Automaker highlights from CES 2025, some EVs no longer qualify for federal tax credits, Volvo rides EX30 surge

Prefer to listen to this newsletter? Click here for the audio version on CDG Bites.

Hey everyone. CDG Recruiting has dealer clients looking for tons of great roles right now:

• General Manager in Illinois (prefer someone in the IL already) Must have high volume experience.

• General Manager in Massachusetts (Toyota/Lexus experience a must).

• General Manager in Connecticut.

• General Manager in Kansas City, MO.

• Controller needed in Orlando, FL.

• Controller needed in Kansas City, MO.

If you’re interested in these opportunities, email Steven or click here to inquire.

— CDG

Absolutely wild comparison:

The best-selling vehicles in the U.S. from 2000 vs. 2024 show how much (and how little) the auto industry has changed…

After more than two decades — pickup trucks are still king — but smaller sedans have clearly lost ground to crossovers and mid-size SUVs.

Looking for Tesla? 

The automaker only releases global sales. We’ll have to wait a while on more U.S. registration data to see where the brand falls on this year’s list.

(Data source: OEM total sales figures via CarBuzz)

1. Automakers show off stylish tech at CES as industry preps for change

Automakers lit up CES in Las Vegas this week with tech that feels straight out of a sci-fi movie.

• Hyundai unveiled a holographic windshield that keeps drivers’ views distraction-free while delivering tailored info to passengers, and BMW teased its next-gen iDrive system.

• Honda showcased the concept “0 Series” and its joint venture with Sony revealed the Afeela 1 luxury EV.

• Chinese brands like XPeng made waves too, unveiling a ‘flying car’ that’s part van, part eVTOL.

But while the show highlighted cutting-edge advancements, the industry faces challenges ahead, including the potential phase-out of EV incentives, intensifying competition, and looming trade tensions.

CES offered a glimpse of the future — but the road ahead looks far from simple … (Go deeper: 3 min. read)

2. Some EV models lose tax credit eligibility under new rules

The federal EV tax credit program just got a shakeup for 2025, leaving some popular models out while making room for new contenders.

Models like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Rivian R1S no longer qualify, but newcomers like the Cadillac Optiq, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Tesla Cybertruck are now on the list.

The reason being stricter sourcing rules for battery minerals and components aim to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on China.

The bright side? As automakers scramble to adjust their supply chains to meet the stricter requirements — we'll likely see more vehicles qualify in the future.

(See the full list of eligible models: 2 min. read)

Foureyes does one thing better than anyone – it makes sure all your leads get worked (without ever having to be asked!)

And here’s how:

• It logs every phone-up and web opportunity to your CRM

• It sends personalized follow-up to prospects about the vehicles they’re interested in (now including AI-powered texting)

See Foureyes in action at NADA. Book time now and get your first 30 days of Foureyes for free!

3. Volvo bets big on affordable EX30 to drive U.S. sales in 2025

Nearly 100,000 EX30s sold in 2024 helped push Volvo to a global sales record, and now the company is turning its sights to the U.S. market.

• The Twin Motor EX30 is already on sale here, but the real buzz is around the single-motor version arriving in early 2025, starting at $36,245.

• And while it doesn’t qualify for federal tax credits, Volvo is offering lease loyalty incentives to attract buyers.

With affordability still a top barrier for many EV shoppers, the EX30 could be Volvo’s ticket to making a real impact in the U.S. market … (Go deeper: 3 min. read)

• Detroit Auto Show goes back to basics after 3 decades of glitzy reveals.

• Mercedes-Benz 2024 car sales fall in tough year for automakers.

• Ford reveals the first special edition of its Mustang GTD supercar.

• GM is using AI to find ideal spots for EV charging stations.

• Honda finally reveals what it wants from Nissan.

Thanks for reading everyone.

— CDG