Chrysler Group Provides Test Fleet Ram 1500 PHEV Pickups
Chrysler Group LLC will partner with the U.S. Department of Energy to deliver five demonstration fleet Ram 1500 plug-in hybrid electric pickup trucks to CenterPoint Energy's electric utility in Houston. As part of a national strictly demonstration fleet of 140 vehicles, the Ram 1500 PHEVs will be used during the next three years to evaluate customer usage, drive cycles, charging, thermal management, fuel economy, emissions and impact on the region's electric grid.
Auto Brand Loyalty Declines as Consumers Seek New Features
GfK Custom Research North America says brand loyalty is down as more consumers looking for new features such as enhanced navigation systems, voice-activated services and Internet radio are more likely now to switch brands to find what they want. Ford has avoided the declining loyalty trend by adding small cars and boosting the fuel efficiency of its cars and trucks as well as introducing features such as SYNC communication systems.
Auto Dealers Assume Battle to Defeat Obama Fuel Agenda
Auto dealers have replaced manufacturers in continuing the battle to defeat the Obama administration's fuel efficiency agenda that would double efficiency targets to 54 miles per gallon by 2025. Recognizing the Obama administration's rescue of the auto industry in 2009, automakers reluctantly agreed to the 2025 deal in White House talks earlier this year. Dealers want a return to fuel targets set by the Department of Transportation.
Not All Car Options Have Return on Resale Value
Adding options to a new vehicle purchase usually adds to its total value. Options that usually bring a good rate of return on the used-car lot include leather upholstery and factory-installed moonroofs. However, some add-ons such as remote keyless entry, auxiliary lights, and upgraded stereos may not add more to the vehicle's resale value.
BYD Delaying e6 Again, Focusing on e-Buses for Fleets
While Chinese carmaker BYD will be opening an office in LA, it's yet again delaying launch of its electric e6 crossover utility vehicle. BYD says the e6 is constantly delayed because the U.S. lacks a sufficient charging infrastructure. The company says its primary focus is on fleet sales, especially for its electric eBus-12.
