Hybrids rank no. 1 in driver satisfaction, Stellantis hires new manufacturing head, wholesale vehicle prices inch up

Hey everyone. In case you missed it, yesterday’s episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast was a market pulse powerhouse.

I caught up with Alan Haig, founder of Haig Partners, who has overseen over 580 dealership transactions worth $11 billion. We discussed why dealerships are selling at a record pace, the best and worst auto franchises right now, and Alan’s personal letter to Elon Musk.

Stream it now on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple.

— CDG

1. Hybrid vehicles earn top spot in driver satisfaction

What’s happening: Hybrid drivers are the most satisfied on the road, outperforming both gas and electric vehicles in customer happiness.

New data reveals why hybrids are winning: they’re flexible, cost-effective, and now a top priority for automakers like Ford and Toyota.

As hybrids take center stage, more legacy brands are rethinking their EV strategies … Read more

2. Stellantis brings on EV expert to lead N. American manufacturing

Stellantis has named Tim Fallon as its new head of North American manufacturing, and he's stepping in at a critical time.

The intrigue: Fallon, who previously led EV manufacturing at Rivian, is facing production slowdowns, layoffs, and a brewing labor dispute with the UAW.

With a shareholder lawsuit looming and the pressure to electrify Jeep, Dodge, and Ram, Fallon’s leadership will be crucial in navigating these rough waters … Read more

The Auto Hauler Exchange has revolutionized the way vehicle haulers and vehicle shippers collaborate. AHX's B2B marketplace connects vehicle haulers directly to shippers in a frictionless manner.

The Exchange helps vehicle haulers maximize their capacity while limiting empty miles. The Exchange is the first true B2B marketplace of its kind in the vehicle logistics industry.

By connecting carriers and shippers directly, carriers can save time and choose which opportunities fit their needs each day.

At the same time, shippers can rest assured that their vehicles are being moved by qualified, vetted carriers who fit their vetting program.

The Auto Hauler Exchange has democratized the vehicle logistics industry by eliminating the middleman and connecting shippers directly to available carriers.

Get off the vehicle hauling roller coaster today with Auto Hauler Exchange.

3. Wholesale used car prices continue to rise in first half of Aug.

Big picture: Wholesale used car values edged up in early Aug., further bucking the usual seasonal decline.

Cox Automotive's latest data shows luxury and midsize cars are holding their value better than pickups and compact cars.

But not all segments are created equal—some are still seeing sharper declines … Read more

• Dealers can expect higher super prime auto loan originations.

• Survey shows service departments can do more to secure trade-ins.

• China calls EU tariffs on EVs unfair, says it will take necessary measures to defend industry.

• Donald Trump claimed that Michigan’s auto industry will cease to exist in three years if he isn’t elected.

• Tesla to recall more than 9,000 Model X SUVs.

Thanks for reading everyone.

— CDG