The Detroit 3 are recruiting engineers to set the foundation for ambitious electric vehicle agendas, making the opportunity appealing for college students and engineers following years of auto industry job cuts and early-retirement offers. Some new engineers view auto industry as place where fuel-efficient technology is advancing at rapid pace and opportunity to improve environment.
The Nissan Leaf is the least expensive electric vehicle produced in significant numbers with a starting price around $33,000. However, recharging is a concern due to a lack of public charging infrastructure. Leaf buyers can purchase Nissan's 220-volt home charging system and recharge the batteries in eight hours. A network of Fast Charging Stations are planned to begin operation within the next 2 years.
CNW Research says January used-car total sales surpassed 2 million, about 50,000 units more than expected. The company cites greater wholesale supply and improved consumer credit availability.
During the National Automobile Dealers Association's convention, Manheim released its annual Used Car Market Report. The company revealed that after four straight years of declines, both new- and used-vehicle retail sales climbed in 2010.
With an increase of 50,000 more used units sold in January than originally predicted, CNW Research president Art Spinella thinks the number can hit 40 million units sold this year instead of 39 million. Much of this is due to better inventory and credit conditions, and Spinella also sees the ?off-lease car wave,? as a positive sign.