Just posted an article about the unintended consequences of Cash for Clunkers / CARS. It's been a short-term boon for franchised new car dealers but will it last and will it come at the expense of others?http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/cash-for-clunkers-long-term-effects-1097970.html

Last month's most popular vehicle searches at AutoBidsOnline reflect consumers' desire to take advantage of Cash for Clunkers / CARS:2010 Ford Fusion 4dr Sdn Hybrid FWD (City: 36, Hwy: 41)2009 Toyota Camry 4dr Sdn I4 Auto (SE) (City: 21, Hwy: 31)2010 Honda Odyssey 4dr Wgn EX (City: 16, Hwy: 23)2009 Toyota Yaris 5dr HB Auto (GS) (City: 29, Hwy: 35)2008 Chevrolet Corvette 2dr Cpe (City: 16, Hwy: 26

I just saw an interview with a Dodge dealer in Michigan City. Like many franchised auto dealers, he has already taken in a larger number of "clunker" trades - 13 as of this morning. The report indicated there are many other dealers who have already traded for 30 or more.Do you see the problem yet? There are plenty with the latest Congressional brainchild - but this particular problem is in the

GM's announcement yesterday that they will get back into consumer vehicle leasing is great news. Even if it is only available on their luxury lines, it should spur action with the other captive finance companies and hopefully create a spark with independent banks. Wells Fargo, Huntington and Fifth Third are three independent banks with a long history of vehicle leasing. Along with virtually

Here's a good video report from JJ's AutoFinanceNews.net: http://autofinancenews.net/video/video/show?id=2192375%3AVideo%3A20602|||amp;xgs=1

As my grandfather would say, "The Federal Government could f*ck up a wet dream." In their infinite wisdom, the EPA increased the combined MPG on certain vehicles last Friday. What impact did this have on buyers looking to take advantage of the CARS / Cash for Clunkers program?Plenty as our buddies at Auto Remarketing Today reveal at: http://www.autoremarketing.com/ar/news/story.html?id=9804

Massive rebates are coming into the market on the heels of the government's Cash for Clunkers (or CARS program). With dealers literally starving for new sales, now may very well be historic times for the new car shopper.As you set about buying your next new car, you are probably wondering the best way to establish the true market value and secure the best possible price.Edmunds.com has done very

And it's going to be a real pain for all involved. Why you ask? Afterall, there is great anticipation of the program's official launch on Friday 7/24 and there is plenty of information on the web explaining how it will work.Yet most consumers believe they are going to get some kind of voucher they can use when they trade in their "clunker". Unfortunately, this is a big misconception. The program

According to AutoRemarketing Today and highly regarded and CNW Research, July is going to be a great month for pre-owned vehicle sales.What is the cause? Would you believe it has much to do with the fallout of the Chrysler and GM bankruptcies? According to company president Art Spinella, "The surge in independent sales can be traced to franchised dealership closures. Some of the smaller General

Great stuff from Dr. Mike Smitka at AutosAndEconomics: http://autosandeconomics.blogspot.com/2009/07/toyota-and-general-motors.html. A great read full of compelling original thought. Well done Dr. Mike.