IRVINE, Calif., January 21, 2020 – Many new-car buyers have heard the common expression, “penny-wise and pound-foolish.” As it relates to new-car shopping, you can save money buying a less expensive new car, but later find out it depreciates faster than a similar, more expensive car that holds its value better. The money you save on a new-car purchase can be more than made up for by the greater depreciation five years later. Understanding what a vehicle will be worth when going to sell or trade it in can make the difference of hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in the long run. To help new-car buyers shop smart, Kelley Blue Book today announces the 2020 model-year brand, category and top 10 winners of the annual Best Resale Value Awards, recognizing vehicles for their projected retained value through the initial five-year ownership period.

“Kelley Blue Book’s analysts are impressed at the residual values of our Best Resale Value: Brand winners, Subaru and Porsche, and new-car shoppers would be wise to consider a vehicle from one of those two brands to get the most bang for their buck in the long term,” said Eric Ibara, director of residual values for Kelley Blue Book. “Once again, this year’s Top 10 models are dominated by trucks, except for the all-new and much-hyped 2020 Chevrolet Corvette appearing on this year’s list. Without the imminent prospect of significantly higher gas prices, the used-car demand for trucks continues to be an ongoing, multi-year trend, directly impacting new cars.”

This year marks the fourth Best Resale Value: Brand win for Subaru, which previously won the same honors in 2011, 2015 and 2016. For 2020, Porsche celebrates its fourth consecutive win as Best Resale Value: Luxury Brand.

(Residual values used for award calculations are based on the 2020 model-year vehicles that appear in the January/February 2020 Kelley Blue Bookâ Residual Value Guide. Top 10 models appear in alphabetical order.)

Many new-car buyers do not realize that depreciation often is the greatest expense incurred by drivers during the first five years of vehicle ownership. An average 2020 model-year vehicle will only retain about 37% of its original value after a five-year ownership period, meaning that a $35,000 new car today will only be worth somewhere close to $12,950 after five years. In comparison, all vehicles in Kelley Blue Book’s Top 10 for Best Resale Value are projected to retain more than 50% of their MSRP. This year’s top model, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma, is expected to be worth 61% of its MSRP after five years.

Resale value for new vehicles can vary greatly. Vehicles with average or below-average resale values generally are plentiful in the marketplace and easy to find, but certain vehicles are projected to hold their value better than others. While much of a vehicle’s resale value is based on supply and demand, as well as current and projected future market conditions, vehicles that retain their value best typically are discounted the least and tend to generate high levels of consumer interest.

Now in its 18th year, Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards are based on projections from the Kelley Blue Book® Official Residual Value Guide. Kelley Blue Book® Residual Values are established by experienced automotive analysts that review the output from statistical models built upon millions of transactions. Vehicles that earn the highest five-year residual values, expressed as a percentage of their original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), are selected for these prestigious awards. Low-volume vehicles are excluded from award consideration, except in the electric, luxury and sports car categories.

Residual values reflect projected future auction values for vehicles in average condition with 75,000 miles at the end of a five-year lease or ownership period. Kelley Blue Book’s residual values are used by manufacturers, banks, financial institutions and the automotive leasing industry. For more information about Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards, visit https://www.kbb.com/articles/best-cars/2020-best-resale-value-awards-top-cars-trucks-and-suvs/.

To discuss this topic, or any other automotive-related information, with a Kelley Blue Book analyst on-camera via the company’s on-site studio, please contact a member of the Public Relations team to schedule an interview.

For more information and news from Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com, visit www.kbb.com/media/, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kelleybluebook (or @kelleybluebook), like our page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kbb, and follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kbb_com/ (or @kbb_com).

About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)

Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the automotive industry. Each week the company provides market-reflective values on its top-rated website KBB.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In Values and Kelley Blue Book® Price Advisor tool, which provides a range for what consumers can reasonably expect to pay for a vehicle in their area. Car owners looking to sell immediately can also get a redeemable, transaction-ready offer with Kelley Blue BookSM Instant Cash Offer. The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies, and governmental agencies. Kelley Blue Book is a Cox Automotive brand.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com

# # #

New audio and video tags plus interior 360 imaging – an industry first – give dealers greater confidence when buying digitally.

ATLANTA – January 16, 2020 – Manheim is bringing new life to Manheim Express listings by adding audio and video tags, as well as a wholesale industry first: interior 360 imaging. Now, dealers interested in buying wholesale inventory online can have the utmost confidence in their purchases by being able to hear the sound of an engine—and see more than ever before. These dynamic listings, which dealers can find in the Manheim Express app or on the Manheim.com and OVE, bring listings closer to an in-person look, enabling dealers to digitally kick the tires and make even more informed digital purchases.

“Dealers want as much condition information as possible before they buy, and these features combine to give them more insight than ever before,” said Derek Hansen, vice president of offsite solutions at Manheim. “Between the industry leading exterior 360 technology, moveable images and now A/V tags and interior 360s, Manheim Express offers the best multimedia capabilities of any wholesale app, so dealers can buy online with confidence.”

Audio and video tags bring the sound of vehicles to life—enabling buyers to get a fuller understanding of the engine’s condition. With these tags, dealers can see engine vibrations, more easily assess the engine condition and hear how it purrs (or doesn’t). These key pieces of information can help them determine the potential level of reconditioning needed, as well as influence purchase price.

“A picture may be worth 1,000 words, but audio/video files are even better. Potential buyers can see—and hear—for themselves and make even more informed purchasing decisions,” Hansen added.

Interior 360s bring the best-in-class Fyusion technology clients love for vehicle exteriors inside the vehicle. Now, there will be no question of what interior features are present or the condition of the seats, dash and more.

All of this exciting new functionality adds to the already robust multimedia capabilities in the Manheim Express app, where listings feature exterior 360s, a standard set of high resolution still images, as well as moveable images to show depths of dents and dings.

The audio and video tags, as well as the interior 360s, will be available on all listings completed by a Manheim Express Concierge specialist, where a highly trained expert does all of the listing legwork and consults on wholesale strategy—all for no additional cost. Sellers can request Concierge service through the app.

Since launching nationwide in July 2018, Manheim Express has quickly become the fastest growing mobile app in the wholesale industry. More than 70,000 users across approximately 18,000 dealerships have downloaded Manheim Express, and from January to December 2019, the app generated a ten-fold growth in monthly transactions.

To see this new functionality in action, watch this video. And for more information on the Manheim Express app visit ManheimExpress.com.

About Manheim (www.manheim.com)
Manheim® is North America's leading provider of end-to-end wholesale solutions that help dealer and commercial clients increase profits in their used vehicle operations. Through its physical, mobile and digital sales network, Manheim offers services for inventory management, buying and selling, floor planning, logistics, assurance and reconditioning. With its omni-channel approach, Manheim Marketplace enables wholesale vehicle clients more efficient ways to connect and transact business how and when they want. Approximately 17,000 team members help Manheim offer 7 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing nearly $61 billion in value. Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim North America is a Cox Automotive™ brand. For more information, visit http://press.manheim.com.

Auction Delivers a Safer, More Efficient Experience for Customers, Employees and the Environment

ATLANTA – (January 14, 2020) – Manheim launched its largest all-digital heavy truck auction on January 8 at its Indianapolis, Indiana, location; a move that further supports the company’s growing investment in Digital Blocks. The sale included more than 350 units and 387 online and in-lane bidders.  Manheim Indianapolis is part of the company’s all-digital Specialty Auctions that include RVs and motorcycles as well as trucks.

“Our biweekly truck sale is Manheim’s largest heavy truck auction nationwide.  It includes Class 4-8 commercial trucks, tractor trailers and other equipment,” explained Emily Decker, general manager for Manheim Indianapolis and Manheim Cincinnati. “Moving to a Digital Block format offers a safer and more efficient experience for our clients and employees, as well as significant environmental savings.”

The three-lane format is a live auction where the trucks remain parked in designated spots and are offered for sale digitally by an auctioneer via oversized monitors featuring enhanced images, barcode price scanning capability and condition report information. Manheim calculates that the switch to an all-digital format – versus driving trucks through physical lanes – will offset an estimated 284 tons of carbon dioxide each year, an amount equal to the annual electricity use of 45 homes.

“Safety always comes first,” said Paul Seger, executive vice president, asset remarketing for Element Fleet Management Remarketing and longtime Manheim partner. “Going digital for the sale of our heavy truck assets not only instills safety, but also improves efficiency and establishes consistency for our truck buyers nationwide. Because so many of them are already comfortable with Manheim’s Simulcast online bidding platform, we feel this transition to all digital will be very well received.”

Manheim’s digital journey marked several milestones in 2019, with Manheim Tucson becoming the first location to convert all lanes to Digital Blocks and its digital wholesale channels surpassing two million transactions. Digital Blocks now comprise 20% of the lanes at physical locations nationwide.

“As we celebrate 75 years of providing wholesale solutions for dealer and commercial clients, we are excited about expanding our digital marketplace to achieve greater efficiency, improve the experience for clients and foster a culture of safety,” said Grace Huang, president of Manheim. 

For more information, visit Manheim’s Specialty Auctions.  

About Manheim

Manheim® is North America's leading provider of end-to-end wholesale solutions that help dealer and commercial clients increase profits in their used vehicle operations. Through its physical, mobile and digital sales network, Manheim offers services for inventory management, buying and selling, floor planning, logistics, assurance and reconditioning. With its omni-channel approach, Manheim Marketplace enables wholesale vehicle clients more efficient ways to connect and transact business how and when they want. Approximately 17,000 team members help Manheim offer 7 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing nearly $61 billion in value. Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim North America is a Cox Automotive™ brand. For more information, visit http://press.manheim.com.

# # #

ATLANTA, January 8, 2020 – The auto industry has seen drastic shifts in product offerings over the last decade, ranging from the rise in alternative-fuel options to updated infotainment systems, advanced safety technology standards, and all-new, innovative vehicle segments. As we look to 2020, the editors at Autotrader highlight the vehicles that made the most impact over the past 10 years.

“Over the past decade, technological advancements and changing consumer preferences forced automakers to adapt their lineups to introduce all-new and revamped vehicles,” said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. “Ranging from electric powertrains and ultramodern designs, to newly remodeled classics, all of these vehicles pioneered their segments and defined the last 10 years in the auto industry.”

15 Best Cars of the Past Decade

Tesla Model S

Taking the world by storm at the beginning of the decade as the first viable mass-market electric luxury car, consumers quickly relied on the Model S for everything from running around-town errands to road-trip duty. A big perk is Tesla’s Autopilot feature; while it isn’t a fully self-driving system, it is among the most advanced autonomous technologies in the industry.

Nissan Leaf

The Leaf was the first affordable electric car to target the masses. Coming in a convenient compact hatchback body style that made it more practical than most EVs that preceded it, the Leaf set the standard for economical electric vehicles, and the rest of the industry soon would follow suit.

Toyota Prius

As the hybrid-electric segment was growing quickly, the Prius faced new competition and therefore needed to deliver improvements. The third-generation Prius was more aerodynamic than the previous model and included a bigger engine and rear disc brakes.

Acura NSX

After years of teasers, concepts and anticipation, Acura finally released the second-generation NSX for the 2017 model year with a price tag that is hardly as relevant to everyday buyers as the other vehicles on this list. The NSX's performance delivers with impeccable handling from its sophisticated AWD system and a combined output coming in at 573 horsepower, which translates to a 0-to-60 mph time of just 3.0 seconds flat and a top speed of 191 mph.

Mazda Miata

After the Miata made its debut in the 1990 model year, Mazda has stuck to the same general winning formula throughout the years. The fourth-generation Miata still offers the same driving experience as the original, albeit in a much more refined and polished package. No other vehicle will put a smile on your face quite like the Miata.

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 perfectly represented the changing tides of Americans’ automotive preferences when it took over as the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. in 2017. With a spacious cabin, good cargo volume, great efficiency and industry-leading reliability, it doesn’t appear that the RAV4 will have its crown stolen anytime soon.

Genesis

Today Genesis is a full-fledged luxury nameplate with entrants in the compact, midsize and full-size segments. With potent powertrains, refined cabins, great performance and the best warranties in the industry, the Genesis brand deserves a spot on the shopping list of any luxury buyer.

Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride arguably is the best execution of the 3-row crossover formula, featuring an extremely attractive, chiseled, boxy design that undoubtedly appeals to moms and dads who grew up with SUVs in the 1980s and 1990s. When it comes to the family crossover segment, the Telluride stands firmly above the competition.

Ford Mustang

The sixth-generation Mustang, which was released in the 2015 model year, is downright impressive.

There's also an all-new 4-cylinder model that offers impressive power and efficiency, turning the Mustang from a snarling muscle car to a fun, lightweight autocross champ. To finish off the decade, Ford introduced the all-electric Mustang Mach-E, signaling an extension of the Mustang brand into an entirely new and different segment. Needless to say, now there is a Mustang for just about anyone.

Ford F-150 Raptor

Ford took a big risk when it introduced the Raptor 10 years ago, and the competition has yet to catch up, leaving it without a bona fide rival to this day. Heading into the new decade, Ford is rumored to be releasing a Raptor powered by the supercharged 5.2-liter V8 found in the new Mustang GT500. (As if this thing wasn't already crazy enough!)

Porsche Macan

Porsche’s baby SUV, the compact Macan, debuted in the U.S. as a 2015 model and quickly became the most popular vehicle in the company’s lineup. Offering a variety of potent engines and endless customization options, the Macan may not be shaped like a traditional Porsche, but sit behind the wheel and one thing becomes clear: It’s a real Porsche.

Chrysler Pacifica

The Pacifica adds a bit of luxury that’s missing in the other, more traditional minivan offerings. It presents loads of family-friendly features, including clever seating that folds flat into the cargo floor, all at a great value. 

Jeep Gladiator

Until this past year, Jeep hadn’t offered a pickup truck since the discontinuation of the Comanche in the 1990s. This all changed in 2019 when the company introduced the all-new Gladiator, based heavily on the JL Wrangler. Like the Wrangler, the Gladiator offers removable doors, and your choice of either a canvas soft top or a plastic composite hardtop, both of which also are removable. Just like there's no other SUV like the Wrangler, there's no other pickup like the Gladiator.

Volvo XC90

The redesigned XC90 3-row SUV debuted in the 2015 model year and is the perfect example of a modern vehicle primed for the future. It has a range of turbocharged, supercharged and electrified 4-cylinder engines and offers good efficiency, a modern, minimalist interior, loads of connectivity and safety features, and unique Scandinavian elements like an available wool interior.

Dodge Hellcats

In lieu of redesign, Dodge has taken to introducing massively powerful versions of its two RWD cars under its Hellcat sub-brand, all of which pack a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 producing a whopping 707 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. Does anyone need all that power? Absolutely not, but the sheer ridiculousness of the Hellcat-badged Dodge models is how the brand managed to stay relevant through the 2010s.

To learn more about the 15 Best Cars of the Past Decade from Autotrader, including photos, detailed vehicle information and available inventory, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/15-best-cars-decade-281474979980765.

For more information and news from Autotrader, visit press.autotrader.com, follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Autotrader_com (or @Autotrader_com), Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autotrader_com/ (or @autotrader_com), like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/autotrader/, and add us on Snapchat (@Autotrader_com).

About Autotrader
Autotrader is the most recognized third-party car listings brand, with the most engaged audience of in-market car shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered car shopper looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing and retailing solutions allow consumers to build their deal online, and guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive™ brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com.  

About Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling and owning cars easier for everyone. The global company's 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

# # #

Kichler to Lead the Transformation of Manheim’s Logistics as the Company Accelerates Its Transition to Digital

ATLANTA, Ga. (Jan 7, 2020) – Manheim has named Joe Kichler to vice president of Manheim Logistics where he will be responsible for overseeing business strategy and operations for the company’s leading logistics brands. Together Ready Logistics, a full-service transportation service, and Central Dispatch, a self-managed transportation solution, offer clients a range of transportation services that help them move vehicles more efficiently.   

In this role, Kichler’s key focus areas will include strengthening strategic relationships with carriers, improving on-time delivery for shippers and positioning the operation for future growth. In addition, he will lead Manheim Logistics’ transformation, aimed at addressing the shortage of transport drivers, enhancing safety and efficiencies for clients and preparing the organization for a fast-growing digital future.  Kichler reports to Grace Huang, president of Manheim.

“As we accelerate our digital strategy, Joe and his team will play an integral role in leading the transformation of our logistics business and technology,” said Huang. “His engaging leadership style, commitment to operational excellence and passion for delivering world-class service will contribute to a better logistics experience for our clients, auction partners and team members.”

Kichler joined Manheim in 2012 as vice president of Operational Excellence where he oversaw the design of new auction processes and client experiences while also leading Enterprise Portfolio Management and Operational Analytics functions. Most recently, he served as vice president of Group Strategy, responsible for strategic planning for Manheim and the Retail Solutions groups, which consists of Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book and Dealertrack. Previously, Kichler held business strategy and management consulting positions with Deloitte and Boston Consulting Group.

Kichler holds an MBA from the Harvard Business School and a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering, with highest honors, from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta.

About Manheim
Manheim® is North America's leading provider of end-to-end wholesale solutions that help dealer and commercial clients increase profits in their used vehicle operations. Through its physical, mobile and digital sales network, Manheim offers services for inventory management, buying and selling, floor planning, logistics, assurance and reconditioning. With its omni-channel approach, Manheim Marketplace enables wholesale vehicle clients more efficient ways to connect and transact business how and when they want. Approximately 17,000 team members help Manheim offer 7 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing nearly $61 billion in value. Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim North America is a Cox Automotive™ brand. For more information, visit http://press.manheim.com.

New Ready Logistics integration enables dealers to access full-service transportation with just a few clicks.

ATLANTA – December 19, 2019 – Buyers on Manheim Express have something to celebrate early this holiday season: new transportation functionality built right into the app. Dealers who purchase a vehicle on Manheim Express can now order Ready Logistics’ white glove transportation service with just a few clicks. As a bonus gift, dealers will get $100 off their transport fees through the end of the year when they ship their Manheim Express purchases with Ready Logistics.

“One of the great things about digital wholesale is that dealers can reach far beyond their markets to find the exact vehicles they need,” said Derek Hansen, vice president of Offsite Solutions at Manheim. “And now, they can transport them quickly and efficiently with the best white glove transportation service in the industry.”

As a full-service transportation provider, Ready Logistics simplifies automotive logistics for dealers by using innovative technology, enhanced processes and a network of more than 6,500 carriers. All dealers need to do is order the transportation, and the team at Ready Logistics takes care of the rest, quickly and conveniently moving vehicles from anywhere to everywhere.

Joe Kichler, who leads Manheim Logistics, added, “We’re always looking for ways to make it easier for dealers to get their purchases on their lots. Manheim Express is full of fresh inventory that’s priced to move, and this new integration will help get those purchases to their destinations as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Manheim Express has seen substantial growth since launching in July 2018. Nearly 70,000 users across 18,000 dealerships have downloaded the Manheim Express app. With a Guaranteed First Bid, revolutionary 360-degree imaging with moveable images, as well as a seamless connection into the broader Manheim Marketplace, Manheim Express brings dealers significant value when buying and selling digitally.

Dealers can get a Ready Logistics transportation quote and place the order when bidding/buying directly through the Manheim Express app, or they can call 844-948-1249 and use promo code MX19. The $100 discount will be automatically applied at the time of billing. Please see Terms & Conditions for additional eligibility requirements.

About Ready Logistics
Ready Logistics is the national leader in full-service transportation logistics solutions to support planning, execution, and overall improvement in logistics operations from point A to point B for automotive auctions, dealers, commercial, and consumer clients. A 6,500+ fully vetted carrier network utilizes Ready’s leading technology to provide end-to-end services for the vehicle shipping needs of the automotive industry. Headquartered in Phoenix, AZ, Ready Logistics is a Cox Automotive™ brand. For more information, visit https://readylogistics.com.

About Manheim
Manheim® is North America's leading provider of end-to-end wholesale solutions that help dealer and commercial clients increase profits in their used vehicle operations. Through its physical, mobile and digital sales network, Manheim offers services for inventory management, buying and selling, floor planning, logistics, assurance and reconditioning. With its omni-channel approach, Manheim Marketplace enables wholesale vehicle clients more efficient ways to connect and transact business how and when they want. Approximately 17,000 team members help Manheim offer 7 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing nearly $61 billion in value. Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim North America is a Cox Automotive™ brand. For more information, visit http://press.manheim.com

Gift-giving included socks for the homeless, bikes for an after-school program, dinner baskets for a food bank, and supplies for an animal shelter

ATLANTA, Ga. (December 17, 2019) – From Georgia to California and Michigan to Florida, Manheim employees nationwide made the holidays brighter this year for those in their local communities who are in need.

Manheim employees donated bikes to a Boys and Girls Club, provided tents to a local Boy Scout Troop, held sock drives for the homeless (the most requested item by those who live outside during the cold fall and winter months) and collected supplies for an animal shelter. They also hosted Angel Trees to provide gifts for foster children, fellow coworkers and others in need during the holidays; collected canned goods, prepared Christmas dinner baskets and made cash donations to local food banks; and partnered with Toys for Tots, the Salvation Army and Children’s Miracle Network.

Examples of Manheim locations sharing their giving spirit:

- Manheim Detroit adopted all of the families living at the local women’s shelter. “We fulfilled everything on their wish lists and gave each mom a grocery gift card, decorations, wrapping paper and the supplies they needed to make Christmas morning special for their family,” explained General Manager Mandy Savage. “We have done this for years with our employees who raise the money through jean days, bake sales, raffles and our popular yearly garage sale.”

- Manheim Pittsburgh supported the Butler County Children and Youth Agency’s annual Christmas program by sponsoring 20 children in addition to collecting non-perishable items for a local food bank. “Over the course of 19 years, I would estimate we have helped ensure that 450 children have a merry Christmas,” said General Manager Tom McDonald.

- Manheim Riverside in California hosted a holiday party for the local Ronald McDonald House. The family event featured a coloring and craft table for the children to create their own Christmas cards, 100 wooden ornaments for the families to decorate, and paper and envelopes for the children to write letters to Santa that were sent to the North Pole. Food trucks provided dinner, and there was hot cocoa and cookies for all. Words can’t express how proud I am of our team whose warm hearts make giving a top priority during the holidays and throughout the year,” said General Manager Chris Brown.

While December may be the most wonderful time of the year, Manheim’s season of giving lasts year-round as part of parent company Cox Enterprises, Inc.’s deep commitment to corporate social responsibility. In addition to partnering with Toys for Tots for more than two decades to collect and distribute holiday toys, Cox makes charitable giving a year-round activity by focusing its corporate philanthropy on three critical areas: empowering communities and individuals, preserving the environment and promoting diversity. 
 
About Manheim
Manheim® is North America's leading provider of end-to-end wholesale solutions that help dealer and commercial clients increase profits in their used vehicle operations. Through its physical, mobile and digital sales network, Manheim offers services for inventory management, buying and selling, floor planning, logistics, assurance and reconditioning. With its omni-channel approach, Manheim Marketplace enables wholesale vehicle clients more efficient ways to connect and transact business how and when they want. Approximately 17,000 team members help Manheim offer 7 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing nearly $61 billion in value. Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim North America is a Cox Automotive™ brand. For more information, visit http://press.manheim.com.

# # #

New data sharing capabilities drive reliability from start to finish for deals worked between Dealertrack Registration and Title Solutions and CDK Global Drive DMS

NORTH HILLS, N.Y., Dec. 16, 2019 -- To help increase dealership time savings and improve customer satisfaction, Dealertrack Registration and Title Solutions today announced it has become a participant in the CDK Global Partner Program, the largest third-party marketplace of automotive applications and integrations.

This integration will provide dealers with data sharing capabilities between their Dealertrack in-state and out-of-state solutions and the CDK Drive DMS. As a result, dealers can now seamlessly push the deal from the CDK Drive DMS into their Dealertrack Registration and Title Solutions and back into the DMS when a deal is complete, helping reduce data discrepancies between dealer systems and improving operational efficiency in the sale and F&I process.

By simplifying the deal finalization process through this improved data workflow, this integration now mitigates the need for double data entry by automatically populating the DMS, addressing informational gaps caused by conflicting data between systems and policy variance by state.

"At Dealertrack, we are continuously seeking innovative solutions that ease the registration and titling process for our dealers," said Kaitlin Gavin, vice president and general manager of Dealertrack Registration and Title Solutions. "Joining the CDK Partner Program furthers our commitment to ensuring dealers are equipped with the most accurate information for deal completion, which in turn reduces surprise costs at the end of the deal."

The 2019 Cox Automotive Car Buyer Journey Study found less than half of consumers were satisfied with how long the purchase process took at the dealership, noting car buyers spend nearly three hours on average in-store.1 Dealers can now leverage information directly from the DMS during the registration and title stage of the deal process, creating a more efficient workflow and elevating the experience for their customers.

"We're excited to introduce Dealertrack Registration and Title Solutions to the CDK Partner Program," said Howard Gardner, vice president, Data Services at CDK. "They are a welcome addition to our vibrant program, which provides dealers with a range of choices and the assurance that their programs will be seamlessly integrated with our applications."

For more information about this integration, visit go.dealertrack.com/rts.

About Dealertrack
Dealertrack provides industry-leading software solutions that give dealerships, lenders, and partners the confidence to thrive in an ever-changing automotive market. The company's integrated suite of powerful easy-to-use products and services helps dealerships and their lending partners grow by increasing efficiency and improving decision-making. Dealertrack is part of the Cox Automotive family, a company that is transforming the way the world buys, sells, owns and uses cars. Dealertrack—along with its unmatched network of dealership and lending partners—is improving the car buying experience by embracing the technologies that will shape the future of automotive retail. For more information about Dealertrack, visit www.dealertrack.com.

About the CDK Global Partner Program
The CDK Partner Program now numbers more than 500 partner companies and 840 unique applications auto dealers can use to run their businesses. As part of the CDK ecosystem, the CDK Partner Program provides data and workflow integration to a wide range of third parties, OEMs and dealers. For a full list of partners and applications available through the program, visit cdkglobal.com/us/partners-list.

About CDK Global, Inc.
With $2 billion in revenues, CDK Global (Nasdaq: CDK) is a leading global provider of integrated information technology solutions to the automotive retail and adjacent industries. Focused on enabling end-to-end automotive commerce, CDK Global provides solutions to dealers in more than 100 countries around the world, serving approximately 30,000 retail locations and most automotive manufacturers. CDK solutions automate and integrate all parts of the dealership and buying process, including the acquisition, sale, financing, insuring, parts supply, repair and maintenance of vehicles. Visit cdkglobal.com.

1 Cox Automotive, Car Buyer Journey Study, 2019.

ATLANTA, Dec. 16, 2019  -- With the accelerating pace of automotive technology, new-car shoppers entering the market may be surprised by the innovations that have developed in recent years. To help shoppers navigate all of the features and gadgets available on 2020 model-year vehicles, the experts at Autotrader recently named the Best New Automotive Technology for 2020.

"Technology in cars keeps evolving and becoming more sophisticated with advancements from automakers and tech companies both paving the way to enhance safety, entertainment and convenience features with each new model year," said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. "You no longer have to buy a luxury car to experience cutting-edge tech – many features come standard on some of the most affordable new models from mainstream brands. This year we are seeing features like back seat reminders at no additional cost on many new models, and that is just one example of the tech headway that keeps changing on new cars."

Autotrader's Best New Automotive Technology for 2020

Wireless Apple CarPlay
Since its introduction, Apple CarPlay has required phones to be connected to the vehicle via a USB cable, but this is starting to change. Wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay is contingent upon the vehicle offering a wi-fi connection, which is available via subscription in a lot of new vehicles today. Even though only a handful of automakers offer this feature currently, consumers should expect it to be more widely available in the not-so-distant future.

Back Seat Reminders
Many automakers have begun to incorporate back seat reminder systems into new vehicles. These systems work by taking note of whether you opened the vehicle's back door before setting off on your trip and then reminding you of this upon exiting the vehicle once you've arrived at your destination.

iOS 13 Apple CarPlay
The new version of CarPlay addresses concerns of previous versions and improvements to overall usability. It comes with a new dashboard that offers a dual-pane view that can show both maps and music at the same time, which keeps you from having to manually switch back and forth between screens. There also are improvements to Siri, a refresh to Music and Maps apps, a new light mode and calendar integration.

Redesigned Android Auto
Software always improves over time and this is the case with Android Auto. Google recently rolled out an update for its Android Auto system with a new interface that mimics that of Apple CarPlay. The system starts off in your favorite maps interface, with icons along the bottom that allow you to control music, voice commands, and more, and a new app drawer looks familiar to the homepage on your Android phone.

Electric Performance Cars
When electric vehicles first hit the scene, the last thing on anyone's mind was performance. But a lot has changed over the years, and thanks to the help of automakers like Tesla, electrification is now just as much associated with performance as it is environmental friendliness. The burgeoning performance-luxury electric segment features current and upcoming vehicles from the likes of Porsche, Jaguar, Audi and Mercedes-Benz, and even Ford now has its own Mustang-inspired electric performance car.

Wireless Phone Charging
Ever hop into your car for a long drive, realize you phone is almost out of battery and didn't have access to the proper cable along the way? Just about any new phone offered today comes with wireless charging capability. With this technology now included in the majority of phones today, automakers have begun integrating wireless charging pads into their vehicles, typically locating them somewhere on the center console.

Genesis Intelligent Assistant App
In today's phone-focused world, there is an app for everything. Genesis' app goes above and beyond typical new-car smartphone apps in that it acts as a personal assistant of sorts that can lock and unlock your vehicle from afar, start it remotely, adjust the HVAC system, and even interface with Google and Amazon Alexa, executing commands given through your Google and Amazon devices. This app takes the connected lifestyle and elevates it to the next level, making it easier to interact with our vehicles.  

Nissan's Variable Compression Turbo Engine
Nissan's new 'Variable Compression' turbo engine is unique in that it can change its compression ratio at a whim depending on driver inputs, allowing it to return better fuel economy in relaxed day-to-day driving, but picking up more power when the driver mashes the throttle.

Electric Trucks
Pickup truck startups Bollinger and Rivian are both slated to offer their long-awaited electric pickups for sale by the end of 2020, while Tesla has recently revealed the controversial new Tesla Cybertruck, which the company claims will go on sale by the end of 2021. Additionally, Ford has promised that both hybrid and full-electric F-150s are in development, so expect to learn hear more about that in the coming year as well. And when Ford does something, you can bet that GM and Ram will be soon to follow. Electric trucks are coming, and soon buyers will have a lot of options.

Exit Warning Systems
Functioning similarly to blind spot monitoring, these systems work when the vehicle is stationary in a parallel parking spot and alert you of when a vehicle or bicycle is approaching from the rear. The idea is to keep you from opening your door to potentially disastrous consequences, and from keeping your back seat passengers (i.e. children) from doing the same. Currently, exit warning systems are generally in their infancy and offered only by Hyundai and Audi, but as they evolve we expect them to get more sophisticated and be available on more vehicles.

Hyundai Remote Smart Parking Assist
Hyundai has recently introduced a clever feature it's calling 'Remote Smart Parking Assist'.  The system works like most other automatic parking features, where the vehicle can automatically park itself in either a pull-in or parallel parking spot, but what makes it unique is that it can function without you needing to be behind the wheel.  Features like Remote Smart Parking Assist leverage technology already found in the vehicle (in this case, the radar, remote start, and pedestrian detection systems) in a new and useful way, inching us closer and closer to that autonomous future, however far away it may be.

For more details and information about Autotrader's Best New Automotive Technology for 2020, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/best-new-automotive-technology-2020-281474979972892.

For more information and news from Autotrader, visit press.autotrader.com, follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Autotrader_com (or @Autotrader_com), Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autotrader_com/ (or @autotrader_com), like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/autotrader/, and add us on Snapchat (@Autotrader_com).

About Autotrader
Autotrader is the most recognized third-party car listings brand, with the most engaged audience of in-market car shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered car shopper looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing and retailing solutions allow consumers to build their deal online, and guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive™ brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com. 

About Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company's 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com

New HomeNet Automotive meta-analysis suggests consumer insights hold keys to improving digital merchandising

EXTON, Pa., December 12, 2019 – Today, nearly all shopping for a vehicle begins online, equipping consumers with more information and access to inventory than ever before. However, while dealers recognize the need to capitalize on this evolving shopping pattern, a new meta-analysis from HomeNet Automotive reveals they struggle with how to differentiate their dealership and stand out from the competitive clutter online.

According to the meta-analysis, 83% of dealers believe they can increase margins or reduce days to sell by improving digital merchandising – how new and used vehicle inventory is presented to customers online – but just 12% believe they are doing enough to distinguish themselves.1

“As the prevalence of shopping for and purchasing vehicles online continues to rise, how dealers merchandise their inventory and separate themselves from the competition will be vital to profitability long term,” said Russ Daniels, director of product marketing for HomeNet and vAuto. “This new meta-analysis offers a consolidated look at key consumer habits contributing to the growing importance of digital merchandising and provides actionable insights and best practices to help dealers build a strong online presence that will win over shoppers.”

With 41% of car buyers now only visiting one store, and 52% using multiple devices to get to a dealership’s website,2 the margin for error is becoming increasingly small for dealers when it comes to reaching the right customers at the right time with a website that is responsive and widely compatible. In order to implement an effective digital merchandising strategy that meets these emerging trends head on, dealers must embrace technology and align their approach with consumer behavior and preferences.

Ultimately, the meta-analysis uncovered the following five opportunities for dealers to create more comprehensive, engaging digital listings that drive greater transparency and visibility amid a competitive market.

1. Introduce dynamic visual content to listings. While the impact of video has reached unprecedented levels of influencing shopper behavior – 90% of consumers in a 2016 survey said a video is helpful in the decision-making process3 – other new forms of elevating a vehicle’s visual appeal, such as 360 displays, are also adding significant value for consumers. Incorporating 360 displays and video content in listings can help dealers optimize digital merchandising efforts, create differentiation and enable more informed purchase decisions. However, while 73% of consumers who browsed and then either bought or leased a vehicle perceived 360 displays as being extremely or very helpful,4 42% of dealers have indicated they never merchandise with these displays.5

2. Exchange stock photos for multiple custom ones. Transparency in conveying a complete and comprehensive visual overview of a listing is key to effectively merchandising a vehicle online. According to the meta-analysis, 64% of car buyers want extensive vehicle data and photos.6 They want to see and fully understand what they are buying. In fact, while a single custom photo earned 166% more vehicle detail page (VDP) views per listing than a single stock photo, multiple custom photos earned 245% more VDPs per listing than multiple stock photos. What’s more, multiple custom photos earned 69% more VDPs per listing than a single custom photo.7 The more custom photos available on a listing, the better the shopping experience and engagement.

3. Leverage backgrounded images that keep the focus on the car. Backgrounded images that are clear and easy to digest receive up to 5% more click conversions from the search results page (SRP) to the VDP and can help boost buyer appeal and perceptions of the corresponding dealership.8 Utilizing photo overlays can also offer an easy way to deliver relevant content to shoppers, with the inclusion of dealership branding particularly effective on third-party websites.

4. Elevate vehicle information and descriptions. With the majority of shopping time spent online,9 it is becoming increasingly important for dealers to equip their digital listings with all the need-to-know information consumers have come to rely on to make faster, more confident decisions. Dealers can also build trust through transparency by giving shoppers access to complete car histories right as they research online.

5. Improve customer engagement and dealership reputation through third-party websites. According to the meta-analysis, 80% of consumers use third-party websites for shopping and research.10 It will therefore be crucial for dealers to develop an integrated marketing strategy to better reach and influence shoppers where they are online. Dealers should ensure they are featuring their listings on third-party websites and leveraging the growing popularity of Facebook Marketplace as a new destination for used car listings.

Download the complete meta-analysis here: https://www.homenetauto.com/learning-center/2019-state-of-automotive-merchandising/

About HomeNet

HomeNet Automotive gets inventory out of your systems and in front of online shoppers. Today’s car shoppers are researching, locating and evaluating cars online before they ever set foot in a physical dealership. Yet, dealers struggle to ensure inventory is consistently updated and distributed to all online destinations with speed, accuracy and quality. At HomeNet, we help dealers and industry partners merchandise and distribute their inventory from one unified platform and seamlessly push this information to their own website and all their third-party advertising sources. Based in Exton, PA, with offices across the U.S., HomeNet is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cox Automotive.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

_____________________

1 HomeNet Automotive Brand and Product Study, 2018.

2 Cox Automotive, Car Buyer Journey Study, 2019.

3 https://blog.flickfusion.com/tag/vdp/, September 21, 2016.

4 HomeNet 360 Consumer Study, 2019.

5 HomeNet Automotive Brand and Product Study, 2018.

6 Used Cars, New Platforms: Accelerating Sales in a Digitally Disrupted Market, McKinsey & Company, 2019.

7 Netezza tables, October 1, 2017 – December 31, 2017.

8 Cox Automotive Consumer Community, 2017.

9 Cox Automotive, Car Buyer Journey Study, 2019.

10 Cox Automotive, Car Buyer Journey Study, 2019.

###