Recently Chrysler began banning dealers who did not meet minimum performance standards from participating in closed factory auctions. The State of North Carolina is the first to ban this practice by law. The local dealer association had pushed for this legislation, and other states may follow North Carolina's lead.
Harley Davidson Financial Services never gave much thought to remarketing until recently. Now repossessions on the rise, and the captive unit is also trying to educate dealers about its services.
Great Britain already charges drivers points and fines for cell phone use while driving. Crown Prosecution Service will soon issue guidance to charge "dangerous driving" w/ minimum 2-year jail sentence when cell phone use can be proven and an accident occurs. A charge of "causing death by dangerous driving" if the accident resulted in a fatality will result along with a 14-year prison term.
The latest tally of certified pre-owned vehicles shows an August jump of 1.5%. Sales were also ahead of July's pace. Asian automakers continued to increase their market share, and minivans are poised for a strong showing.
The growing girth of Americans is colliding with government-mandated warning labels on all 2006 or newer cars that list the maximum weight, passengers and cargo, that's safe to carry. Automakers say the limits reflect a mandated federal formula requiring them to rate passengers at 150 pounds each. Mazda's safety director says the limit may not be realistic "given American propensity for food."