Demand for Ford Transit Connect Electric Van Exceeds Expectations
Early demand for the Ford Transit Connect Electric Van indicates orders could exceed the first year sales target of 700. The Ford van can reach 75 mph using its 28 kilowatt-hours of LIon batteries, with a nominal range of 80 miles per charge. Recharging takes about four hours using a Level II 220-volt charger. Signs are strong that the fleet market for electric vehicles could provide the initial spark for battery propulsion because the needs of many commercial customers are more in line with the limitations of electric propulsion, most notably range.
Cheney Wanted Detroit-3 to Fail
Adamantly opposed to saving GM and Chrysler, former Vice President Dick Cheney urged then-President George Bush not to provide bailout money to troubled OEMs. But Bush did approve $17.4 billion for GM and Chrysler rescues, as well as $7.5 billion for GMAC and Chrysler Financial. That amount carried the OEMs until early 2009, when newly-elected President Barack Obama approved billions more. While the former vice president didn't think the auto rescue was valid, he favored saving the banks even though many observers felt they had precipitated the global economic meltdown.
Experian: Financing for Used, New Vehicles Keeps Converging
In discussion of its second quarter data, Experian pointed out that used-vehicle prices are moving steadily closer to the price buyers might pay for a new model. The average amount financed for used vehicles in the second quarter was $17,602, or 67.6% of the average amount financed for new vehicles, said Melinda Zabritski, Experian's Director of Automotive Credit. In the second quarter of 2010, that percentage was 65.74%, and in 2009 it was 63.9%. According to Zabritski, this trend may be pushing used-vehicle buyers to the new-vehicle market.
Auto Industry Sees Cloud Technology in its Future
Along with green technology advances, cloud technology is the key to the progress of the automotive industry. Most cars will be able to function using cloud computing services through the Internet, bringing drivers new features and services that include avoiding traffic jams and making recommendations on driving more efficiently. From GPS systems to vehicle tracking, cloud computing will allow businesses in the automotive sector to deliver better experiences and offer more to the end customers.
Cars Most Disliked by Thieves
The Cadillac Escalade is high on the list of vehicles chosen by car thieves. Which do they dislike the most? The Highway Loss Data Institute reports it is a mix of cars and midsize SUVs, like the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. Perhaps it is because these vehicles have really good anti-theft mechanisms. In addition to the Equinox, other top vehicles car thieves dislike include Audi A6 all-wheel-drive, 2009-2010 Mercury Mariner, 2010 Lexus RX 350, Saturn Vue, and BMW 5-Series.
