Automakers have stopped selling vehicles to rental fleets at a loss and are now forcing the purchase of vehicles with better option packages at profitable prices. Rental fleets are responding by holding vehicles a few months longer and increasing their percentage of discounted risk vehicles instead of program cars.
Background
Enterprise bought Vanguard, instant presence in airports, corporate, leisure sectors
Hertz transitioned back onto public stage, looks to grow online leisure business
Avis Budget opening over 200 neighborhood locations
Dollar Thrifty continuing to convert franchises to corporate stores