California is the most populated state in the U.S. with thousands of dealerships serving incredibly diverse demographics, which explains why storeowners pay close attention to automotive retail news from the region. Brian Maas is the President of the California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA), and has years of car business experience in the state. CBT News anchor Jim Fitzpatrick was able to sit down with Maas at the 2023 Nada convention to hear what lies ahead for his colleagues in the CNCDA, and to hear his personal insights into the car market.
Key takeaways:
1. Maas says the CNCDA will work to answer dealership questions on topics such as competition between OEMs and dealers, warranty reimbursement, EV charging infrastructure and more in 2023.
2. Maas notes that CNCDA will often encounter problems ahead of the industry, a result of its home state’s massive population, making the region an excellent predictor for challenges affecting the entire nation.
3. Although California accounts for 40% of U.S. EV sales, Maas notes that newer automakers, such as Rivian and Polestar, have yet to effectively penetrate the market.
4. California is one of several states which intends to ban sales of gas-powered vehicles by 2035.
5. Maas remains uncertain if rapid EV adoption, at least to the level some analysts predict, will be sustainable, arguing that the country’s energy infrastructure lags far behind the necessary growth.
“…Associations across the country aren’t going to stand by if OEMs push the envelope too far.” — Brian Maas
Notable background:
— Brian Maas is the President of the California New Car Dealers Association, which represents more than 1,200 dealerships. He was recently appointed to Chairman of the Automotive Trade Association Executives.
Click here for more 2023 NADA Show coverage on CBT News.
Did you enjoy this article? Please share your thoughts, comments, or questions regarding this topic by connecting with us at newsroom@cbtnews.com.
Be sure to follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok to stay up to date.
While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe to our email newsletter for all the latest auto industry news from CBT News.
