AutoTradeCenter Launches National Internet Remarketing Program for Volvo Finance North America Inc.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--Dec. 20, 2001--AutoTradeCenter (OTC BB: AUTC) Thursday announced the successful launch of its Web-enhanced vehicle-remarketing program, Volvo Finance Remarketing Internet Database Explorer (VolvoRIDE), for Volvo Finance North America Inc.VolvoRIDE is designed to assist in the disposition of over 30,000 annual maturing leases in Volvo Finance's consumer lease portfolio exclusively to Volvo franchise retailers.
Pilot Acceleration Based on Success
VolvoRIDE is a private, branded site operating on AutoTradeCenter's ATCadvantage technology providing Volvo retailers exclusive access to quality inventory early in the selling cycle. During its first weeks of pilot, select Volvo retailers in California and Arizona were able to view and purchase vehicles from Volvo Finance's off-lease portfolio.
The success of VolvoRIDE's initial pilot resulted in their accelerating a regional roll-out, with national retailer participation completed Dec. 13.
"Both Volvo and ATC are very pleased with the performance of VolvoRIDE and feedback from Volvo's retailers has been extremely positive," commented Stephen Wheeler, director of business development for AutoTradeCenter.
Customer Service is Key to Retailers
Dave Graham, director of used operations, for Powell Volvo in Scottsdale was the first to purchase a vehicle utilizing the VolvoRIDE system. "I cannot say enough about the simplicity and convenience of purchasing vehicles on VolvoRIDE," stated Graham.
"The ability to search for vehicles across the United States, accompanied by detailed condition reports and photos, makes purchasing decisions easy.
"The biggest advantage, however," continued Graham, "is the customer support. Where else can you call a support number and get a `live' person guiding you every step of the way and offering information on future purchasing opportunities? Relationships are critical in this industry, and the support from the VolvoRIDE team is a big competitive edge."
A Growing Internet Remarketing Family
The launch of VolvoRIDE adds Volvo Finance North America Inc. to AutoTradeCenter's family of Internet remarketers including American Honda Finance Corp. and American Suzuki Motor Corp.
"The successful launch of VolvoRIDE and the continued winning performances of American Honda's `VIPS' and Suzuki's `PROline,' further strengthens our position as the industry's leading online remarketer," commented Roger L. Butterwick, president of AutoTradeCenter.
"We look forward to VolvoRIDE's national roll-out and are proud of our contribution to the success of their remarketing objectives."
About Volvo Finance
Volvo Finance North America is the captive finance arm of Volvo Cars North America. The company provides a wide range of financial services for the purchase and lease of both new and pre-owned Volvo cars in the United States.
About AutoTradeCenter
AutoTradeCenter (ATC) is the leading Internet-based "business-to-business" automotive remarketing company. The company markets its services to automobile manufacturers, captive finance companies, lease and rental companies, and financial institutions across the United States.
ATC powers the American Honda Finance Corp.'s Vehicle Inter-Dealer Purchase System "VIPS," the American Suzuki Motor Corp.'s PROline, and Volvo Finance North America Inc.'s "VolvoRIDE" utilizing Internet technology and remarketing services.
For more information on AutoTradeCenter.com Inc., please visit http://www.autotradecenter.com/ or contact Public Relations at lseegan@autotradecenter.com.
Statements regarding financial matters in this press release other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
The company intends that such statements about the company's future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, and all other forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby.
Since these statements (future operational results and sales) involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, the company's actual results may differ materially from expected results.