The availability of credit to even greater numbers of potential buyers is the biggest single factor why U.S. light-vehicle sales for 2011 should be approximately 1 million units above last year’s numbers, according to analysts at J.D. Power and Associates. Other positive factors for 2011 include the return of leasing and fewer customers with negative equity. Many dealers report they are having an easier time getting customers financed, although it has taken longer for the market for subprime auto loans to recover. As consumers become more comfortable with the country’s economic recovery and future stability, vehicle sales should continue to rise.