Contracts between some municipalities and vendors who provide red-light cameras split ticket revenue 50/50. Red-light cameras are one answer to raising revenue. However, some regions are becoming more aware of the pitfalls of contracting out red light tickets and have issued bans on the cameras.
ALG's latest Perceived Quality Study shows Ford, Kia, and Hyundai have the biggest long-term gains in improved brand perception, and Toyota's quality score rose more than two percent over the last six months. The complete list with scores and details is available at: https://www.alg.com/pdf/pqs_fall_2011.pdf.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has recognized five minivan models with its 2011 Top Safety Pick award. The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, Volkswagen Routan, Honda Odyssey, and Toyota Sienna were selected for their superior protection in rollover crashes. Vehicles must have the highest rating of good for frontal, side, rollover, and rear crash protection and must have electronic stability control (ESC) to qualify.
Analysts say growing global demand and rising U.S. fuel exports could send gasoline prices to record highs in 2012 as oil prices move toward $100/barrel. Demand for gasoline in the U.S. is down, but growing demand in Latin and South America is driving record U.S. exports of fuel to those areas, particularly diesel.
Ford will upgrade its MyFord Touch system in response to consumer complaints that the telematics system is too complicated. Set to debut on the 2013 Ford Escape, Flex and Taurus, the upgrade provides simpler graphics, faster touch-screen response and easier-to-use controls. The system upgrade will be available for vehicles already equipped with MyFord Touch when thumb drives are mailed to eligible customers next year.