The Greening of Dealerships
Being "green" is important to DealerMine. We provide a means of exchanging old parts for cash, thus keeping thousands of pounds of automotive
parts out of landfills. At the same time, we bring "green" to dealers and parts departments in the form of cold hard cash.
Auto dealerships are taking steps to "green" their facilities, and those undergoing new construction are creating plans for "green" buildings. The
benefits include improved consumption of water and utilities, using recycled materials, and creating better energy efficiency. Toyota expects 10% of it's dealerships
to go green by 2011. Dealers can expect to recoup their investment in less than 5 years, with the added benefit of strong community public relations, significantly
reduced operating costs, and tax credits.
The first certified (LEED) dealership is in Texas, and they have reported a savings of between $8,000-10,000 per month in electricity alone. This trend
makes environmental, economic and community relations sense.
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Dealer Trends
With gas prices on the rise and new car sales in decline, the trend for consolidation is expanding. New car dealerships are closing new car sales
operations in favor of used car sales, service, leasing and rental. Dealers are being offered consolidation buyout deals by Detroit auto
manufacturers as consumers seek smaller, more gas efficient vehicles. Additionally, people are holding on to their cars longer. This suggests that parts departments are going to be under more pressure to streamline
their operations, with the ability to access parts for older cars without the need to maintain an enormous stockpile of parts.
Hybrids
Most foreign and American auto manufacturers have or will be introducing Hybrid models, or those operating on alternative energy sources. Studies are under way to evaluate just what
impact will be experienced by dealers and parts departments. One obvious issue is the need for less "traditional" parts. Many questions exist, and
many dealers are going to have to juggle differing demands.
Misc Links
GM Facts and Fiction
Ford's Official Website
Chrysler's Official Website
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