SANTA MONICA, Calif. — In the midst of automakers ramping up their efforts to clear out old-model-year new vehicles a month earlier than usual, incentive spending climbed in July, according to Edmunds.com. The site also indicated that incentive spending helped to bring about a significant increase in sales, as well. Specifically, the industry spent an average of $2,753 per […] [Read More]

TULSA, Okla. — In addition to announcing that his company is on pace to hit record profits this year, Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group's chief executive officer also publicly responded to Avis Budget Group's recent bid to acquire the company. Scott Thompson said the company looks favorably on the offer, with one or two hitches. In essence, Thompson said his board of directors need […] [Read More]

YONKERS, N.Y. — Consumer Reports recently compiled four lists regarding what it finds to be the best vehicles for teen drivers, senior citizens, tall drivers and small drivers, respectively. Interestingly enough, the only vehicle that made all four lists was the Honda Accord. "Honda has built its brand around the core pillars of clean, safe, fun […] [Read More]

PARK RIDGE, N.J. — Hertz Global Holdings just moved a step closer to acquiring Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group. Hertz is hoping to grab DTAG, while Avis Budget Group waits in the wings and hopes DTAG will select its offer instead. Less than a week after rival Avis Budget Group turned in a bid to buy Dollar Thrifty, […] [Read More]

BREA, Calif. — In  a trend that is becoming  extremely popular among automakers, American Suzuki Motor Corp. is launching a reward points and sweepstakes program to be run through its website, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages.   The Suzuki AllPoints program — where almost 250 prizes will be handed out — consists primarily of the "Live Large" video contest […] [Read More]

TORRANCE, Calif. — As the Toyota Prius celebrates its 10-year anniversary, the automaker is asking Prius fans to join in the fun via Facebook. In essence, the automaker is looking for the most passionate Prius fan in the U.S. to host its official 10 Years of Toyota Prius Anniversary Celebration in the winner's hometown. Toyota is […] [Read More]

INDIANAPOLIS — The industry is seeing a dramatic increase in recovery agents being harmed — or worse, killed — while securing the collateral of their clients. Unfortunately, lenders unknowingly exacerbate this environment with contingency demands. Contingency pricing attempts to cut costs by holding payment until the vehicle is recovered. Contingency demands put the burden on the recovery specialist […] [Read More]

MINNEAPOLIS — The incoming president of ACA International, the Association of Credit and Collection Professionals, asked the industry several questions about where it's heading during the next 10 years. Martin Sher, co-chief executive officer of AmSher Receivables Management in Birmingham, Ala., wondered, "Will you still be working in the credit and collection industry? Will your business […] [Read More]

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. — BMW Group has agreed to a six-year deal where it will be an official partner of the United States Olympic Committee and the National Governing Bodies of four different sports. Under the partnership, the company will serve as the "Official Mobility Partner" of the U.S. as well as USA Bobsled & Skeleton, […] [Read More]

PARSIPPANY, N.J. — In an effort to beat out Hertz for the acquisition of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Avis Budget Group submitted a bid to the company this week, in addition to passing along a letter to its chief executive officer and chairman. In his letter to Thomas Capo, Dollar Thrifty chairman, and Scott Thompson, president and […] [Read More]