Variability in Global Safety Standards Adds Cost to Consumers
US regulators have tightened crash standards for MY2011 with a new narrow-obstacle side impact test to evaluate car performance in the most dangerous crash type. The new standards will result in fewer 5-star ratings. They will also result in significant engineering and production costs for the US market adding to the price consumers must pay.
NAAA Alert: Transporter Scam
The National Auto Auction Association sent out a security alert from Manheim Corporate Security to warn auctions of a "new twist" from the recent transporter scam. A memo from Alan Walker, Manheim Corporate Security director, to all general managers and assistant GMs urges them not to release any vehicles to anyone claiming to be from the following company: Atlas Towing and Recovery.
Street Use Golf Carts Qualifying for Federal Tax Credits
Golf carts have been on streets for years, but that's been on private roads in senior facilities and other residential communities. A federal tax credit on street use golf carts that go no faster than 25 miles per hour is increasing buyer interest, along with rising fuel prices and concerns over vehicle pollution.
NAFA Congratulates Culver City Fleet on Winning NGV Award
NAFA Fleet Management Association has been active and vigilant in the green fleet movement since it started. The Association congratulates Paul Condran, equipment maintenance manager for the City of Culver City, Calif., for receiving the 2009 NGV Achievement Award. Culver City was an early adopter of natural gas vehicle technology and recently was recognized at the North American NGV Conference Summit.
Wholesale Prices Peaked in Early October, Started First 2009 Decline
Breaking down price by model year, OPENLANE determines that 2009 wholesale prices peaked in early October and have since slid. Meanwhile, dealer interest in SUVs and trucks has rise by 4 percent but interest in minivans is down by 6 percent.
