Inside Automotive
How ARRA is looking to upend the direct-to-consumer EV market — Bob Morris | Tim Lamb Group
Dealers concerned about OEMs and industry disruptors that aim to sell electric vehicles directly to consumers may have a possible solution in ARRA, a new EV brand looking to establish a foothold in the U.S. On this episode of Inside Automotive, CBT News anchor Jim Fitzpatrick is joined by Bob Morris, the director of the southeast region for the Tim Lamb Group and the exclusive agent for ARRA to discuss the company’s first North-American entry, the EV3. Watch full segment here.
Top Stories
In a briefing published Tuesday, June 13, Toyota vowed to boost its lagging electric vehicle business with a series of technology innovations. The automaker said it will upgrade its factories, develop batteries with a 500-mile driving range and take measures to lower costs and increase sales. The news comes shortly after several shareholders announced they would vote to oust former CEO Akio Toyoda from the company’s board to protest the brand’s slow-moving EV expansion. Read More
General Motors and Samsung SDI have agreed to build a new electric-vehicle battery plant in northern Indiana, shortly after local officials offered the two companies massive tax incentives. The facility, slated to open in 2026, will cost $3 billion to construct, and is expected to furnish batteries for 300,000 EVs once fully operational. The news comes six months after the automaker scrapped plans to partner with LG Energy Solution on the same site. Read More
A Michigan dealership is collecting donations in support of a local food pantry, after the charity announced it was struggling to meet demand. Employees of CR Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Adrian have created a food drive ending June 26, along with a contest to win tickets to a Tigers game. Salesperson Jessica Liner said, “…I just want to make a difference and help people get the food that they need to survive.” Read More
The 2024 Polestar 2 is scheduled to start deliveries this August with a starting price of $51,300. The new electric hatchback improves over previous models with greater horsepower, longer driving ranges and faster charging. Customers will be able to choose between single or dual motor options, both of which include a variety of driver-assistance features. The two-motor variant will also include the company’s $3,400 Pilot Pack, a suite of safety measures including Emergency Stop Assist and Rear Collision Warnings. Read More
For Dealers
Elevating the service experience with proactive communication and real-time updates
In the world of automotive dealerships, the service experience often represents the most complex and confusing part of the customer journey. From scheduling appointments to understanding the intricacies of vehicle maintenance, customers can easily feel overwhelmed. However, with the implementation of proactive communication and real-time updates, dealerships can transform this experience, enhancing customer satisfaction and fostering long-term relationships. Read More
Public relations for dealerships: When silence isn’t golden
Public relations (PR) is a crucial yet often underestimated and unused tool for automotive dealerships. PR is an integral element of any dealership’s strategy, far from being something reserved for OEMs and large dealership groups. 5W PR correctly states that “PR …can transform the future and profitability of a business.” It provides the roadmap to navigate complex challenges, manage crises effectively, and curate a positive brand image in an intensely competitive industry. Read More
