SAN FRANCISCO — When Ford officially rolls out the highly promoted 2011 Fiesta to dealers, the automaker revealed the vehicle also will have SYNC AppLink, a downloadable software program that allows for hands-free control of smartphone applications. The program can allow for access and control of Android and BlackBerry smartphone applications with voice commands and vehicle […] [Read More]

RENO, Nev. — Social Automotive on Tuesday launched a new platform on its Web site that attempts to blend industry professionals including dealers with enthusiasts and shoppers through many social media outlets. Site executives explained that through its interactive platform they want to shift the culture of the industry. It's their goal to be the first […] [Read More]

MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich. — When it comes to GPS-based systems, special finance companies and buy-here, pay-here dealers need to ask themselves a simple question: "Do I want the metal or the money?" For most, it's about the money. That is why it's so curious that many of them end up using GPS systems to collect collateral […] [Read More]

IRVINE, Calif. — The news that Hummer is in the process of officially winding down since General Motors could not find a buyer has apparently sparked a lot of consumer interest in the brand, particularly the H3, according to Kelley Blue Book's Hot Car Report for the week. "The Hummer H3 experienced the greatest influx of […] [Read More]

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y. — DealerTrack is holding a free online seminar for independent dealers next week to show how these auto professionals can maximize profits and make their stores more efficient by utilizing the company's DMS for Independents. The workshop will be held at 2 p.m. EST on Wednesday, and examines in great detail what the company […] [Read More]

ATLANTA — Building on what it described as successful site optimization for the iPhone, AutoTrader.com on Thursday launched a new mobile device platform to provide access to its most popular sections. Company executives explained that the new mobile platform can allow consumers to use their devices for the "Find a Car" and "Find a Dealer" features […] [Read More]

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A "human-like" robot that General Motors helped NASA build will take flight later this year and permanently join the International Space Station. Robonaut — R2, perhaps so named in a nod to the iconic Star Wars movie — was designed to be a "robotic assistant" and to work side-by-side with humans. It is quite versatile, as it was created to lend […] [Read More]

NEW YORK — Dealers and automakers now can obtain a better sense of what customers are saying about brands and vehicles through social networking Web sites. J.D. Power and Associates launched a new tool on Wednesday — the J.D. Power Auto Intelligence Monitor — that executives believe is the first industry-specific social media listening platform. Company officials explained […] [Read More]

OAK BROOK, Ill. — vAuto is offering a Stocking and Sourcing Strategies online seminar next week that is free for vAuto customers. It will be held from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. (CST) on Monday, and will delve into three specific areas: 1. Discussion of market trends, new processes and philosophies for sourcing vehicles. 2. How to […] [Read More]

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — They specialize in different modes of "transportation," so to speak, but the auto and aerospace sectors might be able to help each other when it comes to technology. At least that's the goal of Chrysler and NASA, which have teamed up for a three-year collaboration that, essentially, allows for technology and resource […] [Read More]