The Big 3 Detroit automakers are revving up their marketing engine to grow sales in California, where 10% of US vehicles are being sold these days. The keys are small, green, fuel efficient, and for some, upscale vehicles. The sales trend line started going up last year for the Big 3 in California.
Initial road tests of the Chevrolet Volt by Consumer Reports' raters were disappointing when the vehicle reached only 26 miles on battery before switching to gasoline drive. Consumers Reports considers ownership costs, reliability and performance in its testing. Originally thought to have a range of 40 miles, GM has changed the range guide to 25 to 50 miles.
After three years of resoldering, repainting and literally plugging holes, businesses are "backing into" the work-truck market and starting to replace worn-out bodies on their existing vehicles. Upfitters say activity in this medium-duty segment is nothing to write home about yet.
Hyundai named Manheim Pennsylvania its 2010 Auction of the Year, citing residual values, quality and customer service. Hyundai moved nearly 4,500 units through the auction last year.