2015 US Auto Sales Expected to Set New Record Highs

Stephen Elmer
by Stephen Elmer
The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco — the most fuel-efficient Malibu ever — is loaded up for distribution to dealers across the United States at the General Motors Fairfax Assembly Plant Wednesday, January 18, 2012 in Kansas City, Kansas. The Malibu features eAssist technology that provides and estimated 25 mpg city and 37 mpg highway fuel…

It looks like auto sales in the United States are on track for a record-setting year in 2015.

According to a new report from J.D. Power and Associates, the U.S. auto industry is on track to move 13.83 million cars in 2015, just barely besting the 13.8-million unit record which was set in 2004.

The overall improvement in the economy along with consumer demand for newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles outfitted with the latest infotainment technology has been driving demand in the industry according to the report.

SEE ALSO: August 2014 Auto Sales: Winners and Losers

Not only are sales up, the amount people are paying for cars is climbing as well, with the average transaction price paid by consumers sitting at $30,026. “Consumers are able to pay more for the cars and trucks they’re buying because auto loan interest rates have been so low,” said J.D. Power’s Deirdre Borrego. “At the same time lenders are writing loans for longer terms, so monthly payments have stayed relatively flat for car buyers.”

About one third of all new car loans are for a term of six years or more, while the percentage of borrowers that are falling behind on loans currently sits below average.

[Source: CNBC]

Stephen Elmer
Stephen Elmer

Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>

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