Hey everyone. Each week, we deliver two concise, must-read recaps of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast — packed with the top 10 game-changing insights from each episode.
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*And look out for our episode next Monday featuring Ernie Garcia, co-founder of Carvana.
— CDG
New car incentives just hit a 3-year high:
According to Kelley Blue Book — incentives from manufacturers rose 4.2% month-over-month — reaching $3,914.
But the bigger story?
Just how much these incentives vary brand by brand…
Some brands are playing aggressive offense — others are barely in the game.
(Data source: Cox Auto)
1. Prime auto loan borrowers lean toward the used car market
The auto finance market is stabilizing, but affordability is steering even the most creditworthy borrowers toward used cars.
In Q3, 66% of Prime borrowers and 49% of Super Prime borrowers financed used vehicles — both up from last year, according to Experian.
One reason? Falling used car prices and lower payments are making them the better deal, especially as new car prices stay stubbornly elevated.
At the same time, rising delinquencies are forcing lenders to reassess risk, creating a challenging environment for both buyers and dealers … (Go deeper: 3 min. read)
2. Stellantis shuffles leadership as Tim Kuniskis returns to take over Ram
Tim Kuniskis, the man behind Dodge’s Hellcat and Demon success, is stepping out of retirement to lead the Ram brand.
His return comes at a crucial time, as Ram looks to strengthen its footing after years of mixed performance.
Meanwhile, Chris Feuell shifts to focus on Chrysler and Alfa Romeo, leaving Kuniskis with the singular mission of driving Ram’s growth … (Go deeper: 1 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. Tesla Supercharger prices go down as competition ramps up
Tesla is cutting Supercharger prices and tackling a growing concern for EV owners: rising charging costs.
Drivers in Europe and North America are reporting price drops of up to 10 cents per kWh, just as Supercharger usage hits record highs.
This move helps restore the cost advantage of EVs, especially for those relying on public charging.
Bottom line: With competitors like EVgo also seeing massive growth, lower prices could become the norm as charging networks battle for drivers … (Go deeper: 2 min. read)
Have a tip for our editorial team? Send us your scoop at [email protected].
Trump's tariff threats: Here's how Detroit Three execs say automakers could respond.
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares lost control of the automaker with ‘arrogant’ mistakes, sources say.
VW, unions hold 'constructive' talks, but no solution in sight.
China's CATL forms joint venture with Stellantis to build electric vehicle battery factory in Spain.
Tekion lawsuit claims CDK controls dealership data to prevent competition.
Did you like this edition of the daily roundup?
Thanks for reading everyone.
— CDG
