The federal government is pushing headlong in reducing greenhouse gases by increasing CAFE standards and encouraging automakers to produce smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. This raises safety concerns as these smaller, lighter cars take to the highways alongside full-size trucks and SUVs. One solution is to reduce the number of larger vehicles currently on the road.
Carfax is borrowing from the well-known movie "Jerry Maguire" with the slogan for its new TV ad campaign: "Show me the Carfax!" Used vehicle history reports give consumers tools for making smart buying decisions in these humorous ads. In one commercial, a buyer and salesman verbally joust in the front seat.
ARI has redesigned its driver communications website to enhances its capabilities and utility for fleet managers and drivers. Driver Insights allows drivers to receive information which fleet managers can customize as well as report usage data. Benchmark graphics and web-based guides educate drivers about fuel efficiency.
A report from the Federal Reserve Board compares auto sales by district. The Beige Book says overall vehicle sales are hampered by weak demand and tight credit but noticed used-car sales picked up in a few areas.
New technology is making its way into common vehicles improving their safety and convenience. AAA released it top-10 list for MY2009/MY2010 including Ford MyKey which permits parents to program their teens' keys to limit speed, control audio volume, continuously sound seat belt alarms and other safety-related measures.