The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1149: We're live outside of EV Auto in Brentwood. Today, we look at how automakers have relatively kept car prices normal despite rising tariffs. Plus, Waymo and Lyft are teaming up to bring autonomous rides to the streets of Music City.Automakers have kept price hikes at bay despite billions in tariff-related costs from the Trump-era trade war. But the pressure is building—and price increases may be just around the corner.Automakers like GM and Ford are absorbing up to $5 billion and $3 billion respectively in tariff-related costs.Despite this, MSRPs have remained relatively flat—up less than 1% between March and August, per Edmunds.Some costs are being quietly passed along via fees like delivery, which jumped 8.5% to $1,507.Analysts expect prices to gradually increase as tariffs stick, with focus shifting to more profitable models.Hyundai's Randy Parker: “Our priority remains ensuring that we're competitive through affordability.”Waymo has announced a new partnership with Lyft to launch a robotaxi service in Nashville, with public access planned for 2026. The collaboration reflects a growing trend in autonomous mobility partnerships.Testing of Waymo's all-electric, self-driving Jaguar I-Pace vehicles begins in the coming months.Lyft will manage fleet services via its Flexdrive subsidiary, including maintenance and depot operations.Riders will first access vehicles through the Waymo app, with Lyft integration to follow.The deal mirrors Waymo's arrangement with Uber but gives users more choice in how to hail rides.“We're excited to partner with Lyft again to bring our Waymo Driver to more people,” said Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo.Mental health is quickly becoming Gen Z's top priority, outpacing physical health and academics. Retailers are responding by centering campaigns around well-being, using purpose-driven strategies to build trust and authentically engage young consumers.PacSun's “Youth Report” found 42% of Gen Z consumers rank mental health as their top life priority.Lululemon's research showed 89% of those with “wellbeing burnout” cite loneliness, and many feel overwhelmed by mixed wellness advice.L.L.Bean and Mental Health America found 79% of respondents say outdoor time improves mental health.Dunnhumby data showed Gen Z prioritizes mental health more than any other generation.“We have a unique opportunity to engage...to help them prioritize mental health,” said American Eagle's Jennifer Foyle.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 #1148: Buyers rush to lock in EV tax credits, Toyota builds an app to hack your habits, and Walmart's HR chief taps AI for top talent. Legacy automakers saw a sharp EV registration bump in July as buyers rushed to lock in the $7,500 federal tax credit before it expires at the end of September. However, Tesla, Rivian, and VinFast didn't share in the win.EV registrations jumped 27% for legacy brands like Chevrolet and Honda, far outpacing the overall 6% EV market growth and pushing EV share to 8.9% of the light-vehicle market.Tesla saw a 13% YoY drop in registrations, while Rivian dipped 6% and VinFast slid 17%.Chevrolet more than doubled its EV registrations, while Volkswagen posted a 127% increaseHonda's Prologue EV offered nearly $13,000 per unit in incentives, helping it to a 102% rise, while Audi tripled its numbers thanks to strong Q4 e-tron performance.“The current surge in EV sales is being driven by product innovation, motivated dealers and an urgency ahead of the IRA tax credit phaseout,” said Cox Automotive's Stephanie Valdez Streaty.Toyota is getting creative about plug-in hybrid charging with a new app that uses behavioral science to make sure owners actually… plug in. It's dopamine-driven, gamified brain hacking in the name of better fuel economy.Toyota's ChargeMinder app uses over a dozen behavioral interventions to encourage charging, including personalized reminders and gamified streaks.It boosted U.S. user satisfaction by 16 percentage points and increased off-peak charging in Japan by 59%, though U.S. charging frequency only rose 10%.The app uses vehicle telematics and location data to deliver nudges and educational quizzes that make charging habits stick.Toyota says this low-cost strategy can rival expensive infrastructure or incentive programs in moving consumer behavior.Dr. Laura Libby, Manager, Carbon Neutrality, Human Centered AI, Toyota Research Institute: “Small, targeted interventions can have a large impact on people's decisions and actions.”While most associate AI in hiring with resume screening, Walmart's Chief People Officer Donna Morris is tapping tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity to help identify potential candidates—especially for high-level internal or external leadership roles.Morris uses AI to ask targeted questions when kicking off key searches, saying the results often align closely with candidates already under consideration.Walmart has already piloted an AI Interview Coach and is launching a custom version of OpenAI's Certification Program through Walmart Academy.Morris also uses AI in daily life—from diagnosing her father's skin bruises to finding art replicas and restaurant recs—crediting it with making research faster and more accessible.“Now, the access to information is phenomenal,” she said. “I thinkJoin 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 #1147: Today we're covering a first-of-its-kind Stellantis store acquisition backed by Ellenae Fairhurst's trust, a new AI tool that negotiates car deals for shoppers, and the latest U.S.-China framework over TikTokThe late Ellenae Fairhurst's legacy lives on as a Stellantis store in Virginia has new owners, in a new approach to dealership ownership.Fairhurst Automotive, backed by the Ellenae Fairhurst Entrepreneurial Trust, acquired and rebranded the South Richmond CDJR store.Ellenae Fairhurst was the first Black woman to own Infiniti and Lexus stores in the US and her trust, formed in 2024, funds and mentors first-time Black dealers with a path to majority ownership and wealth creation.New co-owners Ken Banks and Chris Justice navigated regulatory hurdles and surprise costs, including a $50,000 business license and $40,000 in IT upgrades.Adviser Stuart McCallum and the team at Biltmore Automotive guided the operators through everything from DMS installation to state licensing.“They took two people who knew nothing about ownership… and just walked us through it,” said co-owner Chris Justice.Many customers dread negotiating a car price, so CarEdge thinks AI should do it for you. The startup's new “AI Negotiator” lets customers pay $40 to have an AI agent haggle with dealers on their behalf.CarEdge launched its AI Negotiator app in July; over 2,000 customers have already paid to try it.Users set a target price, and the AI contacts dealers directly via email and text — without revealing it's not a human.The system tracks 150+ data points per interaction, building a database of doc fees and add-ons nationwide.Founder Zach Shefska says dealers and OEMs are already taking notice, calling CarEdge “the tip of the spear.”“There's still going to be people that walk up to the dealership [to negotiate], but there's a percentage of sales that can happen without the incumbent cost infrastructure, and everyone can win. That's what I'm passionate about,” Shefska said.The U.S. and China have struck a framework deal over TikTok's ownership, potentially shifting control from ByteDance to a U.S. company.Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed the framework during trade talks in Madrid; Trump and Xi are expected to discuss final details Friday.The deal addresses U.S. demands for local control of user data and oversight of TikTok's proprietary algorithm.China insists it won't compromise on principles or allow “politicization” of technology and trade.Broader issues remain unresolved, including fentanyl chemical exports, sanctions on Chinese firms, and new U.S. export controls.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 #1146: Automotive News's 100th anniversary Congress celebrated industry icons and looked towards the future, Elon Musk bets big on Tesla, shoppers get overwhelmed by too many choices (sound familiar?)Show Notes with links:At its 100th anniversary Congress, Automotive News celebrated legacy while tackling the industry's most pressing challenges—from EV adoption to geopolitical threats.Centennial Awards went to GM's Mary Barra and Hyundai's Euisun Chung for transformational leadership.Chung addressed the ICE worker raid, signaling cross-government cooperation: “I hope we can make together a better system for that.”Barra emphasized EV commitment despite headwinds: “From an EV perspective, that is still our North Star.”Industry insiders warned of China's dominance—EV share grew from 6% to 50% in five years, while foreign brands lost half their market share.Asbury CEO David Hult called fixed ops the “backbone” of the dealership, with aging vehicles and tech shifts fueling long-term growth saying he's “really bullish on the next six to 10 years.”Tesla stock surged after CEO Elon Musk disclosed a nearly $1B stock buy, calming investor nerves amid political distractions and sagging EV demand.Musk bought 2.57M shares on Friday, spending between $372 and $396 each.Tesla shares jumped over 8% in premarket trading Monday, continuing a late-week rally.Despite a 2% year-to-date dip, the stock is on pace for its third straight daily gain.Investor concerns had grown over Musk's political focus and waning EV demand.Tesla Chair Robyn Denholm pushed back: “Elon is back front and center at the company.”A new survey reveals grocery shoppers are overwhelmed by too many choices—and many now treat food labels like vehicle window stickers.36% of Americans report “aisle anxiety,” triggered by too many options and crowded stores.Shoppers spend an average of 4 minutes per item, with 71% trying to be more intentional.Retailers like Trader Joe's and Aldi combat “choice paralysis” by limiting SKUs per category.Certifications matter: 40% research products for health, ethics, and sustainability—but many confuse terms like “natural” and “organic.”“When consumers see a trusted certification, it's like a shortcut to feeling good about their decision,” said Jamie Horst, Traditional Medicinals' Chief Purpose Officer.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier2:45 Announcements: Upcoming Webinar3:17 Automotive New 100th Anniversary Congress6:12 Elon Musk Buys $1B of Tesla Stock8:39 36% Of Americans Have "Aisle Anxiety"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.On this Saturday, Chris joins Paul and Kyle to talk about the power of remembrance and how Carla Cosenzi and TommyCar Auto Group are connecting people in a meaninful way through the 17th Annual Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament.Founded in memory of Tom Cosenzi, the event supports Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the incredible work of Dr. Wen and his team.Golfers, sponsors, and volunteers showed up in full force to continue the mission of giving back.Carla Cosenzi on LinkedIn said “Dad, I hope you are proud of what has been built in your name… Together, we are making a difference.”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 #1144: Dealers face rising cyber threats, Chevy launches big EV incentives, and the Goodyear Blimp marks 100 years over Detroit.Show Notes with links:Proton Dealership IT's Cybersecurity 2025 report shows auto retailers are still being hit hard by organized cyberattacks. Activity remains 150–250% higher than before mid-2024's massive outage, with new tactics targeting dealership websites, employees, and customer data.December 2024 saw a 110% year-over-year increase in dealership cyberattacks.A March 2025 supply chain breach slipped malware into dealership website photos.Criminals time attacks around holidays and off-hours, boosting ransom success.Stolen passwords and remote access put payroll, banking, and OEM systems at risk.Proton urges dealers to enforce MFA, deploy Managed Detection & Response, and train staff against phishing.“Attacks are targeting dealerships every single day. How well those dealerships are protected makes a difference,” Proton warns.Chevrolet is going all-in on affordability this month with new incentives across its Equinox, Blazer, and Silverado EVs—just in time before the federal EV tax credit dries up.The Equinox EV, dubbed “America's most affordable 315+ mile range EV,” now leases for as low as $249/month.Chevy is offering up to $3,000 in customer cash on the Equinox and up to $4,000 on the Silverado EV.Costco members can save an additional $1,250 on top of existing offers.Financing deals include 0% APR for 60 months or the $7,500 tax credit applied at the point of sale.Senior Vice President and President, North America, Duncan Aldred: “We will almost certainly see a smaller EV market for a while, and we won't overproduce. Still, we believe GM can continue to grow EV market share.”​​If you spotted the Goodyear Blimp flying over Detroit this week, it wasn't covering a touchdown or home run—it was celebrating a milestone.The Goodyear Blimp “Wingfoot One” was in town for the 2025 Automotive News Congress in Detroit.Goodyear and Automotive News are both celebrating their 100th anniversaries this year.Rides were offered to Congress attendees from Willow Run Airport on Sept. 10. And on Sept. 11, the blimp soared over the city in honor of the industry event.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 #1143: Today, we pause and reflect on the state of the union, in light of September 11th and the assassination of Charlie Kirk.This industry is about More Than Cars, and its our job to carry that light and that hope forward in how we serve our employees, customers and our communities.​​US EV sales hit another milestone in August pushing EVs to a record 9.9% share of new car sales. With tax credits ending this month, Q3 is on pace to be the strongest EV quarter in US history.August EV sales hit 146,332, up from 9.1% share in July, while theverage EV price: $57,245 — up 3.1% from July, flat year-over-year.Incentives averaged $9,000 per vehicle, equal to 16% of ATP.Tesla's market share fell to 38%, its lowest ever, as rivals surged.Cox analyst Stephanie Valdez Streaty: “The one constant in the automotive business is that fresh product sells well. The market is now flooded with all-new, fresh EVs from mainstream competitors – consumers have more choice than ever.”Ford is taking center stage in late-night TV as Jimmy Fallon tapes The Tonight Show in Detroit for the first time ever.The Detroit Opera House, built in 1922, will host Fallon's one-night show on September 15.Ford is in its fifth year partnering with Fallon and NBC.Fallon previously test-drove a Mustang GT with Jim Farley and filmed skits promoting the F-150 Lightning.Ford-backed segments have included everything from a parody music video to puppies predicting the Kentucky Derby.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 #1142: Stellantis and GM double down on Canadian production with third-shift revivals. U.S.–South Korea trade tensions threaten key EV investments after a Hyundai-linked ICE raid. Plus, Kyle and Steve share takeaways from the NCM Digital Success Workshop.Show Notes with links:It's a good day for Canadian auto workers as both Stellantis and General Motors announce plans to extend or reinstate third shifts at major plants, signaling stronger-than-expected demand and effective union pressure.Stellantis' Windsor Assembly Plant will return to a three-shift schedule in Q1 2026.The move follows a commitment made in 2023 Unifor negotiations, aiming to meet increased demand for Chrysler minivans and Dodge Chargers.Unifor Local 444 President James Stewart calls it an “encouraging step” for members and the community.Meanwhile, GM's Oshawa plant will retain its third shift until January 30, 2026, delaying previously announced layoffs.A spokesperson said the move was in response to short-term ”production needs" for light-duty pickups.Unifor President Lana Payne sees the shift extensions as “a sign of life for a critical industry” under threat from U.S. tariffs: “Fighting back matters.”A $350B investment deal between the U.S. and South Korea is under pressure following a high-profile ICE raid and growing concerns about how the fund will be structured—potentially jeopardizing future incentives for Korean automakers.The ICE raid at a Hyundai-linked battery plant in Georgia sparked outrage in South Korea, prompting emergency diplomatic talks.The $350B fund, originally pitched to mirror a U.S.-Japan deal, is now in dispute over whether it includes direct investments or just loan guarantees.South Korea insists it needs different terms due to the greater impact such capital would have on its economy.A key auto trade component—lower tariffs on Korean-made vehicles—is still pending, and may be delayed if talks break down.Kim Yong-beom, South Korea's director of national policy said that while the auto tariffs are important, they're not worth rushing the fund to completion, either.0:00 Intro with Kyle Mountsier and Steve Greenfield0:50 Announcements1:35 Stellantis, GM Increase Canada Shifts3:33 South Korea Trade Deal In Jeopardy5:47 NCM Client and Friends Digital Success Workshop RecapJoin 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 #1141: Tesla drops a philosophy-heavy master plan that barely mentions EVs. Palmer Luckey becomes the first to fly the Jetson One eVTOL. And McKinsey pushes back on AI job fears with a boost in entry-level hiring.Tesla's “Master Plan Part IV” is here, and it might just be the most philosophical of the bunch. With barely a mention of actual cars, the company appears to be pivoting hard toward artificial intelligence, humanoid robots, and an ambitious goal they call “sustainable abundance.”The document positions Tesla as a leader in building tools that "bring AI into the physical world."The original "Master Plans" outlined clear goals: launch EVs, scale production, and push solar. Fewer than 200 words of Part IV reference Tesla's current or future products, with humanoid robot Optimus taking center stage.The plan leans heavily into themes like "Growth is infinite" and "Innovation removes constraints" instead of product roadmaps.Electric vehicles are only mentioned in the context of the past; the future is autonomy, labor automation, and AI computing.Musk has said Tesla's humanoid robots will account for “~80% of Tesla's long-term value.”Tech founder Palmer Luckey just became the first customer to take delivery of the Jetson One — a personal electric aircraft that doesn't even require a pilot's license. And yes, he took it for a spin.The Oculus and Anduril founder lifted off in Carlsbad, CA after just 50 minutes of training.Jetson One is a $128,000 single-seat eVTOL with 20-minute flight time and 63 mph top speed.Luckey's flight kicks off Jetson's official global rollout; 2025 and 2026 models are already sold out.Jetson's CTO says their goal is to “move ground-based transportation up to the air.”At a time when many fear AI will make junior roles obsolete, McKinsey is leaning in the opposite direction. The firm announced it plans to grow North American hiring by 12% in 2026, with a focus on entry-level talent — especially those fluent in emerging tech.McKinsey currently employs 5,000–7,000 non-partners in North America and could grow that number by up to 20% in five years.North America chair Eric Kutcher values younger workers' fluency in tech: “The 20-year-old econ major… is way more in tune.”Kutcher emphasized that while AI may improve efficiency, it frees up teams to pursue growth initiatives — not layoffs.Many CEOs aren't excited by cost-cutting; they're eager to redirect resources toward new opportunities, he noted.“What we will work on will still require the same level of intellect… doing the things that you can't do with machines,” said Kutcher.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 #1140: Today we're talking about Toyota's big ethanol play in Fukushima and California lawmakers slamming the brakes on “Leno's Law” for classic cars. Plus, Paul's back with some unexpected retail takeaways from his vacation travels.Show Notes with links:Toyota and a coalition of Japanese automakers are doing something symbolic and strategic — turning the former Fukushima no-go zone into a proving ground for next-gen biofuels.A Toyota-led consortium is piloting ethanol biofuel production in Okuma, the town devastated by the 2011 nuclear disaster.They're cultivating high-cellulose sorghum, which outperforms corn in poor soil and doesn't compete with food crops.This is part of Japan's “multipathway” strategy — pushing hybrids, synthetic fuels, and biofuels alongside EVs.The group, which includes Subaru, Mazda, Suzuki, Daihatsu, and Eneos, opened a $33M plant in November to convert the sorghum to E10 fuel.“We want this movement to spread beyond Japan to the world,” said Toyota CTO Hiroki Nakajima while touring the fields in a straw hat.Jay Leno's push to exempt classic car owners from smog checks in California has officially stalled. Despite passing the Senate and Leno's personal testimony, the bill was quietly killed by the Assembly Appropriations Committee.Senate Bill 712, dubbed “Leno's Law,” would have exempted pre-1981 cars with historic plates from smog checks.The Assembly's Appropriations Committee killed the bill without explanation, alongside 70 others on its “suspense file.”Leno argued classic car smog checks are outdated, expensive, and hard to perform with modern equipment.Environmental groups and air quality regulators opposed the bill, citing cost and pollution concerns.“Sadly, today California said ‘no' to helping preserve these rolling pieces of history,” said sponsor Sen. Shannon Grove.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.The first weekend of September! Head Writer Chris Reeves joins Kyle Mountsier to discuss how the auto industry ramps up its community contributions in the fall towards the end of the year.We love hearing how dealers are giving back, and today we get to highlight how Gettel Automotive Group has donated $70,000 to support food banks in the communities we serve across Florida and Georgia.This contribution will help families in:

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1138: Mary Barra and her GM peers are selling big while Tesla bets even bigger on Elon. A new U.S.–Japan trade deal lowers tariffs and boosts investment in auto-related sectors. And Apple, OpenAI, and Walmart are teaming up to define what AI literacy looks like for the next generation of workers.As Tesla courts Elon Musk with a potential $1 trillion payday, General Motors' leadership is making moves of a very different kind. The spotlight is now on Mary Barra and what her stock sales might signal.GM CEO Mary Barra sold over 40% of her holdings in late August, unloading more than $21 million in a single day — part of nearly $58 million in sales over the past six months.She's not alone: Chief Accounting Officer Christopher Hatto and Executive VP Rory Harvey also sold sizable chunks of stock in recent months with no purchases to offset them.Meanwhile, Tesla is dangling a $1 trillion comp plan to keep Elon Musk locked in, tied to targets like an $8.5 trillion valuation and robotaxi expansion.Musk would see his Tesla stake climb back to 25% if the plan succeeds — a move he's called essential to staying committed.After months of back-and-forth, the U.S. has officially lowered tariffs on Japanese auto imports, giving Japan's automakers a long-awaited reprieve—and setting the stage for billions in investment.President Trump signed an executive order implementing 15% tariffs on Japanese autos, down from 27.5%, effective within a week.The order also prevents “stacked” tariffs on goods like beef and guarantees no levies on airplanes or parts.Toyota, which projected a $10B profit hit from previous tariffs, praised the clarity of the deal. About 80% of Toyota vehicles sold in the U.S. are built in North America.“Finally,” posted Japan's chief negotiator Ryosei Akazawa, after ten U.S. trips to seal the deal.While Apple eyes Google's AI muscle to upgrade Siri, OpenAI is putting boots on the ground to make sure American workers—and businesses—aren't left behind in the AI revolution.Apple is testing Google's Gemini model to power AI search summaries in a new Siri feature called “World Knowledge Answers.”The upgraded Siri aims to challenge AI-powered search platforms by blending web results with summaries, visuals, and points of interest—possibly debuting in iOS 26.4 next spring.Meanwhile, OpenAI is rolling out AI certifications and a new jobs platform in partnership with Walmart, John Deere, and others to certify 10 million Americans by 2030.The goal? Help 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 #1137: VinFast leans into a dealer-driven strategy while VW puts the brakes on ID.4 production despite rock-bottom lease pricing. Meanwhile, Porsche unveils a slick wireless charger for its next-gen Cayenne EV.Show Notes with links:Despite reporting a larger Q2 loss, Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is still betting on a traditional dealership model to accelerate growth and cut costs. The shift marks a major pivot from its direct-to-consumer roots.Q2 net loss hit $812M, up 15% from Q1, as VinFast ramps global marketing and R&D.Revenue rose 91.6% YoY to $663M, with vehicle deliveries jumping 172% to 35,837 units.Founder Pham Nhat Vuong pledged $1.5B to support expansion and R&D as the company moves away from company-owned showrooms to a lighter, franchised dealership model.“We stick to our goal this year and are flexible with our market approach amid (the) changing global situation,” said Chairperson Thuy Le.Despite offering the most affordable EV lease in the U.S., Volkswagen is pausing ID.4 production in Chattanooga as consumer demand continues to drop.Production will stop in late October, affecting 160 workers who will be furloughed with 80% pay and full benefits.ID.4 sales dropped 65% in Q2, down to 1,992 units, compared to 5,665 in the same quarter last year.Loss of federal EV tax credit and increased competition from Hyundai and GM have hurt demand.Volkswagen has dropped lease pricing to $129/month, but discounts haven't reversed the trend.A company spokesperson called the pause a “market-driven decision” with no set restart date.Forget cables—Porsche's new wireless charging pad for the upcoming Cayenne EV brings smartphone-style convenience to your driveway, with high-tech safety features and surprisingly strong performance.The 11-kW wireless charger pad delivers overnight charging speeds, matching typical Level 2 plug-in options.The system activates automatically when a compatible vehicle parks over the pad, eliminating the need to plug in.Pad is air-cooled; vehicle-mounted plate is liquid-cooled and must be pre-wired at the factory.Built-in radar pauses charging if it detects pets or metal objects, adding a layer of safety to home charging.U.S. pricing is still pending, but the full system—including vehicle integration—is expected to cost around $9,500 based on European estimates.0:00 Intro with Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo0:52 The ebbs and flows of mainstream news1:54 Announcements2:54 Vinfast Announces $812M Q2 Loss5:46 VW To Pause US ID.4 Production9:12 Porsche To Offer Wireless ChargingJoin 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 #1136: An IRS update that could save EV buyers thousands, how Cadillac is quietly staging a luxury comeback and the deeper impact of AI on software development—and whether vibe-coding is helping or hollowing out the craft.The IRS has provided a much-needed clarification that gives EV buyers a path to still claim the federal tax credit—even if their vehicle hasn't been delivered by the September 30th deadline.Buyers who sign a binding purchase agreement and make a payment by September 30, 2025, can still claim the $7,500 (new) or $4,000 (used) EV tax credit.This clarification resolves confusion around the “placed in service” language, which had been interpreted to mean vehicles had to be delivered before the deadline.Deliveries can now happen after the deadline as long as paperwork and payment are completed beforehand.Dealers must provide a “time of sale report” within three days of vehicle delivery to support the buyer's claim.The clarification comes as EV demand has surged this summer, with analysts crediting savvy shoppers aiming to lock in the credit before its sunset.Cadillac's electric vehicle momentum is giving the brand a shot at reclaiming its former glory in the luxury segment—this time with plugs instead of prestige grilles.Cadillac's U.S. sales have risen for 12 straight quarters, with EVs making up about a third of sales in the past two months.That figure far outpaces both the broader industry (6–8%) and even the luxury segment (14%) for EV market share.Most EV buyers are trading in vehicles from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes—brands that have long outshined Cadillac.Even Tesla is losing 1 in 10 trade-ins to the American luxury brand.“They're now beyond where we expect the industry to be five years from now,” said J.D. Power's Tyson Jominy. “Success today does not necessarily mean success tomorrow.”As AI-assisted vibe coding tools proliferate, developers are grappling with what gets gained—and lost—when code becomes more suggestion than craftsmanship.AI tools now help with everything from debugging to database encryption to entire app scaffolding.While helpful, these tools can also produce bloated, disjointed code without strong editorial guidance.Critics worry that fluency in core principles is eroding, replaced by reliance on “good enough” automation.“It may be the easiest time in history to be a coder,” the author writes, “but it's perhaps harder than ever to grow into a software engineer.”0:00 Intro with Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo1:15 What Kyle and Michael would do with a 2-day work week2:42 Upcoming ASOTU Edge Webinar with vAuto on Sept 103:22 EVs Delivered Post-Sept 30 Can Still Receive Tax Credit5:59 Cadillac Sales Grow For 12 Straight Quarters8:25 Vibe Coding Making Coding Easier, But Not GoodJoin 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 #1135: Friendly Chevy's charging park is pulling in revenue and conquest sales, BYD takes a profit hit in China's price war, and Google's “Nano Banana” might just beat ChatGPT at the AI image game.Show Notes with links:Back in 2021, Friendly Chevrolet's Mark Eddins saw a gap in the EV experience—and filled it. With GM rolling out EV standards, he went all-in on a unique charging park open to all EV brands. Today, EVHQ is paying off in brand loyalty, new customers, and revenue.EVHQ opened March 2023 near downtown Dallas with eight 120-kW fast chargers under a canopy, staffed 24/7.It offers a lounge-style experience: movie room, Corvette Cafe, Wi-Fi, play area, dog park—even roadside charging.All EV brands are welcome; a free membership gets 20% off retail charging, and an app is launching soon.Revenue hit $300K in 2024 and is on pace for $400K this year, with over 10,000 users and 1,200 monthly sessions.EV sales at the store more than doubled in 2025 so far.“I wanted to be one of those guys that had something nobody else had,” Eddins said. “It is beyond my wildest dreams, quite frankly.”Even as BYD pushes aggressively into overseas markets, the Chinese EV giant is taking heat at home. A brutal domestic price war cut deep into profits last quarter, despite record sales and growing international presence.BYD's Q2 net profit dropped 30% year-over-year to $891M, even as revenue rose 14%.The company blames “excessive marketing” and fierce price-cutting across China's EV space.Retail prices in China have fallen 19% over two years, triggering concern from regulators.First-half revenue still jumped 23%, with record new energy vehicle sales.In Europe, BYD's July registrations hit 13,000+—up 225% year-over-year.A new challenger has entered the AI image arena. Google's “Nano Banana” image generator—recently added to Gemini—might just be the first serious rival to ChatGPT's viral image dominance. And it's got some surprising strengths.Nano Banana delivers sharper realism, faster generation, and better character consistency.It keeps visual details intact across prompts, and it's images often look more natural and less AI-generated.Gemini's model also handles real photo uploads better—especially when combining images or changing backgrounds."If you want something that's very quick and gets the job done in the most realistic way possible… Gemini's Nano Banana is the clear winner," wrote one reviewer.0:00 Intro with Kyle Mountsier and Ben Hadley1:03 Announcements1:46 Friendly Chevy's EVHQ Charging Station6:00 BYD Q2 Profit Drops 30%10:04 Google's Nano Banana OutperformsJoin 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 and Chris bring you a story about Jacob Miller, a high school senior living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Jacob has big plans for being only eight years old and he just got a life-changing boost from our friends at West Herr Automotive: a wheelchair-accessible van that's opening the road to his future in engineering.Read the story here. 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 #1133: Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke joins Paul to talk tariffs, pent-up demand, and why Q3 might be best experienced with a little Abba. It's a data-rich conversation with serious implications for dealers navigating policy shifts, EV adoption, and consumer behavior.ASOTU's coverage of the 45th Annual NAMAD Annual Meeting is brought to you by Connected Dealer Services.Jonathan Smoke, Chief Economist at Cox Automotive, offers a deep dive into today's economic headwinds and consumer sentiment:Tariffs Echo the 1930s: Jonathan compares today's tariffs to policies that sparked the Great Depression, but says their current impact is more of a "roller coaster" than a collapse.Stabilization Surprises: Despite the policy shakeups, consumer spending has rebounded this summer. July auto sales were stronger than expected and August showed continued momentum.7 Million Buyers Still Waiting: Pent-up demand remains real. First-party data from AutoTrader, KBB, and dealer websites shows strong shopping interest, even among buyers still hunting for affordable payments.Best Time in 4 Years to Buy (If You Have Credit): Incentives, leasing deals, and EV discounts make this a prime moment for well-qualified buyers—especially for electrified vehicles.EV Adoption Is Not Slowing Down: July marked the highest market share ever for EVs in the U.S. at 9.1%. EVs are now priced lower than ICE vehicles, and the replacement cycle is kicking in.Electrification Is Inevitable: Jonathan predicts most multi-car households will have at least one EV. He drives a PHEV himself and sees plug-ins as an optimal choice for daily commutes.China May Be the Wildcard: Smoke believes Chinese EVs entering the U.S. market is a matter of when, not if—and that it may be the key to returning to a consistent 17M SAAR.Bonus Track: For Q3, Jonathan's playlist is inspired by ABBA's Gold—think "Money, Money, Money" meets “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” as a soundtrack to the Big Beautiful Bill (BBBBA).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 #1132: As we kick off the last day of the NAMAD Annual Meeting, Paul J Daly and Erroll Bomar III reflect on how they've been witnessing dealers lean in on technology in order to stay ahead. Then they're joined by Shane Wilson, CEO of Connected Dealer Services who reminds us that the tech is a great starting point, but it needs to be fed by good data.ASOTU's coverage of the 45th Annual NAMAD Annual Meeting is brought to you by Connected Dealer Services.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 #1131: Live from Day 2 at the NAMAD Annual Meeting with co-host Erroll Bomar III! We recap our biggest takeaways from the first day of amazing conversations and content, plus look at the record $56.4B that consumers will spend on new vehicles in August.ASOTU's coverage is brought to you by Connected Dealer Services.Show Notes with links:Automotive retail is posting a strong for August, driven by expiring EV incentives and a calendar twist that included Labor Day. Consumers are projected to spend a record $54.6B on new vehicles, as electrified models reached peak share.Total new-vehicle sales projected at 1.48M, up 8.2% YoY; SAAR at 16.1M.EV retail share hits record 12.0%, up from 9.5% last year, driven by incentive pull-forward.Incentive spending restrained at 6.2% of MSRP amid tariff pressure.Average transaction price reaches $44,750; consumer spend hits August record.“The results are unquestionably inflated by shoppers accelerating their electric vehicle purchases to take advantage of Federal EV credits.” – Thomas King, J.D. PowerJoin 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 #1130: As we gear up for our NAMAD coverage in LasVegas, Paul and guest co-host Ben Hadley are digging into the IRS's EV tax credit extension, how Gen Z balances screens with store shelves, and why Hyundai's futuristic plant still counts on the human touch to get the job done right.The IRS is giving EV buyers a little breathing room to secure the full $7,500 federal tax credit, shifting expectations just before a hard deadline set for the end of September.Previously, buyers had to take delivery of a new EV by September 30 to qualify for the $7,500 tax credit.The IRS now says a binding written contract and deposit by that date will secure the credit, even if delivery comes later.This update helps ease the Q3 rush from buyers and dealers scrambling to meet the original deadline.Automakers may now try to lock in future EV reservations as binding sales, but that could be risky for buyers.IRS: “Taxpayer will be entitled to claim the credit… even if the vehicle is placed in service after September 30, 2025.”Hyundai's new $5.5 billion Georgia plant is a showcase of robotic innovation—but even with 750 robots on the floor, it's the human touch that ensures each EV rolls out with quality and care.The Ellabell plant features a 2-to-1 human-to-robot ratio—far lower than the 7-to-1 U.S. industry average.Robots handle welding and material movement, while humans manage quality control and complex assembly.CEO José Muñoz says the goal is not to replace humans, but to “maximize human potential.”Hyundai has pledged to hire 8,500 workers by 2031 as part of a $2 billion state incentive deal.“It makes them feel a little safer than just relying on some machine,” said track team leader Chico Murphy.Gen Z may live online, but when it comes to shopping, the path to purchase often ends in-store. A new YouGov study shows this digital-native generation still values the physical retail experience.69% of Gen Z starts their buying journey online, but over half still browse in stores.Discovery is mixed: 50% hear about new products through personal connections, 46% find them while shopping in-store.29% of Gen Z spot items online but buy them in-store, while 21% do the reverse.Social media remains crucial—64% of Gen Z use it to discover products versus 44% of older adults.“Retailers can't afford to pick a side: Omnichannel is where the action is.”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 #1129: Today Steve Greenfield joins Paul again as we spotlight the 2025 Automotive News All-Stars, including a few friends of the show. We also talk about some industry icons' new digs. And a new survey shows just how deep Gen AI has made it into your customers' shopping habits.This year's 2025 Automotive News All-Stars spotlight not only industry excellence but also creative vision, resilience, and innovation across every corner of automotive. From digital stardom to strategic investment and relentless dealership growth, here are three stories that stood out — with a few personal shoutouts we just had to include.Grace Kerber and Ben Bushen went from a whiteboard in upstate New York to GM headquarters thanks to their viral mockumentary series "The Dealership." The duo's humor, heart, and authenticity earned them a national audience — and a new role for Grace at GM.Bill Cariss keeps Holman Growth Ventures in the fast lane, securing a minority stake in FM Capital's $240M fund to scale automotive and mobility tech investments. “We are still going to do direct investments...but they are not going to be near the size of the funds that we will own with partners,” he said.Teddy Morse has taken Ed Morse Automotive from 12 stores to over 50 with cowboy boots, Harley-Davidsons, and a deeply personal leadership style. “You can lose the fact that there's a romantic side to this business,” Morse said. “To what we do to help people get their first car; to help people get their dream car.”Whether it's Grace's storytelling, Bill's venture savvy, or Teddy's boots-on-the-ground heart, these All-Stars prove that auto leadership is anything but average.A new player in the inventory sourcing space is making waves as sellmyride brings on a stacked roster of industry veterans. Unlike traditional lead-gen platforms, sellmyride is focused on helping dealers consistently source inventory from private sellers — a move designed to keep vehicles in local markets and out of national players' hands.Chip Perry, founding CEO of Autotrader and former TrueCar chief, has joined sellmyride as chairman, calling it the best dealer-to-public acquisition tool he's seen in 25 years.Steve Greenfield's Automotive Ventures is backing the company as part of a broader raise to support U.S. expansion.Robbie Bezdek, a Cox and iHeartMedia alum, brings marketplace and media expertise to help dealers acquire 50+ units per month from the public.The platform is designed to be “always on,” dealership-branded, and built for consistent private-party sourcing rather than ad hoc lead chasing.“Why shouldn't our clients capture those cars?” Perry said. “That's what we hope, that's what we dream about and that's what we're inspired to do.”A new survey from Omnisend shows just how deeply generative AI has embedded itself in e-commerce habits. Over half of American online shoppers now turnJoin 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 joins Paul and Nathan to talk about the frequency of a 5 Fri-Sat-Sun month and how auto dealers just keep on giving.Mohawk Honda did more than hand over a key. They donated a brand-new 2025 Honda Odyssey to Double H Ranch and packed it with purpose.Double H is where kids with serious illnesses go to be campers, not patients. Think bonfires, cabins, belly laughs, and freedom in the fresh air.With this new Odyssey, more families can get to those moments. More gear gets hauled. More smiles get delivered.That van will carry more than people. It will carry memories.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 #1127: We're diving into major tariff relief for EU carmakers, Sonic Automotive's EchoPark outpacing expectations, and how generative AI is rewriting the rules for online retail traffic. Show Notes with links:The automotive industry is watching closely as the U.S. and EU hammer out a framework deal that could bring massive tariff relief for European automaker. The fine print could mean big savings and new market access.The EU and U.S. announced a new trade framework aiming to reduce U.S. auto tariffs from 27.5% to 15%.Relief would be retroactive to August 1 if the EU introduces enabling legislation this month.In exchange, the EU pledged to cut tariffs on U.S. industrial goods and increase access for American agricultural products.The deal may expand to include mutual recognition of auto safety standards and influence future U.S. agreements with Japan and South Korea.EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic emphasized urgency: “It is the European Commission's firm intention to make proposals by the end of this month.”Sonic Automotive just dropped its Q2 2025 earnings, and while a hefty impairment charge dented the bottom line, EchoPark's performance made sure the story stayed bullish.Total revenue reached a record $3.7B, up 6% YoY.Despite a $172.4M impairment charge, adjusted EPS surged 49% to $2.19, beating expectations.EchoPark led the charge with $62.1M in gross profit (+22%) and a 679% increase in adjusted segment income.Segment income rose from $3.9M to $11.7M — a 200% leap.“EchoPark is just on fire,” said Sonic President Jeff Dyke.Adobe reports a massive 4,700% YoY increase in U.S. retail site traffic driven by generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini — a clear signal that AI is transforming the online shopping journey.Traffic from gen-AI sources has grown monthly since the 2024 holiday season.90% of users trust gen-AI recommendations; bounce rates are down 27%.Visits from AI referrals are 10% more engaged, with 32% longer durations.The conversion gap between AI and non-AI traffic has shrunk from 49% in January to 23% in July.“It's allowing a very optimized, urgent, efficient journey,” said Adobe's Vivek Pandya.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier1:35 Next week, Paul and Erroll Bomar III will be at NAMAD next week2:38 EU-US Finalizing New Trade Deal4:35 EchoPark Boosts Sonic's Q2 Earnings6:52 4700% Increase In Retail Traffic From GenAI SitesJoin 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 #1126: Today we're joined by Steve Greenfield and talking about Hertz vehicles showing up on Amazon, VinFast's new San Diego dealership kicking off a coast-to-coast franchise push, and how AI is helping Atlas become a surprisingly capable humanoid robot.Hertz has partnered with Amazon to list its used vehicles on the retail giant's platform, giving customers a new way to shop for former rentals online. The move builds on the roughly one-third of Hertz's vehicle sales that already go directly to consumers.Shoppers can now browse and buy Hertz vehicles on Amazon, then pick them up in Dallas, Houston, L.A., or Seattle—with plans to expand to 45 U.S. locations.Retail sales, add $1,000–$1,500 in value per vehicle for Hertz compared to wholesale channels.Hertz is also expanding its “try before you buy” program to 100 cities and enhancing digital sales through platforms like Carvana and Autotrader.“It is really important as well that we get more net out of what we're selling,” said Hertz CEO Gil West.VinFast's U.S. dealership network is taking shape with the grand opening of its first California franchise location in San Diego.The new store, operated by Sunroad Automotive Group, offers sales, service, and test drives of the VF 8 and VF 9 electric SUVs.The automaker plans to replace all 15 of its former company-owned California stores and now operates nearly 30 authorized dealerships across 14 states, with the company “recognizing the distinct advantages of this distribution channel” to maximize business efficiency.California remains a key focus for the brand, which calls the state a “top priority” for EV growth.The new location includes full support for warranty, repair, and maintenance using genuine VinFast parts.“This event marks a pivotal moment in our strategy,” said Mike Nolte, VinFast's U.S. VP of Sales and Marketing.Boston Dynamics and Toyota Research Institute are working to make humanoid robots useful in real life by teaching them complex, adaptable behaviors through massive AI models.Many of us are familiar with Boston Dynamics, but Toyota Research Institute (TRI), a Toyota subsidiary, focuses on human-centered AI innovations in automated driving, energy, and materials to improve the human condition.The Atlas robot is being trained with Large Behavior Models (LBMs) to handle complex, long tasks using proprioception (a robot's internal sense of position and movement), vision, and language prompts.These AI-driven policies allow Atlas to walk, crouch, grasp, and manipulate objects with surprising dexterity—even reacting intelligently when things go wrong.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 #1125: Today, we're talking affordability trends, lead follow-up gaps, and a CEO who worked his way from intern to the top at Target.At the halfway mark of 2025, the Dave Cantin Group Market Outlook Report shows the U.S. retail auto market is a mix of high prices, resilient demand, and major structural shifts. Despite headwinds, smart dealers are still in the driver's seat.Affordability is the top issue, with 52.1% of buyers carrying negative equity and 84-month loans now nearly 20% of all new financing.Consumers are sticking with their preferred segment but trading down in size and trim; value-focused models from brands like Buick and Mazda are gaining traction.40% of U.S. consumers say they'd buy a Chinese-made vehicle if it was 10% cheaper than other cars sold in the US, and 75% of dealers expect Chinese OEMs on U.S. lots within 12 months.As OEMs take multi-billion-dollar tariff hits, dealers are thriving on a flexible playbook—parts, service, F&I, and used cars—with 61% of dealers expecting record revenue growth this year.“U.S. dealers are proving once again how resilient they are and how sophisticated their customer-focused business models have become,” Dave Cantin Group CEO Dave Cantin said.Think the lead is dead after Day 3? Think again. A new Foureyes report analyzing over 8 million leads shows a 30-day close rate of just 16.2%, revealing how fast opportunities fall off — and where smart dealers can still win.73% of sales happen in the first 3 days, but 1 in 4 still close after that. Close rates drop from 12.4% to 2.3% on days 4–7.Follow-up efforts also plunge after Day 3 — a “coincidence” that's costing dealers real money.Used vehicles close faster than new, but new car deals stretch further into the 30-day window.Internet leads close slower but still produce late-month wins; leads created in the last week of the month have a 17.3% close rate.Target is making headlines as it promotes a true company insider to the top job. Michael Fiddelke, who started in 2003, will become CEO on February 1 — a move that reflects deep institutional knowledge but is sparking debate about the need for outside perspective.Fiddelke joined Target as an intern and worked his way up through roles in merchandising, finance, operations, and HR.He most recently served as COO and previously as CFO, giving him a broad view of the company's levers.He'll succeed Brian Cornell, CEO since 2014, who will step into the executive chair role.“To be clear, we have work to do to reach our full potential,” Fiddelke said.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier0:52 2025 Halftime Report on Dealer Reputation Webinar Later Today1:31 New Auto Collabs episode with Technician Curtis Gardner1:54 DCG Report Shows Affordability and ChJoin 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 #1124: Today we break down the latest Fixed Ops Golden Metrics, showing where service departments are winning and where there's room to grow. We also look at how dealer inventory has returned to pre-tariff “normal” levels, and why Atlantans are playing cancellation games just to ride in a Waymo robotaxi.The Fixed Ops Golden Metrics 2025 report from Reynolds and Reynolds highlights how service departments are stacking up in hours, labor rates, and RO profits—plus the big gains from technician efficiency tools.Dealers are grouped two ways—by urban classification (Major Urban, Metro, Community, Rural) and by 5 volume classes based on monthly customer-pay ROs: Class 1: 1,200.High-volume Class 5 stores topped 3,000 hrs/month. Major Urban averaged 1,613 hrs/month vs. Rural at 490. Major Urban led profit per RO at $414, Rural just $225. Class 1 averaged $400, dropping to $243 in Class 5.Using recommendation software added +0.5 hrs/RO, +$18 ELR, and +$62 profit/RO—worth $9K more profit/month for a 150-RO store.After months of tariff shocks and supply swings, dealer lots look familiar again. The average automaker now has a 73-day supply of new cars — right on the industry's long-term target.Lots once ran as high as 89 days of supply during early tariff panic.Inventories plunged to 66 days when 25% tariffs first hit but have since recovered.Despite costs, prices rose just 1.5% YoY as automakers and dealers absorbed tariffs.Some brands buck the trend: Toyota/Lexus are tight with just over a month of supply, while Ram and Land Rover sit on four months' worth.Waymo has expanded beyond its California and Arizona roots, bringing robotaxis to Atlanta. But there's a catch: you can only hail one through Uber, and it's not guaranteed.Riders can select “Prefer Waymo” in the Uber app, but often get matched with human drivers.Some Atlantans cancel ride after ride—one reporting 20 cancellations on average—just to snag a Waymo.Waymo has only dozens of vehicles in the city now, with plans to grow to hundreds in coming years.Riders can improve their odds by staying inside the 65-square-mile service zone, avoiding highways, and riding outside peak times.As one rider put it, “The fact that it's so challenging to get has turned it into a game.”0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier1:08 We'll be at the NAMAD Annual Meeting next week1:45 Webinar on Dealer Reputation Tomorrow2:26 Fixed Ops Golden Metrics from Reynolds and ReynoldsJoin 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 #1123: Today we cover Rivian's fight over frozen EV credit revenue, ex-Tesla talent launching Hubber to fill urban charging gaps, and a sharp rebound in CEO confidence as recession fears cool but cost pressures remain.Show Notes with links:Rivian says the Trump administration's rollback of fuel economy penalties is choking off $100 million in revenue from regulatory credits—a revenue stream EV makers have depended on for years. The fight shows how quickly policy changes can shake up automaker economics.EV makers like Rivian, Lucid, and Tesla sell CAFE credits to legacy brands that struggle with gas-mileage targets.NHTSA froze compliance letters after the rollback, leaving credit deals in limbo.Rivian already negotiated deals it now can't close; Tesla projects a $1.1B hit to expected revenue.GM and Ford, frequent buyers of these credits, could save billions thanks to looser rules.Rivian said credits made up 6.5% of its revenue this year, while Lucid noted they represent a “significant share” of theirs.From the chaos of Elon Musk firing Tesla's entire Supercharger team, a new EV charging startup has emerged. Hubber, founded by ex-Tesla talent, is focused on solving one of the industry's biggest bottlenecks: fast charging for urban taxis and delivery fleets.Former Tesla leads Harry Fox, Connor Selwood, and Hugh Leckie rolled out 100 Supercharger sites before launching Hubber.The company targets urban “charging deserts,” converting warehouses and gas stations into high-throughput hubs.Taxis and ride-hailing vehicles charge up to 5x more often than consumer cars, making access critical.Hubber secured £60M (~$81M) in funding, with its first site opening this week in South London.“We're addressing one of the most urgent constraints in the energy transition: the shortage of fast, reliable charging in major cities,” Hubber states.CEO confidence is staging a rebound. After a brutal second quarter, execs are signaling less panic about recession and a more stable outlook for their industries, though concerns about labor, wages, and costs remain front and center.The confidence index rose to 49 in Q3, up from 34 in Q2.Recession fears fell sharply: 36% expect one in the next 12–18 months, compared to 83% last quarter.Job outlook flipped, with 34% of CEOs planning cuts vs. 27% planning to hire — the first net negative since 2020.Most CEOs still plan to raise wages 3%+ in the next year, even as they freeze capital spending.Cost pressure is highest from suppliers (71%), materials (64%), and tech (63%), pushing many to boost productivity through automation and upskilling.“CEO confidence recovered… but fell short of signaling a return to optimism,” said Stephanie Guichard, senior eJoin 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 #1122: Ford's Doug Field maps a Silicon Valley–style path to a $30K EV truck, Mitsubishi debuts a luxury-inspired “Gallery” store concept, and OpenAI brings GPT-4o back after users missed its supportive “yes man” tone.Meet the man behind Ford's push for affordable EVs: Doug Field, Ford's EV chief, is channeling his inner Elon Musk by leaning on hardcore engineering, radical manufacturing changes, and first-principles thinking.Field's career spans some of the most ambitious mobility projects of the last 20 years—Segway, Tesla's Model 3, and Apple's secretive car program.Applying “first principles thinking,” he's cutting battery size, body weight, and part count by 20% while keeping Mustang-like acceleration.“Physics isn't proprietary,” Field noted when asked about similarities to Tesla's approach. “The best part is no part.”He admits shifting a century-old company isn't easy: “Doing something new at an established company requires overcoming inertia… I came in with slightly unrealistic expectations of how quickly [things could be changed], but that's an industry thing, not just a Ford thing.”Mitsubishi Motors will open its first U.S. “Gallery” dealership in Antioch, Tenn., by Q1 2026, blending luxury-style retail with mass-market appeal as part of its Momentum 2030 growth plan.Located in the Century Farms mixed-use development, the store will be designed for browsing, with a no-pressure, open-format showroom more common in luxury brands.Instead of a traditional lot packed with vehicles, the Gallery will store inventory off-site at its partner dealer—City Auto Mitsubishi—and bring in vehicles as customers progress toward a purchase.Trained brand specialists from the partner dealer will walk shoppers from discovery through final paperwork, focusing on experience rather than volume.CEO Mark Chaffin says Mitsubishi is “underrepresented” in the U.S., aiming to grow from one-third to over half of new-car markets by 2030.“The Gallery dealership program is key to introducing customers to our vehicles in a welcoming, surprise-and-delight way,” Chaffin said.Responding to user backlash over GPT-5's cooler tone, OpenAI has reinstated the beloved GPT-4o model for Plus subscribers, promising to make GPT-5 warmer over time. CEO Sam Altman says many missed GPT-4o's overly-agreeable “yes man” style — for some, it was the only real encouragement they'd ever received.GPT-4o's style, removed earlier this year, was criticized as “too sycophant-y,” gushing over mundane prompts with “absolutely brilliant” and similar praise.Altman says some users found it life-changing: “Please can I have it back? I've never had anyone in my life be supportive of me.”He warns even small tone tweaks can impact billions of chatJoin 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 #1121: We cover the rapid growth in EV charging infrastructure even as EV sales plateau, Tesla's China-only 500+ mile Model 3, and a solar-powered drone that just stayed airborne for 74 hours without a drop of fuel.Show Notes with links:EV sales brace for slump, but charging networks surge ahead with automaker supportDespite challenges in EV sales, the U.S. fast-charging network is rapidly expanding and may actually meet infrastructure goals—whether or not EV adoption keeps pace.The U.S. hit nearly 60,000 fast-charging ports in Q2 and is on track for 19% growth in 2025.Private investment, not government aid, is fueling most of this growth as NEVI funds stall, with new players like Ionna and Mercedes-Benz expanding fastTesla dominates with 54% market share; Electrify America and ChargePoint trail at under 8%.“There will be more choice, more infrastructure and, hopefully, better experiences for EV drivers,” said Loren McDonald, chief analyst at Paren.This comes as U.S. EV registrations rose 4.6% in June, but EV market share slipped to 8.6%—down from 8.8% last year—signaling a stagnant market.Tesla's registrations dropped 6%, while GM surged with Chevrolet up 152% and Cadillac up 87%, showing shifting momentum among major players.Tesla has quietly introduced its longest-range Model 3 to date, the "Model 3 Plus," capable of up to 515 miles—but only for the Chinese market, for now.The 830 km (CLTC-rated) Model 3 Plus uses a more powerful 225 kW motor and LG-supplied lithium-ion batteries.It achieves long range with just a 78.4 kWh battery thanks to efficiency gains, not just capacity.Tesla aims to compete directly with high-range local EVs like the Xiaomi SU7 and is expected to launch the model in China by September with a price just under $38K.“This effectively shatters the 700 km psychological ceiling,” said Shanghai-based analyst Li Wei.Aviation startup Skydweller Aero just pulled off a wild feat: flying a solar-powered drone for 74 hours straight—twice—without touching down or using a drop of fuel.The drone has a wingspan larger than a Boeing 747 and runs solely on solar power and batteries.Its 17,000 solar cells power flight by day and charge 1,400 pounds of onboard batteries to keep flying at night.Recent Navy tests suggest big military potential in anti-piracy, smuggling patrols, and backup GPS missions.Skydweller also has commercial ambitions, including remote internet delivery and environmental monitoring.“There's a lot of money to be made in something that never touches the ground,” the company noted.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 #1120: Today we cover Presidio's latest report showing dealership profitability gaining stable ground. We look at how automakers are shifting from solo efforts to shared platforms in the race for software-defined vehicles. We close with a growing workforce trend as quiet cracking challenges employee wellbeing and productivity.Show Notes with links:Presidio Says the Sugar High's Over, But the Game's Still Strong as the latest Presidio Group report shows that after a volatile couple of years, dealers are finally catching their breath. With stable margins, strong profitability, and M&A picking back up, it's no longer about surviving—it's about playing to win.New-vehicle margins ticked up in Q2 for the first time since 2022, signaling rare pricing stability.Used cars, F&I, and fixed ops are carrying the profit torch, with public group net income up 17.7%.M&A activity matched last year's pace, with 208 transactions in the first half of 2025.72% of dealers expect profits to hold or grow—fueling strategic investments instead of survival tacticsAs the software-defined vehicle era pushes forward, automakers are realizing that trying to own the whole tech stack isn't just hard, it's inefficient. Instead, they're cutting internal software efforts, embracing open-source collaboration, and betting on smarter, shared development models.Ford ended its FNV4 architecture program, VW cut 1,600 Cariad staff, and others have scaled back internal software teams.Despite sounding like a retreat, these moves signal maturity, OEMs are focusing on what matters and outsourcing the rest.Partnerships are growing fast: Foxconn and Elektrobit, BMW and Bosch via Eclipse Foundation, Rivian and VW, all working on shared SDV platforms.Analysts say open-source platforms are now essential to SDV progress. Toyota, Hyundai, GM, and others are already building around Linux-based ecosystemsMove over, quiet quitting. The latest workplace challenge is “quiet cracking,” where employees keep showing up, but they're checked out, stressed, and silently struggling. And in today's uncertain job market, many feel stuck without better options.Quiet cracking is marked by disengagement and burnout, even if employees aren't actively underperforming.Workers are staying in roles due to fear of layoffs or poor hiring prospects, not because they're thriving.Signs include subtle performance dips, increased absenteeism, and 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 #1119: Ford's factory revamp signals a new EV era, GM doubles down on autonomy without the taxi business, and AI takes over lesson plans as teachers lean into technology's potential.Show Notes with links:Ford will invest $2B to transform its Louisville, KY plant into a high-efficiency hub for an affordable, tech-packed electric pickup—aiming to rival low-cost Chinese EVs when it launches in 2027.The new process cuts parts count by 20% with large single-piece aluminum castings.Parallel assembly lines replace traditional conveyors, boosting efficiency by 15%.Lighter, shorter wiring harnesses save weight and simplify assembly.Ergonomic workstations improve build quality while reducing labor strain.“This is a bold and difficult undertaking to compete with the best in the world,” said Doug Field, Ford's Chief EV & Digital Systems Officer.From Cliff Banks on LinkedIn “One tiny fact -- that is big news, in our opinion -- that came out of Ford's second earnings call: Ford reduced the per-vehicle loss on its EVs from $44k to $22k last quarter. Keep that up, and its Model E division will be profitable much faster than expected.”After shutting down its Cruise robotaxi unit, GM is reigniting its autonomous ambitions—this time targeting personal-use driverless cars instead of fleet services.The new program starts with hands-free, eyes-free driving while a human is in the vehicle, progressing toward fully driverless capability.Sterling Anderson, former Tesla Autopilot chief is building a team by hiring new talent and inviting former Cruise employees back.GM is deploying lidar-equipped, human-driven test vehicles to log data and train simulation models that guide development.On GM's Q2 earnings call, CEO Mary Barra named autonomous tech, expanding the domestic supply chain, and battery innovation as “our clear priorities.”Three years after ChatGPT's public debut, many K-12 educators are moving from banning generative AI to using it as a tool for critical thinking, creativity, and tailored instruction.About 60% of teachers now use AI for lesson planning, grading, and parent communication, saving an average of 5.9 hours weekly.Early bans led students to hide AI use; now some districts are forming committees to guide ethical adoption.Teachers also use AI for individualized lessons, translation, accessibility, and real-world project design.Concerns remain about bias, privacy, and over-reliance, but advocates say benefits outweigh risks when guardrails are in place.“Educators are starting to realize that AI isn't going away—and that it's better to teach their students how to use it, rather than leave them to their own devices,” said a Drexel University professor.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 #1118: Auto loan approvals are climbing as vehicle demand heats up, Jaguar doubles down on its high-dollar EV future, and a new survey shows U.S. shoppers are still splurging on impulse buys.Show Notes with links:New data shows consumers may finally be catching a break in the auto loan market. Approvals are up, interest in buying is growing, and middle-income shoppers are more willing to make sacrifices to keep their vehicles.The New York Fed says auto loan rejection rates dropped sharply in Q2 2025 to 6.7%, down from a painful 19% last year.14% sought a loan in the past year, and more expect to apply in the coming months.Santander's latest survey shows 55% of middle-income consumers plan to buy a vehicle in the next 12 months, the highest reading in two years.Tariff fears are real: 18% of respondents sped up a big purchase in Q2 because of price uncertainty, with 41% of those buying a vehicle.Santander says this is the first time in eight quarters that buyers outnumber those delaying a purchase — a sign pent-up demand could finally be turning into sales.Jaguar is set on an electric, ultra-luxury future. Despite some loud critics, the brand is preparing a bespoke EV platform and three six-figure models designed to take on the industry's elite.Incoming JLR CEO PB Balaji says the brand's EV strategy is locked in, with positive early feedback from customers.Production of all current Jaguars except the F-Pace ended last year as the company stockpiled inventory.First new model — the GT — is a sleek, 600-hp electric sedan with about 425 miles of range and a $150K price tag, expected late next year as a 2027 model.A large, three-row electric crossover will follow in late 2027 or early 2028.The third entry is rumored to be a large, ultra-luxury electric sedan aimed at Rolls-Royce and Bentley buyers, due around 2030.While many Americans say they're trying to rein in discretionary spending, a new survey shows the vast majority still made at least one unplanned purchase last month.Optimum Retailing survey finds 72% of Americans made an unplanned in-store discretionary purchase in the past month.While 34% plan to cut back in the next six months, sales events (55%), eye-catching displays (45%), and immediate availability (26%) make spending hard to resist.Only 5% said in-store shopping no longer feels “worth it.”Many shoppers are sticking to a budget by cutting dining/takeout (48%), clothing/accessories (44%), and electronics/gadgets (37%).“Consumers today are cautious, but not unengaged… The moment and experience must both feel correct,” said Sam Vise, CEO of Optimum Retailing.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.On this second Saturday of month, Paul is joined by Chris and Nathan to share all the amazing things dealers are doing in communities across the nation.This back-to-school season, Toyota-Lexus-Minority Owner Dealers Associatoin partnered with Toyota, The Salvation Army, and Walmart to distribute over 16,000 backpacks filled with school supplies, 6,900 of them through dealerships. As Robert Hatchett put it, this is about investing in students and uplifting communities.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 #1116: CarGurus shuts down CarOffer, trimming its wholesale tech reach. Ford opens a Long Beach EV hub to take on low-cost rivals. And OpenAI's GPT-5 rolls out to all ChatGPT users, promising smarter, faster AI for everyone.Show Notes with links:CarGurus will shutter its wholesale digital marketplace CarOffer less than two years after fully acquiring it, citing a volatile pricing environment and dealer demand for more flexibility.CEO Jason Trevisan said the company explored alternatives but winding down was the only option.The closure impacts Dealer-to-Dealer, a wholesale platform for dealer-to-dealer used inventory trades, and Instant Max Cash Offer, a consumer vehicle acquisition tool feeding dealer inventory pipelines.The shutdown will run through 2025, costing $14M–$19M including $5M–$7M in restructuring.However, CarOffers tech will remain, with Trevisan saying “We will retain and build on the underlying technology…capabilities that…remain central to CarGurus' sourcing strategy,”On the heels of Ford's “Model T moment” we covered yesterday, the manufacturer has opened a 250,000-square-foot Electric Vehicle Development Center in Long Beach, CA, focused on bringing affordable EVs to market, including a new mid-size pickup.The facility includes design review spaces, EV testing labs, a fabrication shop, and a digital visualization room to accelerate product development.This is part of Ford's first low-cost EV platform initiative, led by ex-Tesla engineer Alan Clarke, aiming for simpler, more efficient builds.An initial team of 350 employees will grow by 100; the group was formerly known internally as the “Skunkworks Team” for its rapid, innovative approach.A new trademark filing suggests Ford's upcoming midsize electric pickup could revive the Ranchero nameplate, a nod to the classic coupe-pickup sold from 1957–1979, with the EV version expected to debut in 2027.“The goal is to define a new era for electric vehicles,” said Jolanta Coffey, Ford's Director of Global New Model Launch.OpenAI has launched GPT-5, its fastest and most capable AI model yet, giving both free and paid ChatGPT users access to advanced reasoning for the first time. Just 2.5 years after GPT-4 debuted, the release marks another step toward integrating AI deeper into business, education, and everyday workflows.CEO Sam Altman says going back to GPT-4 after testing GPT-5 was “quite miserable,” citing improvements in speed, reasoning, and usability.New “safe completions” reduce outright refusals while keeping answers within safety guardrails, alongside lower hallucination rates and better handling of complex logic.Free-tier ChatGPT users get a reasoning model; Plus and Pro users get higher usage limits, with GPT-5 Pro for advanced 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 #1115: Ford's ready for its “Model T moment,” the Cybertruck heads to military testing, and Rivian turns EV charging into a Hamptons-style retreat.Show Notes with links:Ford is gearing up for a major EV push with plans to build a new generation of affordable electric vehicles, kicking off a pivotal new chapter that CEO Jim Farley has dubbed the company's “Model T moment.”The EV line will include a midsize pickup, set to launch in 2027 from Ford's Louisville Assembly Plant.Batteries will be supplied by Ford's upcoming $3B LFP (lithium ion phosphate) battery plant in Marshall, MI, creating 1,700 jobs.The Marshall project has faced controversy, construction pauses, and political scrutiny due to its partnership with Chinese battery giant CATL, but will move forward after securing tax credits.It will be the first U.S. EV battery plant to use LFP chemistry at scale—offering lower costs and better sustainability than traditional NMC batteries, though with less power and range.“Model e continues to make targeted investments where we have breakthrough innovation (next gen EVs), and a distinct advantage (LFP batteries)” said CEO Jim Farley.Elon Musk once pitched the Tesla Cybertruck as a military-ready, apocalypse-proof beast. Now, the U.S. Air Force has plans for it—just not quite the way he envisioned.The Air Force Test Center is requesting two Cybertrucks as part of a 33-vehicle target fleet at White Sands Missile Range.A military doc suggests adversaries might use Cybertrucks, which “have been found not to receive the normal extent of damage expected upon major impact.”The goal is to test precision-guided weapons against realistic, resilient targets.The government documents left a glowing review of the Cybertruck saying “Extensive internet searches and industry outreach by [REDACTED] found no vehicles with features comparable to those of the Cybertruck.”Charging your EV in the Hamptons just got a whole lot cozier. Rivian's new Southampton Charging Outpost swaps the gas station vibes for beachside boutique charm—and locals are noticing.The cedar-shingled lounge features six DC fast chargers, a kids' play area, 24/7 restrooms, and complimentary Hampton Coffee.From August 7–10, drivers can plug in for free, enjoy curated snacks, and even test drive a Rivian.Every mile charged is powered by renewable energy—solar and wind included.This marks Rivian's 121st Adventure Network site and 15th in the Northeast, reinforcing its strategy of building fewer but friendlier charging stops.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier0:37 Kyle is at Beaver Mazda today1:42 Announcements3:10 Ford's Next-Gen EVs Are Coming5:37 US Orders Cybertrucks for Target PracticeJoin 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 #1114: Shawn Fain's own union members want him out. Chevy's Silverado EV clocks an unbelievable 1,059 miles on a charge, and as AI reshapes white-collar work, Gen Z is finding job security in scrubs, not suits.Show Notes with links:Shawn Fain, the fiery UAW president who led the landmark 2023 strike against the Detroit 3, is now facing a revolt from within his own ranks. Several union locals have voted to launch removal proceedings, citing layoffs, retaliation, and alleged financial mismanagement.Workers at Stellantis and GM plants joined four other UAW locals in voting to oust Fain, meeting the threshold for a federal monitor to review the allegations.At issue are thousands of Stellantis layoffs since the 2023 contract, said to result from pressure to raise wages.Critics also say Fain retaliated against board members who resisted approving spending.Support for Fain remains strong among graduate student workers, but dissent is growing in Detroit-area factories.“I supported Shawn, but his spending is out of control and he's retaliatory,” said David Pillsbury, a GM worker behind the petition.Chevrolet has set a new benchmark for EV range, pushing a 2026 Silverado EV Work Truck to an eye-popping 1,059 miles on a single charge. The test, though far from real-world conditions, highlights just how much efficiency can be squeezed out of today's EV technology.40 drivers took 1 hour turns and averaged just 20–25 mph, taking seven days to complete the run.Tricks included removing the spare tire, overinflating tires, adding a tonneau cover, and shutting off climate control.The Silverado EV WT is EPA-rated for 493 miles, but the hypermiling allowed the 205-kWh battery to return 4.9 miles per kWh—beating Lucid's 749-mile record.“Getting this kind of range doesn't happen by accident,” said Kurt Kelty, GM VP of battery and propulsion.With tech and business roles slowing under AI pressure, young men are struggling to find footing, while women dominate in growing fields like nursing.Gen Z men see higher unemployment as AI disrupts entry-level business and tech roles.Healthcare remains one of the few industries adding jobs in 2025.Nearly 90% of nursing roles are held by women, offering steady opportunities.Education and hospitality — also female-led sectors — are also adding jobs.Elise Gould, a senior economist at the Economic Policy Institute, said, "It could be tougher for men who are looking for jobs where there's just not a whole lot of hiring right now."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 #1113: Today we cover Amazon's push into used car sales, Rivian's legal battle to sell direct in Ohio, and Ikea's first-ever retail partnership with Best Buy. Show Notes with links:Amazon Autos now includes used and certified pre-owned vehicles. Starting in Los Angeles with Hyundai dealers, the program will soon roll out to more cities nationwide.Hyundai dealers can now list used and CPO cars, including non-Hyundai models.Vehicles come with a 3-day/300-mile return policy and a 30-day/1,000-mile warranty.Amazon promises transparent pricing, history reports, and no hidden fees.Customers can browse inventory within 75 miles and schedule test drives online.Amazon's Fan Jin: “This move continues our commitment to support local dealerships, now connecting dealers with more prospective customers online across new, certified pre-owned, and used vehicle categories.”Todd Caputo on LinkedIn: “Amazon sells purchases — not just eyeballs, phone calls, and form fills. Most dealers still make car buying way harder than it has to be. Amazon won't.”Rivian is taking Ohio to court, arguing the state's 2014 ban on direct-to-consumer sales is unconstitutional — especially since Tesla was granted a carve-out to sell under the very same law.Tesla was allowed to operate three Ohio stores under a special exemption.Rivian already runs service centers in the state but must sell cars elsewhere and deliver them in.Rivian says the law shields franchised dealers and seeks an injunction to stop enforcement of the banRivian's filing states: “It reduces competition, decreases consumer choice and drives up consumer costs and inconvenience — all of which harm consumers — with literally no countervailing benefit.”For the first time ever, Ikea is teaming up with another retailer — and the partner is Best Buy. The collaboration will bring mini Ikea showrooms into electronics stores, starting with kitchens and laundry setups.The first 10 hubs launch this fall in Florida and Texas, averaging 1,000 square feet each.Customers can shop Ikea furnishings paired with Best Buy appliances and get design consultations.Two locations will serve as Ikea order pickup centers, expanding fulfillment options.The partnership mirrors Target's Ulta and Kohl's Sephora mini-stores — aiming for “one-stop home solutions.”Ikea COO Rob Olson: “This new partnership is really allowing us to bring the Ikea experience closer to where people live.”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 #1112: Carvana's stock hits jaw-dropping highs while negative equity haunts car buyers. At the same time, a new report says Gen X may quietly be the most powerful consumer group of the next decade.Show Notes with links:What once seemed like a dying online used‑car startup has roared back. Carvana's share price hit an all‑time high in late July 2025—up over 10,000% from the December 2022 bottom—while short-sellers suffered nearly $7.42 billion in losses.Q2 2025 sales hit $4.84 billion, up 42% year-over-year. Retail units sold jumped 41% to 143,280; wholesale units rose 44.5% to 72,770.Net income surged to $308 million with record profit margins across the board.Traditional peers have seen modest stock gains by comparison — AutoNation is up about 80% and Lithia around 44% — with CarMax actually down roughly 7% in the same period.CEO Ernie Garcia III called Carvana “the fastest‑growing and most profitable automotive retailer.”“This rally…is one of the most spectacular recoveries in modern market history,” said Dave Mazza, CEO of Roundhill Financial.A growing share of U.S. car buyers are finding themselves stuck in negative equity, with Edmunds reporting the average underwater loan balance at $6,754 in Q2 2025 — one of the highest levels seen in years.26.6% of new‑car trade‑ins were upside down, a four‑year high.Average negative equity climbed to $6,754, up $500 from 2024.Nearly one in three underwater trade‑ins carried $5,000–$10,000 in debt.The average monthly payment for these buyers hit $915 — $159 above the industry average.Edmunds' Ivan Drury warns: “Many are at risk of getting stuck in a cycle of debt that only grows harder to break over time.”While millennials and Gen Z grab headlines, new research shows Gen X — those born between 1965 and 1980 — may be the most influential consumer group of the next decade.Gen X is set to remain the world's highest-spending demographic through 2033.In 2025 alone, they're projected to drive $507B in food and beverage sales, $80B in beauty, and $42B in alcohol.Nearly 40% use AI assistants for shopping recommendations, defying “tech-averse” stereotypes.72% prefer name brands over private label, bucking the store-brand trend.“Gen Xers are the gatekeepers of trillions in spending, effectively serving as the CFOs of three generations,” said Wolfgang Fengler of World Data Lab.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.On this Saturday, we're highlighting a fun mud run/competitive mud run put on by the Rohrman Auto Group to benefit their local fire department.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 #1110: Today we cover Trump's sweeping auto tariffs, Tesla's not‑so‑autonomous “Robotaxi” rollout, and the rise of agentic checkout in online retail.Show Notes with links:President Trump's country-by-country auto tariff deadline has arrived, setting off a new round of trade negotiations and recalibrations for global automakers.Canadian tariffs rise to 35%, though most USMCA-compliant vehicles dodge the hike.Mexico earns a 90-day delay on new tariffs, holding at 25% on non-U.S. content.Japan and South Korea cut tariffs to 15% with total pledges of $900B to U.S. industryJapan is also willing to take American imports based on U.S. standards, meaning American OEMs don't need to make a different car.“You can take the car you make in Detroit, put it on a boat and send it,” said U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.Tesla's long-hyped “Robotaxi” expansion into the Bay Area looks more like a rebranded Uber than a self-driving revolution. The cars run under Tesla's app but still rely on humans behind the wheel.Each car has a “safety monitor” in the driver's seat, making it equivalent to an Uber driver using Tesla's supervised Full Self‑Driving system.The California DMV and Public Utilities Commission expressed concern after hearing Tesla employees discuss an imminent Robotaxi launch, even though the company has not applied for the required permits.Politico reported that Tesla's counsel reassured regulators, claiming the rollout was limited to employees, friends, family, and select members of the public.Tesla is now actively recruiting “vehicle operators” in nine additional U.S. cities to replicate the Bay Area service.“Agentic checkout” is the latest frontier for artificial intelligence. Payment giants, tech platforms, and retailers are all racing to build systems that let AI handle more of the shopping journey.Mastercard, Visa, Google, and PayPal are each rolling out agentic checkout platforms, designed to let AI act as a shopper's digital assistant.PayPal is upgrading its decades‑old systems to handle the heavier transaction loads expected from AI‑driven commerce.Experts say the winners will be payment providers and e‑commerce platforms that build the infrastructure for AI agents rather than compete with them.Michelle Gill, GM of small business and financial services at PayPal said that The general sense in the industry is that “rather than competing, these stakeholders increasingly collaborate to harness the potential of agentic AI.”Mastercard's Co‑President of Global Partnerships, Sherri Haymond, said retailers won't need to replace entire platforms: “I would encourage merchants to have an open mind, and to lean in and do the work to make their environment accessible in this 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 #1109: Today we're digging into Ford's $3B tariff troubles, why commercial EV fleets are booming even as consumer demand cools, and how OpenAI's new “Study Mode” could change the way students learn (without just handing out the answers).Show Notes with links:Ford Motor is bracing for a tougher financial year as U.S. tariffs on vehicles, steel, and aluminum cut deeper than expected. Shares dipped 3% after the automaker raised its tariff cost estimate by half a billion dollars.Q2 results were down $800 million from tariffs, less than GM's $1.1 billion hit.Full-year tariff cost now projected at $3 billion, up from $2.5 billion.Ford sees 80% of U.S. sales from domestic production, cushioning some impact.CFO Sherry House said tariffs on Mexico and Canada stayed higher for longer than expected, with steel and aluminum levies adding to the strain.CEO Jim Farley: “We see there's a lot of upside depending on how the negotiation goes with the administration.”While consumer EV demand has cooled, the commercial EV market is charging forward, with fleet operators driving massive growth. The shift presents new opportunities — and challenges — for dealers, utilities, and policymakers.Commercial EV registrations soared 274% to nearly 25,000, led by delivery vans, utility trucks, and big rigs.Class 2 EVs used for work jumped 69%, while light consumer EVs slipped 2%.Amazon already runs 25,000 Rivian vans, building its own charging network of 32,000+ stations.Dealers remain a critical link, but many fleets report visiting stores where sales teams weren't ready to support EV conversions.Calstart's Jacob Richard said state incentives and programs are key “When looking at that total cost of ownership, you kind of need to have those upfront incentives in the near term.”OpenAI is taking a swing at the “CheatGPT” label with a major update designed to help, not hand out answers. The new “study mode” in ChatGPT aims to guide students through learning rather than doing the work for them.Study Mode is live for all users now, with ChatGPT Edu access coming soon.It uses Socratic questioning and scaffolded responses to build understanding.Offers personalized support and quizzes for deeper learning.Students are calling it “a live, 24/7, all-knowing office hours.”OpenAI is partnering with Stanford to evaluate its real educational impact.“It helped me finally understand a concept I'd struggled with for months,” said one college tester.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 #1108: Today we're joined by Ben Hadley to talk about Toyota's exports to the US rising in June, and get Ben's thoughts on AI use by dealers and tech partners.Show Notes with links:Despite U.S. tariffs on Japanese auto imports, Toyota kept exports rolling in June, posting record-breaking sales powered by booming hybrid demand and resilient U.S. shipments. The move highlights both consumer appetite and Toyota's ability to shrug off trade turbulence.Toyota's U.S. exports rose 16% in June, totaling 52,745 vehicles.Global sales hit 937,246 vehicles for the month, a 2.7% increase.First-half sales reached a record 5.54 million, with electrified models leading growth.Hybrid sales in North America jumped 38% to 651,000 vehicles.A Toyota spokeswoman credited “strong demand” but declined comment on future tariff impacts.OpenAI is taking a swing at the “CheatGPT” label with a major update designed to help, not hand out answers. The new “study mode” in ChatGPT aims to guide students through learning rather than doing the work for them.Study Mode is live for all users now, with ChatGPT Edu access coming soon.It uses Socratic questioning and scaffolded responses to build understanding.Offers personalized support and quizzes for deeper learning.Students are calling it “a live, 24/7, all-knowing office hours.”OpenAI is partnering with Stanford to evaluate its real educational impact.“It helped me finally understand a concept I'd struggled with for months,” said one college tester.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 #1107: Today we dive into why used EVs — especially Teslas — are losing value fast, how a Cybertruck hung 6,600 pounds on a patch of glue, and what AI search's rise in impressions but drop in clicks means for auto dealers looking to stay visible.Show Notes with links:Electric vehicles are losing traction in the used market, according to iSeeCars. The latest study shows Tesla models topping the list of biggest price drops as demand cools and federal incentives near expiration.5 of the top 10 used vehicles with the largest price drops in June were EVs.Tesla Model S fell $8,768 (-15.8%), Model X dropped $9,544 (-15.5%), and Model Y slid $4,637 (-13.6%).Used EV prices fell 4.8% year-over-year, while used gas cars rose 5.2%.EV market share growth slowed to just 14.2%, down from 98% last year, even as supply increased.“For shoppers, used EVs offer about $1,200 less in value than a gasoline vehicle – and while you can love or hate how the market prices a vehicle, you can't argue with it,” said iSeeCars analyst Karl Brauer.The Tesla Cybertruck is back in headlines—this time literally hanging suspended by glue in a viral stunt. YouTuber JerryRigEverything put on a dramatic demo shining a light on Tesla's unusual but surprisingly strong repair method.A 6,600-pound Cybertruck was lifted mid-air using just a 2.5-inch patch of Fusor 2098 adhesive attaching it to a crane.That exact glue had been used in repairing the same truck when its tow hitch ripped out during a stress test.Fusor 2098 cures to about 3,190 psi tensile strength, and is OEM‑approved by Tesla and other manufacturers.Adhesive bonding, when paired with rivets, can distribute loads better and outperform welds in some impact scenarios.AI search is changing the game — not just how people ask questions, but how they see your brand. A new VaynerMedia study reveals that while impressions are climbing, actual clicks are falling off fast.AI search already makes up 7.6% of monetizable queries, expected to hit 25% by 2027.ChatGPT queries surged +180% in the past year, while Google's traditional traffic is slipping.“Zero‑click searches” are up, with site traffic down 6.7% year‑over‑year despite higher impression counts.Some takeaways:Move Fast and Test New AI Ad Formats Now: Early adopters of AI‑friendly strategies will capture outsized market share and will learn what works bestStrengthen Your Brand: A trusted, recognizable brand is more likely to be cited in AI answers, even if the click never happens.Optimize for AI discovery by creating content that's easy for LLMs to scan and quote — FAQs, concise answers, and video content.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier3:46 Used EV Prices Down 4.8% YoY7:24 Tesla Cybertruck Hung From Glue10:07 AI Search ExpeJoin 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 #1106: Today we're looking at a U.S.-EU trade deal that gives European automakers some relief, Toyota's ambitious product roadmap with EVs and freshened favorites, and why Sam Altman says your ChatGPT chats aren't nearly as private as you think.Show Notes with links:European automakers got a breather as the U.S. and EU struck a long-awaited trade deal, dialing back tariff threats that had been weighing on the industry.The U.S. will apply a 15% tariff on EU goods, easing pressure from the previously targeted 25%.Stocks of German automakers like BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen initially surged on the news.Barclays analysts note the 15% rate is six times higher than pre-Trump levels.The EU may cut its 10% tariff on U.S. imports, benefiting BMW and Mercedes, which export U.S.-built models back to Europe.BMW and VW are also hoping for additional relief tied to U.S. investments.Barclays: “Logging in 15% tariffs as a run-rate will still represent a year-on-year headwind in 2026 versus 2025.”Toyota's next four years will be packed with new EVs, freshened best-sellers, and a surprising push to keep sedans relevant.The Highlander will go all-electric in 2025, following the new Grand Highlander.A three-row electric crossover (bZ5X) will launch from Kentucky late 2025.RAV4 redesign moves up to 2025 with new platform, safety, and infotainment upgrades.Toyota continues investing in sedans — Corolla freshens in 2025, Camry will be redesigned in 2028.A Compact Corolla-based pickup in development is set to rival Ford Maverick, expected in 2027.Akio Toyoda's GR Supra may end production in 2026, though emotions could keep it alive.Millions are sharing deeply personal issues with AI, but a surprising admission from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has lawyers — and plenty of everyday users — buzzing. He admitted last week that ChatGPT conversations don't carry the same confidentiality as talks with a lawyer, doctor, or therapist, raising big questions about privacy in the AI age.Altman: “We should have the same concept of privacy for your conversations with AI that we do with a therapist or whatever — and we haven't figured that out yet.”Legal experts warn that without privilege, user data could be subpoenaed if OpenAI stores it.OpenAI notes that with chat history off — especially on paid plans — data isn't saved or used for training.Enterprise-level ChatGPT offers encryption and compliance, but the free and Plus versions lack those safeguards.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier1:43 Upcoming ASOTU Edge Webinar with CarRx2:20 US Trade Deal With EU Is 15% Tariffs4:30 Toyota's 4 Year Roadmap7:42 ChatGPT Doesn't Provide Legal ConfidentialJoin 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 #1105: Chris Reeves joins Paul and Kyle to share the who, what, where, why and how of auto dealers giving back to their communities.Fred Martin has spent decades in the car business, but his latest gift is all about the arts.Martin recently made a $500K gift to Lake Erie College. And while that number alone is impressive, it's how he chose to give that makes this story something special.Fred's donation includes two top-of-the-line Steinway pianos. One is a concert grand that will take its place in the college's Morley Music Hall for students to perform and practice. The second is a Spirio Player, a self-playing model that will be housed in the school's historic Manor House, serving as a centerpiece during campus events and community gatherings.“I am deeply grateful to Fred Martin for this extraordinary investment in our students and campus,” said Lake Erie College President Jennifer Schuller. “By honoring his family legacy in this way, Fred has created something truly meaningful and enduring.”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 #1104: EV service frustrations rise as electric sales grow, Honda steps into the insurance game, and Walmart unveils Sparky—its bold AI move to replace the search bar.Show Notes with links:Electric vehicle sales hit a new high in the first half of 2025, but the surge is putting pressure on service departments nationwide. According to CDK Global's EV Ownership Study, more EVs are hitting the service lane — and owners are increasingly frustrated with the experience.Q2 EV sales rose nearly 5% over Q1; first-half total reached a record 607,000+ units.Only 28% of EV owners reported same-day service in 2024 — down from 40% in 2023.85% of new EV owners needed dealership service in year one, often for recalls or minor repairs.Multiple visits are becoming common: 34% of non-Tesla owners said service took longer than for gas vehicles, with 21% saying it took 4 visits or more.Our friend David Thomas of CDK: “We know dealers are prepared for EV service, but these numbers getting worse is not a good sign as more non-Tesla EVs are on the road than ever before.”Honda is taking a big step into the insurance space with the launch of Honda Insurance Solutions — a licensed agency designed to offer customers competitive, convenient coverage as part of the overall ownership experience.Available in all 50 states, the platform provides quotes from top carriers via VIU by HUB, omnichannel insurance brokerage platform backed by one of the largest personal insurance brokers, Hub InternationalCustomers can shop for coverage on autos, RVs, motorcycles, and even homes.An OEM parts coverage option helps protect vehicle value by using only Honda and Acura Genuine Parts.Future plans include full integration into Honda and Acura's digital sales ecosystem.Petar Vucurevic, President of American Honda Insurance Solutions: “Insurance is a key touchpoint in the vehicle ownership journey... promoting safer driving and increased peace of mind.”Walmart is doubling down on its AI transformation with the rollout of Sparky, a next-gen digital shopping agent set to replace traditional search. The move marks the retail giant's most aggressive bet yet on an AI-first future.Sparky will handle everything from grocery reorders to furnishing entire apartments based on budget and preferences.The new interface will be multimodal—supporting voice, images, and video—to mirror natural human shopping behaviors and eliminate the need for keyword searches.Walmart's AI framework includes four agents: Sparky (customers), Marty (suppliers/advertisers), an associate agent, and a developer agent.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 #1103: Today we're talking about backlash against stop-start tech, Tesla's rocky second quarter and robotaxi dreams, and Southwest's historic shift to assigned seating.Show Notes with links:Stop-start engine systems, once praised for fuel savings, often slandered by consumers, are now catching flak from both the EPA and frustrated drivers—prompting new questions about their future.62% of 2023 vehicles used stop-start to claim EPA efficiency credits around $30 per vehicleA new Trump-era law which eliminated CAFE standards and key penalties is reducing incentives for automakers.Consumers often disable the feature, citing annoyance and wear concerns even going as far as installing aftermarket disablers from Amazon which trick the system while some drivers rely on pedal finesse.“If there's no CAFE program that can be enforced, and there's not a greenhouse gas standard that requires improvement, that would remove the incentive for automakers to put in this technology,” said Chris Harto, senior policy analyst at Consumer ReportsLee Zeldin, head of the EPA recently tweeted: Start/stop technology: where your car dies at every red light so companies get a climate participation trophy. EPA approved it, and everyone hates it, so we're fixing it.Tesla's Q2 earnings took a hit, with profits and sales both sliding amid fading incentives, slowing EV demand, and political headwinds. Elon Musk says the future rides on autonomy.Net income fell 16% to $1.17B; auto revenue dropped 16% as deliveries declined.Tesla's $439M in regulatory credit sales was half of last year's, and shrinking fast.A lower-priced Model Y and stripped-down Cybertruck aim to revive sales.Tesla's invite-only robotaxi service in Austin may expand to half the U.S. population by year's end if approvals move forward quickly according to Musk“We probably could have a few rough quarters. I'm not saying we will, but we could.”Southwest Airlines will say goodbye to open seating for the first time in its history, launching assigned seats and a tiered boarding system starting January 27.Ticket sales for assigned seats begin July 29; full rollout hits early next year.Eight new boarding groups will replace A-B-C lines, prioritizing loyalty and fare class.Premium seat options—like extra-legroom—are coming, but prices are still under wraps.About 25% of the fleet is already reconfigured with the new seat layout.“We're optimizing for efficiency… while taking care of our most loyal customers,” said Southwest's Stephanie Shafer Modi.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 #1102: Today, we're unpacking the Detroit 3's tariff turmoil with Japan, exploring how "Auction 2.0" is reshaping used-car sourcing, and tracking Delta's AI-driven pricing turbulence as Senators demand answers. The U.S. automakers GM, Ford, and Stellantis are pushing back against a new trade deal lowering Japanese auto tariffs to 15%, while tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports stay at 25%. The Detroit 3 warn this imbalance threatens U.S. auto jobs and industry.Matt Blunt of the American Automotive Policy Council says any deal that favors Japanese imports over high-U.S.-content North American vehicles is “a bad deal for U.S. industry and auto workers.”President Trump boasts of a “massive deal” with Japan involving $550 billion in investments and tariff cuts, calling it a historic win for U.S. automakers.Details remain murky on whether Japanese cars and parts will get carve-outs from existing tariffs; the deal comes as Trump threatens to hike tariffs on Mexico and Canada.U.S.-Japan talks included Japan's chief trade negotiator meeting Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who says negotiations are “going very well.”Japanese automakers continue investing in U.S. production, with significant commitments from Isuzu and Toyota, aiming to boost local manufacturing despite tariff concerns.According to recent data from Cox Automotive, NADA, and BCG, the traditional used-car auction model is failing franchised dealers due to rising fees, transport costs, and poor condition reports. Dealers are shifting fast to private-party acquisitions (PPA), creating a more local and cost-effective supply.Auction-sourced dealer inventory fell from 27% in 2019 to 18% in 2023, while private-party sourcing grew from 10% to 15%.Buy fees have increased by about 50%, transport costs are up roughly a third, and lane prices remain inflated, squeezing dealer margins.The Manheim Index peaked at 234 in early 2023, but lane conversion rates dropped to 58-64%, below the 70% pre-pandemic norm.NADA projects private-party sales will hit 40% of the used market by 2025, signaling a permanent market shift.According to Sen. Ruben Gallego and other senators, Delta's new AI-based ticket pricing strategy could unfairly hike costs based on individual passenger data. Senators worry this could squeeze consumers financially during tough economic times.Senators are demanding clarity on what data Delta uses and how widely the AI pricing will be implemented, currently 3% but planned for 20% of routes by year-end.Delta says the AI tech streamlines longstanding dynamic pricing and denies using personal data for individualized offers.Critics worry AI could push prices to each consumer's “pain point,” risking predatory pricing amid inflation pressures.Delta preJoin 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 #1101: Today we talk about how AI is quietly reshaping the workforce under the guise of “restructuring.” GM reports a profit dip but revs up electrified truck updates to meet shifting demands. Finally, California launches an innovative apprenticeship program to tackle the auto tech shortage head-on.GM's Q2 net income fell 35%, hit by $1.1 billion in tariffs, but the company holds firm on full-year profit goals. CEO Mary Barra highlights strategic moves to align with consumer demand. Meanwhile, GMC is updating its trucks and SUVs with plug-in hybrids arriving in 2027 and EV redesigns planned.Q2 revenue dropped 1.8% to $47.1 billion; North American pretax profit down 46%.Tariffs expected to cut profits by $4-$5 billion this year.GMC's Sierra and Yukon will add plug-in hybrids in 2027, with EV Sierra redesign in 2028.Hummer EV and other models due for updates through 2029.Barra: “We'll emerge from this transition stronger and more profitable than before.”California dealers are tackling the nationwide shortage of skilled auto techs with a new apprenticeship program. The initiative lets aspiring technicians learn on the job without upfront costs, offering wages, tools, and a U.S. Department of Labor certification after two years.CNCDA reports 400,000 tech job openings nationwide; California alone needs 5,000 more.The shift to EVs and retiring experienced techs are worsening the shortage.Apprenticeship pays a fair wage, requires no tuition, and includes e-learning tools.Open to anyone, especially those 18-30 without college degrees, aiming to avoid student debt.“This program offers a practical path to a lucrative career without the burden of traditional schooling,” said CNCDA representatives.While companies rarely admit it publicly, AI technology is increasingly driving workforce reductions disguised as restructuring or optimization. Early layoffs have targeted 1099 freelancers, especially in content and creative roles, HR, and Customer Service as firms cautiously phase in AI tools before affecting full-time employees.IBM and Klarna have been among the few transparent about AI replacing some jobs despite overall growth.Companies often use euphemisms like “restructuring,” “reorganization,” “optimization,” and “business efficiency” to mask AI-driven job cuts and avoid backlash.When AI falls short, companies often outsource work globally instead of rehiring domestically.“AI might automate 70% to 90% of a process, but the last mile still needs the human touch, especiallJoin 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 #1100: Franchised dealerships saw a 22% profit surge in Q2, led by strong gains in import and domestic brands. Ford unveiled a high-tech electric Bronco, but it's only for China. Meanwhile, Tesla opened its retro-style diner and drive-in in Hollywood, complete with Superchargers, rooftop views, and robot service.Franchised dealerships saw a big jump in net profits this quarter as customers rushed to buy before tariffs hit, according to the Q2 2025 Presidio-NCM Benchmark. Profit gains came with a small asterisk because of the big cybersecurity hit last year. However this does mark the first quarterly improvement in domestic brands in three years.Average franchised dealerships posted a 22% net profit increase year-over-year, helped by both import and domestic brand gains.Import stores led with a 34% profit rise, luxury stores up 32%, and domestic stores rebounded 24% for the first time since 2022.New-vehicle gross profit per unit rose 6.1% from Q1 2025 to $2,128, reversing a multi-year decline.Used-vehicle gross profit climbed 11%, while finance and insurance income increased 5.6%, supporting overall revenue growth to $22 million per dealership.“Sustained profitability will come from a focus on fundamentals and a willingness to adapt as market conditions continue to evolve,” said Paul Faletti, CEO of NCM Associates.Ford has built a fully electric Bronco SUV with some impressive specs like 403-mile range, advanced EV tech, including lidar and 30+ sensors for semi-autonomous driving, and a heavier/smoother ride but there's a catch… it's only coming to ChinaThe Bronco New Energy offers two powertrains: a full electric with a 105 kWh battery and an extended-range hybrid (EREV) combining a 43.7 kWh battery with a 1.5L gas generator.The hybrid version can cover up to 800 miles total, with 137 miles purely on battery before the gas engine kicks in.The SUV is big and heavy—nearly 5,800 pounds and almost 9 inches longer than the gas Bronco—providing a planted ride but potentially slower cornering.Ford's smart cabin includes unique modes like “naps, pets, camping overnight” designed for comfort and convenience.Tesla's new Diner and Drive-In in Hollywood is ready to serve nostalgia and innovation side by side. Opening July 21, 2025, this retro-futuristic spot combines classic diner vibes with 75 Tesla Supercharger stalls and even features a Tesla Optimus robot.The two-story, saucer-shaped diner sits on historic Route 66 and offers 9,300 sq ft including a rooftop bar with panoramic views.Classic movies and SpaceX launch footage play on two massive LED screens syncing audio to your Tesla's stereo for a true drive-in experience.Tesla owners get exclusive perks like in-car touchscreen ordering and carhop service on roller skates delivering diner classics served in Cybertruck-themed packaging.Charging supports up to 250 kW for Models S, 3, X, Y, aJoin 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 #1099: It's Saturday, which means Chris Reeves is back in the studio with another story that brings all the feels.This time it's about Speedway Subaru in Indianapolis. When a service advisor found out a longtime customer had lost everything in a house fire, including the dog that saved their life, he didn't just offer sympathy. He took action. The team came together to donate a car and provide essentials to help the family rebuild.We talk about what it means to be oriented toward people, how a culture of awareness makes stories like this possible, and yes, somehow we get into Dungeons & Dragons too.Story Link: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/speedwaycars_subarulovepromise-speedwaycares-speedwaysubaru-activity-7349806799643893761-r1Xg/?rcm=ACoAADx8cGUBDLlEN_DFCU9c17qutER63LD65xgJoin 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/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/