Fleets depend on predictable residual values in selecting vehicles to buy or lease. Excessive rental sales by a manufacturer flood the market with late model vehicles and devalue them so they must resist the temptation to sell unrestricted numbers even during slumps.
LeasePlan USA is expanding its client relations group under direction of National VP Bryan Steele. The growth comes as more fleet decision-makers focus increasingly on strategic fleet management. LeasePlan embarked upon this more consultative approach with the creation of the client relations group in 2005.
Manufacturers specify corrosion inhibitor packages for their engine coolants to protect against damage. Whether silicate or organic-based, coolant must be monitored to ensure effectiveness. Color is not a good indicator of coolant type for light-duty vehicles.
Experts in cargo management offer tips for securing cargo on flatbeds and truck beds. They say loose cargo and debris can cause accidents during heavy summer travel.
Sales of vehicles to General Motors' fleet customers may be the first casualty of the UAW strike at American Axle. Due to high day supply, dealers have not felt much pain yet. GM hopes these sales can be made up when the strike is settled. The UAW is striking at or threatening to strike several GM plants manufacturing models that are selling well. Analysts see this as an effort to make GM put pressure on American Axle.