Used Truck Values Increasing in January, Car Values Declining
The average trade-in value of large SUVs and large trucks is expected to take a jump in January, 2010 over last year, partly the result of lower fuel costs, says Jonathan Banks, senior director of editorial and data services for NADA Used Car Guide.
Recharging Preparation Needed for Electric Leaf and Volt
Electric cars due in 2010 from Nissan and Chevrolet can recharge slowly from standard outlets in 8-16 hours. Quick chargers require special equipment professionally installed. Public recharging infrastructure is needed to reassure the mainstream public of electric vehicle viability.
CARB Giving Motor Carriers More Flexibility
California Air Resources Board will be providing motor carriers with more flexibility in meeting diesel emission reduction standards. This won't affect stricter emissions reduction targets being implemented in the state by the ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Oakland. Lower traffic volume during the recession caused CARB to rethink the emissions standards.
CARB Determining Future of California’s Zero-Emissions Mandate
The California Air Resources Board heard testimony last week on whether it should go with a strict electric car mandate or give automakers more flexibility. This has been an on-again, off-again long-term debate at CARB on its zero-emissions vehicle policy. CARB want to increase the number of electric cars on the roads, whether plug-in, hybrid, or fuel cell.
Leasing Making a Slow Comeback, with Modest Growth Next Year
Leasing is somewhat back, and consumers are still interested, but the cheap rates are gone and customers are often shocked by the leasing costs as lenders cautiously wade into the mix. Automakers say leasing will never reach the peak it enjoyed a decade ago.
