Inside Automotive
How leveraging AI can improve dealership operations- David Kain | Kain Automotive
We’ve heard a lot about artificial intelligence within our industry, but how is AI translating for internet leads and BDC teams? On this edition of Inside Automotive we’re pleased to welcome back David Kain, the president and owner of Kain automotive, to walk us through the pros and cons of AI on BDC teams. Watch full segment here.
Top Stories
Three automakers, including General Motors and Stellantis, have agreed to a $15 million bail-out package for a financially troubled supplier. The aid recipient, Unique Fabricating, provides plastic foam products for several car manufacturers including electric vehicle brands such as Rivian. The company reported substantial losses in 2022, and is facing multiple investigations into its operations in the U.S. and Mexico. Under the arrangement, the business will continue to construct materials for its customers, but will be required to undergo a restructuring and buyout process. Read More
Electrification progress varied by region in a report comparing automakers on their efforts to transition to EVs. The Global Automaker Rating 2022 study ranked 20 brands based on three pillars of zero-emission vehicle production: market dominance, technology and strategy. Japanese automakers, including Toyota and Honda, placed in the bottom six for all three categories, while North America’s Tesla and China’s BYD achieved first and second place respectively. Other U.S. brands such as General Motors and Ford ranked below average for the study year, falling short of most European brands including BMW and Stellantis. Read More
Delaware dealerships say they are already seeing consequences from their state’s proposed gas-powered vehicle ban, effective 2035. Santosh Viswanathan, chairman of legislative affairs for the Delaware Auto Dealers Association, claimed that Stellantis was refusing to send non-electric Jeep models to the region “because we are considered a ‘California state.'” Viswanathan, who operates his own storefront in Seaford, noted the issue could affect owners of I.C.E. vehicles who are in an accident and need a replacement. Read More
Scout Motors, Volkswagen’s EV-focused subsidiary, has named Chris Benjamin, a former Stellantis executive, as its new chief design officer. During his tenure at the automaker, Benjamin oversaw interior design for Dodge, Ram, Jeep and Chrysler. Scott Keogh, CEO of Scout Motors, remarked that the incoming designer’s “thumbprints are all over many of the most beloved off-road vehicles in the market today.” The company aims to produce heavy-duty electric cars, and plans to launch its inaugural pickup and SUV in 2026. Read More
For Dealers
5 cutting-edge digital tools to enhance your dealership’s website
A dealership’s website is the center for their public communications. The content on your website and how well things work together from trade in tools to finance can have a big impact on how easy it is for a customer to buy a car from you. Let’s talk about a few fairly standard ways to get cutting edge performance out of your dealership’s website, and what you should look for in the future. Read More
Integrating technology and human touch in car sales: Striking the balance for optimal customer experience
Technology is changing how consumers shop for and buy cars. Yet chatbots, virtual reality applications, and artificial intelligence haven’t eliminated the need for human interaction. Modern car dealerships need to balance digital tool usage with personal touchpoints to create memorable customer experiences. Here’s what to consider when determining your dealership’s technology and human interaction formula. Read More
