The IARA (International Automotive Remarketers Alliance) held a spirited debate regarding the accuracy of vehicle history data. The use of the term "possible" frame damage or "possible" mileage discrepancy was challenged by consignors and remarketers as vague and unnecessary. CarFax agreed to study the issue with the intent of improving the data while reminding the participants their role is to protect the consumer.
Black Book guide to used vehicle data tracks additional market segments including HD trucks, motorcycles, RVs as well as passenger and light duty trucks and SUVs. The spring market has seen 55% of vehicles adjust up with an average of $22 increase. Prices on trucks have declined $65 and $102 on SUVs.
eAssist is a new start-stop feature on the 2012 Buick LaCrosse 4-cylinder engine designed to improve fuel economy by 25% over the previous model. Other automakers are using or intend to add start-stop technology to their vehicles.
The Rinspeed BamBoo electric concept car, a social networking vehicle, was introduced at the Geneva Auto Show by Harman International Industries. Drivers can interact with Facebook, Twitter, sms and email by converting text-based information to voice through the driver's smartphone. Traffic information, podcasts, weather, news, Twitter and Facebook would all be as accessible and easy to select as listening to a radio and changing the channel.
Tests and analysis by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety indicate the underride guards on tractor-trailers can fail in a crash. The group wants the government to require stronger guards on a wider range of vehicles.