Inside Automotive
The 2023 auto market: a look back at the first six months — Patrick Manzi | NADA
The U.S. auto market saw an uptick in sales and inventory over the course of 2023, as dealers and car manufacturers made progress clearing post-pandemic hurdles. On this episode of Inside Automotive, host Jim Fitzpatrick is joined by Patrick Manzi, the chief economist for the National Automobile Dealers Association, to offer more insights into the car industry’s performance and where this may lead in the coming months. Watch the full segment here
Top stories
Kjell Gruner, the former CEO of Porsche North America, is reportedly joining electric vehicle startup Rivian. On July 5, Porsche announced that Gruner was departing from the sports carmaker at his own request. Gruner’s marketing, operations, and strategy background could be valuable for Rivian’s goal of entering the high-end market. Read More
Tesla is facing increased competition from other automakers in online sales, even as it becomes the most sought-after car brand in the U.S., according to a Google search analysis. The study, run by U.K. retailer Auto Trader, examined 2022 search results from the U.S. linked to vehicle manufacturers using keywords such as “car brand,” “for sale” and “buy.” Read More
According to a Cox Automotive analysis of vAuto Available Inventory data, the used-vehicle market has lost some volatility during the pandemic and chip shortage, with inventory and prices remaining relatively stable. By the end of June, there were 2.22 million unsold used cars and trucks on licensed and independent dealer lots around the U.S. Read More.
Battery-focused software firm Recurrent reports that air conditioning (A/C) has a negligible impact on electric vehicle driving range, based on an analysis of 7,500 cars. Recurrent notes that cooling an EV in hot weather requires slightly less energy than turning on the A/C in a petrol vehicle due to the lack of warm air flowing from the engine. Battery power is also conserved by connecting it to a charger during the initial cooling period. Read More
For Dealers
How to win over a customer who is fixated on price
It’s no secret that prices are certainly a focus of customers who come into your dealership. Amongst many other parts of car shopping that make customers happy about their experience, paying less than full price can be a powerful motivator in driving a purchase and one that the customer is satisfied with. We’ll talk about handling a customer who is fixated mainly on price. Read More
The changing tide: auto subscription services and the impact on dealerships
Picture this: you’ve just moved into your dream home, complete with a state-of-the-art kitchen. But you’re stunned to learn there’s an extra monthly fee to use the stove. It’s installed and ready to go, yet it’s not included in the house price. You can almost hear your gasps of frustration. Read More
