Benefits of direct-to-consumer sales are overhyped, the uncertain future of EV tax credits, Ford's anti-drug patent

Hey everyone. Every week, two new episodes of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast drop, along with written recaps highlighting the top 10 lessons from each episode.

Get the crucial takeaways in a quick, efficient format — delivered straight to your inbox.

Want in? Vote below 👇

— CDG

1. Study shows franchised dealerships rival direct sales in cost efficiency

A new study is shaking up the debate on car sales. Contrary to popular belief, the cost savings of direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales may not be as big as expected.

Driving the news: The report found only a small $200 per vehicle difference between DTC and traditional dealership models, with dealerships offering added value through deal customization and personalized service. While DTC saves on tasks like inventory management, these are offset by higher labor costs. 

This could make legacy automakers rethink their approach, showing that traditional dealerships might still be the more practical option. … Read more

2. EV tax credits are under the microscope

With the Presidential election around the corner, EV tax credits have sparked a political standoff.

Critics argue the costs are spiraling, with estimates now ranging from $14 billion to potentially hundreds of billions, while questioning whether the credits are truly driving EV adoption.

Meanwhile, supporters point to consumer savings and steady (albeit slower than predicted) growth in the EV market as evidence that these incentives are working.

Bottom line: The future of these tax credits could be decided at the ballot box, with each candidate offering a starkly different vision for the role of government in the EV transition … Read more

The most powerful tool in your service drive?

It’s in your technician’s pocket.

With Anyline, techs can instantly scan tire sidewalls, tread depth, VINs, DOT codes, and more—using any smartphone.

Powered by cutting-edge AI and machine learning, Anyline eliminates slow, costly manual processes, making them lightning-fast and error-free.

That’s why household names like NAPA, Discount Tire, Michelin, and Shopmonkey already rely on Anyline to boost efficiency and results.

Ready to streamline your service drive?

Visit www.anyline.com to learn more today.

3. Ford’s new patent could shield drivers from becoming unwitting drug traffickers

What’s happening: Ford’s latest patent could stop drivers from unknowingly transporting drugs, otherwise known as "blind mules."

The system uses sensors and cameras to detect hidden cargo and tampering, offering a high-tech solution as traffickers get more inventive.

While it's still just a patent, Ford's idea could find its way into future vehicles, providing extra protection for drivers who might unknowingly become part of a trafficking scheme … Read more

• Stellantis laying off nearly 200 at Ram 1500 plant.

• Morgan Stanley cuts auto industry view to neutral, downgrades GM, Ford and Rivian.

• Volkswagen's labour clash spotlights Europe's car factory conundrum.

• China’s auto stocks rise unfazed by U.S. proposal to ban Chinese car parts.

• Michigan Republican lawmakers write to Stellantis CEO Tavares about 'grave concerns'

Thanks for reading everyone.

— CDG