While such loans have risen from a small base nationwide, they are not climbing at all lenders — because of differing views, policies and portfolios. Lenders who support, or at least tolerate, longer loans believe it is now easier to calculate risks because of improvements in underwriting metrics and the use of alternative data.
The automaker has discovered that crumpled vehicles can be a starting point to talk to consumers about safety at auto shows. Now, it's taking it a step further with a social media campaign featuring its customers who have been in crashes.
Toyota's U.S. supply base will support the new Mazda-Toyota vehicle joint venture in Alabama. But Mazda needs suppliers, too.
A Chevrolet dealer who thrived on medium-duty commercial business a decade ago is setting himself up to reclaim that segment with an $8 million service center. But before his commercial business even ramps up, the service center has propelled double-digit sales gains on the retail side.
Flewitt, who has been with McLaren for nearly all of its existence as a road-car maker in its current form, sees some changes ahead, namely electrification. But that won't take away from the brand's vehicles, he says.
