Auto Dealers are now online

December 21, 2004 Seeking not miss out on a piece of the online market, most of the automobile dealerships in the US have an Internet presence, in addition to listings on sites like eBay Motors.
The number of US auto dealerships with Web sites shot up between 1997 and 2004, according to the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). Only 47% of dealers had Web sites in 1997, but by 1999, a high number of dealerships (74%) had Web sites, and by 2003, nearly all of them did (93%), a percentage that went up one point to 94% for 2004. NADA finds that 68% of dealerships with a Web site have actually had an online sale

Most dealership Web sites offer consumers the ability to view the dealer's stock (92%), while many offer MSRPs (79%) and links to manufacturer Web sites (71%). Scheduling services are also offered by about two-thirds of online dealerships.

Many dealerships also use larger automotive Web sites as a way to reach a nationwide audience and even get better prices on some used vehicles. Sites such as eBay Motors, Automotive.com, Autobytel.com and CarsDirect.com bring in millions of vehicle-seeking visitors each month. These Web sites are used by consumers to browse and price different car models for purchase, sometimes through the site itself, sometimes elsewhere. According to eBay Motors, a car or truck is sold on its site every 60 seconds.

Through a combination of their own Web sites and listings on collective sites, a dealerships can create a presence that not only ensures a broad reach, but also pinpoints the needs of online customers who favor a certain dealer, want to see that dealer's vehicle stock, setup appointments or even buy a car.
For more information on the online automotive sector, eMarketer subscribers can peruse the 229 charts and articles on the topic in the eStat Database.

New GM Saturn Site

It looks very American, but one very nice feature is that it lets you do comparisons on other models from different manufacturers.

Also includes a 'My Saturn' service, showing local information, tips, owner experiences and games.

MSN Landrover Discover Ads

Streaming Video onto an MSN page

Renault Launch New F1 Jewelry Range - Bijou Racing

Renault F1 launches Bijoux RacingA collection of luxury jewellery
It's worth applauding!The Renault F1 Team is excited to announce the launch of a collection of luxury jewellery, in collaboration with designer Mary Kaczor: Bijoux Racing.True to its reputation as an innovator, the Mild Seven Renault F1 Team is excited to introduce a new and stylish concept for the Formula One fan. In partnership with jewellery designer Mary Kaczor: a collection of Formula One-inspired jewellery, Bijoux Racing by Renault F1 Team.The Bijoux Racing collection is composed of unique designs which combine the luxury of high quality materials with the exclusivity of high-technology Formula One components. The collection, featuring pieces for both men and women ranging from chokers, bracelets and ear- rings to cufflinks, will provide an exciting fusion of glamour and technology.The creative concept has been developed from an original idea by Mary Kaczor, herself a racer and former winner of the Formula Renault Ladies Cup. During her career, she competed against Renault F1 Team test driver Franck Montagny and so when it came to approaching a team about a possible collection of innovative jewellery, the choice was obvious."I have always wanted to combine my love of racing with my jewellery design business," explained Mary, "and the fact that I had raced against Franck in previous years meant that the Renault F1 Team was the obvious choice as a partner in this project. As well as being one of the top teams in Formula One, they are also well known as one of the most stylish, and we have had fantastic fun choosing the parts to use in the collection. I believe the end result is something completely unique."
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In total, a Formula One car contains over 5000 parts, made from materials ranging from titanium to carbon-fibre. From the tiniest oil filter to complex electronics, every component has its role to play in helping the car cross the finish line. in first place. The Renault F1 Team has therefore selected a number of components, from transmission bearings to hydraulic oil filters, to create the Bijoux Racing collection."Formula One is a world that mixes high technology with a dash of glamour," explained Renault F1 Team Operations Director John Mardle. "Here at Renault, we are always open-minded about new ideas and this was a project we thought had real potential. For many people, it might seem unusual to combine the worlds of motor racing and luxury jewellery - but that's exactly what attracted us to it. In fact, the demands are more similar than you might think: both require precision, the highest quality, and a unique approach to be successful."The Bijoux Racing collection was premiered at last night's glamorous Autosport Awards in London's Grosvenor House Hotel, on Park Lane, when creator Mary Kaczor sported the Aeromesh choker and bracelet. This and other pieces will be released to selected boutiques around the world during early 2005.An exclusive bespoke collection, featuring actual raced components from Renault F1 Team cars, will be launched in very limited edition at next year's Monaco Grand Prix.

Toyota 'Airconditioning/Nipple' viral from Spain

Video for new Porsche 911 Carrera

Very cheesey, and very American. Builds nicely on the idea of the allure and desirability of a Porsche, but how will they handle all of the kids turning up to the dealerships?

Toyota Tundra promoted by being painted on the side of a train

Nice pic!