EV sales growth under pressure, auto financing access expands, Detroit automakers speak up on tariffs

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Hey everyone. Dealership management system (DMS) titans CDK Global and Tekion have officially traded lawsuits.

At the center of the disputes are two primary questions—-who really owns dealership data? And who can access it?

In one corner—CDK claims Tekion is running a “sophisticated” scheme to breach CDK data systems.

But Tekion argues CDK is holding dealer data “hostage” in anti-competitive ways.

The DMS wars are getting spicy, y’all—grab your popcorn.

— CDG

Wholesale used car prices are at the highest point since October 2023:

After moving 0.4% higher in January compared to December—

The Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index increased to 205.6—a gain of 0.8% year-over-year.

The punchline?

Tight supply and growing demand for used cars are propping up values and will probably continue doing so.

(Data source: Manheim)

For the first time in years, EV retail share isn’t growing—J.D. Power forecasts it will stay flat at 9.1%. But the issue isn’t necessarily desire for the vehicles—it’s the changing economics of EV ownership.

The likely end of the federal Clean Vehicle Tax Credit could make affordability hinge on state-level incentives, while new tariffs on imported EVs and parts threaten to push prices even higher. And even as more affordable models hit the market, underwhelming infrastructure remains a major hurdle.

Big picture: If demand stagnates, automakers risk overproducing vehicles consumers won’t buy—leading to bloated inventories, price cuts, and shrinking margins … (Go deeper: 3 min. read)

Auto credit access improved year over year in January, but lending conditions remain uneven.

By the numbers:

Bottom line: Auto financing is more accessible than a year ago, but it’s also more expensive. However—if lenders remain too cautious for too long, they risk dampening demand … (Go deeper: 3 min. read)

In today's automotive landscape, car buyers invest more time than ever in researching, considering, and comparing options. But for dealers, the challenge lies in pinpointing the audience ready to make a purchase.

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Through Edmunds Premier, dealers gain access to this highly coveted audience. Simply list your new and used inventory on Edmunds, and watch as qualified, in-market traffic flows directly to your vehicle detail pages on your website.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your dealership's visibility and sales performance. You can sign up for Premier today at Edmunds.com/CDG.

GM and Ford are speaking out as the March 1 tariff deadline approaches, signaling the potential impact of new levies on vehicles and auto parts from Mexico and Canada.

At the end of the day—even with backup plans, both automakers are playing defense in an unpredictable trade environment—one that’s making them rethink their global supply chain exposure … (Go deeper: 3 min. read)

Thanks for reading everyone.

— CDG