Ford's marketing strategy for its new 2008 Taurus is to use rental fleets with 15% - 20% directed to daily rental companies. One analyst agrees with Ford's premise of using rental pools to create awareness for the model but suggests a smaller percentage. He cites the danger of a negative effect on residual values when a large number of cars are returned and placed in auctions early in their life cycle.
Toyota says dealers need to respond more promptly to online sales leads for used vehicles. Automaker launching online initiative to encourage dealers to use their Web sites more effectively.
KAR Holdings, the umbrella group over the ADESA companies, says revenues were up almost 13% in the second quarter and 11% for six months. Company officials point to progress on e-business and other technology projects.
CNW Research analyst Art Spinella predicts August used-car sales will drop about 3% despite traditional time when many consumers buy vehicles to return to school. But he sees increased floor traffic and better months ahead.