Sport-utility vehicles, big money makers for manufacturers, may be harder hit than cars and other trucks by falling resale values that erode the potential profit of future models. It's particularly problematic because automakers continue to churn out new SUV models. The number of models is expected to reach about 60 in 2001, up from 27 in 1994. Banks are trying to cut their losses on the leases. Some are offering to let leasing customers buy out the vehicles at bargain prices, avoiding the headache and expense of sending a car to auction.
Automakers say they are doing a better job of marketing off-lease vehicles.
Ford Motor says it is more careful what vehicles it sends to auctions and where.