Car Buyer Interest Dropping for Toyota, Along with Vehicle Values
The latest Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence data indicates a decline in interest for Toyota products as the recall widens and uncertainty on safety and quality issues mount for the beleaguered brand.
LaHood in Talks with Automakers About Distracting Technology
US DOT intends to issue regulations this year to discourage distracted driving. Cellphone conversations and texting distractions are now being joined by in-vehicle technology. Secretary LaHood is talking with automakers about eliminating these distractions.
Ford January Sales Signal Better Times Ahead
Ford's sales for January increased 24% with gains across all brands and lineup which should result in 16% of US market share. Sales to corporate and rental fleets increased 154% as economy improves and credit eases, putting Ford on track to hit 5-year fleet sales average of 30% for the year.
Ford Transit Connect Electric Van First in Series of EVs
FoMoCo will unveil its all-electric Transit Connect compact commercial van Wednesday at the Chicago Auto Show, ideal for short-haul cargo transport and taxi fleets where drivers can easily get back to the company facility for recharging.
Toyotas to Hold Value in Long Term
Despite high profile recalls at Toyota, analysts at Edmunds.com believe the automaker will not suffer a long-term hit to the residual value of its vehicles. Customers trading in a Toyota may see a loss in value, but the dealer who resells that vehicle may experience a larger gross. Many expect any dip in the transaction price to be short lived.
