Wholesale Values Continue Upward Climb
The March Manheim's Used Vehicle Value Index is down 1.5% from last year but up 0.6% from February. It was the third straight month of improvement, and prices are up 8.3% for the year. Economist Tom Webb says there is a reduced supply due to fewer trade-ins and a strong tax-refund season.
March Sees Mixed but Promising Certified Sales
March sales of certified used vehicles are down 12.6% from a strong March 2008. But some automakers saw record sales and others are gaining traction over February.
Chicago Receives Its First Solar-Powered Plug-In Station
Carbon Day Automotive set up the first solar-powered electric vehicle charging station in Chicago at the city's Department of Fleet Maintenance. It was a focal point of the recent IOC tour on April 5. Carbon Day Automotive is the sole Midwest distributor for Coulomb Technologies ChargePoint Networked Charging Stations.
Stimulus Money Spent with Detroit-3 to Improve Federal Fleet
The US Government is buying 17,600 vehicles costing $285M from the Detroit-3. Purchases include 2,500 hybrids and $15M in advanced technology compressed natural gas and hybrid buses and all-electric vehicles.
Automakers, Wireless and Insurance Companies Promoting In-Vehicle Electronics
The availability of in-vehicle electronics is growing as wireless companies look for new markets, automakers attempt to differentiate products and lure customers, and insurance companies seek to reduce claims.
