Kelley Blue Book (KBB) is celebrating a rich 80-year history as a trusted resource for used car valuations. From its humble beginnings as a small guide used by auto industry professionals, KBB has evolved into the leading online destination for consumers researching used car prices, with kbb.com boasting millions of visitors each month. This article explores the evolution of Kelley Blue Book and its impact on the used car market.
From Pocket Guide to Online Powerhouse: The Kelley Blue Book Journey
In 1926, Los Angeles car dealer Les Kelley created a list of used cars and their corresponding values, which quickly became a trusted resource for other dealers and banks. This simple list evolved into the Kelley Blue Book Official Guide®, named after the Social Register to signify its valuable information.
Les Kelley’s innovative approach extended beyond the Blue Book. He and his brother, Buster, were pioneers in automotive sales and marketing, even being the first dealership to advertise on television. By 1962, recognizing the growing importance of his publication, Les Kelley shifted his focus entirely to the Kelley Blue Book.
Expanding Beyond Used Car Values
The 1960s marked a significant expansion for Kelley Blue Book. In 1966, the company published the nation’s first New Car Price Manual, adding new car pricing to its repertoire. KBB also pioneered the practice of adjusting used car values based on mileage, further solidifying its position as a leader in automotive valuation.
The company continued to serve the automotive and finance industries for three decades before releasing its first consumer edition in 1993. This marked a crucial turning point, paving the way for KBB’s direct engagement with car buyers and sellers.
The Digital Revolution: KBB.com and Beyond
The launch of kbb.com in 1995 propelled Kelley Blue Book into the digital age. Initially providing new car pricing, the website soon expanded to offer comprehensive information on both new and used vehicles, free of charge. Kbb.com quickly became the leading online resource for car buyers, with one in three conducting their research on the site before making a purchase.
KBB’s growth extended beyond its online presence. The acquisition of CDMdata Inc. in 2004 allowed dealers to easily upload vehicle photos and descriptions online, further enhancing the car buying experience. KBB also diversified into marketing research, syndication partnerships, and advertising, solidifying its position as a comprehensive automotive resource.
Kelley Blue Book Used Car Values Today
Today, Kelley Blue Book remains a cornerstone of the car buying and selling process. Kbb.com provides a wealth of information for consumers researching a Kelley Blue Book Used Car, including:
- Used Car Values: Accurate and up-to-date values based on various factors, including mileage, condition, and location.
- Expert Reviews: In-depth analysis of vehicle performance, features, and reliability.
- Safety Ratings: Comprehensive safety information to help buyers make informed decisions.
- Comparison Tools: Side-by-side comparisons of different vehicles to aid in the selection process.
Kelley Blue Book’s enduring success stems from its commitment to providing trusted and reliable information to both consumers and the automotive industry. For over 80 years, KBB has empowered car buyers and sellers with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the automotive market.
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