Automakers Aim for More Intuitive Voice-Recognition Systems

The NHTSA has tentatively embraced voice recognition to reduce driver distraction, and automakers are working to make conversational commands easier. Ford and GM have embraced software that uses natural language for commands with Sync and OnStar and continue to work on the technology. Guidelines governing voice technology are expected from the NHTSA by 2014.

 

Obama Proposes Increasing Battery Car Tax Credit

In his latest budget proposal, President Obama wants to increase the current $7,500 tax credit available to buyers of battery cars and plug-in hybrids to $10,000 with the goal of boosting demand for the high-mileage vehicles. Critics have questioned the credits, but proponents say the credits are critical to encourage the vehicles' development. The President set a goal of having at least one million plug-in vehicles on the road by 2014.

 

ARI® to Broaden Scope of Fleet Reporting With SAP HANA™

Fleet services provider ARI is implementing the SAP HANA™ platform that will allow clients to analyze data at unparalleled speeds and deliver significant cost savings through its efficiency and analytical capabilities. The SAP HANA™ platform will work with ARI Insights® to process a variety of client interfaces to provide clients with total cost visibility. Implementation is expected by mid-2012.

 

Growing Reaction Against Red-Light Cameras

Government traffic officials say the growing number of red light cameras have reduced accidents and fatalities caused by red-light runners. Consumer advocates and other groups blame the increased number of red light cameras on economic hard times, forcing state and local governments to seek additional sources of revenue without raising taxes. The backlash has forced a small but growing number of cities to opt out of using the cameras while other cities have decided not to install them.

 

Black Book’s Beggs Reports Used-Car Market Stable

Black Book's Ricky Beggs reports the last few weeks have seen a stable proportion of positive value adjustments in the wholesale market with more truck consistency than cars. The average car market change was a $32 decrease while trucks saw an average $14 drop. Beggs also said, "Over the week there were indications that the tax season money is closer to appearing across the country."