CBT automotive newscast: October 19, 2021

Inside Automotive:

The difference between a ‘deal killer’ and a ‘deal pauser’ when handling client objections
Consumers today have more options than ever before leading to many of you dealing with client objections nearly every day. But, how you respond could make the difference in eventually coming back from that objection and closing the deal. On today’s show, we’re pleased to welcome Jeff Shore, sales trainer, keynote speaker, author, and founder of Shore Consulting, to learn what he recommends for dealing with client objections. Watch the complete segment here.

Headlines:

Toyota aims to build a new $1.29 billion plant in the U.S. that will manufacture batteries for gas-electric hybrid and fully electric vehicles. The plant location wasn’t announced but the company says it will eventually employ 1,750 people and start producing batteries in 2025, gradually expanding through 2031.

Stellantis is cutting its Windsor assembly plant, home of the Chrysler minivans, down to one shift next Spring, eliminating about 1,800 jobs. This move comes as the industry continues to feel the effects of COVID-19 and the microchip shortage. The plant produces the Chrysler Pacifica, Voyager, and Grand Caravan.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed SB 128, which will amend the Michigan vehicle code to allow car dealerships more flexibility in their hours of operation. Currently, Michigan dealerships must be open for at least 30 hours a week for 52 weeks every year. Under the recently-signed legislation, dealerships can be be open for less than the 30-hour minimum for up to four weeks per year, allowing dealerships to accommodate necessary closures.

A Michigan judge has thrown out a lawsuit that General Motors filed against Stellantis’ FCA that accused its rival of fraud and unfair competition. GM sued FCA in 2019, alleging it bribed the UAW over many years to corrupt the bargaining process and gain advantages. Judge David Allen said, “GM failed to adequately demonstrate that FCA caused any legally recognizable harm through its bribery scheme.” A GM spokesman said, “We respectfully disagree with the ruling and are considering our legal options.”

News & Opinion:

How today’s advisor transparency works wonders
It can’t be emphasized enough. Focus on customer experience in your service drive as strongly as you focus on your sales efforts. You can’t make a sale or provide the best CSI until you effectively connect with your customer and provide a favorable experience. A customer’s experience, excellent or poor, is something people tell the story of again and again. Will people speak positively or negatively about their experience at your dealership? Read more

Toyota commits $3.4 billion to battery development in US
On Monday, Toyota Motor North America unveiled a plan to spend billions of dollars on automotive battery development in the US. The carmaker also intends to build a new battery manufacturing plant along with Toyota Tsusho that will begin producing batteries by 2025. The $3.4 billion-dollar announcement is for projects through 2030. They include producing batteries for fully electric vehicles, although the press release wording leaves room for all types of battery production – from normal 12-volt batteries for ICE vehicles to those used in Toyota’s range of hybrids, and potential battery packs for hydrogen fuel cell cars as well. Read more