Japan Disaster Could Boost Used-Car Values
Used-car prices could soar even higher as the industry responds to the Japan earthquake. Continued disruption of parts supply and vehicle production may steer some consumers to the used car. Trade-in values could also increase due to higher gas prices.
Dust Settling for Dealerships as Consolidations Stabilize
In its annual analysis of the US dealer body, Automotive News found that the dust is starting to settle for US car dealers following three years of turmoil. Much of this came from consolidation by the Detroit 3 and closings of the Mercury, Saturn, Pontiac, and Hummer brands.
Passenger Cars Lead Used Sales Spike
Used-vehicle sales surged over 38 percent sequentially in March and climbed more than 4 percent on a year-over-year basis, according to CNW Research. Passenger cars, in particular, grabbed a greater share of the used market during the month.
Major Battery Improvements Needed for Electric Vehicles to Succeed
Auto industry observers are carefully watching how serious consumers are about purchasing electric vehicles and debate how well this is going. They're all in agreement about the battery factor - electric car batteries need to become more affordable and highly functional to reduce sticker prices and range anxiety.
