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by Charlie Vogelheim

Charlie Vogelheim: Publisher of IntelliChoice

Charlie Vogelheim - Publisher of IntelliChoice

Out with the old in with the new...

"Out with the old in with the new," a clichéd year's end quote that has never seemed so applicable.

2009 is a year that most would bid good riddance. The worldwide economic downturn that originated in 2008 took full force this past year. Consumer's overall wealth and value were hit in several key areas--their financial portfolios were diminished, home values decreased, and even the cars parked in their driveways were subject to unprecedented depreciation, not to mention the loss of income as millions of people found themselves out of work.

The auto industry was hit hard worldwide and particularly here in the USA. The amount of bad news and maladies that affected the industry is unprecedented. The number of vehicles sold in the United States plummeted by over 40% from it's peak. This forced two of the former "Big Three" automakers to declare bankruptcy. There were an unparalleled number of brands that were orphaned or homeless. We know we've lost Pontiac and Saturn, and we're not sure what's to become of Hummer, Saab, and even Volvo. Thousands of dealers lost their franchises. Admittedly, there were too many dealers servicing the reduced market but the manner in which they were "dumped" seemed shortsighted. The "no-shows" to the market included cars from India and China. Though they have been expected for years, it makes no sense to add product to the US market as it continued to shrink. Additionally, those consumers who wanted to purchase a new vehicle were often thwarted by the lack of available credit necessary to finance the transaction. For the most part, 2009 is a year that won't be missed.

So what's new? There are many new products and technologies being developed as automakers continue to create and show new models. We'll see rapid advances in alternative engines and electronic based interior features.

You're new...you the consumer. Here in the post crisis market, no one is quite sure how you're going to act...particularly regarding high dollar complex consumer goods such as automobiles. What are you going to buy? How many vehicles? How frequently? These are all questions that the auto industry is anxious to have resolved.

I am new also...new here at IntelliChoice. Though I have been involved in the Auto Industry since 1985, worked with IntelliChoice since its inception and have witnessed many changes. The rise and fall of the automotive industry here in the United States has been extraordinary. New makes, models and technologies have come and gone however, the most significant change I've witnessed is the plethora of information that's become available to consumers. I have worked with IntelliChoice for over 20 years because I've always been a firm believer in providing consumers with the true cost of ownership.

The vehicles on the market today are built with high quality standards, safety features, and new technologies. There are many great choices out there for consumers. The choice is however, more complex then ever. IntelliChoice.com is standing by ready to help you make an informed decision. We look forward to providing you with the most valuable information you need to make the ever-important car buying decision.

Out with the old and in with the new--wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!

Posted on 2010-01-04 | Permalink | |

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