Power Still a Concern as Nissan Leaf Arrives
The Nissan Leaf is the least expensive electric vehicle produced in significant numbers with a starting price around $33,000. However, recharging is a concern due to a lack of public charging infrastructure. Leaf buyers can purchase Nissan's 220-volt home charging system and recharge the batteries in eight hours. A network of Fast Charging Stations are planned to begin operation within the next 2 years.
Better Inventory, Credit Boost January Used-Car Sales
CNW Research says January used-car total sales surpassed 2 million, about 50,000 units more than expected. The company cites greater wholesale supply and improved consumer credit availability.
Manheim Report Reveals Upward Trend in New and Used Auto Sales
During the National Automobile Dealers Association's convention, Manheim released its annual Used Car Market Report. The company revealed that after four straight years of declines, both new- and used-vehicle retail sales climbed in 2010.
January Used Vehicle Sales Better than Art Spinella Originally Predicted
With an increase of 50,000 more used units sold in January than originally predicted, CNW Research president Art Spinella thinks the number can hit 40 million units sold this year instead of 39 million. Much of this is due to better inventory and credit conditions, and Spinella also sees the ?off-lease car wave,? as a positive sign.
GM Ventures Funds Another Green Technology Supplier
GM Ventures has funded another technology supplier in the clean technology sector, Newark, CA-based Envia Systems. Envia has cathode technology that the company claims can increase energy density of battery cells by one-third without putting much strain on costs. The company joins the ranks of other equity infusions by GM Ventures including Sakti3, Powermat, Bright Automotive, Coskata, and Mascoma Corp.
