DETROIT — A recent survey by Ally Financial showed dealers continued
to be a "pillar of strength" in their communities, particularly when it comes
to charitable giving.

Survey data indicated nearly two-thirds of U.S. dealers
increased their charitable contributions this year compared to last year.

In addition, officials highlighted that more than half of
those who responded said they plan to increase their charitable contributions
in 2013.

Specifically, the Ally Financial survey found:

—65 percent of
dealers surveyed said their charitable contributions increased in 2012 versus
last year, and 54 percent plan to increase their contributions in 2013.

—98 percent of dealers surveyed contribute to local
organizations, with 25 percent of dealers and their staffs volunteering more
than 100 hours in their community annually.

—Approximately 45 percent of dealers contribute more than
$20,000 per year in their respective communities.

—When asked about factors motivating dealers to contribute,
68 percent said it was to make a positive impact in the community, while 21
percent said it was due to a personal cause.

 "Automobile dealers
do a tremendous job supporting their local communities," said Tim Russi,
executive vice president of North American Auto Operations for Ally Financial.

"Ally will sponsor the TIME Dealer of the Year program again
this year to recognize dealers from every state who donate their time and money
to important causes," Russi continued.

 The TIME Dealer of
the Year award recipients are among the nation's most successful auto dealers
who also demonstrate a long-standing commitment to community service.

Heading into its 44th year, the program is produced in
cooperation with the National Automobile Dealers Association and is renowned as
one of the industry's most prestigious awards for franchised dealers.

Nominees for the 2013 TIME Dealer of the Year Award will be
announced in October with the winner being named at the NADA Convention and
Expo in Orlando, Fla. on Feb. 9.

 To acknowledge dealer
contributions throughout the year, Ally has also launched AllyDealerHeroes.com,
a new website highlighting the philanthropic efforts of dealers across the
country.

 "AllyDealerHeroes.com
features inspiring stories about how dealers are making a difference in the
communities where they live and work," said Ally's auto marketing executive
Andrea Riley.

"The site is a perfect complement to the TIME Dealer of the
Year program and will serve as an online community for dealers, local leaders
and even consumers to share stories and collaborate on how to get involved and
make a difference," Riley continued. "It is truly inspiring to read these
stories and see the tangible impact dealers are making in their communities
every day." 

For more information on the TIME Dealer of the Year program,
visit www.timedealeroftheyear.com.