Clunker Program Now For Cars Not Yet On Lot

AP

Car shoppers are getting more flexibility in buying vehicles through the Cash for Clunkers program.

The Transportation Department says consumers who want to purchase a new car not yet on a dealer lot can still be eligible for the car rebate program.

This helps dealers and automakers who are finding it difficult to keep some hot-selling vehicles at the dealerships because of the popular government incentives.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says the changes will expand buyers' choices and keep production lines running. He calls it a "wildly successful program."

Video: Ford announces it's going to raise production in order to meet "Cash for Clunkers" demand.

Before the changes, eligible car buyers could only choose from vehicles on a dealer car lot. Ford,Toyota and Honda have increased production to meet demand from the clunkers program.