The Netherlands is transitioning to a road tax per kilometer driven in 2012 ratcheting up through 2018. GPS data will determine the tax to be paid with higher rates charged during rush hours and on congested roads. The tax is expected to reduce driving 15% and rush hour driving 50%.
Leasing took a direct hit last year as credit plummeted, but the domestic automakers are pleased to say it's back! Not the way it was in 2006 to 2008, but a modest increase in vehicle leasing signals its return to the marketplace.
US regulators have tightened crash standards for MY2011 with a new narrow-obstacle side impact test to evaluate car performance in the most dangerous crash type. The new standards will result in fewer 5-star ratings. They will also result in significant engineering and production costs for the US market adding to the price consumers must pay.
The National Auto Auction Association sent out a security alert from Manheim Corporate Security to warn auctions of a "new twist" from the recent transporter scam. A memo from Alan Walker, Manheim Corporate Security director, to all general managers and assistant GMs urges them not to release any vehicles to anyone claiming to be from the following company: Atlas Towing and Recovery.
Golf carts have been on streets for years, but that's been on private roads in senior facilities and other residential communities. A federal tax credit on street use golf carts that go no faster than 25 miles per hour is increasing buyer interest, along with rising fuel prices and concerns over vehicle pollution.