RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. -- Among the attendees of the 2004 NADA Convention were more than 100 executives from some of the nation's leading credit unions. This was the first year a collective group of credit unions participated in the annual auto industry event.

Credit Union Direct Lending (CUDL), the largest indirect auto-lending program in the country, sponsored an exhibit and events. The organization's booth featured a motorcyle giveaway. Larry Tucker of Petersburg Ford/Chrysler was the winner who drove away with the 2004 Harley Davidson Fat Boy.

"This event successfully raised the visibility of the credit unions within the auto industry," said Tony Boutelle, president and CEO of CU Direct Corp. "Credit unions account for a significant portion of the auto lending market, and having a visible presence among the captives, banks and sub prime financing organizations was essential for educating and building stronger relationships with dealerships."

Based in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., CU Direct Corp. administers the credit union-owned CUDL program, which allows members to receive credit union financing at the auto dealership through an automated decisioning system. CU Direct develops custom applications, training and marketing programs to help credit unions achieve their indirect lending goals.