Auto dealers are embracing Web 2.0 marketing despite the toll of the economic slowdown. In tough times, the auto dealer feels the weight of declining consumer sales. The combined tightening credit market and the housing slump has resulted in lackluster February sales for dealers, according to the American International Automobile Dealers Association.

When business is troubling, it's tempting not to take risks. Why jump into something new when you're familiar with the old standard? Not the mind-set of the dealers.

The Kelsey Group recently reported over 50% of dealers are adding Internet video and social media to their marketing mix in the next 12 months. Online video advertising and marketing is experiencing rapid growth with the popularity of YouTube. Kudos to the auto dealers for embracing the new despite hard times. Those who have the guts to go outside their comfort zone are more apt to survive.