Click to enlarge.
The lingering effects of the pandemic are gone, prompting improved customer satisfaction with the vehicle purchase process, according to the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) Study, SM released today.* Increasing new-vehicle inventory on dealers’ lots and accompanying moderating prices have combined to propel customer satisfaction in an upward trajectory in 2023. This year, overall customer satisfaction with the vehicle purchase experience increases to 793 (on a 1000-point scale) from 786 a year ago. Whether this is statistically significant is unlikely in AutoInformed’s view.
“The improved level of vehicle inventory and the easing of upward pressure on prices are the driving factors in sending sales satisfaction back in a positive direction,” said Chris Sutton, vice president of automotive retail at J.D. Power. “Vehicle buyers are more satisfied with the inventory choices they now see in dealerships across the country—more than in the past three years. Increased inventory also means fewer buyers are paying more than the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for their new vehicle.” Continue reading
Bosch Shows 6 kW Motorcycle EV Drive Motor with Inverter
Click for more.
Bosch said it is working on electric powertrains for motorcycles and scooters at the EICMA 2023 motorcycle show in Milan. The so-called 2-in-1 solution from Bosch offers an integrated motor management concept with vehicle control and inverter. Known as the one-box solution, its compact design frees up storage space in the vehicle for the battery, in a similar way to the Bosch e-axle for passenger cars. In addition, the motor has a passive cooling concept: the drive is cooled by the airstream instead of a complex water-cooling system.
“Especially in Asian countries, where the two-wheeler is often the backbone of mobility, electrification can help bring about huge improvements in local air quality and quality of life,” said Geoff Liersch, head of Two-Wheeler & Powersports. Continue reading →