Auto Leasing More Popular as Used-Car Prices Rebound
Automakers have resumed offering leases through their captive finance companies. Residual values are on the upswing, so leasing has more profit potential, and finance companies can offer lower monthly payments. Luxury brands are expected to benefit from the trend.
Third-Party Websites Hottest Used Vehicle Lead Generator
Recent AutoUSA study shows 62 percent of dealers consider third-party websites their most effective method of generating used-car sales leads with organic leads their second choice. The same held true for new-car leads with the percentages down somewhat.
Light, Medium Truck Segments Changing; Still Have Solid Offerings
Major light- and medium-truck manufactures informed NTEA upfitters of their plans for the coming year. Some lineups will be smaller, some larger and some will include brand new models.
Inspections Program Improves Dealer Bottom Line
OPENLANE has brought a new inspection service to its dealer clients. Bolstering consumer confidence is paying off with more interest, double the sales for inspected units and arbitration rates below 3%.
2007 DARPA Urban Challenge Produces Autonomous Cars
Driver assist technology is finding its way into the mainstream. Competitors in the 2007 DARPA Urban Challenge produced fully autonomous vehicles that point the way to even better safety features.
