi's prior written consent;
(f) Failure of Dealer to continue to operate any of Dealer's Premises in the
usual manner for a period of five consecutive business days, unless
caused by an Act of God, war, riot, strike, lock out, fire, explosion or
similar event;
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(g) Dealer's failure, for a period of ten consecutive business days, to have
any license necessary for the conduct of Dealer's Operations;
(h) Conviction of Dealer or any of Dealer's Owners or Executives of a felony
or any misdemeanor involving fraud, deceit or an unfair business
practice, if in Audi's opinion such conviction may adversely affect the
conduct of Dealer's business, or be harmful to the good will of the
Manufacturer or Audi or to the reputation and marketing of Authorized
Products;
(i) Any material misrepresentation by any of Dealer's Owners or Executives
as to any fact relied upon by Audi in entering into this Agreement;
(j) Submission by Dealer of fraudulent or knowingly false report or
statement or claim for reimbursement, refund or credit; or
(k) Failure or refusal of Dealer or Dealer's owners, executives, agents or
employees to provide Audi, upon request, with access to and the
opportunity to inspect and copy all books, papers, instruments,
certificates or other documents evidencing the record or beneficial
ownership of Dealer.
TERMINATION BY AUDI ON 30 DAYS' NOTICE
(2) Except to the extent a greater notice period is required by any applicable
statute, Audi has the right to terminate this Agreement upon 30 days' notice if
any of the following shall occur:
(a) Any disagreement or personal difficulties of Dealer's Owners or
Executives which in Audi's opinion may adversely affect the conduct of
Dealer's business, or the presence in the management of Dealer of any
person who in Audi's opinion does not have appropriate qualifications
for their position;
(b) Impairment of the reputation or financial standing of Dealer or any of
Dealer's Owners or Executives or ascertainment by Audi of any fact
existing at or prior to the time of execution of this Agreement which
tends to impair such reputation or financial standing; or
(c) Any breach of any obligation of Dealer pursuant to this Agreement or any
other agreement between Audi or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates
and Dealer.
DISCUSSIONS WITH DEALER
(3) Upon learning that any event or situation which would give Audi grounds to
terminate this Agreement has occurred, Audi will endeavor to discuss such event
or situation with Dealer. Thereafter, Audi may give Dealer written notice of
termination.
MODIFICATION OF TERMS OF PAYMENT
(4) During the period a situation specified in Article 14(1) or 14(2) continues
to exist, Audi may modify its terms of payment with respect to Dealer to such
extent as Audi may consider appropriate, irrespective of Dealer's credit
standing or payment record.
NO WAIVER BY FAILURE TO TERMINATE
(5) Should Audi be entitled to terminate this Agreement but fail to do so, such
failure shall not be considered a waiver of Audi's right to terminate this
Agreement unless the situation entitling Audi to terminate this Agreement has
ceased to exist and (a) six months have elapsed from the time Audi obtained
knowledge of such situation or (b) Audi has entered into a subsequent written
agreement with Dealer superseding this Agreement. Nevertheless, any situation
entitling Audi to terminate this Agreement may be considered at any subsequent
time together with any subsequent events in determining Audi's right to
terminate this Agreement.
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TERMINATION BY DEALER
(6) Dealer has the right to terminate this Agreement without cause by giving
Audi 60 days written notice of such termination. Upon receipt of Dealer's
notice of termination, Audi may, at Audi's option, waive in writing the 60 day
notice period. In the event Dealer, in connection with its termination of
this Agreement, also wishes to terminate any other agreement between Dealer and
Audi or any of Audi's subsidiaries or affiliates, Dealer must do so separately
and subject to the provisions of Article 14(9) below.
CONTINUATION OF BUSINESS RELATIONS AFTER TERMINATION
(7) Any business relations between Audi and Dealer after the termination of this
Agreement without a written extension or renewal or a new written dealer
agreement will not operate as an extension or renewal of this Agreement or as a
new dealer agreement. Nevertheless, all such business relations, so long as they
are continued, will be governed by terms identical with the provisions of this
Agreement.
SUPERSEDING AGREEMENTS
(8) If any superseding form of Dealer Agreement is offered by Audi to its
authorized dealers generally at any time, Audi may, by written notice to Dealer,
terminate this Agreement and replace it with a Dealer Agreement in the
superseding form.
AGREEMENTS WITH AFFILIATES OF AUDI
(9) The termination of this Agreement by either party does not necessarily waive
or terminate any other agreement between Dealer and Audi or any of its
subsidiaries or affiliates. Such other agreements may be terminated only in
accordance with their terms, and the parties' respective obligations under any
such other agreements will continue in accordance with their terms until
terminated.
ARTICLE 15
RIGHTS AND LIABILITIES UPON TERMINATION
AUDI'S OBLIGATIONS
(1) Within 90 days after the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Article
14, Audi will purchase from Dealer and (subject to the provisions of Article 15,
Paragraph 4 below) Dealer will sell to Audi all the following:
NEW AUTHORIZED AUTOMOBILE INVENTORY
(a) All new, undamaged current model year Authorized Automobiles (introduced
in the United States no earlier than 12 months prior to the date of such
expiration or termination and not superseded by a later model year) in
Dealer's inventory on the date of such expiration or termination which are in
first-class salable condition, provided they (i) have 200 or fewer actual
miles; (ii) were sold by Audi and purchased by Dealer from Audi (or in the
ordinary course of business from other dealers of Authorized Automobiles
appointed by Audi) and (iii) have never been sold by Dealer. The price for
such Authorized Automobiles will be the price at which they were originally
sold by Audi, less all prior refunds or allowances made by Audi, if any.
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NEW GENUINE PARTS INVENTORY
(b) All the following new, unused and undamaged articles listed in Audi's
current Genuine Parts Price List (other than articles listed as obsolete) in
Dealer's inventory on the date of such expiration or termination which are in
first-class salable condition and complete, provided they were purchased by
Dealer from Audi and never sold by Dealer:
(i) New parts and new factory remanufactured replacement parts
supplied by Audi for Authorized Automobiles;
(ii) accessories considered by Audi to be suitable for installation in
the current model year Authorized Automobiles specified in
Article 15(l)(a); and
(iii) other accessories, provided that Audi has made sales of identical
articles during six of the last twelve full calendar months
immediately preceding such expiration or termination. The price
for such articles will be the price then last established by Audi
for the sale of identical articles, less a handling charge equal
to ten percent of such amount and less all prior refunds or
allowances made by Audi;
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
(c) All special tools and equipment for servicing Authorized Automobiles
owned by Dealer on the date of expiration or termination which are in
operating condition and complete, provided they were purchased by Dealer from
Audi or pursuant to written requests of Audi. The price for such tools and
equipment will be the fair market value thereof; and
AUTHORIZED SIGNS
(d) All Authorized Signs which Dealer displayed publicly or at Dealer's
Premises. The price for such Authorized Signs will be the fair market value
thereof.
TERMS OF SALE
(2) Any and all items to be sold by Dealer to Audi pursuant to this paragraph
will be delivered by Dealer to Audi at Dealer's place of business suitably
packed for transportation. For such periods of time as Audi reasonably may
determine, Audi may enter Dealer's Premises for the purpose of taking an
inventory of all or any part of Dealer's stock of Authorized Products and
special tools and equipment. At the request of Audi, Dealer will comply in all
respects with the provisions of all applicable bulk sales acts or similar
statutes protecting a transferee of personal property with respect to
liabilities of the transferor. Promptly following performance by Dealer of all
its obligations pursuant to this Article 15, the completion by Audi of all steps
required to obtain possession of such items and the delivery to Audi of a xxxx
of sale, documents of title and a general release of Audi and the Manufacturer
from Dealer and Dealer's Owners, all in form satisfactory to Audi, Audi will pay
Dealer the specified prices for the said items, less all amounts owed by Dealer
to Audi, its subsidiaries or affiliates. Audi will not be required to purchase
any item from Dealer pursuant to this paragraph unless Dealer is able to convey
to Audi, within such 90-day period, title to such item free and clear of all
liens, claims, encumbrances and security interests.
PENDING ORDERS AND DEALER'S OBLIGATIONS
(3) Upon the expiration or termination of this Agreement, all pending orders of
Dealer for Authorized Products previously accepted by Audi will be canceled and
Dealer immediately will:
REMOVAL OF AUTHORIZED SIGNS
(a) Remove at its own expense all Authorized Signs which it displayed
publicly or at its premises;
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AUTHORIZED TRADEMARKS
(b) Cease all usage of the Authorized Trademarks, cease to hold itself out as
an authorized dealer in Authorized Automobiles, destroy all stationery and
other printed material bearing any Authorized Trademark, and, if its
corporate or business name contains any Authorized Trademark, take all steps
to remove the same therefrom;
ORDERS AND FILES
(c) Transfer to Audi
(i) all orders for sale by Dealer of Authorized Products then pending
with Dealer,
(ii) all deposits made thereon, whether in cash or property;
(iii) all Dealer's warranty records for Authorized Products or complete
copies of all such records and files; and
(iv) all Dealer's customer service files. Upon the written request of
Dealer, Audi will return such customer service files to Dealer after
Audi has made copies of such files at Audi's expense;
CUSTOMER LISTS
(d) Make available to Audi in writing the names and addresses of all its
service customers and prospective customers for Authorized Products; and
LITERATURE
(e) Deliver to Audi at Dealer's place of business, free of charge, all
technical or service literature, advertising and other printed material
relating to Authorized Products, including sales instruction manuals or
promotional material, then in Dealer's possession and which were acquired by
Dealer from Audi. None of the foregoing will result in any liability of Audi
to Dealer for damages, commissions, loss of profits or compensation for
services, or in any other liability of Audi to Dealer of any kind of nature
whatsoever.
DIRECT SALES BY DEALER
(4) Upon Dealer's written request, Audi will waive Dealer's obligation to sell
certain assets to Audi and will consent to Dealer's sale of any of or all its
assets to any party of Dealer's choosing; provided, however, that Dealer may not
sell any new Authorized Automobile nor any new Genuine Parts to any person or
entity other than another dealer in the same line-make authorized by Audi.
SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE
(5) Since Dealer's obligations under this Article 15 are of such a nature that
it is impossible to measure in money the damages which will be suffered by Audi
if Dealer should fail to perform any of them, Dealer agrees that, in the event
of any such failure of performance on its part, Audi will be entitled to
maintain an action to compel the specific performance by Dealer of these
obligations and Dealer agrees not to assert in any such action the defense that
Audi has an adequate remedy at law.
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ARTICLE 16
DEFINITIONS
Throughout this Agreement various abbreviations and abbreviated phrases have
been used. Their meanings are:
AUDI
(1) "Audi" means Volkswagen of America, Inc. a New Jersey corporation, and
includes, as appropriate, all divisions of that corporation.
AUDI'S WARRANTIES
(2) "Audi's Warranties" means, with respect to each Authorized Product, those
express written warranties provided with such product or as set forth in the
Dealer Warranty Manual for Authorized Products in effect at the time such
product is first sold at retail.
AUTHORIZED AUTOMOBILES
(3) "Authorized Automobiles" means motor vehicles of the Audi brand and
comprising such models and types as may be supplied by Audi during the term of
this Agreement.
AUTHORIZED PRODUCTS
(4) "Authorized Products" means Authorized Automobiles and Genuine Parts.
AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE
(5) "Authorized Representative" means a qualified representative of Dealer
whose full time professional efforts are devoted to the conduct of Dealer's
Operations and who is authorized to execute documents and make all operational
decisions on behalf of Dealer.
AUTHORIZED SIGNS
(6) "Authorized Signs" means displays of any Authorized Trademark, in such
material, type, presentation and colors as Audi may prescribe from time to time.
AUTHORIZED TRADEMARKS
(7) "Authorized Trademarks" means any trademark, service xxxx or trade name now
or any other time hereafter used or claimed by the Manufacturer or Audi.
BUSINESS BASICS, BUSINESS FILE, AND RETAIL CAPACITY GUIDE
(8) "Business Basics", "Business File" and "Retail Capacity Guide" mean those
documents which set forth Audi's terms of trade, programs and certain
operational requirements.
DEALER'S AREA
(9) "Dealer's Area" means the area designated by Audi in the Operating Plan for
Dealer's Operations, corresponding to U.S. census tract information.
DEALER'S EXECUTIVES
(10) "Dealer's Executives" means all the persons named in Paragraphs 5 and 6 of
the Statement of Ownership and Management as officers or other executives of
Dealer, as well as any other person who succeeds to any position in Dealer
referred to in such paragraphs in accordance with the provisions of this
Agreement.
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DEALER'S OPERATIONS
(11) "Dealer's Operations" means all activities of Dealer relating to the
promotion and sale of Authorized Products, the supply of Genuine Parts, customer
service for Authorized Products and all other activities of Dealer pursuant to
this Agreement.
DEALER'S OWNERS
(12) "Dealer's Owners" means all the persons named in Paragraph 4 of the
Statement of Ownership and Management as beneficial or record owners of Dealer,
as well as any other person who acquires or succeeds to any beneficial interest
or record ownership in Dealer in accordance with the provisions of this
Agreement.
DEALER'S PREMISES
(13) "Dealer's Premises" means all premises referred to in the Dealer Premises
Addendum and used by Dealer for or in connection with Dealer's Operations,
including sales facilities, service workshops, offices, facilities for storage
of Authorized Automobiles and Genuine Parts, used car sales facilities and
parking facilities.
GENUINE PARTS
(14) "Genuine Parts" means new and factory rebuilt replacement parts,
accessories and optional equipment for Authorized Automobiles if such parts,
accessories and optional equipment are supplied by Audi.
MANUFACTURER
(15) "Manufacturer" means any supplier of Authorized Products to Audi, including
as appropriate, but not limited to, Audi AG, a German corporation, and
Volkswagen AG, a German corporation.
NET WORKING CAPITAL, OWNER'S EQUITY AND WHOLESALE CREDIT
(16) "Net Working Capital," "Owner's Equity," and "Wholesale Credit" shall have
the meanings set forth in the Business Basics, the Operating Plan and in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
OPERATING PLAN
(17) "Operating Plan" means the Dealer Operating Plan then currently established
by Audi for Dealers, determined in cooperation with Dealer and of Authorized
Products, as well as any amendments thereof or additions thereto by Audi during
the term of this Agreement.
OWNER'S DOCUMENTS
(18) "Owner's Documents" means all the documents which are supplied by Audi in
respect of each Authorized Automobile and which are intended for the customer,
including, but not limited to, the Owner's Manual, Warranty Booklet and
Maintenance Booklet.
RECOMMENDATIONS
(19) "Recommendations" means written suggestions provided by Audi to Dealer from
time to time during the term of this Agreement, including the Business Basics
and Business File, as well as all currently applicable written suggestions
previously provided by Audi.
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ARTICLE 17
GENERAL PROVISIONS
DEALER NOT AN AGENT
(1) Dealer will conduct all Dealer's Operations on its own behalf and for its
own account. Dealer has no power or authority to act for the Manufacturer or
Audi.
AUTHORITY TO SIGN
(2) Dealer acknowledges that only the President, a Vice President, Secretary,
Assistant Secretary or Network Development Team Leader of Audi is authorized on
behalf of Audi to execute this Agreement or to agree to any variation,
modification or amendment of any of its provisions or to sign any notice of
termination.
VARIATIONS; MODIFICATIONS; AMENDMENTS
(3) This Agreement may not be varied, modified or amended except by an express
instrument in writing to that effect signed on behalf of both Audi and Dealer.
ENTIRE AGREEMENT
(4) This instrument contains the entire agreement between the parties. No
representations or statements other than those expressly set forth or referred
to herein were made or relied upon in entering into this Agreement.
RELEASE OF CLAIMS UNDER PRIOR AGREEMENT
(5) This Agreement terminates and supersedes all prior agreements with respect
to Authorized Products between the parties, if any. The parties hereby waive,
abandon and relinquish any and all claims of any kind and nature arising out of
or in connection with any such prior agreement, except for any accounts payable
by one party to the other as a result of the purchase of any Authorized
Products, audit adjustments or reimbursement for any services.
AGREEMENT NON-TRANSFERABLE
(6) No part of this Agreement nor any interest in this Agreement may be
transferred by Dealer without the prior written consent of Audi.
DEFENSE AND INDEMNIFICATION
(7) Audi will, upon Dealer's written request:
(a) Defend Dealer against any and all claims for breach of Audi's
Warranties, bodily injury or death, or for physical damage to or destruction
of property, that, during the term of this Agreement, may be asserted
against Dealer in any action solely by reason of a manufacturing defect or
design deficiency in
(i) an Authorized Product or
(ii) a product of the same line-make formerly supplied by Audi pursuant
to a former dealer agreement; and
(b) Hold Dealer harmless from any and all settlements made and final
judgments rendered with respect to such claims; provided Dealer promptly
notifies Audi in writing of the commencement of such action against Dealer
and cooperates fully in the defense of such action in such manner and to
such extent as Audi may require. However, such defense and indemnification
by Audi will not be required if any fact indicates that any negligence,
error, omission, act, failure, breach, statement or representation of Dealer
may have caused or contributed to the claim asserted against Dealer or if
Audi determines that such action seeks recovery for allegations other than
those described in Article 17(7)(a).
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NOTICES
(8) Any notices under or pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement will be
directed to the respective addresses of the parties stated herein, or, if
either party shall have specified another address by notice in writing to the
other party, to the address thus last specified. Unless otherwise provided
herein, notices shall be deemed effective if sent by certified mail with return
receipt requested; by overnight service having a reliable means of confirming
delivery; or by personal delivery to any of Dealer's Owners or Executives.
Notices shall be deemed effective when received.
WAIVERS
(9) The waiver by either party of any breach or violation of or default under
any provision of this Agreement will not operate as a waiver of such provision
or of any subsequent breach or violation thereof or default thereunder. The
failure or refusal of Audi to exercise any right or remedy shall not be deemed
to be a waiver or abandonment of any such right or remedy.
TITLES
(10) The titles appearing in this Agreement have been inserted for convenient
reference only and do not in any way affect the construction, interpretation or
meaning of the text.
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