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The retail equivalent value of quality changes for the 2010 model year domestic passenger cars averaged $271.42. This change represents 38.0 percent of the average $713.99 over-the-year increase in manufacturer's suggested list prices.
The retail equivalent value of quality changes for the 2010 model year domestic light trucks averaged $(‑2.92). The average over-the-year increase in manufacturer's suggested list prices was $752.81.
The $(‑2.92) estimated retail value of quality change breaks down as follows: $45.50 for mandated and non-mandated safety changes such as improvements to headrests and airbags; $(‑48.42) for other quality changes such as changes in audio systems, powertrains, and changes in levels of standard or optional equipment.
These data are from the BLS Producer Price Index program. Learn more in “Report on Quality Changes for 2010 Model Vehicles,” news release USDL 09-1400 (PDF).
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, The Economics Daily, Value of quality changes for 2010 passenger cars and light trucks at https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2009/ted_20091201.htm (visited October 31, 2024).