Wholesale used car prices tick up, Stellantis delays Ram 1500 REV launch, Jaguar unveils refreshed brand

Hey everyone. CDG Recruiting has a large dealer client looking for a Platform Controller to oversee multiple rooftops in the Midwest.

Key experience:

- 5+ years of overseeing several high-volume stores
- Stable track record
- High-level accounting knowledge/background
- Leading large team in a fast-paced environment

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— CDG

Honda has delivered a whopping 13,000 Prologue EVs since Sept. 30:

Enough to rank it as the 5th best-selling EV in the country — not bad for a brand-new model.

So — what’s driving the early success?

“iPhone-like” levels of brand loyalty, EV tax credits, and tons of incentives like 0.9% APR, cash deals, and leases as low as $289 /mo in some markets.

While these numbers aren’t enough to challenge Tesla yet — the Prologue is creeping in on its territory.

(Data source: Honda / KBB)

1. Wholesale used car prices jump on stronger demand

Wholesale used car prices are defying seasonal norms, climbing 1.6% in the first half of Nov. compared to Oct., according to Cox Auto.

Increased retail demand is fueling this unexpected rise, with SUVs and luxury vehicles leading the way in price gains.

Even as electric vehicles lag behind, overall auction activity is picking up, pushing daily sales conversion rates higher than pre-pandemic levels … (Go deeper: 3 min. read)

2. Stellantis pushes Ram 1500 REV launch to 2025

Stellantis is pushing back the launch of its Ram 1500 REV electric pickup to early 2025, citing the need for more time to ensure durability and design validation.

In the meantime, the automaker is rolling out its first U.S. electric models, the Jeep Wagoneer S and Dodge Charger Daytona, before winter.

The delay reflects broader challenges in the EV space, with profitability and production costs pressuring automakers to reassess their timelines … (Go deeper: 4 min. read)

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3. Jaguar's new brand identity for ultra-luxury EVs gets mixed reviews

Jaguar’s refreshed brand identity includes a redesigned logo, vibrant colors, and a sleek new typeface, with its first public showcase planned for Miami Art Week under the theme “Copy Nothing.”

This transformation is part of Jaguar’s ambitious pivot as it prepares to launch an entirely new lineup, with the first vehicle slated for production in 2026.

Yet, by focusing heavily on art and design, some argue Jaguar’s approach may overlook the importance of showcasing product innovation to connect with core automotive buyers … (Go deeper: 4 min. read)

• Automakers signed a contract to foil Trump and ease the EV burden. Some may now regret it.

• Volkswagen America names new CEO.

• U.S. to add features such as blind spot warnings and pedestrian detection to vehicle crash ratings.

• This Mercedes dealership bought a 5,000-ft runway for high-speed test drives.

• Arizona is getting 200 MW of Tesla battery storage to meet rising energy demand.

Thanks for reading everyone.

— CDG