Driverless Robocars May be Close to Reality
Technological barriers to driverless robocars were overcome in 2007 competition. Mostly legal and bureaucratic obstacles remain including diversion of fuel tax revenue from highways to mass transit. Trains of automated cars packed together could make mass transit more obsolete through improved safety, fuel economy and use of existing roads.
Trucking Comprehensive Safety Analysis Still Planned for 2010
The FMCSA has been testing its new Comprehensive Safety Analysis program in pilot states. It is scheduled to be rolled out in 2010 but may be delayed beyond its planned July start by implementation of fixes found during pilot testing.
Fourth-Quarter Earnings Up for CarMax
CarMax reported earnings of $75.4 million for its fiscal 4th quarter. That's up from $37.5 million a year earlier. Comparable-store unit sales were up 11%, mostly due to increased used-car sales. Income from auto finance was also up.
Consumer Tax Refunds Driving Used Car Sales Increase
Higher consumer tax refunds will help dealers with their bottom line as buyers have more cash in hand for down payments. IRS statistics indicate a 10 percent increase in federal tax refunds on average, which bodes well for the used-car industry.
GM Recalling Vans Over Potential Engine Fires
General Motors will recall 5,000 heavy-duty vans due to an alternator issue that could cause an engine fire. The recall affects 2010 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana 2500, 3500 and 4500 models. Light-duty vans use a different alternator. Most of the affected vans are in fleets.
