Manheim's Tom Webb reports the Used Vehicle Value Index spiked in October to 122.9, the most in a single month in more than a year and the highest reading ever reached, representing a 4.7 percent increase over last year.
Power adjustable foot pedals sound worth their weight in gold, but petite car shoppers aren't opting for them as readily as might be expected, despite the reach needed to pilot many of today's autos. Only about 30% of vehicles sold today are equipped with adjustable controls. Many cost-conscious consumers are turning to aftermarket kits.
Auto manufacturers recognize that people desire to stay connected while in their automobiles and are designing systems to integrate vehicle management, safety and customers' Internet and cell phone connections.
Microsoft releases Windows Embedded Automotive 7, a three generation leap in technology. Improvements include speech recognition, more text sending options by voice, and engineering improvements for manufacturers. Windows 7 is currently found in Ford Sync, Kia Uvo technology and Nissan Leaf.
In a state with hundreds of thousands of flex-fuel vehicles, there aren't that many fuel stations in California that can power them with biofuels. Through a state initiative, California is working with Propel Fuels to bring 75 new publicly/privately-funded fuel stations to the state that can offer E85 ethanol and biodiesel.