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Hey everyone. Catch this week’s Car Dealership Guy Industry Spotlight with Sam D’Arc yet?
In this episode, Sam explores how dealerships are leveraging “internal influencers” to drive their social media campaigns with Jay Healey, CMO of Healey Brothers Automotive Group, and Justin Friend, SVP of Dealers United.
— CDG
The electric Ford Mustang Mach-E outsold its gas counterpart in 2024:
After its best quarter of sales (Q4) since launching in 2020 —
The Mach-E racked up a total of 51,745 sales for the year — about 3,000 more units than the gas-powered versions.
How?
Hefty incentives like cash back deals, low APR financing, and free home chargers.
Bottom line — This is a step in the right direction for Ford’s electrified ambitions but the automaker still faces an uphill battle turning them profitable.
(Data source: Ford)
1. California wildfires likely to push auto insurance rates, loan deferrals higher
The wildfires in California have scorched over 38,000 acres and caused an estimated $150 billion in damages, exacerbating systemic pressures on the state’s insurance and auto finance markets.
As of December 2024, premiums have jumped nearly 48% year-over-year to $2,575 on average as insurers work to offset years of rising risks and regulatory constraints.
However, lenders are stepping up with payment deferral programs to support borrowers in disaster-hit areas, but the challenges are piling up.
From surging claims to higher costs for consumers and with no quick fixes in sight — the pressure is on insurers, lenders, and borrowers alike … (Go deeper: 3 min. read)
2. Jeep’s next production move hinges on Trump’s trade agenda
The future of Stellantis’ Jeep Cherokee replacement is hanging on key policy decisions from President-elect Donald Trump.
After stopping Cherokee production in 2023 and shuttering its Belvidere, Illinois plant, Stellantis is now considering its options for the SUV’s next iteration, expected to be a hybrid.
But potential tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China could influence whether the automaker shifts production to the U.S. or sticks with existing operations abroad.
Bottom line: Where and how the Cherokee’s replacement is built could help Stellantis claw back (some) market share … (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.
Enter Premier by Edmunds.
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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.
3. Bill Ford optimistic after talk with Trump
Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford struck an optimistic tone about the incoming Trump administration after a “long” and productive phone call with the President-elect.
Speaking at the Detroit Auto Show, Ford highlighted Trump’s improved understanding of the auto industry and expressed confidence that the company will have a seat at the table.
But — the relationship between Trump and the automaker is complicated. In his first term, Trump criticized Ford’s production shifts to Mexico and its support for stricter fuel efficiency rules.
With Trump now signaling plans to repeal EV tax credits and potentially raise tariffs, automakers like Ford face both opportunities and challenges as they navigate the next four years … (Go deeper: 2 min. read)
Stellantis reaches goal of cutting U.S. inventory by 100,000 units.
Hyundai goes all in on effort to woo Trump as tariffs loom.
Oshkosh ready for possible USPS shift to gas trucks from EVs.
Why Trump and GOP attacks on IRA can’t score a clean sweep in red states.
Penske Automotive, Hendrick Automotive top Reputation survey.
Did you enjoy this edition of the Daily Dealer newsletter?
Thanks for reading everyone.
— CDG
