Automakers Initiate Own Recalls Amidst Toyota Fines, Public Backlash
Automakers have increased the frequency and reduced the threshold for voluntary recalls of vehicles with safety related problems. This is partially due to consumers' reaction to automakers who appear to be trying to cover up problems and partially due to NHTSA passing out bigger fines. Both cases were exemplified by Toyota recently.
Focus on Cell Phones, Toyota Acceleration Distracting From Bigger Safety Issues
IIHS President Adrian Lund has been critical that US DOT, Congress and the media are too worried about cellphone use and run-away Toyotas to the exclusion of bigger highway safety issues. IIHS thinks the government should force quicker adoption of safety technology by automakers and deal with all driver distractions.
Smartphones and Trusted Ecosystems
Zimride has already established large ecosystems of trusted corporations and colleges with riders that plan and reserve trips well in advance. It has now raised $1.2M to develop a smartphone application in iPhone, Android, and HTML 5 to facilitate last minute trips with minimum effort.
Charger Pursuit Challenging New Ford Interceptor
Ford is replacing the 70% police market holding Crown Victorias with a custom version Interceptor based on the new Taurus. With Ford moving to a front-wheel drive car, Chrysler hopes to improve its 18% market share with the Charger Pursuit.
Used Car Values at Highest Level in 7 Years
One year after "cash for clunkers" success, buyers are shocked to find used car prices soaring and little to choose from, especially those with under 100,000 miles. Average 3-year-old vehicle spiked 10.3 percent, to $19,248, from July 2009.
