Experian Launches Auto History Report Service; New Service Provides Online Keys to Auto Histories Using World's Largest Relational Database

Business Wire, Feb 2, 2001

Business Editors & Automotive Writers

ORANGE, Calif.--(AutomotiveWire)--Feb. 2, 2001

Experian, a leading provider of global information solutions, Friday announced the launch of its Auto History report (www.e-autohistory.com), a user- friendly, online resource for car buyers and sellers.

Auto History is powered by Experian's National Vehicle Database, comprised of 11 billion records on more than 315 million vehicles and the world's largest database of its type.

The new report helps consumers to protect themselves against title and odometer fraud, lemon cars, salvage vehicles and numerous other hidden conditions that can affect the safety and value of their next vehicles.

"Auto History is a convenient, one-stop service for customers who want to make a more informed decision about the automobile purchase or sale they are considering," said John Jira, president of Experian's automotive information services group. "Experian's long history and demonstrated accomplishments in the field of database management makes us uniquely qualified to provide this valuable service."

To use the service, consumers simply obtain the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from the automobile they are inquiring about, point their browser to the Web address, then follow the directions to input the number into the system. A free summary report will be generated, including make and model details, and the number of additional historical events available through e-autohistory.com.

There is no charge until a consumer clicks on one of the other report tabs that show more detailed information. The price for each report is $14.95. Most major credit cards are honored.

Auto History utilizes Experian's proprietary National Vehicle Database, which seamlessly combines all of Experian's automotive information into a single data warehouse environment. The database is updated daily to assure access to the most recent automotive information available. Data is put through a rigorous 80-step quality process to ensure the information is accurate and current.

Built directly from more than 150 sources, the database offers coverage on registered and titled vehicles with more than 70 relational tables of data. All data is acquired from sources that meet either the federally mandated Drivers Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) or industry guidelines.

Experian is an information solutions company. It uses the power of information to help its clients target prospective customers, manage existing customer relationships and identify opportunities for profitable growth. Through its Web-based products and services, Experian enables its clients to conduct secure and profitable e-business. Experian is a subsidiary of The Great Universal Stores PLC and has headquarters in Nottingham, U.K., and Orange. Its 12,000 people support clients in more than 50 countries. Annual sales are about $1.5 billion.

For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.experian.com.