Commercial Tires Balance Efficiency, Durability
Long-haul truckers can specify tires designed for fuel economy, but those tires might have disadvantages in delivery or urban situations. Improved maintenance may save more fuel than giving up other features to gain rolling resistance.
Fiat Ready to Buy Out Rest of Government Shares
Fiat SpA has been in discussions with Canadian officials and is preparing to buy out the US and Canadian government remaining shares of Chrysler Group. Fiat currently holds 46% and would bring in a 1.7% stake owned by the Canadian and Ontario governments and 6.6% currently owned by the US.
May SAAR Could Be Down to 12.1 Million Units, But Might Only Be a Pause
Eleven analysts surveyed by Bloomberg see new light vehicle sales in the US dipping down to an annual estimate of 12.1 million units. This may be just a temporary reduction as lower gas prices and rebounding production in post-quake Japan is expected to bring the sales volume back to 2008 levels.
Detroit Automakers Taking Back Part of Small Car Market
While Japanese competitors have dominated the small car segments for years, Detroit automakers, particularly Ford and GM, have been making strides forward in increased sales with subcompact and compact models. This is happening as the industry recognizes a fundamental shift in consumer preferences during an era of fast-rising gas prices.
Dealers Cautious Over Wholesale Purchases
Black Book's Ricky Beggs says dealers may be cautious about buying wholesale due to uncertainty about the market in 30 to 90 days. Overall, he says, the wholesale market is on the upswing.
