Laptops and tablets are growing in popularity for recording and ordering fleet service and maintenance. Fleets must select both maintenance software and hardware to integrate electronic processing of service repairs.
General Motors will debut a new infotainment package this year on the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox and Volt. It allows drivers to access music and initiate calls using voice commands or buttons on a full-color touch screen. The new in-car technology, called Chevy MyLink, will offer many features now available on rival Ford's popular Sync system.
Experian Automotive just released CheckMyRide.com, a free social media site for car enthusiasts to build their own personal vehicle history timeline, track whereabouts of past cars, and share favorite memories on Facebook and Twitter. The new site also allows members to receive a free AutoCheck report so they can fully understand and share their current vehicle's history.
AutoTrader's Trend Engine Report indicates vehicle searches are ignoring fuel economy as a selection criteria. Twelve of the top 20 searches in January were for trucks and SUVs. Likewise 11 of the top 20 CPO vehicles as well as 9 of the top 20 new vehicle searches were for trucks and SUVs. Previous review of vehicle searches indicates $3.50 per gallon to be the tipping point for consumers to change their vehicle selection.