Topics mentioned in this video include: A look at the July Consumer Spending Report; Hurricane Laura’s near miss in potentially damaging Gulf Coast refineries; ongoing stability in fuel prices; measuring fleet vitality real-time with total miles driven; and an update on the wholesale market.
Automotive Fleet has released its third report in the new State of the Fleet Industry weekly video series summarizing the latest news in the fleet market, which is presented by AF Editor Mike Antich.
Overall car segment values declined 0.13% last week, compared to 0% the week before. Overall truck segment values decreased 0.28% last week, compared to 0.17% the week before.
Online sales of used vehicles in the wholesale market likely exceeded 2 million in 2018, as remarketing technology made it easier for dealers to evaluate, bid, and buy vehicles beyond physical auction locations.
Overall average wholesale prices softened in November from a year ago mostly due to 2017 prices that were elevated due to increased demand from hurricanes Harvey and Irma, even though values of former fleet vehicles increased, according to Tom Kontos, KAR Auction Services' chief economist.
The average 12-month depreciation through the end of November for all vehicles was 12.5%.
The average price for used fleet vehicles fell 2% at auction in October, but remained 6.1% higher than a year ago amid a strong month for wholesale prices, according to Tom Kontos, KAR Auction Services' chief economist.
Segments such as compact cars and mid-size cars are outperforming the overall market. Meanwhile, vans, utility vehicles, and pickups are under performing the overall market.
Wholesale vehicle prices for former fleet vehicles at auction increased 0.8% in May from April and have increased 6.8% from a year ago in a "seasonally strong" market, according to Tom Kontos, KAR Auction Services' chief economist.
Wholesale prices for used vehicles up to 8 years old fell 1.7% month-over-month in May, a level that’s typical for this time of year, according to J.D. Power’s June Used Car and Light Truck Guidelines. Auction volume up 12% month-over-month, 2.6% year-over-year.