Hyundai Dealers First to Participate in "Cash for Clunkers" Program

Hyundai is the first automaker in the U.S. to allow consumers to take advantage of the government's Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS), formerly known as "Cash for Clunkers." The company is backing dealerships with short-term cash advances weeks before the government has the program fully online, industry-wide.
While we remain skeptical of the program's long-term benefits for the industry and the environment, we can understand why Hyundai—with thirteen models that achieve the required fuel economy—wants to offer buyers the option as soon as possible, since there are likely car shoppers who are on the fence about purchasing that are awaiting the legislation's full enactment. This in combination with Hyundai Assurance Plus and Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock might potentially lure many consumers into Hyundai showrooms.