Archive for the ‘Shoppers’ Category

In 2006, research outfit AutoPacific polled new car buyers in the U.S. and found that 44% intended to hold on to their vehicle for at least four years. One recession later, and the figure has risen to 59%. However, that may not be all bad news--at least not for buyers. The jump might be due to people shopping smarter: according to the company's George Petersen, buyers may be "putting a higher priority on vehicles with a reputation for quality and durability that meets not only their short-term needs, but also their long-term expected needs." And smarter is usually better in our book. [AutoPacific via MP]

Yep, the economy's in the toilet and headed further south--where that final destination is, we can only guess. (Tierra del Fuego? Tampa?)

Everyone's getting desperate--here at TCC we're stopping all deliveries of Costco cheese crackers --but car dealers are the worst off, so far as we can tell. From giving away free schwag like oil changes and extended warranties, the truly desperate car dealers out there are doing everything they can to move sheetmetal off the lots.

That includes lots of advertising. Say what you will, but the niche of local car ads on TV is one of the most, uh, creative. Talking badgers. Rapping genies. Horrifically...

Research and statistics firm Nielsen has released more data about U.S. shopping and buying habits, and as always, the company's findings are pretty interesting. In fact, after surveying 250,000 Americans online, Nielsen has identified a few causes for optimism in the auto industry, despite today's flailing economy.

Most importantly: Nielsen finds that people are shopping. Yes, vehicle sales are down, year-over-year--way down. Like, around 37% down. However, the number of people shopping for new cars online has dropped only 9%. In other words: although folks may not be able to afford a new auto just yet, they're still looking. That could...