Research Reveals How the Internet and Social Media Work Together to Sell Cars and Trucks

ROCHESTER, MI – June 18, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Foresight Research, a Rochester, Michigan based market research firm specializing in automotive research, has spent more than five years compiling data for its proprietary “2010: Automotive Marketing Return On Investment” study.  As part of that study, a detailed examination of the influence of the internet and social media on automotive purchase decisions was conducted and returned interesting results.

In 2009, 86% of all new vehicle buyers used the internet in their new vehicle purchase process. Of this group, 90% used the internet to compare vehicles and pricing, while 83% checked it for incentives.

Of note, nearly 13% of all new buyers used some form of social networking to share information on their purchase decision.  Social networking was virtually non-existent as an influencer in previous years.  For young buyers under the age of 35, nearly a quarter (24%) used social networking to share their decision.

“What we are seeing is the profound and rapidly growing effect of peer-to-peer communication on social networking sites and the dramatic influence they’re having on vehicle decision making,” said Steve Bruyn, President of Foresight Research.

“What’s interesting is that the information and advice given on social networking sites typically comes from automotive ‘shouters’ – that thin slice of the population that is most acutely familiar with the latest vehicle models, offerings and options – these are the people that influence other folks automotive purchases.  In our complete Marketing ROI study, we have specific information related to how these shouters obtain and digest information.  These shouters, in turn, have the greatest influence on the broader population. In a sense, we’re suggesting that internet word-of-mouth can in fact be directed. Implemented correctly, this could be an automotive marketing holy grail,” concluded Bruyn.

To demonstrate this point, Bruyn noted that among the most influential car buyers, 29% offered vehicle recommendations on social networking sites and 93% used the internet.

“The influence of the internet on vehicle shopping habits isn’t new news,” said Bruyn.  ”But what is interesting is our ability to track how the influential information is first created and later consumed.  Understanding this process gives automotive marketers the opportunity to have a louder voice in the upstream dialogue where it can have the biggest impact.”

Foresight’s complete research study offers more detailed and intricate views of the data, including by brand and by major metro areas.  All those interviewed were actual car buyers who had made their purchase an average of six months prior to the interview.  Foresight Research can be reached on the web at www.foresightresearch.com for more information.

SOURCE: Foresight Research

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Visteon Launches Instrument Cluster on Honda’s All-New Scooter, PCX

Cluster features first integrated advanced security function on two-wheeler

RAYONG, Thailand – June 9, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Leading automotive supplier Visteon Corporation recently launched an instrument cluster tailored for two-wheelers on Honda’s new scooter model, PCX, in Thailand. The cluster is the first to integrate advanced security with remote control function on a scooter.

Variations of the Visteon cluster system will also be developed for versions of Honda PCX that will be exported to other ASEAN countries as well as to Japan, Europe and the U.S.

Designed to meet varying needs of PCX users globally, the instrument cluster is available in two versions. The basic version provides a stylish 3D applique and LCD display, and is designed to deliver accurate driver information under stringent driving environments. The higher-end version also features advanced security functions and integrated remote key control. Demonstrating its strength in cross-systems integration, Visteon is the first known supplier to integrate remote key control and gravity sensor alarm functions in an instrument cluster for a two-wheeler.

Leveraging its automotive expertise, Visteon offers a steady, compact and lightweight instrument cluster that can withstand a variety of weather and lighting conditions, with the following additional attributes:

• Reliability – The mechanical and electrical design enhances the cluster’s ability to withstand high-vibration environments and resist water ingress and other severe weather conditions.
• Security – The specially designed radio-frequency (RF)-based remote key control reduces theft risk.
• Energy saving – The cluster electronics enable the advanced power shutdown system to achieve nearly zero “dark current” (a measure of energy leak when the scooter is powered off).
• Readability – The design architecture enables a range of features, making display and instrument indicators more readable in virtually all weather and lighting conditions.
• Flexibility – The Visteon cluster platform is scalable and can support customers’ different styling themes and feature requirements.
• Cost efficiency – The one-piece formed 3D applique minimizes the need for additional decorative components, while the integrated advanced security system and RF security module saves package space and cost.

The instrument cluster is manufactured at Visteon Thailand Ltd. (VTL), a Visteon wholly owned entity with a manufacturing facility in Rayong that provides quality electronics and interior products. Leveraging Visteon’s best-in-class global footprint, the cluster was jointly designed by Visteon Japan Limited and Honda Japan with support from technical centers in Shanghai and India; and Visteon Automotive India Private in Pune, India.

Visteon Corporation is a global automotive supplier that designs, engineers and manufactures innovative climate, interior, electronic and lighting products for vehicle manufacturers. With corporate offices in Van Buren Township, Mich. (U.S.); Shanghai, China; and Chelmsford, UK; the company has facilities in 25 countries and employs approximately 28,500 people.

SOURCE: Visteon Corporation

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Performance Auto Label HKS USA and InterWorks Unlimited Partner to Innovate Precision Racing Controller

CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA – June 2, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – InterWorks Unlimited Inc., the fastest-growing distributor of innovative gaming peripherals, today announced they have entered into an exclusive deal with HKS USA, Inc., the premier manufacturer and supplier of premium automotive performance systems, to co-develop for a line of professional racing video game controllers.

“HKS deploys advance racing techniques through their performance products,” said Michael Kidakarn, executive creative director of InterWorks. “We are sharing these professional racing technologies and precision control processes, such as heel/toe drifting, and integrating into our game controller.”

Only with these advanced racing controllers, gamers can easily execute these real-world racing techniques, gaining the competitive gaming advantage.

“InterWorks passion for innovation aligns with HKS passion for driving performance,” said Rick Lafferty, president of HKS USA, Inc. “Their new video game controller will take racing games to a new level of challenge and realism by allowing players to replicate the bets driving techniques used by race drivers.”

The HKS® Racing Controller for PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system will be shown by appointment only at the InterWorks booth at the upcoming Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles, June 15-17, 2010.

About HKS USA, Inc.

HKS USA, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and supplier of premium automotive aftermarket performance systems, parts and accessories. Delivering its products to both the import and domestic car markets, HKS has been recognized for its engineering and performance excellence in the automotive industry since 1973. Established in 1982, HKS USA, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of HKS Company, Ltd. Japan and distributes its products through its worldwide dealer network.  For more information about HKS USA., visit www.hksusa.com.

About InterWorks Unlimited

Based in City of Industry, InterWorks Unlimited Inc. distributes a wide range of high-quality gaming peripherals and software under several brands and licenses, including Eagle3 and Photo World. For more information, please visit www.eagle3.com.

PlayStation and PS3 are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

All other marks are the property of their respective holders.

SOURCE: HKS USA, Inc.

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