"Dealers as well as remarketers can view the strength of new- and used-vehicle sales in December as a good precursor to retail demand during the tax season," said Adesa's Tom Kontos in his latest Kommentary.
The average weekly rate for a compact car rental at an airport jumped 51 percent from 2008 levels, according to Abrams Consulting Group.
The manufacturer also plans to offer its inexpensive Nano model in Europe as early as next year
The state's Southeastern Regional Transit Authority board has not decided when it should increase a car rental fee to pay for planning and engineering.
KAR Auction Services Inc. made its trading debut Dec. 11, 2009, despite making less than expected through its IPO in what was to be used to shrink the company's heavy debt load.
Lower new-car sales in 2008, along with fewer trade-ins, off-lease vehicles, and rental fleet vehicles last year contribute to a shortage in used vehicles.
According to Kelley Blue Book, in 2009, the average vehicle maintained 34.2 percent of its original value after five years in contrast to 2010 models, which are projected to maintain an average of 32.6 percent of their original MSRP.
The city doesn't allow commercial activity in residential neighborhoods, but the new rule allows Zipcar vehicles to park in lots and alleyways.