Reasons for Failure (and Success)
Some dealers are failing today for reasons that go far beyond the economy, and the failures have far more to do with internal management than with anything external. The single biggest problem for most dealers is on the financial side. Dealers need to be certain that they have the best controllers and office managers possible, because these positions are as important to a dealership's success as having a good general sales manager.
‘Cadillac WiFi by Autonet Mobile’ Turns Car Into Internet Hotspot
Cadillac will unveil optional dealer-installed equipment provided by Autonet for Internet connections. It will be portable, unlike Autonet's Chrysler hardware, so the sleek, wireless router can be moved between multiple vehicles with docking ports. Laptops and other wireless network devices can be used in and around the car.
iPhone Getting Turn-by-Turn Navigation Instructions
Upcoming iPhone OS 3.0 software will support turn-by-turn navigation instructions by unlocking core location APIs for third party developers. This will mean more competition in a struggling PND market, and a new market for navigation software vendors like Telenav, Garmin, and TomTom, which already have iPhone-compatible navigation software they weren't able to sell previously.
US-Mexican Border Violence Prompted Alert for Truckers
Mexican drug cartel violence due to the crackdown on smuggling has claimed the lives of 200+ US citizens since 2004. Truckers traveling past the border zones have been warned to be alert, stay on secure toll roads among other security tips, and avoid trouble situations at all costs.
Utilities Get Ready for Surge in Electric Vehicles
The first strong influx of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles will start coming next year. Southern California Edison is getting ready by testing the needs of its own fleet of electric vehicles. A strong concentration of electric vehicles could overwhelm the grid.
