We were excited to learn that PARS executives and industry leaders Lori and Erik Rasmussen welcomed a new baby to their family: Henry James Rasmussen was born to the couple February 7th. Also celebrating young Henry’s arrival was proud grandfather Jim Christiano. Former Buick Fleet Director and founder of PARS, Christiano had even more to celebrate as the company is marking its 15 anniversary this year. Read more about the company's journey in Fleet Industry Milestones.
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Asbury Automotive Group will be opening two stand-alone used-car stores in Florida this year that will operate under its “Q auto” brand. One store will open in Tampa in June, and the second store will open this fall in Jacksonville. The dealer group thinks it will likely take a year-and-a-half for stores to hit solid revenues and profitability. Asbury is another one of the public dealership groups that is taking on the used-car outlet concept.
Manheim predicts off-lease units will rise to 2.1 million this year and 2.5 million in 2015. It’s good news for dealers looking for reasonably priced late-model used vehicle, but it will also present a few problems. Greater supply means that new car buyers will see reduced trade-in values of their current vehicles. Plus, falling used-vehicle prices will bring falling residual prices, with the consumer having to pay more to make up the difference.
RV, salvage, rental, and powersports require working with manufacturers, dealers, rebuilders, and specialized remarketers.
Jack Nerad Executive Editorial Director Kelley Blue Book Kelley Blue Book released its annual 10 Best Green Cars award. The all-new electric BMW i3 took the top spot. It’s built at an eco-friendly plant, comes in all-electric and gasoline-assisted range extender versions, and it features an ultra-light carbon-fiber body to gain maximum range from its […]