Hey everyone. Not everyone has time for email updates.
… Maybe you don’t like reading.
…… Or maybe you’re lazy like me.
That’s why we created Daily Dealer — a daily dose of fresh automotive insights —delivered in under 5 minutes.
Launching this Thursday in audio on the new Car Dealership Guy Bites podcast channel (and already available to all CDG Newsletter subscribers).
— CDG
CUsed car prices are inching down but remain steep:
The average used vehicle price sits at $27,252, down 5.4% year-over-year — yet still ~$6,600 higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Why?
A shortage of “near-new” cars leftover from the pandemic's production slump.
The silver lining?
Analysts say — in 2025 — older trade-ins from holdout buyers could boost supply and help take some pressure off prices.
(Data source: Edmunds)
1. Feds propose new regulatory framework for robotaxis without manual driving controls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is taking a major step toward reshaping the rules for autonomous vehicles (AVs).
Its new AV STEP framework could allow companies to deploy vehicles without steering wheels or pedals — like Amazon’s Zoox robotaxis — while requiring detailed safety reporting.
Big picture: This move aims to replace the current patchwork of exemptions and self-certifications with a more transparent, data-driven approach.
But with a change in administration on the horizon, the proposal’s future remains uncertain … (Go deeper: 1 min. read)
2. Hertz offers renters EV deals to offload depreciating inventory
Hertz is reportedly enhancing its sales strategy to encourage renters to consider buying EVs from its fleet, including Tesla, Polestar, and Chevy Bolt models.
For example, one customer renting a 2023 Tesla Model 3 claimed on a Reddit post that they were offered a price of only $17,913 to purchase the vehicle, which had about 30,000 miles.
Between the lines: This marketing strategy isn’t something new for Hertz. But after incurring steep EV depreciation costs over the last few years ($937 million in Q3) — the company appears to be ramping up its efforts to offload inventory … (Go deeper 2 min. read)
Don’t wait for March or April to boost your tax season sales.
With the Tax Max “file and drive” sales event Tax Max can help a customer access their tax refund same day for a down payment starting January 2!
No need to wait for the IRS. The same day tax refund advance, allows a Tax Max customer to apply for up to $7,000 on the same day they file to use toward their down payment.
No additional work from staff as the entire tax filing process can be completed online and from your customer’s phone.
Tax Max prepares the return, refund sent to dealer for a down payment and the customer gets the car. It’s that simple with Tax Max.
3. Kia recalls 23,000 EV9s over seat bolt defect
Kia is recalling nearly 23,000 EV9 electric SUVs in the U.S. after discovering some models were shipped without second- or third-row seat bolts.
The issue affects 2024-2025 and comes just months after a software issue prompted another recall of 12,400 EV9s.
Owners will be notified starting January 24, with dealers inspecting and replacing missing bolts for free … (Go deeper: 1 min. read)
Have a tip for our editorial team? Send us your scoop at [email protected].
Discounts on the dealership lot lift car sales.
A year of automotive C-Suite shuffles in 2024.
Why the auto market is seized by an affordability crisis — and how it might ease.
EREVs are more than a ‘stop gap’ solution, says Li Auto.
Hyundai’s mysterious ‘OE’ EV model appears again.
Did you enjoy this edition of the daily roundup?
Thanks for reading everyone.
— CDG
