Recently we have seen a decrease in the safety margin previously separating the luxurious cars such as the Mercedes Benz, from the other, more economically friendly, cars such as Chryslers. The reason the gap between the two is decreasing at such a rapid rate is because as soon as one car finds a new innovation, the other immediately finds a way to copy them. Crash test result are now more readily available on line, and since many people have switched their buying medium from the dealership to online explorations, the few facts that are thrown at them become very important. For example, they just hear about the crash test rating fact which was a bummer for luxurious cars because they have many features that can not be listed so black and white.
I feel that regardless of their attempts to not let it affect their company, he problems that Mercedes and other expensive cars are facing about the increase of online shopping, and the increase of safety features in all of the "regular everyman's" car will greatly affect their sales. When customers compare the Chrysler and the Mercedes they will compare the safety features, the price, and other black and white facts. The fact that statistically they may look similar tricks them into believing that they are getting a great deal on the Chrysler, which at the time appears to be the better car. In the end I think this will have a huge effect on the sales of luxurious cars.
SOURCE: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703989304575504513438406160.html?mod=WSJ_Autos_LS_Autos_4
I agree. Most people are beginning to consider the safety of their vehicle more than how luxurious it is. Right now, many individuals are striving to receive the best deal on an automboile that will be the most beneficial to them. If Chrysler or any other dealership continues to match or bypass the safety regulations of cars such as the Mercedes Benz, then these businesses may start to see a decline in sales.
ReplyDeleteI think safety is a huge deal, and I am glad to see people consider the safety of their vehicle more than just the name of it or the look. This mindset will force companies to not only produce brand name fancy cars but with high safety scores too.
ReplyDeleteAs technology improves, it is becoming more prevalent for manufacturers to produce cars with more safety features. In this economy, consumers are looking for value, not necessarily luxury. Therefore, automakers must include good safety features in their vehicles at an affordable price, or they will suffer the consequence. This lessens the barriers between driving a luxurious Mercedes Benz and a Chrysler.
ReplyDelete