LEASETRADER.COM FORECASTS 42% AVERAGE LEASE PENETRATION BY 2020

MIAMI – (August 16, 2011) – LeaseTrader.com, the most recognized name in car leasing, forecasts lease penetration rates will double by 2020 and average around 42 percent across most vehicle brands and segments.

Lease penetration rates today average 22 percent, up from 9 percent just a few years ago in 2009. Leasing bounced back in 2010 when credit markets stabilized and automakers began to use leasing as a way to aggressively turn inventory.

“Drivers today have a much higher interest in leasing because of the way it fits their changing lifestyles,” said Sergio Stiberman, CEO and founder of LeaseTrader.com. “A growing number of people are more interested in leasing because they want a low monthly payment and the ability to change cars every three years – or sooner.”

LeaseTrader.com projects vehicle leasing across all brands and segments will grow in the next ten years because the process of leasing a vehicle has become more flexible and convenient. Drivers today have the ability to get much shorter terms compared with five or ten years ago, and now consumers can even comparison shop for a new lease online settling into a payment plan that best fits their financial situation. Demand for 12-month leases on LeaseTrader.com has exploded this year (up 16.4% YOY), reflecting growing consumer sentiment that shorter leasing programs are here to stay.

“We believe car shoppers in the near future will be able to completely customize a leasing program, including mileage and length of terms, in a way that fits their lifestyle and budget,” added Stiberman. “And LeaseTrader.com’s lease transfer marketplace will be even more central to the lease process allowing for transfers in and out of that contract when they want or need.”

LeaseTrader.com forecasts high-end luxury vehicles to continue leading the way in lease penetration rates, with certain brands like BMW and Mercedes exceeding 65 percent lease penetration by 2020. But even smaller vehicles, subcompact cars and hybrids have grown their current leasing business and will play a much larger role in the marketplace over the next ten years.

About LeaseTrader.com

LeaseTrader.com, the most recognized name in car leasing, easily and affordably matches car shoppers with individuals looking to escape their auto lease. Visit www.LeaseTrader.com, on Twitter @Lease_Trader, or call 800-770-0207.