Data from SEMA’s Automotive Lifestyles survey continues to show that even if gas prices surpass the $4 mark, hard-core automotive enthusiasts—the driving force of our industry—still plan to spend money on their vehicles. A survey of automotive magazine subscribers and website visitors during the...

In February, 22% of consumers indicated that they plan to purchase specialty equipment over the next three months, down from 26% that said so in February 2007. Looking closer at who will buy what on the other hand shows that some product categories have actually gained momentum compared to last year...

Although automotive enthusiasts consistently tell us that they are buying their vehicles used and accessorizing them, there is still a steady percent that are buying new vehicles. Over the past three years, on average about 61% of enthusiasts surveyed indicated that the vehicle for which they spend...

The mobile electronics segment of the specialty-equipment industry continues to maintain its upward trajectory, both in the number of new products it introduces each year and the total market share it consumes. Over the last three years for example, the number of mobile electronic products entered...

We recently highlighted new-vehicle releases and model updates that will become available to consumers within the next few months. The emphasis was on changes within the compact-performance segment. These are models that specialty-equipment manufacturers should become familiar with. While their...

A decade ago, the typical auto loan extended 48 months. Now according to J.D. Power and Associates Power Information Network division, the most popular car loans extend six years or more, between 72 and 80 months.

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Filler for eNews

About 13% of cars on Mexican roads are used cars imported from the United States. New-car manufacturers and distributors have protested the more than 3 million cars entering Mexico over the past two and a half years, leading Mexico's government to curtail the number of imported cars brought into...

Four trade shows occurring over the next several months provide an excellent venue for American companies seeking to grow their overseas business: -Salão de Acessorios 2008, May 14–18, in São Paulo (www.salaodeacessorios.com.br/) -Automechanika Middle East 2008, June 1–3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates...