ALG believes gas will go over $4 in 2013, so it's looking at the long-term impact on two segments. The company says its outlook for mid-compacts is upbeat with auction values 13% higher than overall industry. But premium fullsize SUVs are likely to drop 20%.
A statistical review of fatal crash data by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute indicates restraint systems need to continue evolving to better protect thin men and women and obese women.
Swapalease.com executives note climbing used-car values will help a stronger lease market. So, too, will a dwindling supply of used vehicles and improving credit availability. The higher depreciation values will encourage leasing, say company officials.
Increase in new car sales in recent months has forced decline in used vehicle prices, says Ricky Beggs, Black Book managing editor, pointing to a continuation of softer used car market.
Values of late-model units are healthy, says Tom Webb, chief economist at Manheim, as the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index hits record high for 3rd month in a row. Prices of late-model vehicles remain high helped by low levels of new-vehicle inventory.