The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1075: Today we're talking CarMax's record-setting quarter, Congress clashing over EV tax credits, and Honda's surprising success in rocket science. Yep, you read that right—Honda landed a rocket.Show Notes with links:CarMax's latest quarterly results are in—and they're cruising past analyst expectations with strong used vehicle sales, revenue growth, and record-breaking profit per unit.Q1 net income jumped 38% to $210.4 million, while revenue rose to $7.5 billion, up 6.1% year-over-year.Used retail vehicle sales hit 230,210 units, a 9% increase and gross profit per unit hit a record $2,407.Same-store sales were up 8.1%, marking the fourth consecutive positive quarter.“These results highlight the strength of our earnings growth model… and our sharp focus on execution.” — CarMax CEO Bill NashPresident Trump's proposed budget is taking aim at federal EV tax credits, with House and Senate Republicans offering two versions of how—and how fast—they should end. The result could drastically shift EV affordability and consumer interest.The House plan ends credits in 2026 for smaller brands but cuts off top sellers like Tesla and GM this year.Automakers under the 200,000-vehicle cap—like Rivian, Honda, and Lucid—would still benefit temporarily.The Senate version is more aggressive, ending all credits within 180 days and leasing perks immediately.EV leaders warn of market disruption; some predict a sales dip once credits vanish.“They're really trying to put a stake in the heart of EV subsidies,” said Mike Murphy, CEO of the American EV Jobs Alliance.In a move beyond automobiles, Honda has successfully launched and landed a reusable rocket as part of its R&D efforts to enter the space industry and support future satellite demand.The rocket hit 890 feet before landing within 14in of its target at a Japan test site.Honda leveraged tech from its automated driving systems for flight and landing.The launch took place in Taiki Town, a growing hub for aerospace development in Japan.The 21-foot, 2,800-pound rocket flew for just under a minute on retractable legs.“Honda will continue making progress... with a technology development goal of realizing a suborbital launch by 2029,” the company statedJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1074: We're diving into CDK's post-attack transformation, Waymo's bold NYC ambitions, and China's booming AI-driven live commerce, where digital humans are outselling their creators.Show Notes with links:A year after cyberattacks rocked the industry and CDK Global, the focus has shifted from crisis response to long-term resilience — though not all lessons stuck.Two cyberattacks forced CDK's DMS offline for two weeks, disrupting operations at 15,000 dealerships and costing over $1 billion in sales.Many groups invested heavily in cybersecurity and revised disaster recovery plans as a result, with leaders like Judy Serra and Joe Shaker emphasizing staff training and consultant support as critical steps forward.Helion's Erik Nachbahr noted some dealers quickly reverted to old habits, citing a recent DMS switch that went live without basic protections like multifactor authentication — a move he called unacceptable.CEO Brian MacDonald says CDK is now “stronger than ever,” with deeper investments in security, R&D, and customer experience, saying “Over the past year, we've also seen record customer renewals.”Joe Shaker of Shaker Auto Group and TruVideo said, “It could happen to anyone. My feelings were that after going through what they've gone through and after looking at every nook and cranny of their business for security that [CDK] may be the most secure.”Waymo is preparing to re-enter New York City to map and test its autonomous vehicles — with human drivers — as it eyes a major expansion into one of the most complex and coveted markets in the U.S.Waymo is returning to NYC for the first time since 2021 to resume mapping and testing, though humans will remain behind the wheel due to state law.The company is lobbying for legal changes and applying for a permit to operate in Manhattan with safety specialists in the driver seat.In a groundbreaking move, Baidu aired a 6-hour shopping livestream led entirely by AI-generated digital humans modeled after popular host Luo Yonghao — and it crushed human-led benchmarks.The broadcast introduced 133 products with AI versions of Luo and a co-host responding to viewer comments in real time.The digital duo generated $7.6 million in sales, outperforming Luo's real past performance in just 26 minutes.China's live commerce market hit $695 billion in 2023, and Baidu now counts over 100,000 active digital human hosts, with the company saying digital humans can cut broadcast costs by 80% and boost sales by 62%.“To be honest, I was really shocked by the effectiveness of this digital human,” Luo said post-show, calling it “reality.”Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1073: Six EVs crack the top 10 of Cars.com's American-Made Index, Tesla pauses Cybertruck and Model Y production, and the U.S. Senate gives crypto a win with new stablecoin regulations, clearing the path for mainstream adoption.Electric vehicles are leading the charge in U.S. manufacturing impact, as revealed by Cars.com's 2025 American-Made Index. For the first time, EVs make up the majority of the top 10, signaling how deeply electrification is taking root on American soil—even as OEMs recalibrate their long-term EV strategies.The top 10 Tesla Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X, Jeep Gladiator, Kia EV6, Honda Ridgeline, Honda Odyssey, Honda Passport, VW ID.4.The index ranks vehicles based on five key factors: percentage of U.S. and Canadian parts, final assembly location, country of origin for engines and transmissions, and the size of the automaker's U.S. manufacturing workforceLead researcher Patrick Masterson said, “Buying American-made often means looking beyond traditional nameplates. You don't always know what's built in your backyard unless someone connects the dots.”Tesla is halting its Cybertruck and Model Y production lines at the Austin Gigafactory during the July 4 week, timing the pause with its much-anticipated robotaxi debut in the same city.The one-week shutdown, starting June 30, will allow for line maintenance and voluntary worker training.This marks at least the third production pause in a year for Austin, following previous stoppages in May and December.Tesla says the pause will help ramp up output, though it hasn't specified which lines will see gains.In parallel, Tesla is preparing to launch its first robotaxi rides using Model Ys, with Elon Musk saying “We are being super paranoid about safety, so the [June 22 launch] date could shift,”Musk added that by June 28, the vehicles would be capable of driving themselves from the factory directly to a customer's home.The U.S. Senate has approved a bill creating the first federal regulatory framework for stablecoins, cryptocurrencies designed to maintain a fixed value—typically 1:1 to the U.S. dollar. This marks a significant step forward for digital asset adoption and oversight.The GENIUS Act passed with bipartisan support, 68–30, and now moves to the House for final approval before it can be signed into law.The bill would require stablecoins to be fully backed by liquid assets like U.S. dollars and short-term Treasuries, with monthly public reserve disclosures.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1072: Ferrari eases off the EV pedal, LAZ Parking launches a game-changing 50,000-charger rollout, and TikTok's AI influencers threaten to upend the creator economy. Show Notes with links:Welcome to the franchise side, Benji Urra! A seasoned dealer since 1985, Benji is entering the franchise world after nearly 40 years in the independent auto business.He acquired Bravo Nissan of Victoria, TX, from Bravo Autos' Raymond Palacios and Alex Flores.Even the prancing horse isn't immune to the EV slowdown. Ferrari is postponing its second electric vehicle—originally planned for 2026—by at least two years, signaling ongoing hesitance in the high-performance luxury EV market.Ferrari's first EV, a larger, atypical model co-designed by ex-Apple design chief Jony Ive, will debut in October with 2026 deliveries starting at over $500,000; it's seen more as a symbolic milestone than a volume play.Internally, the second EV is viewed as the true strategic launch, with targets of 5,000–6,000 units over five years.That second model has now been delayed twice, with no real demand yet from Ferrari's core enthusiast base.The delay also gives Ferrari time to refine its proprietary EV tech while competitors like Lamborghini, Porsche, and Maserati similarly reevaluate or scale back their EV timelines.“Real, sustainable demand is non-existent for an electric sports car,” said a source close to the matter.In one of the largest EV infrastructure deployments in North America, LAZ Parking is installing 50,000 Level 2 chargers at its facilities—bringing EV access directly into the daily routines of city dwellers and commuters.The rollout spans over 4,000 locations across 43 states and 536 cities, integrating charging into where people live, work, and park.LAZ is partnering with Epic Charging and Autel Energy, with Autel providing the preferred hardware for the project.The initiative avoids the highway model of fast-charging stops, instead embedding EV access into residential and urban life.TikTok is stepping deeper into the AI marketing game, unveiling new tools that let brands generate influencer-style videos using synthetic avatars—potentially redefining who gets paid to promote.The Symphony AI ads platform now lets advertisers create virtual avatars that model clothes, demo apps, and showcase products.These avatars mimic human influencers in both look and behavior, offering content at scale without contracts or shoot days.For brands, it means lower costs and fasteJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1071: In today's episode, we unpack April's surprising EV registration drop, spotlight top dealership strategies driving service and parts growth, and break down a fresh consumer sentiment boost that still comes with caution.Automotive News' Top 100 Service and Parts Dealer Groups show that there's no single path to growing service and parts revenue—but that tailored strategies, tech investments, and a laser focus on training can deliver huge results.Murgado Automotive boosted revenue 45% by empowering service directors and emphasizing speed, transparency, and convenience.Holman's 48% increase stemmed from employee training, technician retention, and use of myKaarma software across all stores.Kunes Auto Group drove a 33% bump through acquisitions and leveraging DealerFenix to standardize metrics and processes.All three groups focused on increasing customer-pay work, tire sales, and throughput efficiency.“It's all the little things that add up to the big things later on,” said Murgado CEO Mario Murgado.Top 10 - Autonation, Penske, Lithia, Hendrick, Asbury, Group 1, Sonic, Morgan, Holman, OurismanOther friends - 13 - McGovern, 27 - Ciocca, 33- RML, 35 - Bergstrom, 44 - Premier Automotive, 47 - Walser, 66 - Sam Pack, 69 - CMA, 74 - RohrmanFor the first time in over a year, U.S. electric vehicle registrations fell in April. While some brands like Chevrolet saw gains, overall adoption continues to hit a ceiling amid consumer hesitation.EV registrations dropped 4.4% year-over-year to 97,833, marking a 6.6% market share.Tesla saw a 16% decline, with major drops in Model Y and Cybertruck registrations.Chevrolet more than tripled its numbers, led by strong demand for the Equinox and Blazer EVs.S&P's Tom Libby notes the EV segment is hitting a “demand ceiling” around 5,000 units/month per model.“There's a lot of influences working against EVs right now,” Libby said, citing charging concerns and wavering government support.After half a year of sliding confidence, American consumers are feeling a bit more upbeat. A new report shows a sizable sentiment jump in June—but lingering doubts about the broader economy are hard to ignore.According to the University of Michigan, consumer sentiment rose 15.9% from May to 60.5, the highest level since December 2024.The increase was across age, income, region, and political affiliation, with expectations for both short and long-term business conditions seeing the steepest gains.Analysts credit a perceived easing of tariff pressure and slowing inflation for the positive shift.However, consumer sentiment, opinions on current economic conditions, and consumer expectations for the future are all still down YoY“Despite this month's notable improvement, consumers remain guarded and concJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Today on the show, we've got Daniel Govaer joining Paul, Kyle and Chris to recap the Raptor Rally that he helped host.  Together with Leif Johnson Ford and Rally Ready Ranch, they brought the high-performance Ford Raptor community together to benefit Central Texas Make-A-Wish.It went so well that the Make-A-Wish team left before all of the kids and families did, because of how well it was going.A poignant reminder of the amazing impact that auto can have on life's defining moments.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1069: Trump eyes higher auto tariffs and axes California's EV rules, Google quietly gains ground with Gen Z shoppers, and an AI-generated NBA Finals ad shows how fast, cheap, and creative the future of advertising can be.Show Notes with links:In a high-energy speech, President Trump proposed raising auto tariffs and celebrated a legislative rollback of California's EV mandates — a double-down on his strategy to protect domestic auto manufacturing and consumer choice.Trump suggested raising auto tariffs above the current 25% level to encourage automakers to produce more vehicles domestically.He pointed to GM's $4 billion investment in U.S. plants as a positive result of existing tariff policies.The President signed legislation last week that rolls back California's zero-emissions vehicle mandate, which would have banned new gas car sales by 2035.Dealer and manufacturer groups applauded the repeal, arguing it protects affordability and nationwide regulatory consistency.“Customers don't want the government telling them what kind of car to buy,” said John Bozzella, CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation.Eleven states, led by California, have filed a legal challenge against the repeal, calling it an overreach that undermines state-level emissions standards.Google is making gains with Gen Z shoppers, chipping away at Amazon's dominance in product search. New data shows young consumers are increasingly turning to Google — not just for browsing, but even when they know exactly what they want to buy.Morgan Stanley data shows a rise in 16–24-year-olds using Google for product research, both general and specificAs of March, 30% of Gen Z shoppers who knew what they wanted still started on Google — up from 21% last fall.Meanwhile, Amazon's share dropped from 41% to 34% over the same period.Analysts suggest Google's generative AI tools, like AI Overviews and Google Lens, may be fueling the shift.“The volume of commercial queries on Google Search has increased with the launch of AI Overviews,” said Google's Chief Business Officer Philipp Schindler.An AI-generated ad made in just two days aired during the NBA Finals, showing how creators can now move faster and cheaper than ever before. Using Google's Veo 3 and a lean workflow, one filmmaker delivered a national commercial at a fraction of traditional production costs.AI filmmaker PJ Accetturo produced a 30-second TV spot for betting platform Kalshi in just two days using Veo 3 and Gemini.His process involved AI-assisted scripting, iterative prompt generation, and rapid video output, yielding 15 usable clips from 300–400 generations.The entire production cost came in at roughly $2,000 — a 95% reduction from traditional ad budgets.Editing was done with tools like CapCut and Premiere, allowing fJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1068: Congress considers sweeping reforms to EV and emissions incentives, while Toyota tightens its corporate family ties with a bold $33B buyout—cementing Akio Toyoda's hold at the top. Plus, Lowe's gets into the creator game with Mr. Beast and other social stars.Show Notes with links:Congress is fast-tracking a comprehensive budget bill before a self-imposed July 4 deadline, with proposed changes to fuel economy standards, EV tax credits, and even regulations on artificial intelligence.The Senate Commerce Committee proposes eliminating fines for automakers that fail to meet CAFE fuel economy standards.The House version of the bill would terminate the $7,500 new EV credit and other clean vehicle benefits by the end of 2025.A new tax deduction for up to $10K in auto loan interest could be introduced, applying only to U.S.-assembled vehicles and excluding commercial fleets.Proposed limits on AI regulation would block state enforcement for a decade, with critics warning this could endanger public oversight and safety.Toyota shareholders have re-elected Akio Toyoda as chairman, reinforcing support for the automaker's leadership even as a proposed $33 billion buyout of Toyota Industries—its original parent company—faces backlash from global investors.Toyota Industries, founded in 1926, originally birthed Toyota Motor Company and now focuses on manufacturing forklifts and key automotive components.Toyota Motor plans to fully acquire Toyota Industries in a ¥4.7 trillion deal that includes Akio Toyoda investing ¥1 billion of personal funds.Toyoda, the founder's grandson, was not opposed as chairman by proxy advisers this year for the first time since 2021.He is estimated to receive at least 96% of the vote—up from last year's 72%, his lowest ever.“There are many ways to achieve growth, but unity under shared values has always been Toyota's strength,” Toyoda said earlier this yearLowe's is breaking out of the hardware aisle and into the influencer economy with its new Creator Network, headlined by none other than YouTube megastar MrBeast.The network kicked off with over 17,000 beta participants and includes big names like DadSocial and Chris Loves Julia.Creators can earn commissions, access training, and build custom storefronts linking directly to Lowes.com.MrBeast will showcase his favorite tools and DIY picks via a curated storefront featuring obstacle course kits and backyard builds.Lowe's red vests are also helping construct “BeastCity” for season two of MrBeast's Beast Games on Amazon Prime.“We wanted to go even bigger and over-the-top... and we found the perfect partner to help us achieve that goal,” said Jeff Housenbold, CEO of MrBeast's brand team.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1067: We're covering how President Trump announced that China will provide rare earth minerals in a new trade deal. Plus Tesla's push toward a robotaxi launch in Austin and what it means for the future of autonomy and Apple brings a major refresh to CarPlay in iOS26.President Trump just announced the deal is “done” regarding a sweeping trade agreement that positions China as the upfront supplier of rare earths to the U.S.—a major shift with big implications for auto and defense manufacturing.Trump says China will supply magnets and rare earths “up front” under a trade deal.U.S. to grant concessions like college access to Chinese students.The deal still requires final sign-off by Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.Tensions had escalated after China restricted exports critical to auto and defense.“WE ARE GETTING A TOTAL OF 55% TARIFFS, CHINA IS GETTING 10%,” Trump wrote on Truth SocialTesla's long-awaited robotaxi service is almost here. Elon Musk says it could officially launch in Austin on June 22—with an emphasis on “tentatively.” It's a make-or-break moment for Tesla's autonomous ambitions.Tesla is testing unmodified Model Ys with a new FSD system that has ~4x more parameters than the current version.The service will launch in a geo-fenced area of Austin with a small internal fleet supported by human teleoperators.A trailing car with a safety driver has been spotted following the autonomous vehicles during testing.The company just started truly driverless tests in late May—weeks ahead of the projected launch."The vast majority of valuation upside looking ahead for Tesla is centered around the success of its autonomous vision," said Wedbush analyst Dan Ives.Apple is rolling out iOS26 with its biggest CarPlay update in years, bringing a sleek new look and features that aim to put your car's native OS to shame.CarPlay gets a new “Liquid Glass” design with glossy, semi-transparent icons and tabs.Widgets come to the homepage, allowing real-time views of calendars, smart home tools, and weather.Messaging gets streamlined with voice-activated emojis (Tapbacks) and pinned conversations for quicker access.Incoming calls now appear in a compact banner, no longer hijacking your entire display during navigation.Live Activities—real-time countdowns and status updates—are now embedded in CarPlay for things like food orders or airport pickups.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1066: Today we're looking at the May economic data from Cox Automotive, how Lucid is reducing its dependence on foreign battery materials and how Meta has increased its ad revenue without increasing volume through targeting.Show Notes with links:May's economic and automotive data show a market adjusting to tighter consumer budgets and lingering workforce shifts. Retail remains steady, but pricing sensitivity is driving realignment in both new and used inventory strategies.Employers added 139K jobs in May, topping forecasts, but downward revisions led to a net 95K job loss.Auto dealer employment rose by 2,100 jobs, though it's still 1.1% below pre-COVID levels.New-vehicle SAAR dropped to 15.6M in May, down from 17.8M in April. Retail SAAR outpaced last year's.Incentives averaged $3,297—the highest discounting level in five years, and the average price paid dropped to 95.7% of MSRP.Used-vehicle sales dipped 3% month-over-month, but are up 4% year-over-yearWith all the buzz around China's dominance of EV battery raw materials, Lucid surprised us with a plan to source all of its materials domestically.Lucid's agreement with Graphite One kicks off natural graphite production in 2028 from Alaska's Graphite Creek site.They've layered this with a 2024 synthetic graphite deal and a 2026 supply agreement with Syrah Resources in Louisiana.All three deals align with IRA requirements, boosting eligibility for EV tax credits and reducing reliance on China, which supplies 90%+ of the world's anode materials.Graphite One's Ohio facility will produce enough anode material for up to 2 million EVs per year.Lucid's Interim CEO said the U.S.-focused strategy “supports our efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of our vehicles.”Meta might be all-in on Gen Z vibes, but it's the boomers and Gen Xers footing the bill. A new Barclays report reveals that older Facebook users see far more ads—because they're the ones clicking.Facebook shows more ads to users aged 45+ due to higher purchasing power.Those aged 45-54 see the highest ad load at 22%; teens only see 4.3%.Dynamic ad tech like Andromeda and Lattice tailors volume by user value.97% of Meta's revenue comes from ads.Meta has actually increased ad revenue without upping total ad volume by targeting high-value users—a shift analysts call “arguably the most bullish development.”Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1065: Today we're breaking down Rivian's big win with VW, a wild scene in LA as Waymo vehicles go up in flames, and how back-to-school shopping is creeping into summer.Show Notes with links:The tech partnership between EV upstart Rivian and legacy automaker Volkswagen just took a major leap forward. Rivian's upcoming R2 SUV platform won't just support Rivian's own vehicles—it's about to become the backbone of every new EV under the Volkswagen Group umbrella.All VW brands—Audi, Porsche, Lamborghini, Scout, Skoda, Seat—will share the R2 tech stack.VW's ID Every1 will be the first to launch using Rivian's off-the-shelf zonal architecture.The partnership helps VW replace its troubled Cariad software division with a proven modular platform.Rivian's Chief Software Officer confirmed all VW EVs will use the same scalable architecture, calling it “the digital brain” of the portfolio.Each brand keeps its unique identity via custom UI, tuning, and features, but the tech core is unified.At least five Waymo self-driving I-Pace EVs were destroyed during violent protests in Los Angeles over the weekend—representing a possible 5% loss of its local fleet.The unrest followed ICE raids and escalated into clashes with police and vandalism.Rioters reportedly summoned Waymo vehicles, slashed tires, smashed windows, and set them on fire.Fire crews couldn't access the scene in time, and the vehicles burned completely.Waymo operates about 100 cars in LA and over 1,500 nationwide.Waymo has suspended service in the area, saying, “We will not be serving any rides in the protest area until it is deemed safe,”Back-to-school deals have crept into early summer, with brands and retailers scrambling to catch up to shifting consumer habits—and to tariff-driven inventory pressures.Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Wayfair kicked off fall prep as early as Memorial Day.Prime Day in the middle of July now marks the unofficial start of the back-to-school shopping season.This year's shoppers are favoring essentials and budget-friendly items over big-ticket dorm splurges“Consumers are looking for the best discount, the best sale, the best value...” — Kassi Socha of GartnerJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Paul, Kyle, and Chris realize their shared aspiration identity...Charles Ingles from Little House on the Prairie. They laugh about how ironically he is a representation of what it is to steward your community. When Hurricane Milton hit, the South Pasadena Fire Department was left boatless, until Maher Chevrolet stepped in. The dealership donated a rescue-ready inflatable boat and stairs for the department's new high-water vehicle. Now the crew can reach stranded residents faster and safer. It's another case of a local dealer showing up big when it counts. Read our writeup in this post.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Today we're talking about political fireworks as Trump and Musk's bromance blows up, Ram's surprising V8 comeback after admitting they “screwed up,” and Samsung phones getting a dose of AI-powered fashion ads, right on your lock screen. A once-powerful political-tech alliance is in tatters as Elon Musk and Donald Trump clash in a very public, very messy breakup. From social media jabs to threats of canceled contracts, the drama is shaking up D.C., Wall Street, and possibly the International Space Station.Trump and Musk traded barbs online after Musk denounced Trump's spending bill and left his government role.Tesla stock nosedived over 14%, losing $150 billion in value—the worst single-day drop in the company's history.Musk hinted at decommissioning SpaceX's Dragon over subsidy threats, but later pulled back.The White House gave mixed signals on whether a reconciliation call would happen between the two.“Without me, Trump would have lost the election,” Musk posted on X.The V8 is back! Ram is reversing course on its engine strategy, bringing the 5.7-liter Hemi back to the 2026 Ram 1500. After a bumpy ride with their all-six-cylinder lineup, they're owning the misstep—and listening to the roar of the customer base.Ram reintroduces the 5.7L Hemi V8 for 2026 models, available as a $1,200 option on most trims.CEO Tim Kuniskis admits dropping the Hemi was a mistake: “We own it and we fixed it.”A special “Symbol of Protest” badge will adorn V8-equipped trucks.The reintroduction was fast-tracked by an internal team, cutting development from 18 months to six.“Make it exactly the way it was,” Kuniskis said, streamlining the return by skipping recertifications.Samsung Galaxy users are about to get an unexpected addition to their phones—a generative AI-powered shopping app from Glance AI that brings fashion suggestions straight to the lock screen. Whether you asked for it or not, it's coming... with a side of dystopia.Glance AI is partnering with Samsung to roll out a lock screen shopping platform to U.S. Galaxy phones.The feature uses gen AI and selfies to visualize outfits you can buy, right from your lock screen.It's opt-in for now, but the rollout begins today for Galaxy S22–S25 models.While ads aren't yet part of the U.S. version, Glance's history in India suggests that could change.“I will absolutely throw my phone into the sea the first time I see an ad on my lock screen,” wrote reviewer Allison Johnson.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1062: In a first on this show, Paul does a live food review of Buddy's Pizza, provided by Steve Greenfield. Plus, we talk about how Amazon is preparing to have humanoid robots jump into the last mile of package delivery.Show Notes with links:A little over a week ago, Steve Greenfield was shocked to learn that Paul had never had a Detroit-style pizza. What followed on social media was a hotly debated post by Steve where the comments raged about which Detroit-style pizza was best. In the end, Buddy's won. True to his word, Steve sent Paul a pizza from Buddy's so he could eat his first bite live while he and Kyle wish they were eating pizza too. Will Paul like it?Amazon is set to launch real-world tests of humanoid robots that could one day walk your packages from electric vans to your doorstep. It's a next-level experiment blending robotics, AI, and EV logistics.A new report says that “Amazon hopes humanoid robots will be able to hitch a ride in the back of Amazon's electric Rivian vans and spring out to deliver packages.”Over 20,000 Rivian vans are in service; Amazon aims for 100,000 by 2030.A “humanoid park” at Amazon's San Francisco office simulates real-world delivery scenarios.Robots from companies like Unitree are included, with Amazon developing proprietary software using DeepSeek-VL2 and Alibaba's Qwen.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1061: China's rare earth restrictions are causing real pain for Europe's automakers, Costco's gas game and checkout tech are stepping up, and American shoppers are oddly calm about rising tariffs—at least for now.Show Notes with links:China's tightened grip on rare earth exports is starting to squeeze Europe's auto manufacturing sector. With critical materials stuck in red tape and only a quarter of export licenses approved, major OEMs and suppliers are bracing for broader production halts in the coming weeks.CLEPA, the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, says hundreds of export license requests were submitted, but only 25% approved since April.Parts plant shutdowns are already affecting suppliers to VW, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Bosch.The slowdown stems from China's April decision to suspend exports of rare earths and magnets amid a trade standoff with the U.S.Delays in customs clearance and license processing are compounding the issue, say VDA (the German Automotive Industry Association) and CLEPA.China may ease restrictions for certain European semiconductor firms, but auto remains at risk.“Production delays and even production outages can no longer be ruled out,” said VDA President Hildegard Mueller.America's third-largest retailer is leaning into its members-first model. Costco is expanding hours at gas stations, testing scan-and-go checkout tech, and adding flexible payment options to stay competitive in a tightening retail race.Gas stations now open nationwide until 10 p.m., with select sites opening earlier too.CEO Rob Vachris says the goal is to drive more foot—and fuel—traffic by boosting convenience.Gas accounted for 12% of Costco's total sales in 2024, thanks to exclusive member access and competitive prices.“Scan & Pay” via smartphone is being piloted to streamline checkout, competing with Sam's Club's tech-forward edge.Costco has also teamed with Affirm for monthly payment plans as shoppers look beyond credit cards.A new survey by Modern Retail highlights that while many Americans are concerned about rising costs and tariffs, their spending behavior has yet to shift significantly.76% of surveyed consumers said they were familiar with recent tariffs; over half believe tariffs increase prices for everyday goods.Despite that concern, 40% reported no notable changes in their purchasing habits.A majority of respondents said they were either delaying planned purchases due to higher prices or had already bought items early to avoid anticipated tariff-related cost increases.Electronics and clothing were identified as the most likely categories to see reduced spending.Over half of respondents expressed optimism about their financial outlook for the next six months.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1060: Steve Greenfield sounds the alarm on rising repair and insurance costs, Tesla loses its charger deal on the New Jersey Turnpike, and Meta doubles down on AI-generated advertising—even as trust from brands wavers.Show Notes with links:Collision repair costs are skyrocketing and insurance premiums are following suit. At ASOTU CON, Steve Greenfield broke down the challenges facing OEMs and dealers as vehicles become more complex, harder to repair, and more expensive to insure, saying “this has me more worried than anything else right now.”Tesla is pulling its chargers from the New Jersey Turnpike after the state awarded an exclusive deal to another provider. The decision led Elon Musk to cry foul, but the change seems more about contracts and control than conspiracy.Tesla built 64 Superchargers across 8 Turnpike stations under a 2020 agreement.NJ Turnpike Authority chose not to renew, awarding exclusivity to Applegreen.Tesla calls the move disappointing but says it has 116 alternative stalls ready nearby.Elon Musk called the decision “corruption” despite providing no supporting evidence.Applegreen will now supply EV charging at all 21 Turnpike service areas.Meta is leaning hard into artificial intelligence, announcing plans to let brands generate entire ad campaigns with AI by the end of next year. While the potential for automation is high, many advertisers are questioning the transparency and reliability of Meta's growing ad-tech empire.Meta will allow brands to create full ad campaigns from a single product image.Meta's AI will personalize ads in real time based on user location and environment—e.g., showing a sneaker on a city street for urban users and on a hiking trail for rural ones.This dynamic rendering aims to increase relevance and engagement, particularly for smaller advertisers with limited creative budgets.Advertising made up 97% of Meta's revenue in 2024, with much of it being reinvested back into AI.Ad executives remain skeptical, with one saying, “No clients will trust what they spit out.”Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1059: Today we're talking about the strength of dealership valuations despite sluggish buy-sells, Waymo's exponential takeover of the robotaxi race, and why your old boss might be your next one.Show Notes with links:The Q1 2025 Haig Partners Report says that despite solid performance metrics, dealership buy-sells dropped to the lowest first-quarter level in a decade, reflecting uncertainty in a year shaped by economic and political headwinds.Only 68 rooftops were sold, as public groups largely sat out; a sharp contrast to recent high-activity periods.Public dealers averaged $1M in Q1 pre-tax profits, with trailing 12-months at $3.9M—nearly double pre-pandemic levels.Blue sky values held firm at $20.7M, down just 1% from Q4 2024 and still nearly double pre-2020 benchmarks.Tariff concerns, election-year volatility, and OEM pricing strategies have many sellers in a wait-and-see mode.“These are often short-term fluctuations in what is ultimately a long-term business,” the report notes.What started as a quiet experiment has exploded into a transportation revolution. Waymo's self-driving service is scaling at a staggering pace, reshaping rider habits and leaving competitors scrambling to catch up.The ride-hailing company passed 10 million cumulative rides, with 20 million projected by year's end. Weekly rides jumped from 10K in 2023 to over 250K by mid-2025.March alone saw a 27% spike in San Francisco usage—a major behavioral shift.Expansion continues in Phoenix, LA, SF, and Austin; plus, Waymo is mapping 10+ new cities including Tokyo.Tesla is set to launch its own robotaxi service, using a camera-only, AI-first approach—far cheaper but less tested than Waymo's sensor-heavy, safety-first model.“This isn't science fiction. It's not the future. It's happening now,” said Co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana.As economic uncertainty lingers, both workers and employers are turning to familiarity. The share of new hires who are former employees—aka boomerang workers—is climbing again, especially in tech and media.March data shows that 35% of hires were returning employees, particularly in the information sector.Employers value boomerangs for cultural fit, performance history, and quick onboarding.Job seekers face longer searches and more layoffs—making old employers more appealing.Experts say your exit matters—managers increasingly view resignations as a potential pause, not a goodbye.“You want to get the best bang for your buck, and often it's a returning employee,” said ADP Chief Economist Nela RichardsonJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode 1058: It's the last day of the month and today Kyle is joined by Head Writer Chris Reeves to talk about how Baxter Subaru of Omaha, Nebraska reduced its trash output from 96 yards a week to 8. They're now recycling over 90% of their waste.It started with a full-blown trash audit (sounds gross but was actually genius), followed by smart signage, training videos, peer accountability, and leadership that wasn't afraid to roll up their sleeves and sort through the junk themselves.Thanks to Mandy Wood for sharing that story with us!Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1057: Nissan eyes a fire sale to survive, Trump's tariff plan hits legal trouble, and GM claims Canada's EV crown from Tesla—at least for now.Show Notes with links:As CEO Ivan Espinosa wraps up his first quarter in charge, Nissan's financial stability hangs in the balance, with a massive debt wall looming and rumors of a fire sale to raise cash.Nissan has $5.12 billion in debt due in 2026 and plans to refinance up to $4.15 billion of that.Espinosa's turnaround strategy involves slashing 20,000 jobs, closing seven global factories, and cutting $3.46 billion in costs by 2028.To free up capital, Nissan may liquidate high-value assets—including its stake in Renault, prime real estate in Japan, and even its iconic Yokohama headquarters, which could be sold and leased back.With nearly half of its U.S. sales coming from imports, Nissan Americas Chairman Christian Meunier is leading a $2B cost-cutting push focused on boosting retail sales, margins, and managing tariff risk.“We are not yet at the stage where we have to do something desperate,” said a board source.A federal court ruled Trump's use of emergency powers to impose sweeping tariffs was illegal—but for now, those tariffs remain while the legal battle unfolds.The U.S. Court of International Trade said Trump exceeded authority under the IEEPA, targeting tariffs not tied to a valid national emergency.IEEPA-based tariffs targeted a wide range of imported consumer goods not tied to national security—covering electronics, clothing, and some vehicle accessories.The ruling gave the government 10 days to unwind the tariffs, but an appeals court temporarily paused that order.Tariffs under Section 232—covering cars, parts, steel, and aluminum—remain, keeping vehicle prices elevated.Retailers like Walmart warn prices may rise further, though Trump has publicly told them to “eat the tariffs.”GM claimed the top EV spot in Canada after more than doubling its electric vehicle sales in Q1, driven by fresh model launches and Tesla's sharp drop.GM sold 5,750 EVs in Q1, led by the Chevy Equinox EV and new Cadillac OPTIQ, outpacing Tesla's volume.Silverado EV and Hummer EV variants also contributed, with Hummer Pickup sales up 232%.Tesla's registrations in Quebec plunged 87%, impacted by paused EV rebates at both federal and provincial levels.Despite year-over-year gains, GM's Q1 total is well off the 15,000 units sold in Q4 2024.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1056: Today we're talking about Elon Musk's dramatic exit from government, the rising appeal of extended-range EVs as a hybrid-EV mashup, and how Amazon wants to talk you into your next purchase—literally—with AI-generated audio highlights.Show Notes with links:Elon Musk has exited his role as a special government employee under the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), after a controversial 130-day crusade to slash federal spending.Musk's off-boarding began suddenly, without a direct talk with Trump.His DOGE plan aimed to cut $2 trillion but claimed only $175B in savings—an unverifiable figure.He aggressively targeted federal telework policies and agency redundancies, prompting both voluntary exits and court challenges.Clashes with cabinet members and critiques of Trump's tax plan sped his exit.Musk, reflecting on the challenge: “The federal bureaucracy situation is much worse than I realized.”With hybrids on the rise and EV momentum cooling, automakers are revisiting a once-overlooked technology: the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). Acting like an EV with backup, EREVs offer consumers a new kind of compromise.EREVs run on electric motors exclusively; the gas engine charges the battery, not the wheels.Sales in China are up, and new models are coming stateside from Ram, Nissan, Ford, and Scout.Ram's 2025 Ramcharger boasts 145 miles of electric range and a total of 690 with the gas engine.ZF and other suppliers are betting big on smaller, smarter range-extender systems launching globally.“EREVs...provide the benefits of an EV with the flexibility of a hybrid, at a relatively lower cost,” said AlixPartners' Dan Hearsch.Amazon is rolling out a new AI-powered audio feature designed to make product research less of a chore. “Hear the highlights” offers short audio summaries of key product info—ideal for the multitasking shopper.The feature pulls from product pages, reviews, and web data to generate brief, conversational scripts that are read by AIIt's currently being tested on select products like a Ninja Blender and Keurig coffee maker.Amazon VP Rajiv Mehta says it's “like having helpful friends” talk through your shopping choices.It may soon integrate with Alexa+, Amazon's upgraded AI voice assistant, to power hands-free buying.CEO Andy Jassy revealed Amazon is developing 1,000+ generative AI tools, calling AI the “reinvention” of customer experience.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1055: Today we cover Stellantis' new CEO facing a storm of tariffs and dealer tensions, GM's surprising pivot back to big V-8s, and DeLorean's futuristic EV launch… that's more crypto maze than car.Show Notes with links:After a six-month search, Stellantis has named Antonio Filosa as its new CEO. With more than 25 years in the industry and leadership experience across Brazil, North America, and global roles, Filosa is stepping in as the company faces pressure on multiple fronts.Filosa starts as CEO on June 23, replacing Carlos Tavares after his December resignation.Currently COO for the Americas and global chief quality officer, he's credited with restoring confidence internally.Challenges include reversing a 10% Q1 shipment drop, regaining dealer trust, and addressing a potential $7.1B hit from Trump's proposed 25% tariffs.Filosa has reinstalled key leadership—bringing back Ram's Tim Kuniskis and U.S. sales head Jeff Kommor—to stabilize operations.“One of my first decisions has been to bring back talents that we lost in the past,” Filosa told reporters in January.The EV slowdown has prompted General Motors to double down on internal combustion, shelving a $300 million plan for EV motors at its Tonawanda, NY plant and instead committing a massive $888 million to next-gen V-8 engine production.The site will continue producing Gen 5 V-8s while ramping up for Gen 6 engines by 2027.New engines will feature performance-boosting and emission-cutting innovations.Investment includes machinery, tooling, and facility upgrades—the largest ever for a GM engine plant.New York Governor Kathy Hochul said the project will support 870 jobs at Tonawanda Propulsion, including 177 jobs deemed at risk“This investment shows the company's commitment to strengthening American manufacturing,” said CEO Mary Barra.The DeLorean Alpha5 EV promised a high-tech return to the future, but it's now stuck in development limbo, with no production timeline or pricing—and buyers are being asked to reserve with cryptocurrency and NFTs.Reservations require $2,500 in USDC crypto via a specialized Slush Wallet and purchase of an NFT.No refunds are offered—buyers can resell their spot in line to recoup funds.Fewer than 600 reservations have been made, with some resale spots priced up to $40,000.The Alpha5, if it arrives, will offer 300+ miles of range and sub-3-second 0-60 performance.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1054: We're kicking off Tuesday week with a look at surging used car sales and shrinking supply, BYD's aggressive EV price cuts in China, and a Waffle House partnership that brings hash browns and high-speed charging together in the South.Show Notes with links:Automotive News released its top Used Car retailers list showing that the stabilizing of the 2024 market led to some big gains. However, the current complexities and quickly shrinking market day supply is testing even the best players.Used-only dealers like CarMax, Carvana, and DriveTime saw strong 2024 growth as supply chains normalized, with Carvana up 33% year-over-year.Dealers are creatively sourcing inventory—prioritizing trade-ins and direct-from-customer purchases to avoid costly auctions.The current used vehicle supply stands at just a 43-day market supply, the lowest since 2021, with lower-price vehicles hardest to find.Tariff fears have driven consumers to buy quickly, pushing prices for the top 50 used models to an average of nearly $29,000“There isn't a lot of room for error anymore in the post-COVID used-car world,” said Bill Solko, dealer principal of Automotive Avenues.Meanwhile Cox Automotive's Jonathan Smoke warned, 2025 is going to be a roller coaster for this industry,” BYD just launched a fresh round of EV price cuts in China, triggering a market shake-up that's pummeling stocks and ramping pressure on rivals like Tesla.BYD slashed prices across several models, including a 20% cut on the sub-$10,000 Seagull hatchback now priced at an equivalent of $7,780The Chinese EV market is nearing 50% penetration — five times the U.S. rate — largely due to aggressive pricing strategies.EV maker stocks, including BYD, Li Auto, and Geely, fell sharply after the announcement, signaling investor anxiety.BYD's growing profit cushion from 2019–2024 gives it room to undercut less profitable competitors.“This new price war will put even more pressure on Tesla,” Electrek reported, especially as new players like Xiaomi ramp up.In a match made in Southern heaven, bp pulse and Waffle House are joining forces to bring 400kW ultrafast EV charging to your next roadside breakfast stop.Starting in 2026, Waffle House locations across Georgia, Texas, Florida, and beyond will host six-bay charging stations.The chargers will support both CCS and NACS connectors and deliver up to 200 miles of range in about 15 minutes.The 24/7 diner vibe adds much-needed comfort and reliability to the EV charging experience.This builds on bp pulse's growing U.S. network, which includes partnerships with Hertz and 8,000+ retail locations.“Charging up while fueling up on an All-Star Special will be convenient and fast,” said Waffle House Innovation Director David Repp.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1053: It's Memorial Day, the un-official start of summer and a favorite of grillmasters everywhere, so we invited our good friend and grillmaster, James Ganther, to give some grilling tips for tasty food, and remind us of why we celebrate in the first place.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.It's the Saturday after ASOTU CON and the energy is still buzzing. Nathan is joined by Chris Reeves and Ann-Marie Johnsons to talk about their favorite moments and the heart behind the event. Special guest Carol Marshall of ActivEngage brings her unique perspective on what it meant to be part of the unreasonable hospitality at ASOTU CON.Some of our favorite moments: community, hugs, the emotional impact of the car giveaway andthe charity auction raising $10,000 for Vehicles for Change.ActivEngage's culture of full-color service is highlighted through their all-human chat model and hospitality approach.Carol credits the book Be Amazing or Go Home for reigniting her team's proactive spirit after the COVID lull.“We tried to serve in full color, not black and white,” Carol says, capturing the essence of their contribution.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1051: We're diving into the Senate's move to block California's gas car ban, Google's new video AI that adds audio, and which brands — including top automakers — gained or lost consumer trust in the 2025 Axios/Harris reputation rankings.Show Notes with links:In a dramatic legislative twist, the U.S. Senate voted to block California's plan to ban gas-powered vehicles by 2035, undercutting a key Biden-era environmental policy and dealing a blow to a major state-led push for zero-emission standards.The Senate vote was 51-44 to rescind the EPA waiver allowing California stricter emissions rules.11 states following California's policy would be impacted, including NY and WA.Auto dealers and manufacturers lobbied hard for the repeal, citing feasibility concerns.The move defies Senate precedent and a legal ruling from the parliamentarian.“You can be against the ACC II EV mandates (we were) and believe that transportation is trending toward a range of electrified products like battery electric vehicles, hybrids and plug-in hybrids (it is). That's what balance looks like. And balance is not only good for consumers, but essential for the U.S. auto industry to remain healthy and globally competitive,” said John Bozzella, CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation.Axios and The Harris Poll just dropped their annual brand reputation rankings, and the message from consumers is loud and clear: keep prices fair, quality high, and don't exploit inflation. Brands that did well stuck to those basics.Nearly half of all corporate reputations declined this year, driven by frustration over high prices and perceived drops in quality.77% of Americans say companies are charging more for lower quality; 63% have stopped buying from a brand due to high costs, and 54% over declining product standards.The biggest winners? Companies focused on delivering consistent value.Top 10 most reputable brands: Trader Joe's, Patagonia, Microsoft, Toyota Motor Corporation, Costco, Samsung, Arizona Beverage Company, Nvidia, UPS, AppleAutomotive brands on the list: Toyota (#4, up 8), Honda (#13, down 6), General Motors (#44, down 4), Hyundai (#51, no change), Volkswagen (#53, up 16), Ford (#60, down 5), Tesla (#95, down 32 in the largest move of any company on the list).At its I/O 2025 developer conference, Google unveiled Veo 3 — the latest version of its AI video generator, now with the ability to create synchronized sound. That includes background noise, effects, and even simple dialogue to match the video it produces.The new model builds on Veo 2 with better visuals and now audio that aligns automatically with what's on screen.Google says it's the first step away from “silent” AI-generated video — a space that's getting crowded with startups and big names like OpenAI and AlibabJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1050: A record number of U.S. consumers are skipping auto loans over rejection fears, EV history unfolded as BYD overtook Tesla in Europe and Google's I/O 2025 keynote was a full-court press on AI innovation.Show Notes with links:Consumer confidence in securing an auto loan is slipping fast. A recent survey by the New York Fed shows a record number of people aren't even applying—because they assume they'll be turned down. It's a new high in pessimism.34% of potential borrowers didn't apply for an auto loan in February due to fear of rejection—the highest since tracking began in 2014.Loan rejection rates hit 14%, a major jump from just 1.5% a year ago.Only 9.9% of consumers expect to apply for a loan in the next year, down from October's 11%.Just 63% believe they could handle a $2,000 emergency expense—also a record low.“The SCE Credit Access Survey points to an expected future tightening in credit conditions,” said the New York Fed.China's BYD outsells Tesla in Europe for first time, report says | ReutersIn a milestone moment for the European EV market, Chinese automaker BYD has outsold Tesla for the first time.BYD logged 7,231 BEV registrations in Europe in April, topping Tesla's 7,165—marking its first lead ever in the region.The Chinese brand only expanded beyond Norway and the Netherlands in late 2022 but is now gaining fast.Tesla faces pressure from a 13% Q1 sales dip, factory retools for the Model Y, and delayed rollouts of lower-cost trims.Chinese-made EV registrations jumped 59% year-over-year in April despite EU tariffs.“This is a watershed moment for Europe's car market,” said Felipe Munoz of market research firm JATO Analytics.Google's I/O 2025 keynote was packed with AI firepower. From shopping with chatbots to making movies with prompts, Google is putting generative AI front and center. Here's a quick recap of the announcements:Gemini's “AI Mode” is rolling out to all U.S. users, blending search, shopping, and smart summarization.Project Starline evolves into “Google Beam,” bringing 3D video chat to HP-branded hardware.New AI filmmaking app “Flow” uses Imagen, Veo, and Gemini to create 8-second video clips from prompts.Project Aura introduces Android XR smart glasses co-developed with Xreal and eyewear brands like Warby Parker.“We are shipping faster than ever,” said Google CEO Sundar Pichai, highlighting the company's accelerated pace in AI development.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1049: Today we're diving into Toyota's bold software move with the redesigned RAV4 Hybrid, watching Tesla and Waymo duel for robotaxi dominance, and seeing how Home Depot is holding the line on prices as tariffs rattle retailShow Notes with links:Toyota's sixth-gen RAV4 Hybrid isn't just sleeker—it's smarter. As the first model to feature the all-new Arene operating system, the global bestseller is now a testbed for Toyota's software-first future.Arene is built by Woven by Toyota, the automaker's in-house software arm and made up of three core components: Arene SDK (to build apps and features), Arene Tools (to virtually test them), and Arene Data (to collect and use real-world driver feedback).In practice, that means Toyota can push OTA updates that improve safety systems like Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 based on global user data, often updating every few weeks or months, mirroring how smartphone OS updates roll out.The SDK powers the new voice agent and center display; the data system creates a feedback loop that improves regional performance by learning from users in 180 countries.“Software can be an added layer where we can evolve the car over time,” said Woven CTO John Absmeier. “We help your Toyota grow old with you.”Tesla and Waymo are tackling robotaxis from different angles—Tesla with bold camera-only tech, and Waymo with sensor-packed precision. But a real-world test in San Francisco handed one of them a clear win.Waymo's service, active since 2024, uses 29 cameras, 5 lidars, and 6 radars in Jaguar I-PACEs.Tesla's FSD Supervised software, tested in a Model 3, relies solely on eight external cameras—with its FSD Unsupervised version launching in Austin next month.On winding SF roads from Twin Peaks to Chase Center, both systems performed well—until Tesla's FSD ran a red light at a busy intersection.The Waymo delivered a confident, human-like ride, including a lane change that “seemed like it was just tired of waiting.”“It's got New York cab driver energy,” said tester Alistair Barr of Waymo's proactive driving style.As tariffs squeeze the retail sector, Home Depot is leaning into its U.S.-based supply chain and scale advantage to keep prices steady—even as competitors like Walmart warn of price hikes.Over half of Home Depot's inventory is sourced domestically, with imports on the decline.CFO Richard McPhail says no single foreign country will represent more than 10% of purchases within 12 months.Q1 2025 revenue rose 9.4% to $39.9B, with average transaction values ticking up slightly to $90.71.The company saw 394.8 million transactions, a 2.1% increase year-over-year.“We saw continued customer engagement across smaller projects,” said CEO Ted Decker.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1048: Today we're diving into Honda's EV strategy rethink and dealer drama in California, a mid-May dip in wholesale used vehicle prices, and the growing reality that side hustles aren't just extra—they're essential.Honda is pumping the brakes on its aggressive EV strategy, cutting EV R&D investment by 30% and slashing its 2030 EV sales forecast by more than 1 million vehicles. Instead, hybrids are back in the spotlight.Honda now expects just 700,000 to 750,000 EVs sold in 2030, down from 2 million.EV R&D cut from ¥10T ($69B) to ¥7T ($48B); with 13 next-gen hybrid models to debut starting 2027 with improved fuel economy and cost.“It has become increasingly clear that the environmental regulations... are becoming relaxed. I think the EV penetration period will be pushed back by about 5-6 years.” said CEO Toshihiro Mibe.Meanwhile, California's dealer association has issued a cease and desist letter to Sony Honda Mobility, challenging their direct-to-consumer sales strategy for the Afeela 1 EV.American Honda claims no role in Sony Honda Mobility's sales plans.Wholesale used-vehicle prices dipped in the first half of May, giving back some of April's unusually strong gains. The market shows signs of normalization, even as demand for used vehicles remains steady.The Manheim Index fell to 205.9, down 1.1% from April but still up 4.4% YoY.Three-year-old vehicles depreciated less than average, down just 0.6%.Luxury and SUV segments led YoY gains; compact cars were the only group to decline.EVs rose 2.0% YoY but saw a 2.0% drop vs April, steeper than non-EVs.“As the tariff situation evolves and the frenzy of buying activity for new vehicles calms down, we expect wholesale pricing trends to remain more normal through Q2,” said Cox Automotive's Jeremy Robb.Side hustles aren't just a way to save for that vacation anymore—they're becoming an economic necessity for many Americans. With living costs rising and economic uncertainty looming, millions are turning to extra work just to stay afloat.44% of Americans now report having a side hustle; 43% of them rely on it to pay for basic living expenses.Bankrate data shows 71% earn under $500/month, with only 9% making over $2,000.Top gigs include web design, video editing, ride-hailing, delivery driving, and even voiceover work.Some are using side gigs to build AI-proof income streams in trades, tutoring, or specialized services.NetCredit reports AI-based gigs on Fiverr average $44.50/day—low but growing fast.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1047: Kia's veteran apprenticeship program is creating certified techs and stronger stores, while “American-made” is a lot harder to accomplish than it sounds. Plus, OpenAI is taking on software engineering with a new update.Show Notes with links:Kia America's Veterans Technician Apprenticeship Program is helping dealers find, train, and retain top-tier tech talent by giving veterans a fast path to certification—and the results are showing up in the service drive.Launched in 2023, the program combines mentorship, on-the-job training, and a 30-day certification bootcamp.Approved by the DOL and VA, it offers tax credits and GI Bill stipends to offset dealer costs.462 Kia dealerships have enrolled; 278 veterans—including 16 women—have been hired so far.Participating stores report higher appointment volume, productivity, and lower tech turnover.Speaking about program graduate Caleb Samsel, Anthony Catalanotto of Generation Auto Group said “He's a leader. He says the right things. He does the right things. He's always in his uniform. He's always working hard. If someone can't figure something out, he's right with them.”Despite political pressure and patriotic branding, building a truly American-made vehicle is still more fantasy than factory reality. Ford's latest Expedition highlights just how global even U.S.-assembled vehicles remain.The Expedition is assembled in Kentucky, but only 58% of its parts are North American, with key components like engines and semiconductors still coming from overseas.Automakers say sourcing 90% U.S. content could raise vehicle prices $10K–$20K, pricing out many buyers.Past vehicles reached 90%+ U.S./Canada content; today's tech and globalization make that rare.“We can move everything to the U.S., but if every Ford is $50,000, we're not going to win,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley.OpenAI is expanding its capabilities in one of AI's most competitive frontiers: software engineering. Its new Codex agent is designed to handle complex coding tasks autonomously and at scale.Codex performs tasks like writing code, fixing bugs, running tests, and reviewing codebases.Built on the new codex-1 model, optimized from OpenAI's o3 reasoning architecture.Available to ChatGPT Pro, Team, and Enterprise users during a research preview.Competitors like Anthropic's Sonnet models still lead developer adoption, but the field is evolving quickly.“It is a fundamentally new way of working,” said OpenAI VP of Engineering Srinivas Narayanan.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.We're live from Friday morning at ASOTU CON.Last night, we closed with a keynote that shared our stories of how we got into the industry, and encouraged the industry to go and be leaders in their stores and communities.THANK YOU to everyone who came up to us and shared your story, and shared your hope for the future.This industry is built different.See you Monday!Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Welcome to Day 2 at ASOTU CON!Paul, Kyle and Michael recap Day 1 and talk about some of the things they've overheard on the show floor and on stages.Day 2 is shaping up to be amazing! See you tomorrow!Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Paul, Kyle and Michael hit the Content Corner to record a quick show before ASOTU CON 2025 kicks off officially. Follow all the action on social media!Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1043: We're coming to you live from ASOTU CON 25! Today we're diving into Volkswagen and Uber's plan to launch ID. Buzz robotaxis by 2026, TikTok's surprising power in driving car sales, and what it all means for the future of mobility and marketing. Show Notes with links:Volkswagen and Uber are teaming up to bring self-driving ID. Buzz microbuses to U.S. streets. Testing starts this year, with full-scale deployment in Los Angeles by 2026.The electric, retro-styled ID. Buzz will serve as the vehicle for Uber's upcoming autonomous ride-hail service.Human-supervised testing begins in 2025, with LA as the launch city and national rollout planned.VW's MOIA subsidiary will handle the autonomous tech and platform integration.The deal aligns with VW's push into urban mobility and Uber's interest in expanding robotaxi options.“Volkswagen is not just a car manufacturer—we are shaping the future of mobility,” said VW's Christian Senger.TikTok's latest whitepaper dives deep into how the platform influences car buying decisions, debunking the myth that it's just for dances and pranks. With affluent users and a cultural grip, TikTok is revving its engine as a legit force in automotive marketing.TikTok drives 9.4% of all digital-driven inquiries despite a smaller ad spend.Outperforms other digital channels with 90% higher ROI vs. online video and 12% better than other digital platforms.Full-funnel campaigns see 14% more inquiries and 62% better efficiency with longer, balanced spends.TikTok's cultural influence makes or breaks brand equity, especially post-sale.“A brand's failure to fulfill its promises in this post-purchase phase can hurt brand equity seven times more than a positive encounter can benefit it.”Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Today Paul is the last man standing in the studio as the entire crew is on their way to ASOTU CON 2025. He sets the stage of what to expect over the next week and tells you how to be a part of the event even if you can't be there this year. Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1040: Today we're diving into a transatlantic tariff feud shaking up the luxury auto sector, a multistate lawsuit over EV charging funds, and why VW's nostalgic ID. Buzz just got benched. A new U.S.–U.K. trade deal that dramatically lowers tariffs on British auto exports is saving jobs at Jaguar Land Rover—but not without blowback. American automakers say the agreement favors British imports over North American-made vehicles, threatening jobs and supply chains at home.British auto exports to the U.S. will now face a 10% tariff—down from 27.5%—for up to 100,000 vehicles annually.Jaguar Land Rover, with 32% of its global sales in the U.S., has resumed exports and praised the deal for bringing certainty to the sector.The American Automotive Policy Council, representing GM, Ford, and Stellantis, condemned the deal, saying it undercuts USMCA-compliant vehicles made in Mexico or Canada.“This hurts American automakers, suppliers, and auto workers,” the Council said, warning the U.K. terms could set a damaging precedent for future trade deals.U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the deal at a JLR plant, calling the tariff cut “hugely important to me,” while JLR CEO Adrian Mardell “warmly welcomed” the agreement.California and 16 other states are taking the Trump administration to court aiming to reinstate $5 billion intended for EV charger expansion across the U.S. The states say the funding is critical for innovation, climate goals, and job growth.The lawsuit challenges the Trump administration's February directive to halt $5 billion in EV charger construction authorized by the 2021 Infrastructure Act.States argue the move undermines efforts to reduce emissions and meet rising demand for clean transportation.California Governor Gavin Newsom slammed the decision as “another Trump gift to China,” saying it kills U.S. jobs and innovation.Volkswagen's nostalgia-fueled ID. Buzz is hitting a bump in the road. A pair of recalls—including one over a missing seatbelt in the back row—has sidelined sales of the electric van that was meant to channel the spirit of the 1960s.VW is recalling about 5,600 ID. Buzz EVs because U.S. regulators say its third-row bench is wide enough for three passengers—but has only two seatbelts.The fix? VW will install unpadded trim to reduce the perceived seat width and stay within safety rules.A second recall involves the emergency brake warning light, which shows amber instead of the federally required red.Dealers have been ordered not to sell any affected ID. Buzz units until the repairs are made.“It really took the wind out of my breJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1039: Today we're talking about Carvana's record-setting quarter and bold new goal, Ford's strategic price hikes post-tariffs, and why Google's stock took a beating after an Apple exec dropped a courtroom AI bomb.Show Notes with links:Carvana has bounced back in a major way, setting a new quarterly record for used-vehicle sales and showcasing the company's transformation from high-growth chaos to sustainable profitability, even amid looming tariff concerns.Q1 retail sales hit 133,898 units, up 46% year over year—beating their prior record by 16,000 vehicles.Net income reached $373M; revenue surged 38% to $4.2B.Tariffs caused a temporary demand bump, but Carvana is now focused on adapting inventory to price-sensitive consumer behavior.Carvana aims to sell 3 million vehicles annually within 5–10 years, targeting a 13.5% adjusted EBITDA margin by fully utilizing its existing infrastructure like ADESA megasites and inspection centers.CEO Ernie Garcia emphasized flexibility: “We've got significant margin to work with… and significant cash balances.”As the auto industry adjusts to newly announced tariffs, Ford is selectively increasing prices on several 2025 models while shielding current dealer inventory.Starting May 2, 2025 Mavericks, Bronco Sports, and Mach-Es (all produced in Mexico) will see MSRP increases of $600–$2,000, depending on trim and features.Existing stock and vehicles already in transit will keep their original sticker prices.Earlier this week, Ford withdrew its 2025 outlook, citing $1.5B in expected tariff-related earnings impact.Ford is one of the first major automakers to publicly respond to the impact of the tariffs with pricing strategy.“We can't forecast what we can't see,” said one executive privatelyIn a courtroom twist, an Apple executive may have confirmed Google's worst fear—that AI is starting to eat into its search dominance.Eddy Cue, Apple's services chief, testified that Safari searches dipped in April for the first time ever, likely due to users turning to AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity.Cue expects Apple will eventually add AI search engines as user-selectable options in Safari.The revelation came during Google's antitrust trial, where Apple disclosed it receives over $20B annually to keep Google the default.Google stock fell more than 7% following Cue's testimony, wiping out tens of billions in market cap. They responded by saying “we continue to see overall query growth,” especially from Apple platforms.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1038: Today we're talking about the expected surge in auto dealership M&A activity, Hyundai's latest software update that simplifies EV charging across major networks, and Tanger's decision to launch its back-to-school campaign early in response to ongoing tariff concerns.Show Notes with links:Though Q1 saw a dip in dealership buy-sell activity, The Presidio Group sees the rest of 2025 heating up. With election season uncertainty in the rearview, dealers may be ready to get back to the negotiating table.Q1 had 82 transactions involving 106 dealerships, down from 90 deals and 175 stores last year.Election year uncertainty slowed activity, but momentum is now rebounding with Presidio saying the pipeline is “robust” and expecting strong summer/fall dealmaking.Presidio President George Karolis said that tariffs are adding complexity, especially around brand valuation and sourcing strategies. However, many dealers are already looking past tariffs, and there are more buyers than sellers in the current market.“Certainly, [tariffs have] come up. If anything, maybe we're buying a little bit of time just to see what happens over the next 90 days before we finalize some transactions,” said Sonic Automotive President Jeff Dyke.Hyundai EV drivers just got a serious charging upgrade. With tighter app integration and support for plug-and-charge at Tesla Superchargers, the Ioniq lineup is catching up to the Tesla standard in user experience.New software upgrades bring MyHyundai app support for Tesla, ChargePoint, EVGo, and Ionna.Plug-and-charge is now available on Ioniq 5, Ioniq 9, and future EVs—just plug in and go.App features include route planning, charger location, and direct in-app payments.Older Hyundai EVs can access Superchargers with an adapter; however the Kona EV is not yet supported.The upgrade aims to make EV charging “as easy as gassing up.”As tariffs loom large, outlet mall giant Tanger is speeding up its seasonal strategy. The company's early back-to-school campaign kicks off June 1, tapping into consumer concerns over rising prices and potential supply shortfalls.Tanger CEO Stephen Yalof says early shopping means better deals and availability.This year's campaign targets 10 million TangerClub members with urgent messaging and marks a pivot from last year's late-July start.Other retailers like Fashion Nova and Beis are also urging pre-tariff purchases.“If they can make decisions early and shop early, then they can take advantage of getting the products they want at the price they want,” said Yalof.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1037: Today we break down Ford's Q1 fallout as tariffs cast a $1.5B shadow, electrified vehicles surge to nearly 25% of new-car sales led by hybrids and non-Tesla EVs, and Waymo revs up its driverless ambitions with a new Arizona mega-factory and major city expansion plans.Show Notes with links:Ford is bracing for a bumpy ride in 2025 after revealing a steep Q1 net income drop and pulling its full-year earnings forecast. Mounting tariff costs and factory downtime from SUV redesigns weighed heavily on the automaker's performance, with more uncertainty ahead.Net income fell 65% to $471M.Ford expects 2025 tariffs to cut profits by $1.5B, despite $1B in planned offsets.CFO says Q1 tariffs cost $200M, mitigated partly by bonded carrier routes through Canada.Ford Pro earned $1.3B (down 56%); Model e lost $849M despite a 15% EV sales bump.CEO Jim Farley: “We are strengthening our underlying business with significantly better quality and our third straight quarter of year-over-year cost improvement, excluding the impact of tariffs.”Electrified vehicles accounted for nearly one in four new-car sales in Q1 2025, as hybrids led the growth and Tesla's dominance continued to wane. Buyers are moving fast—whether driven by rebates, tariffs, or just better options.EV sales hit 750,698 in Q1, up 29.6% YoY, with total electrified market share reaching 24.4%.Hybrids surged 44.1%, capturing 13.3% of all new-car sales, thanks largely to Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Ford, Lexus, and Kia—who together own 97% of the segment.Tesla's BEV share dipped to 44.2%, while non-Tesla BEVs jumped 47%.Florida EV sales rose 42.5%, while Texas surged 37.1%, outpacing growth in traditional EV strongholds.“A significant part of it is due to automakers tapping into what drivers want. The 2025 lineup offers 71 unique models (up from 54 in 2025) with improved specs and options for every lifestyle." said Recurrent's Liz Najman. Waymo is transitioning from test phase to mass production, expanding its ride-hailing footprint while anchoring its future with a high-capacity, AV-focused factory in Arizona.Waymo One now handles 250,000 weekly rides across Phoenix, LA, SF, and Austin with expansions into Atlanta, Miami, and Washington, D.C. planned in 2026A 239,000-square-foot factory in Mesa, AZ will build thousands of autonomous Jaguars annually, in partnership with Magna.The facility will feature a fully automated line and produce vehicles with Waymo's latest sixth-gen Driver tech.“The Waymo Driver integration plant in Mesa is the epicenter of our future growth plans,” said Ryan McNamara, Waymo's VP of operations.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1036: Warren Buffett shocks investors with a surprise retirement announcement, Tesla sweetens the Model Y deal to boost lagging demand, and Harley's LiveWire hits a wall while the legacy brand keeps the engine running. Show Notes with links:After 60 years of leading Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett has stunned the business world by announcing he will retire as CEO at the end of 2025. Buffett, now 94, made the announcement unceremoniously after nearly five hours of Q&A, stunning a packed stadium into silence.He had not previously disclosed his exact plans—not even to most of the board or Greg Abel, his named successor, who was sitting beside him at the time.Abel has already been managing most of Berkshire's sprawling empire since 2018, excluding insurance, and is described as a “quick study” with deep operational knowledge and a more involved leadership style. Buffett will stay on as chairman. Investors and analysts widely agree: nobody can replicate Buffett's investing instincts or the brand equity he brings to the table. “[Abel] would make a huge mistake trying to be Warren Buffett, and he knows that,” said Fidelity's Will Danoff.Buffett will leave behind a company with 189 operating businesses, $264 billion in stocks, and $348 billion in cash—along with a trust-based leadership culture.Berkshire Hathaway Automotive, one of the group's largest units, continues to play a key role, contributing 65% of the company's retail revenue in 2022, with over 100 franchises in 10 states.Tesla is offering low-interest financing on the new Model Y, signaling that demand isn't quite where they hoped it would be.New U.S. buyers can now get 1.99% APR or $0 down—a first for the refreshed Model Y.It follows a $2,000 discount offered just last week to early buyers.Despite being Tesla's best-seller, inventory is building up and wait times are unusually short.Tesla blamed Q1's weak deliveries on the Model Y changeover, but signs point to broader demand challenges.In Europe and China, things are worse—0% financing is already being offered to move cars.Harley-Davidson's electric offshoot LiveWire is facing serious headwinds, with sales collapsing and losses piling up—raising real questions about the brand's future.LiveWire sold just 33 electric motorcycles in Q1, down 72% year-over-year—a staggering drop for a brand once aiming for 100,000 units annually by 2026.The brand earned only $3 million in revenue but posted a $20 million operating loss, meaning it lost about $606,000 per bike.Harley blames a “volatile macroeconomic environment” and consumer hesitation amid economic uncertainty.Meanwhile, Harley-Davidson's core business weathered the storm, pulling in $1.32 billion in Q1 revenue despite shJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.On this Saturday that's getting closer and closer to ASOTU CON, Head Writer Chris Reeves joins the show to discuss the upcoming 3(!) car giveaways at ASOTU CON this year.Want to be a part of the action? Join us: www.asotucon.com/ticketsJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1034: Today we dive into a legal showdown brewing in California over Afeela's sales strategy, Rivian's new campaign powered by real owners, and Chipotle's massive burrito giveaway honoring teachers and nurses.Show Notes with links:Just after suing Scout Motors, California dealers are challenging Sony Honda Mobility's direct-to-consumer model, questioning its legality under state franchise law.The California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA) is investigating whether Afeela's direct online sales circumvent state laws designed to protect franchisees.CNCDA President Brian Maas says if SHM is deemed affiliated with Honda, it must legally use franchise dealers to sell vehicles.The group is also reviewing activity at SHM's pop-up showrooms, concerned they might function as illegal retail outlets.“Our concern would be alleviated if Sony-Honda decided to have franchise dealers,” said Maas.https://www.autonews.com/rivian/an-rivian-marketing-campaign-0501/Rivian is leaning into its loyal community with its first national campaign, turning fan stories into fun, feel-good ads.The “Real Rivian Adventures” campaign uses real owner stories to showcase Rivian's brand values.The first ad features a kid using an R1T's outlet to power a lemonade stand blender, styled as a spaghetti western.Created by Mojo Supermarket, the campaign is rolling out across streaming and social platforms.It comes ahead of Rivian's more affordable R2 crossover launch, expected in 2026 at around $45K.“The more inclusive and collaborative we can be… that really is true to who we are,” said VP of Marketing Denise Cherry.Chipotle is giving away 200,000 free burrito e-cards to recognize teachers and healthcare professionals during their national appreciation weeks.100,000 teachers and 100,000 healthcare workers will be randomly selected to receive free entrée e-cards.Participants must sign up and verify their employment through ID.me to qualify.The giveaway coincides with Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5–9) and National Nurses Week (May 6–12).Chipotle's Round-Up for Real Change campaign also supports related nonprofits through customer donations.“Teachers and healthcare professionals are such important members of the communities we serve,” said Chris Brandt, chief brand officerJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1033: Today we're talking Hyundai and Kia's red-hot April sales streak, Ford's surprise retreat from a major software project, and why most consumers still aren't sold on AI or social shopping tools.Show Notes with links:U.S. shoppers are racing to dealerships to beat rising prices from new import tariffs, driving Hyundai and Kia to record April sales as both brands notch their seventh straight month of year-over-year gains.Hyundai U.S. sales jumped 19% in April, while Kia sales rose 14%.EVs and hybrids continue to shine: Hyundai up 25%, Kia up 21%.Industrywide sales were projected to rise as much as 15% in April, though momentum cooled as the month progressed.U.S. new-vehicle inventory dropped to 2.57M units (61-day supply) in mid-April, down from 2.69M (70 days) at the start of April and 2.8M (81 days) a year ago, per Cox Automotive.“Inventory levels have declined substantially over recent weeks, likely pushing vehicle prices higher. The outlook for new-auto sales from here is more troubling,” said Cox Automotive's Charles Chesbrough.Ford has canceled its highly anticipated FNV4 electrical architecture project, once billed as key to competing with EV pioneers like Tesla. The move underscores the uphill battle legacy automakers face in modernizing vehicle software.FNV4 aimed to unify software across gas and electric models, cutting costs and boosting update speed.The project was scrapped due to cost overruns and delays, after contributing to nearly $10B in software and EV losses over two years.CEO Jim Farley admitted Ford's current system relies on code from 150 suppliers—creating major barriers to quality and speed.Ford is shifting focus to a California-based skunkworks team developing affordable EVs and advanced software.“The only strategic advantage any company can have is speed,” said Caresoft Global's Terry Woychowski.New data shows a growing divide in how U.S. consumers view tech-driven shopping. KPMG's summer 2025 survey suggests widespread hesitation toward AI and social commerce—while Capgemini sees signs of rising adoption, especially among Gen Z.63% of consumers haven't used AI shopping tools and don't plan to, per KPMG; 56% say the same for social shopping.Shoppers say they prefer doing their own research and aren't swayed by online ads—especially when privacy and data usage are involved.In contrast, Capgemini reports nearly 60% of consumers now use generative AI in place of traditional search, and a third shop directly via social media.Gen Z bucks the trend: over half have made purchases via social platforms, and TikTok shoppers spent an average of $708 on the app last year.“The visual nature of fashion makes it a perfect fit for platforms like Instagram and TikTok,” said KPMG's Sam Ganga, urginJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1032: Today we break down Trump's new tariff offsets for U.S. automakers, GM's massive recall of its flagship V-8, and a heartwarming $50K donation from West Herr's CEO to support local youth.Show Notes with links:President Trump is throwing automakers a bit of a lifeline on tariffs—but it's not a free ride. His new executive orders are easing some of the pressure, but only if manufacturers meet some very specific conditions.Automakers who build vehicles in the U.S. can apply for a special reimbursement starting April 3, 2025.That reimbursement is worth 3.75% of the MSRP for the first year, dropping to 2.5% in year two.To qualify for the full break, at least 85% of the vehicle's parts have to be made in the U.S. or in a country covered by the USMCA.If a vehicle hits 50% U.S. content, the company will only pay tariffs on the remaining 35% instead of the full 50%.Parts themselves are also capped—companies can get reimbursed for components making up to 15% of a vehicle's value in year one, and 10% in year two.Vehicles and parts must be assembled in the U.S. to qualify, and a new system for applying is expected within 30 days.At a Detroit rally yesterday, President Trump said, “They took in parts from all over the world. I don't want that. I want them to make their parts here. We gave them a little bit of time before we slaughter them if they don't do this.”In news that hits close to home, General Motors has issued a voluntary recall of 721,000 6.2-liter V-8 engines due to potential engine seizure, affecting pickups and large SUVs built from March 2021 through May 2024.The issue stems from rod bearing damage caused by sediment and crankshafts with improper dimensions and surface finish.Faulty components were supplied by American Axle & Manufacturing and Questum Macimex.Dealers face backlog challenges as each engine swap takes over 22 hours and requires full replacement engines.GM says inspections will begin first; engines that pass will receive 0W-40 oil, a new filter, cap, and owner's manual update.“The safety and satisfaction of our customers are the highest priorities for the entire GM team,” said spokesman Bill Grotz.We'll end the show with a bright spot: During the Depew-Lancaster Boys & Girls Club's Spring Fundraiser, West Herr President/CEO Scott Bieler made a surprise $50,000 donation through his family foundation.The gift honored Bethanne Hollis, West Herr's VP of Variable Ops and a club board member.The donation helps offset major funding losses for the club this year.Funds will directly support local youth programs and services.“We are so lucky to have both of these amazing individuals leading the way,” West Herr statJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1031: Today we're talking about Trump's possible easing of auto tariffs ahead of a Michigan trip, GM's courtroom defense over driver data privacy, and why e-commerce might be losing its edge as shoppers crave more fun and surprise.As he prepares to visit Michigan for the 100-day mark of his second term, President Trump is signaling potential changes that could ease the auto industry's tariff burdens.The administration is considering adjustments to tariffs on imported auto parts and may exempt automakers from certain steel and aluminum duties.The policy shift, first reported by the Wall Street Journal, appears aimed at supporting domestic manufacturers and suppliers.Proposed changes would address the “stacking” of tariffs—where multiple levies apply to the same imported vehicle—by potentially eliminating overlapping duties.The potential relief follows a joint letter from major automakers, including GM and Toyota, urging the administration to reconsider.“This deal is a major victory for the president's trade policy,” said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, “by rewarding companies who manufacture domestically.”General Motors is facing a wave of lawsuits accusing the automaker of secretly collecting and selling drivers' behavioral data—claims GM is now trying to dismiss with a bold new legal argument.The lawsuits began in March 2024, alleging GM, OnStar, and data firms like LexisNexis shared driver behavior data without proper consent.GM discontinued its Smart Driver program in April 2024 and ended partnerships with LexisNexis and Verisk after public backlash.Now, GM argues the data collection didn't violate privacy because driving behavior on public roads isn't protected under privacy laws.“Driving data includes vehicle location, routes, braking events, and speed—all occurring on public thoroughfares,” GM said in its dismissal filing.“Roadways are public, and these behaviors are observed by all,” GM stated, citing precedent that public conduct doesn't carry a reasonable expectation of privacy.A new study from Criteo reveals that the digital checkout rush might be fading, with consumers craving the discovery and delight of in-store shopping.More than 75% of consumers say e-commerce is functional—but not fun—with 29% calling it a chore.Shoppers miss the thrill of the unexpected: 36% long for the “surprise finds” that often come in-store.A majority find online shopping overwhelming (78%) and lonely (79%), with only half describing it as enjoyable.While data privacy remains a concern, 43% of consumers are open to sharing data for a more tailored experience.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1030: Today we're talking about the real hurdles to moving auto production stateside, catching up with Carlos Ghosn's new life as a leadership coach (and fugitive), and Amazon's surprising new experiment that lets shoppers stray beyond its walls.Show Notes with links:A quarter of U.S. automotive assembly capacity sat unused at the end of 2024, suggesting opportunity amid the backdrop of President Trump's tariffs. However, shifting production to underutilized plants is far more complicated than it sounds.Toyota, BMW, and Honda used over 80% of their U.S. production capacity, leaving little room for more output.Automakers like Stellantis, GM, Ford, and Nissan have more idle capacity but face logistical and investment hurdles.Stellantis' Warren Truck Plant has just 17% utilization but can't quickly absorb new models without major investment, despite being able to build related pickups and SUVs.Ford's Flat Rock Assembly Plant could theoretically take on new models like the Mustang Mach-E, but even the fastest transition would still take six months to a year to execute.Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions said: "The rhetoric that moving assembly of vehicles into open spaces is easy and quick is not accurate."Five years after his dramatic escape from Japan, former Nissan and Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn is living a quieter life in Lebanon — but remains an international fugitive still shadowed by legal battles.Ghosn lives in a disputed $20M mansion, running executive bootcamps for midlevel managers at a Lebanese university.Despite legal threats from France and Japan, Lebanon's refusal to extradite its citizens keeps him out of reach.He still denies all accusations, blaming Nissan insiders for orchestrating his downfall to block a deeper Renault-Nissan alliance.Ghosn remains bullish on globalization, calling recent tariff tensions “a joke” against broader interconnected trends.He criticized the post-split struggles of Nissan and Renault: “Nissan is begging for some financial help, and Renault is back to what it was before 1999 — a small European company.”In a surprising pivot from its traditional walled-garden strategy, Amazon is testing a program that lets customers shop directly from third-party brand websites — without leaving its app.Shoppers can either be redirected to brand sites or complete purchases through Amazon's “Buy for Me” checkout feature.Amazon handles payment transfer securely, while shipping, returns, and customer service stay with the brand.The move allows Amazon to collect deeper shopper data, enhancing ad targeting and product recommendations.Industry experts suggest Amazon is trading short-term sales for long-term insights and stronger ad business.Jason Goldberg of Publicis said: “The bigger share of a custoJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.On this Saturday, Chris Reeves bring Daniel Govaer to the show with him to talk about how Leif Johnson in Texas brought together off-road truck owners - Raptors, Broncos and Rangers - to take part in an off-road rally to benefit Make-A-Wish.You can find out more and donate here: https://www.leifjohnsonford.com/raptor-rally.htmlJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1028: Today we talk about VinFast ditching direct sales for a full franchise model, Slate launching a no-frills EV pickup that's shaking things up under $20K, and the growing movement toward skills-based hiring over college degrees.Show Notes with links:VinFast is officially out of the direct-to-consumer game in California, shifting gears to focus solely on franchised dealers across the U.S. The pivot comes as the Vietnamese EV maker wrestles with rising costs, sliding U.S. registrations, and mounting losses.VinFast is closing all 15 of its company-owned California showrooms in favor of a full franchise model.The brand currently has 38 dealer locations either open or on the way across 16 states.U.S. EV registrations dipped to just 367 in Jan–Feb 2025, an 18% year-over-year decline.The VF 8 accounted for 321 of those, while the three-row VF 9 saw just 46.The company posted a $3.18B net loss in 2024; despite revenue growth, operating costs surged.After months of mystery and speculation, Slate, the American EV startup backed by Jeff Bezos, has made its first big move—introducing an all-electric, highly customizable pickup that ditches luxury frills for practicality and affordability.Slate is taking a “clean slate” approach by skipping high-end trims and focusing on accessibility.It will be built in the U.S., comes with over 100 optional accessories, and starts below $20,000 after federal incentives.The flagship model is modular, converting from a 2-seat pickup to a 5-seat SUV with optional flat-pack kit.The interior is stripped-down with HVAC knobs, crank windows and a universal phone mount—your OS, your way.Specs include a 52–84 kWh battery, 150 kW RWD motor, 8-second 0-60, and up to 240 miles range.Slate will sell directly to consumers with a $50 reservation; first deliveries are slated for Q4 2026.CEO Chris Barman says: “The definition of what's affordable is broken. Slate exists to put the power back in the hands of customers who have been ignored by the auto industry.”Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1027: Lithia leans into affordability while breaking records despite tariffs. Carvana boosts its reconditioning game in Colorado. And Chipotle turns up the charm, teaching 3,800 teams to smile their way to better hospitality.Show Notes with links:While tariffs loom over the auto industry, Lithia Motors is leaning into its diversified strategy and breaking financial records. CEO Bryan DeBoer says the dealership giant is uniquely positioned to ride out the storm.Roughly 45% of Lithia's inventory isn't impacted by current tariffs, providing a significant buffer.The company posted a record $9.2 billion in Q1 revenue (up 7.2%) and $211.2 million in net income (up 28%).Lithia's emphasis on affordability, including older used vehicles, has strengthened its market position.With parts prices rising, DeBoer stressed the importance of matching pricing with competitors like Jiffy Lube and AutoZone, while offering both OEM and aftermarket parts.“With tariffs, we sit quite nicely,” said DeBoer, calling Lithia “probably the most diversified and least impacted” of the major retailers.Carvana is expanding its operational footprint in a big way, bringing inspection and reconditioning (IRC) services to its Colorado Springs ADESA auction site—marking its eighth national Megasite.The new Megasite in Fountain, CO spans 50 acres. It supports both retail recon and wholesale auction needs and will create 100 new jobs.With added IRC capacity, Carvana can offer more inventory and speed up delivery times for local buyers.This move enhances Carvana's recon and fulfillment network, bringing vehicles to market more efficiently.“This integration will bring a wider selection of vehicles with quick shipping times to local retail customers, and provide a more robust offering for local wholesale customers,” said Brian Boyd, SVP of Inventory.A customer study revealed Chipotle lacked friendliness and cleanliness, especially during peak hours so CEO Scott Boatwright has announced a new hospitality push including smiling staff, cleaner dining areas, and better on-site issue recovery.Every employee is now coached to greet customers with a smile at the tortilla station and end transactions with a heartfelt thank you, reinforcing a culture of warmth without slowing operations.Staff across all 3,800+ restaurants have been trained on “exceptional hospitality” standards.Despite a dip in transactions, Q1 sales were up 6.4% to $2.9 billion—driven by new locations.“The fact is, smiles down the line don't slow us down,” said Boatwright.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1026: California dealers are taking legal action against Scout Motors over its direct-sales model. Elon Musk plans to scale back his government role amid Tesla's slumping sales. And new code reveals OpenAI may soon integrate Shopify directly into ChatGPT, turning the AI into a full retail assistant.The California New Car Dealers Association is going to court over Scout Motors' retail strategy, saying the VW-owned startup is sidestepping franchise laws and undercutting the state's dealer network.Dealers claim Scout violates California Vehicle Code Section 11713.3, which bars automakers from bypassing franchised dealers if the brand is affiliated with an existing franchise network.A 2024 amendment clarifies that new EV brands under a legacy OEM must sell through franchised dealers if they share ownership.CNCDA argues that VW can't legally claim Scout is “independent” when it's wholly owned by Volkswagen AG.The association says VW dealers are being unfairly excluded from selling Scout's high-demand electric SUVs and pickups, and the lawsuit seeks over $35M in fines, plus a full sales halt and deposit freeze in California.“Illegal competition will harm not only dealers but also the communities and car buyers that they serve,” said CNCDA President Brian Maas.Elon Musk says he'll scale back his government work next month and refocus on Tesla, where sales are dropping, margins are thinning, and investors are restless.Musk says the “slog” of setting up the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is mostly done, but still plans to spend 40% of his time on it.Tesla stock jumped 5.5% after Musk's remarks on an earnings call; shares are still down nearly 50% from their December peak.Tesla's Q1 revenue missed estimates at $19.34B, with auto revenue down 20% and net profit down 71%.Musk reiterated support for lower tariffs but acknowledged Tesla isn't immune to "macro demand for cars," noting that economic uncertainty leads consumers to "pause on doing a major capital purchase like a car."Tesla is on track for a mid-2025 launch of an affordable EV and a June debut of its Austin-based robotaxi fleet.OpenAI is setting the stage for ChatGPT to become a full-fledged shopping assistant, as new code hints at a direct integration with Shopify that could streamline the entire purchase journey—from query to checkout.Code found in ChatGPT's public web assets includes tags like “buy_now” and “shopify_checkout_url,” suggesting native shopping support.If confirmed, this would allow users to move from query to checkout in seconds—no affiliate links, just direct Shopify-powered transactions.OpenAI's move mirrors Microsoft's April launch of the Copilot Merchant Program, which embeds shopping directly into the AI experience.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1025: We cover Nissan's plan to hold vehicle prices through early June and increase U.S. production in response to tariffs. Plus we examine Tesla's strategic repositioning of the Cybertruck and how cybercriminals are creating a realistic-looking phishing campaign using Google's own tools.Show Notes with links:Nissan is staying steady on pricing through June 2 and looking to its underused U.S. factories to soften the blow of auto tariffs. The strategy focuses on affordability and domestic production leverage.Nissan has a 3-month supply of tariff-free vehicles and won't raise prices yet.The company plans to boost output at Smyrna, TN and Canton, MS plants, all of which operated at half their capacity in 2024.Rogue production will jump by 54% over the next year, adding 60,000 units, while price cuts of $1K on 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder aim to drive demand.Nissan is incentivizing retailers with its April and May dealer volume bonus program, which pays extra cash to stores that meet sales targets.“We count all the cars [toward the sales target], but we only pay on the U.S.-made cars because we want to give [them a] tailwind,” said Nissan Americas Chair Christian MeunierTesla is quietly shifting the Cybertruck's identity from status symbol to workhorse after early hype faded, trucks stockpiled, and political ties turned divisive. The new approach aims to resonate with a more traditional truck-buying audience.Cybertruck deliveries remain under 50,000; demand has sharply declined with sales dropping 50% in Q1.Tesla updated the product page with rugged, utilitarian imagery, aligning with Ford's F-150 ads.Sales teams report it's harder to sell the truck to actual truck buyers; its novelty isn't enough."They need to advertise durability. It needs to be used and abused, and all of the capabilities that make it a work truck need to be on full display," said Edmunds' Ivan Drury.Cybercriminals are exploiting Google's own “Sites” app to run a phishing campaign that convincingly mimics law enforcement subpoenas and bypasses email authentication safeguards.Emails appear from “no-reply@google.com” and claim law enforcement access to your account.Attackers use Google Sites to create convincing portals that evade DKIM checks.DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM) authentication is passed since the emails originate from Google's own infrastructure.Google has acknowledged the issue and is deploying mitigations while encouraging 2FA and passkeys.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/