GM announced it will begin taking orders for its new 2013 bi-fuel Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 heavy-duty pickups that can run on both gasoline and compressed natural gas with delivery later this year. The bi-fuel trucks will transition between compressed natural gas and gasoline fuel systems and offer drivers a range of more than 650 miles. A lack of stations for refilling tanks remains an issue.
Auto Remarketing interviewed auction executives and other remarketing leaders to gain clarity on what dealers might expect to see in lanes or online when searching for wholesale inventory. While used vehicles volumes continue to be constrained, auction personnel voiced upbeat expectations about what they can offer in the near term.
Chrysler posted an overall 40% sales increase for February, its 23rd consecutive monthly increase in demand and its strongest point since emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2009. The company has not yet introduced all of its small, high-mileage offerings that might take advantage of rising fuel prices. The Dodge Dart compact sedan is expected soon and could be a major factor in maintaining Chrysler's momentum this year.
Designers developing the interior lighting in Ford's new Fusion are aware of the key role lighting and colors play in keeping drivers alert. Ford researchers have tested how lighting affects the vehicle's interior from a driver's view to ensure that glare and reflection are limited on smooth surfaces with minimal eye strain. The Fusion's interior is airy, open, and focused on the driver.
A recent survey of more than 100 companies by PHH Arval covering concerns for the next 12 - 18 months indicates driver safety is the top priority for fleet managers followed by reducing fuel consumption and lowering maintenance costs.