Wholesale Prices Up, Used Vehicle Prices Unchanged
Dealers have for years earned higher grosses on used vehicles than they did on new vehicles. But that is starting to change. The culprit is the Internet. Gone are the days of the used car manager making an accurate appraisal walking around a trade in, Black Book in hand. With lower margins, dealers will need to become more efficient to survive.
Smartphone App Can Recommend Suitable Green Car for Starters
UC Berkeley developed a smartphone application that is being marketed by startup Virtual Vehicle Company (VEVCo). First application which collects driving behavior data will target automotive marketing in helping consumers with a recommendation for a green vehicle that best meets their actual needs.
Second National Distracted Driving Summit Announced
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is hosting his second summit next month on distracted driving. DOT is attempting to solve this major traffic safety issue which kills and injures thousands annually.
FMCSA Program Holds Drivers Accountable for Unsafe Behavior
FMSCA is rolling out its new Comprehensive Safety Analysis safety program which measures risk factors for unsafe trucking companies and unsafe truck drivers in more dimensions than the current system. It also holds drivers responsible for unsafe behavior and informs prospective employers of the problems.
Ford Fiesta AJ Can Send Twitter Messages
Ford will add access to third party applications on some smartphones to vehicle entertainment controls and sensors through Sync this year. It has established an always on-line, Internet-connected test bed for further technology leaps in the form of a 2011 Ford Fiesta named AJ who can Twitter on his own and much more.
