Podcast appearances and mentions of kyle mountsier

Shoot us a Text.As we wrap up the NADA show this morning, we are energized.We're hearing that this has been record years for a lot of industry partners, and dealers are optimistic and ready to try new things.Our friends at CarRx are our content partners today, and we've got Michelle Jackson, EVP of Sales to share with us a little bit more about their product and how they're approaching the end of the year.  They've got a really cool both so we end the show playing Mortal Kombat and solving Rubik's cubes.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.We're at the North Hall of the NADA Show today, getting ready for another amazing day.An underlying theme of all our conversations has been the "Year of the Human." Even though AI is a big theme, dealers are asking, "How does this help my people?"We love that because of our belief in the motto of Love People More Than You Love Cars, and today we had on Jeremy Rowland to talk more about it.Thank you to our friends at Mia for making all of the content possible.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.We've been on the show floor all day, and so this afternoon, we stopped by our friends at Cars Commerce to catch up with the one and only Brian Kramer.As a former dealer himself, Brian has great insights to the market and how its moving. His latest interest: AI Search, and he unpacks how the trust level in AI search is increasing, and how their tool Carson on Cars.com is an example of that.Thanks to Cars Commerce for making all of our content today possible.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 More Than Cars team is on the ground ready to run hard during the NADA Show.Today, we'll be at the JD Power Auto Summit grabbing interviews and writing up all the sessions.Follow More Than Cars, Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier, Michael Cirillo for more great NADA Show Content.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 #1259: As the automotive world heads to Las Vegas, Paul sits down with outgoing NADA Chairman Tom Castriota for a candid conversation on a whirlwind year of leadership.As dealers head to Las Vegas, Paul sits down with outgoing NADA Chairman Tom Castriota for a true Automotive State of the Union. From Washington wins to AI realities and dealer trust, Castriota reflects on a fast-moving year and what lies ahead.Castriota recaps a landmark year of dealer advocacy, including the FTC Cars Rule defeat, CRA action, and direct involvement in major White House policy moments.He frames leadership as service over spotlight, describing his role as an ambassador who spent the year listening to dealers and state associations nationwide.The conversation looks ahead to consolidation, rural dealerships, and long-term stability, with an emphasis on franchise protection and profitability.AI is a major focus, with NADA positioning itself as a trusted, practical resource to help dealers navigate hype versus reality.“My goal was never about Tom Castriota — I'm just an ambassador. We're the voice of the dealers.”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 before NADA, Chris and Nathan join Kyle to talk about a recent car crash where a dealership jumped into action.When three-vehicle crash with a rollover happened directly outside the dealership, putting lives at immediate risk, team members from the Bob Ross Group Mercedes-Benz of Centerville jumped into action, checking on every driver and helping lift a trapped driver from an overturned van.Employees stayed on scene, ensuring all involved were safe and accounted for until first responders arrived.The moment reinforced that dealerships are often front-line community members, not just businesses behind glass doors.“What a great group of Good Samaritans you have there,” wrote one of the drivers involved, thanking the team for their quick, selfless response.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 #1257: Chinese automakers are taking real share in Europe, AI at NADA is growing up fast, and U.S. consumer confidence just hit a decade low. Chinese automakers just hit a milestone in Europe, capturing nearly one in 10 new-car sales. Fueled by competitive EVs and hybrids, strong battery tech, and rapid expansion, Chinese brands are moving from disruptors to serious incumbents across the continent.Chinese brands claimed 9.5% of Europe's total car market in December, a record share.Electrified vehicles are the growth engine, with Chinese automakers now holding 16% of Europe's EV and plug-in hybrid market, more than double last year.Europe's auto industry is under strain, with over 110,000 jobs lost in 18 months, as domestic brands face shrinking share at home and abroad.“The progression of Chinese cars in Europe is massive… It's a matter of survival for our industry,” said Roberto Vavassori, head of Italy's Anfia trade group.AI is everywhere in dealer tech talk, but 2026 is shaping up as the year it moves from buzzword to baseline. At NADA in Las Vegas, expect fewer “wow” moments and far more conversations about integration, maturity, and ROI.More than 40 AI-specific exhibitors are registered for NADA 2026, up from just 10 last year, with many more vendors baking AI into existing platforms.Expect AI centered on lead engagement, chat, marketing automation, inventory, pricing, service prediction and moreDealers are showing up with sharper questions, focusing on cost savings, productivity, and ROI, not shiny add-ons or disconnected tools.“Everybody has the same ice cream. It's just flavored a little bit different,” said Cox Automotive's Mo Zahabi, summing up what dealers should expect on the floor.America's economic mood just took a sharp turn south. Consumer confidence fell to its lowest level in more than a decade in January, with households rattled by rising prices, job anxiety, and geopolitical noise—setting up an uneasy backdrop for spending as 2026 gets underway.The Consumer Confidence Index dropped to 84.5, its lowest reading since 2014 and well below economist expectations, signaling broad-based unease.Inflation remains front and center, with consumers citing food, gas, electricity, insurance costs, and tariffs as top concerns.“The K-shaped economy is great for the top 20%, but many middle-class Americans are barely keeping up,” said Heather Long, chief economist at Navy Federal Credit Union.This episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: Meet customers where they shop: 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 #1256: Tesla IS phasing out its legacy models X  and S to make room for humanoid robots. EV sales just passed petrol cars for the first time in the EU. Finally, Starbucks is brewing a comeback under a new CEO, but margins are still on the drip.Show Notes with links: Tesla is officially sunsetting the Model S sedan and Model X crossover to make room for its future: humanoid robots made in a Fremont, TX factory. CEO Elon Musk says the move reflects Tesla's shift from automaker to physical AI pioneer.Sales of the S, X, and Cybertruck fell 40% in 2025 to just over 50,000 combined units.Tesla will aim to produce 1 million Optimus robots annually in the long term.Musk also confirmed Tesla's robotaxi service will expand to 7 more U.S. cities this year."It's time to bring the Model S and X programs to an end with an honorable discharge," said Musk.In a milestone moment for the EV market, fully electric cars outsold petrol-only vehicles in the EU for the first time in December, highlighting the region's accelerating shift toward electrification.EVs took 22.6% of the EU market in December, just edging out petrol at 22.5%.Hybrids, including plug-ins, remained dominant with a 44% share.EV sales in Europe, Britain, and the EFTA rose for a sixth straight month.Tesla's EU registrations dropped 20.2%, while Chinese brand BYD jumped 229.7%."We're seeing consumer buy-in to this," said E-Mobility Europe's Chris Heron.Starbucks is seeing its first U.S. sales growth in two years thanks to new CEO Brian Niccol's back-to-basics approach, though investors remain wary due to continued margin pressure.U.S. same-store sales rose 4% in Q1; average order value increased 1%.Niccol's “Back to Starbucks” plan focuses on simplified menus and service speed.Margins fell for a second straight year, down 290 basis points in Q1.High bean costs and past tariffs on imports like Brazilian coffee remain a drag.“I'm most excited that our turnaround plan is coming to life in the way we envision, first turn around the top line, and then earnings growth will follow…”, said Niccol.This episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: Meet customers where they shop: reach high-intent buyers shopping for their next car on the #1 online retailer.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 #1255: Waymo gains ground on rideshare rivals as Tesla undercuts them all. A global study shows bad CX drives customers away faster than high prices. And automakers pull back from Super Bowl ads, choosing more flexible, efficient buys.Only two automakers — Toyota and Cadillac — are confirmed for Super Bowl 2026, as most brands step away from the pricey event. Facing budget pressure and chasing efficiency, car companies are shifting spend to longer campaigns across other live events.Brands like Ford, BMW, Kia, Honda, Nissan, and Stellantis are sitting it out, citing affordability and better ROI elsewhere.With a $9 million price tag per 30 seconds plus production, the Super Bowl is losing appeal amid industry cost pressures.Automakers are turning to the Olympics, World Cup, and NBA All-Star Game for more cost-effective, multi-week campaigns.“There's no secret that the premium of being in the Super Bowl certainly would come at the expense of having some additional investment,” said Sean Gilpin, Hyundai CMO.Waymo is becoming a real contender in ride-hailing while Tesla goes for a classic price war play. A new Obi study compares autonomous and traditional services, showing a market reshaping rapidly — especially in San Francisco.Waymo's robotaxi pricing has dropped and is now only 12.7% more than Uber and 27.3% more than Lyft, compared to 30–40% higher in mid-2025.Tesla Robotaxi leads on price at just $8.17 per ride, but lags with 15.32-minute average wait times.Obi CEO Ashwini Anburajan: “They're using the playbook that Uber and Lyft used... and we know that playbook works."Consumers now prioritize customer experience over price with 59% abandoning a brand after one bad experience versus 55% fleeing due to price hikes, according to a global Havas CX study. Consistency and emotional connection are key drivers of loyalty.A global survey of 59,000+ shoppers shows experience matters more than cost — more consumers ditch brands after poor service than high prices.Consistent, seamless experiences across digital and physical channels top what customers value most.Emotional connection and personalization now weigh as heavily as functional efficiency in shaping CX.“Loyalty can only be earned by delivering unwavering consistency, authentic personal connection, and experiences that create lasting emotional memories,” says David Shulman.This episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: MeetJoin 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 #1254: GM takes a multibillion-dollar EV hit but says 2026 looks brighter, white-hat hackers cash in by cracking EV chargers and infotainment systems, and the airline industry gets its annual report cardGeneral Motors closed 2025 with a wider quarterly loss after taking billions in EV and China-related charges. But underneath the headline number, core profits held up, cash flowed in North America, and GM is signaling confidence that 2026 will be stronger.GM reported a $3.3B Q4 net loss after booking more than $7B in charges, largely tied to cutting back EV production and restructuring its China joint venture.Adjusted EBIT rose 13% in the quarter, and GM earned $10.5B in North America for the year, resulting in profit-sharing bonuses up to $10,500 for UAW workers.EV losses are projected to improve by $1B–$1.5B in 2026CEO Mary Barra told shareholders the company sees stability ahead: “We expect the U.S. new vehicle market will continue to be resilient… 2026 should be an even better year for GM.”From EV chargers to infotainment systems, the Pwn2Own Automotive 2025 competition exposed how much of the industry is still very hackable.Hackers earned $886,250 uncovering nearly 50 zero-day vulnerabilities in EV chargers, infotainment systems, and automotive softwareInfotainment systems from Kenwood, Sony, and Alpine were successfully exploited, along with chargers from ChargePoint, Autel, Ubiquiti, Phoenix Contact, WolfBox, and Tesla.Tesla Wall Connectors alone accounted for more than $140,000 in payouts, while the overall winning team, Summoning Team, took home $222,250.Notably, no one attempted to hack a Tesla vehicle, despite a car and large cash prizes on the table.If 2025 felt like a rough year to fly, you're not wrong. But turbulence hit everyone. What separated airlines wasn't the chaos—it was execution. The Wall Street Journal's airline scorecard crowns a new winner and reshuffles the pecking order.(Worst → Best): Frontier (T-last), American (T-last), JetBlue (7th), United (6th), Spirit (5th), Alaska (4th), Delta (3rd), Allegiant (2nd), Southwest (1st).Southwest wins for the first time since 2020, ending Delta's four-year streak with strong all-around operations and industry-low complaints.Explaining Southwest's edge, COO Andrew Watterson said the airline avoids the “easy” option when things go sideways: “It's very easy to cancel a flight. That's the path of least resistance.”This episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: Meet customers where tJoin 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 #1253: Today we're digging into why fixed ops is carrying the dealership profit load, how dealer-focused AI just landed serious funding, and why Ford teaming up with Carhartt is about a lot more than merch.With new-car sales slowing, aging vehicles and a technician shortage are putting service departments squarely in the profit hot seat. Dealers are leaning into mobile service, tech, and creative staffing strategies to protect margins and make every service lane interaction count.Service departments drive 85–90% of revenue for many dealersVehicle age hit 12.8 years in 2025, boosting service demandMobile service is gaining traction despite $100K startup costs, while AI and video tools improve efficiency—but dealers must balance tech with personal service.“There is not a department in any dealership in America more important than the service department,” said Tom McCollum, chairman of the Audi National Dealer Council.As dealerships increasingly lean on conversational AI to handle customer communication at scale, book more appointments, and squeeze more revenue out of every lead, Mia Labs has raised a hefty Series A round.Mia Labs raised $20 million, bringing total capital raised to $29 millionThe platform now serves 350+ franchise dealerships and enabled more than $45 million in dealer revenue in 2025 alone.Mia's AI has powered over 1 million customer conversations, booked 130,000+ sales and service appointments, and saved 1.5 million human-hours.The company has new product launches teased for NADA 2026, with CEO and co-founder Brian Hoang saying “We're building the most sophisticated AI super employee in the automotive space,”Ford is teaming up with Carhartt in a multiyear partnership that blends brand, philanthropy, and workforce development. The goal: get more people into skilled trades, support technicians, and celebrate the work ethic that keeps dealerships, trucks, and communities moving.The partnership includes co-branded gear, uniforms for technician trainees, and a Carhartt edition 2027 Ford Super Duty with design cues inspired by real job-site textures.Ford, Carhartt, and partners are backing technician training through scholarships, tools, and support programs aimed at lowering barriers to skilled trades careers.“This is such a great match because we're all committed to making sure workers have the best equipment and gear that they can get,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley.This episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: Meet customerJoin 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.These three dealers used to work together, and now they are teaming up to make a real difference.Charlesglen Toyota, 5th Avenue Volkswagen, and Lexus of Royal Oak worked with their teams to raise $265,000 for local charities, matching employee donations and backing causes close to home: mental health support, autism services, and animal rescue.Read the full story here: https://daily.asotu.com/p/canada-opens-the-door-to-china-evsJoin 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 #1251: Today's show comes to you from Washington, DC as Public Policy Day wraps and the auto industry's biggest themes take center stage.Autonomy is no longer theoretical — Tesla has begun limited robotaxi rides in Austin with no safety driver onboard, marking a meaningful inflection point for self-driving technology and accelerating conversations dealers can no longer ignore.Plus we dig into liability, ownership, and what happens when cars start driving themselves for profit, while affordability remains the constant drumbeat across every conversation. Despite rising averages, there are still real, attainable vehicles on dealer lots — proving once again that payments and rates matter more than headlines.This episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: Meet customers where they shop: reach high-intent buyers shopping for their next car on the #1 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 #1250: Colorado dealers filed suit on VW-backed Scout's direct-sales license, insurers face political heat as profits soar and affordability cracks, and Lemonade rolls out Tesla Full Self-Driving-based insurance, hinting at a future where driving software sets the rate.A group of Colorado VW, Audi, and Porsche dealers is suing the state after regulators approved a direct-sales dealer license for Scout Motors. Dealers argue the decision misreads state law and opens the door for OEMs to bypass franchised networks.Ten VW, Audi, and Porsche dealers filed suit this week, alleging Colorado improperly granted Scout a dealer license by treating it as an EV-only manufacturer.Dealers argue Scout's extended-range EV system is effectively a plug-in hybrid, disqualifying it from EV-only exceptions in state law.The lawsuit also claims Scout is an “alter ego” of Volkswagen Group, which already has franchised dealers and is barred from direct salesThe affordability conversation is turning its sights on insurers. After years of sharp rate hikes, home and auto insurers are posting near-record profits—and lawmakers are taking notice.Insurers are rebounding strongly, with the property and casualty industry posting its highest underwriting profit in nearly 20 years.Lawmakers in states like New York and Oklahoma are pushing profit caps, arguing rate hikes are out of step with household budgets.Auto insurance rates have stabilized nationally, but remain uneven by state, fueling continued consumer frustration.Lemonade is launching a new auto-insurance product built specifically for Tesla Full Self-Driving users, promising per-mile rates up to 50% lower when the software is engaged—an early glimpse at how insurance may evolve alongside partial autonomy.Lemonade will price insurance based on when Tesla's Supervised Full Self-Driving system is active versus human driving.The product relies on new vehicle telemetry data enabled through a technical collaboration with Tesla.Launch begins in Arizona on January 26, with Oregon following a month later.The move signals insurers are preparing for a future where software performance, not just driver behavior, sets risk and price.Lemonade president Shai Wininger said, “A driver who can see 360 degrees, never gets drowsy, and reacts in milliseconds isn't like any other driver.”This episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: Meet customers where they shop: reach high-intent buyers shopping for their next 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 #1249: We dig into why affordability—not EV tech—is the real sales bottleneck heading into 2026, how agentic shopping is reshaping the idea of ‘merit' across retail, and why Jeff Daniels' new stage play about a struggling dealership is hitting close to home for the auto industry.In a wide-ranging interview with Automotive News, Chevrolet dealer council leader Andy Guelcher explains why affordability—not EV tech—is the industry's biggest hurdle heading into 2026, and how pricing discipline, incentives, and used EVs will ultimately determine sales momentum.Guelcher warns that $1,000-plus monthly payments are unsustainable and, if not addressed, will put real pressure on future vehicle sales.Lower inventory levels have helped dealers protect gross, but affordability now requires more creativity in financing, leasing, and lender mix.From a Chevy standpoint, Guelcher says disciplined inventory management and a renewed focus on lower-MSRP models position the brand well if affordability improves.Hollywood meets the showroom as actor Jeff Daniels brings car dealer drama to the stage. A new play written by a former Automotive News editor puts a struggling dealership — and the people who love the business — front and center, minus the tired stereotypes.The Classic King follows four salespeople racing to save a dealership after losing its new-car franchise, which was inspired by real dealership closures during the Great RecessionThe play is written by former Automotive News editor Richard Johnson and directed by Jeff Daniels at Michigan's Purple Rose Theatre.Daniels praised the script, saying, “There's a lot of heart in it and a lot of humor… it speaks to people who don't just have a job — they love what they do.”AI is officially coming for the shopping cart. Shopify president Harley Finkelstein says “agentic commerce” could fundamentally change how consumers discover and buy products—shifting power away from ads and toward relevance, fit, and meritShopify is betting big on agentic commerce, citing a 14x increase in orders driven by AI agents in just the past year.Google's new Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), backed by Shopify, Walmart, and others, aims to standardize how AI agents shop across brands.Rather than replacing e-commerce sites, agentic shopping is expected to act as a powerful new “spoke,” potentially accelerating overall e-commerce adoption.This episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: Meet customers where they shop: reach high-intJoin 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 #1248: Dealer confidence takes a hit as affordability pressures and tighter margins creep into Q4, even as fixed ops and F&I try to hold the line. Meanwhile, Wawa goes all-in on Tesla charging, and the Vegas Sphere model heads to DC.Show Notes with links: Dealer sentiment isn't what it was in Q3 as affordability pressures, rising rates, and tighter margins took their toll on the Q4 numbers. While conditions remain technically “favorable,” confidence slipped quarter over quarter, with dealers signaling tougher days ahead despite strength in fixed ops and F&I.Dealers rated current performance at 62.3, down 5 points from Q3 and the lowest of any industry segment, citing consumer affordability as the biggest drag.Rising interest rates and payment-driven shoppers are shrinking showroom traffic and compressing grosses as price transparency intensifies competition.Fixed ops and F&I remain bright spots, though confidence there also dipped compared to Q3 as financing conditions worsened.Used-vehicle operations grew more challenging, with quality—not quantity—becoming the main inventory issue after years of tight supply.Wawa is slapping its logo on Tesla Superchargers.  The popular convenience store giant has launched its first self-branded Tesla Supercharger site, signaling a deeper push into EV infrastructure.The first Wawa-owned, Wawa-branded Supercharger site is now live in Alachua, Florida, featuring 16 ultra-fast 325 kW stalls.The site operates under Tesla's new Supercharger for Business program, where Tesla installs and manages chargers while Wawa controls pricing.Charging is set at $0.37 per kWh, and Wawa hasn't disclosed how many more branded sites are planned—but its 1,200+ stores offer big expansion potential.The Vegas Sphere is coming to a Nations Capital near you.  Sphere Entertainment plans a 6,000-seat “mini-Sphere” in National Harbor, Maryland, bringing its eye-popping screens and immersive tech to the DC area, along with a billion-dollar price tag and big economic promises.The DC-area Sphere will be about one-third the size of Las Vegas, but feature the same massive screen, immersive audio, 4D effects, and haptic seating.Construction is expected to cost over $1 billion, supported by roughly $200 million in state, local, and private incentives—some requiring voter approval.This episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: Meet customers where they shop: reach high-intent buyers shopping for their next car on the #1 online retailer.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 #1247: Canada slashes EV tariffs in a controversial China deal, OpenAI kicks off its ad-supported ChatGPT Go plan, and Recurrent CEO Scott Case calls out the real EV story: a booming used market dealers can't afford to miss.Show Notes with links: In a surprise move, Canada struck a deal with China to allow 49,000 Chinese-made EVs into the country annually at a dramatically lower tariff—down from 106% to just 6.1%—in exchange for agricultural trade concessions. The move has stirred both optimism and outrage across the automotive industry.The deal drew sharp criticism from Unifor and industry leaders, who say it rewards unfair labor practices.Critics say it could hurt Canadian auto jobs and complicate USMCA negotiations with the U.S.One of the qualifications is that the vehicles be priced around $30k CAD (25K USD)Don't call it a slow down says , Scott Case, CEO of Recurrent in is Automotive News Op Ed. Despite media headlines suggesting electric vehicle demand is cooling, Case says the narrative is missing the real story and it is that used EVs are booming as he urges dealers to ignore short-term noise and prepare for a long-term shift.Case argues that demand isn't falling, it's shifting to lower-cost used EVs as new prices soar.The used EV market is set to grow 5x, driven by a wave of off-lease EVs hitting the market in 2026.“Winning in the EV market means selling $30K vehicles with 300-mile range and Tesla charging access. In 2026, that means used EVs.” —Scott Case, Recurrent CEO OpenAI just opened the ad door inside ChatGPT as it launches its lowest-cost plan worldwide. That's right, ads are coming to the AI assistant for free and Go users in the U.S., marking a major monetization pivot ahead of a planned IPO.ChatGPT Go is now available globally at $8/month and includes GPT‑5.2 Instant access.Ads will appear as “Sponsored Recommendations” under responses for Go and free users. Sam Altman once called ads a “last resort,” but now says he's okay with them “if it doesn't violate user trust.”“Ads support our commitment to making AI accessible… by helping us keep ChatGPT available at free and affordable price points.” —OpenAI blogThis episode of the Automotive State of the Union is brought to you by Amazon Autos: Meet customers where they shop: reach high-intent buyers shopping for their next car on the #1 online retailer.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Today, Head Writer Chris Reeves joins the show to share how the Super Chevy Dealers of Baton Rouge and Our Lady of the Lake came together to honor Vietnam veteran and former police officer Michael King with a new 2026 Chevy Equinox RS—proof that when a community shows up, the impact goes far beyond the driveway.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 #1245: Honda unveils a brand-wide logo reboot, Tesla brings its massive Texas lithium refinery online, and U.S. workers pump the brakes on job-hopping—opting for stability and side hustles instead. Show Notes with links: Honda is officially going all-in on its new, wider “H” badge. What started as an EV-only identifier will now represent Honda's entire automotive business—from gas and hybrid vehicles to dealerships and motorsports—blending retro roots with a future-facing look.Honda's new badge, inspired by its 1960s-era logo, is wider, frameless, and intentionally more modern.Originally reserved for the upcoming 0 Series EVs, the logo will now appear across all Honda vehicles, including ICE and hybrids.The brand says the move unifies Honda's identity as electrification and internal combustion will coexist longer than once expected.Unlike many “flattened” rebrands, this logo leans on heritage while still fitting next-gen EV design language.Honda says the badge will “represent [the] Honda automobile business as a whole, including… dealership locations, communication initiatives, and automobile motorsports activities.”Tesla just flipped the switch on its Texas lithium refinery, bringing battery-grade lithium hydroxide production fully online. The company says it's the first refinery of its kind in North America—and a big step toward controlling more of its EV supply chain at home.The Corpus Christi-area facility converts raw spodumene ore directly into battery-grade lithium hydroxide, skipping common intermediate steps.Tesla says the simplified process is cheaper, faster, and more sustainable than traditional lithium refining methods.From groundbreaking in 2023 to operation in 2026, Tesla fast-tracked the project by running design, studies, and construction in parallel.Elon Musk called it “the largest lithium refinery in America” and added that it's “the most advanced lithium refinery in the world” and “very clean.”After years of churn, the job market has slammed the brakes. New data shows workers are far less likely to job hunt in 2026, choosing stability and side hustles instead as hiring slows and confidence drops across the U.S. workforce.Only 43% of workers plan to job search in 2026, down sharply from 93% last year, according to Monster.Economists are calling 2025 a “hiring recession,” with the weakest job gains outside a recession since 2003.About 75% of employees say they plan to stay put until at least 2027, a trend known as “job hugging.”Instead of switching jobs, nearly two-thirds of workers are turning to side hustles or extra income streams.Monster's Vicki Salemi says workers aren't disengaged, just cautious: “They're basically playing theJoin 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 #1244: Today we're talking about Tesla's FSD flip to subscription-only, the continued softening of auto credit conditions, and a loyalty report that says your customers are expecting way more. Show Notes with links: The Dealertrack Credit Availability Index closed out December at 99.6—its highest reading of 2025 and the strongest level since October 2022. It marks a continued return to pre-pandemic credit conditions, capping off a yearlong trend of easing lending standards.Approval rates rose to 73.7%, up 90 basis points from November and 80 bps from December 2024.Average contract rates dropped from 10.5% to 10.3%, while yield spreads also narrowed—making pricing more attractive for buyers.Subprime lending edged down from 14.3% to 14.1% month-over-month, though still up from 11.8% a year ago.Loans over 72 months grew in share, as consumers stretch payments to keep monthly costs manageable.Captive lenders led the loosening, but banks, credit unions, and finance companies all showed increased flexibility.Starting February 14, Tesla will stop offering its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system as a one-time purchase, moving exclusively to a monthly subscription model, according to CEO Elon Musk.FSD, which still requires active driver supervision, currently costs $8,000 or $99/month.Tesla hasn't said how many users pay for FSD, but Musk once admitted he was "kind of glad" not many bought the lifetime option.The shift may be tied to Musk's compensation package, which includes hitting 10 million active FSD subscriptions.California regulators are still considering suspending Tesla's sales license for 30 days over alleged misleading marketing of FSD capabilities.Tesla has not disclosed how many of its customers have bought or are paying monthly subscriptions for FSD.In its 28th annual Customer Loyalty Engagement Index, Brand Keys found that consumer expectations jumped a record-breaking 32% year-over-year — a shift that's shaking up brand rankings across industries and putting serious pressure on retailers to evolve.Hyundai once again ranked highest among automotive brands for meeting modern consumer expectations — its 17th year holding that title.Nearly 40% of product and service categories saw new leaders emerge, signaling a wave of disruption driven by more demanding buyers.Loyalty continues to deliver ROI: a 5% improvement can boost lifetime customer profits by up to 88%, while a 2% lift can cut marketing costs by nearly 30%.Amazon, Whole Foods, Shell, Ben & Jerry's, and Dollar General were also among the top performers in their categories.“The bottom line: loyalty moves markets.” – Robert Passikoff, President of Brand KeysJoin 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 #1243: We're talking about a viral moment at Ford's Dearborn plant, a smart strategy for turning old trade-ins into profit, and surprising insights into the real buying power of Gen Alpha.Show Notes with links: President Donald Trump made a high-profile visit to Ford's Dearborn Truck Plant, touring the F-150 line with company leadership, previewing a patriotic new pickup, and filming a CBS interview on the factory floor.Trump was guided by CEO Jim Farley and Executive Chair Bill Ford and saw an F-350 wrapped in an American flag; Ford plans to release it midyear for America's 250th anniversary.The plant was described by Farley as “the most important automotive plant in the United States.”Trump praised Ford's workforce and the sound of the assembly line.The visit ended on a viral note when Trump flipped off a heckling worker during his exit.A GoFundMe has been started for the employee which has raised over 25k from almost 1000 donors.Faced with affordability challenges and aging trade-ins, more dealers are implementing targeted reconditioning strategies to retail vehicles that would've gone to auction just a few years ago.The approach includes dedicated checklists that focus on safety and mechanical soundness while allowing minor cosmetic flaws.Holman adopted this method in June, leading to faster turnaround times and stronger profit margins.Dealers like Premier Automotive and Ganley Automotive are also leaning into older, higher-mileage units to meet demand.The goal is to invest intelligently—fix what matters, disclose the rest, and keep prices approachable.“You have to intelligently dial in the reinvestment,” said Chris Morgan of Holman. “It's not easy—but it works.”A new study shows that kids born after 2010 are already shaping nearly half of family spending decisions—despite most of them not even being old enough to drive.Gen Alpha influences $255B in U.S. spending across food, fashion, and leisure.Their buying influence is powered by peer and family input—not influencers or ads.Visual appeal and style are top decision factors; sustainability ranks low at just 16%.Many Gen Alpha kids are already earning money through informal or part-time jobs.“Our findings show a generation skeptical of media messages and steadfast in their opinions,” said Teneo's Gee Lefevre.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 #1242: Today we have a very special edition of The Automotive State of the Union.It's All Things CES with Steve Greenfield. After walking many miles on the show floor, Steve will be sharing all the insights, surprises, and automotive tech buzz from the biggest stage in innovation.Sign up for Steve's weekly newsletter at automotiveventures.comJoin 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 #1241: CarMax leans on price cuts and marketing to spark sales, Toyota takes its iconic Hilux electric in Europe, and Walmart keeps scaling drone delivery as demand grows.CarMax is shifting back to fundamentals as sales and earnings continue to slide. The company will cut prices, trim costs, and increase marketing to regain momentum heading into 2026.Q3 results saw unit sales down 8% and earnings down 50% year-over-year.CarMax will use targeted price cuts to spark demand, not blanket reductions.The company is lowering margins while boosting marketing to drive traffic.SG&A will be cut by $150M annually despite increased ad spend.“Our average selling prices have drifted upward and appear to be less attractive to customers,” said Interim CEO David McCreight.Toyota just electrified one of its most important global trucks. The Hilux made its first European appearance as a full EV, signaling Toyota's pickup electrification push—just not for North American buyers.Toyota debuted the Hilux BEV at the Brussels Motor Show, and uses a 59.2 kWh battery, offering up to 160 miles WLTP range, or 236 miles in city driving.With AWD and 473 Nm of torque, it can tow 1.6 tons and haul over 1,500 lbs, keeping its work-truck credibility.Europe gets the Hilux BEV in April, but the truck isn't sold in the U.S.—and Toyota isn't signaling that will change.Alphabet-owned Wing is dramatically expanding its on-demand drone partnership with Walmart, signaling that flying groceries and meds are becoming a real part of everyday commerce.Wing will expand drone delivery to 150 more Walmart stores, building on pilots in Dallas-Fort Worth and Atlanta.Wing's top 25% of customers order three times per week, mostly groceries like eggs, ground beef, produce, and snacks.Once complete, Wing will operate from 270+ Walmart locations, reaching roughly 10% of the U.S. population.Walmart remains Wing's primary commercial partner, even as the company continues testing larger drones capable of carrying five-pound payloads.Wing's new chief business officer Heather Rivera: “Volume is definitely powering our flywheel.”Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Shoot us a Text.Today, Paul Kyle, and Chris Reeves are together again after a bunch of guest hosts and holiday episodes. They argue over whose New Year's Eve was more boring and whether or not you should actually prepare for tornadoes. But most importantly, we talk about how the Ziegler Auto Group gathered over 50,000 cans of food to give to people who needed them most. 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 #1239:  Ford earns top honors as America's most iconic company, Stellantis drops every PHEV from its 2026 lineup, and McKinsey's CEO reminds us there are still a few things humans do better than AI. A day of big shifts, bold moves, and even bolder expectations.Show Notes with links: https://www.foxbusiness.com/retail/ford-named-no-1-most-iconic-american-company-nationwide-survey-making-peoples-lives-betterFord just topped Time and Statista's list of the 250 most iconic American companies, beating household giants like Apple, Coca-Cola and Amazon. The ranking highlights not just commercial success, but each company's impact on U.S. culture and society.Time's nationwide survey put Ford at No. 1 for its cultural influence and long-standing role in shaping American life.Bill Ford pointed back to the company's founding mission, emphasizing innovation tied to improving people's lives—not just tech for tech's sake.Ford underscored its status as the largest hourly auto employer in the U.S., reinforcing its commitment to American workers.Time credited Ford's assembly-line legacy for transforming modern manufacturing and reshaping cities and suburbs.“Innovation is not just about building batteries or technology for its own sake; it is about making people's lives better,” said Bill Ford.https://www.jalopnik.com/2071397/stellantis-canceling-all-plug-in-hybrids-2026-model-year/Stellantis is pulling the plug—literally—on every PHEV in its North American lineup starting with the 2026 model year. Once top sellers like the Wrangler 4xe,  Grand Cherokee 4xe, and Chrysler Pacifica PHEV are being discontinued as the company shifts its electrification strategy.Stellantis says every brandwide PHEV program in North America will be phased out beginning in 2026.The automaker plans to pivot toward traditional hybrids and range-extended EVs, where it says customer demand is stronger.Models like the Alfa Romeo Tonale and Dodge Hornet R/T will also lose their plug-in variants.Stellantis says it will “focus on more competitive electrified solutions, including hybrid and range-extended vehicles where they best meet customer needs.”https://www.businessinsider.com/mckinsey-boss-shares-human-skills-ai-models-cant-do-2026-1As AI reshapes knowledge work, McKinsey's top executive says there are three capabilities machines still can't touch—and they're exactly what young professionals should double down on. The comments came as the firm shared how AI has already saved millions of employee work hours.McKinsey's 25,000 AI agents handled 1.5 million hours of search and synthesis last year and produced 2.5 million charts in six months.With routine tasks offloaded, consultants are now tackling higher-order, more complex problem-solving.CEO Bob Sternfels says graduates should focus on the three skills AI cannot replicate: aspiration, judgment, and true creativity.He also says AI will shift hiring away from pedigree and toward demonstrated work—like engineers' GitHub portfolios.“What can the models not do? Aspire… That's a uniquely human capability,” Sternfels said.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 #1238:  Ford is promising eyes-off driving by 2028. But back in the bays, finding top-tier techs is still a $160K challenge. OpenAI wants to be your new health co-pilot with ChatGPT Health.Show Notes with links: https://www.autonews.com/ford/an-ces-2026-ford-doug-field-panel-0107/“Eyes off the road” is Ford's new promise—and it's coming sooner than you might expect.Ford announced an “eyes-off” driving system launching in 2028, debuting on its new Universal EV Platform.The platform will support up to 8 affordable EVs, including a $30K midsize pickup.AI assistant coming to the Ford and Lincoln app in 2026 and vehicles like Expedition and Navigator in 2027.Ford is vertically integrating hardware and software to reduce driver-assist system costs by 30%.“Too many companies have outsourced the whole soul of their machines…we chose a more difficult task,” said Doug Field, Ford's Chief EV, Digital, and Design Officer.https://www.wsj.com/business/autos/the-160-000-mechanic-job-that-ford-cant-fill-fe6fd121?mod=autos_news_article_pos3Let's talk about the $160K Ford Mechanic Job No One Wants. Ford has 5,000 open service bay jobs, some paying over $120K. But techs say the path to get there is grueling and costly—with few making it to the top.Ted Hummel, a Senior Master Tech in Ohio, made $160K in 2025—but it took over a decade to reach.Entry-level techs often start under $10/hr and must invest tens of thousands in tools and training.The “flat rate” pay system rewards speed, not hours worked—but also means zero pay when work is slow.Physical strain is intense; many leave the profession due to injury before reaching top pay.“A bay with a lift and tools and no one to work in it,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley, calling it a nationwide crisis.https://openai.com/index/introducing-chatgpt-health/ChatGPT Enters the Health Chat: OpenAI is rolling out ChatGPT Health, a new experience designed to help users navigate health information more confidently—by connecting medical records and wellness apps securely to AI.Over 230 million people use ChatGPT weekly for health and wellness questions.The Health experience is separate from general ChatGPT chats, with extra layers of privacy and encryption.Users can link data from apps like Apple Health, MyFitnessPal, and Function for more personalized advice.Medical info stays isolated within Health and is not used for training models.Built with input from 260+ physicians, it's designed to support, not replace, clinical care.“It helps you understand patterns over time—not just moments of illness,” OpenAI said in the announcement.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 #1237: Today we're talking about BMW and Mercedes battling it out at CES with next-gen AI, a surprising sedan surge in the used market, and how ChatGPT is causing headaches for doctors and lawyers alike.Show Notes with links: https://lnkd.in/dNJMNGBkTwo German giants are trading blows in Las Vegas. CES has become a high-tech battleground for BMW and Mercedes-Benz as they push the envelope on AI and digital experiences in their latest vehicles.BMW is the first automaker to integrate Amazon's Alexa+ AI into its Intelligent Personal Assistant.Launching with the BMW iX3 in 2026, the assistant offers conversational voice interactions and can handle multiple queries at once.Users can link Amazon accounts to access streaming and news directly through the assistant.The AI is central to BMW's Neue Klasse EV platform, with CES once again serving as its innovation stage.“The vehicle becomes an intelligent companion for its users,” said Stephan Durach, SVP at BMW Group.https://lnkd.in/eb_v_mY6Are sedans back in style? Pickup trucks still rule the used car market, but a surprising sedan surge and shifting EV dynamics brought a few fresh twists to 2025's top sellers.The Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado 1500, and Ram 1500 held onto the top three spots.Chevy Malibu shot up from No. 29 to No. 8, likely due to rental fleet sell-offs after GM ended production.Toyota Corolla cracked the top 10 at No. 9; Equinox and Camry stayed strong.Tesla continues to dominate used EV sales, with Model 3 and Model Y leading.VW ID.4 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 made big jumps, while the Chevy Bolt slid to No. 7.“The rankings show minimal variations from 2024, though the dominance of full-size trucks is shrinking,” said iSeeCars analyst Karl Brauer.https://lnkd.in/eWeNSd7aChatGPT Is the New WebMD, And It's Driving Experts Crazy. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT are becoming the go-to for legal and medical questions, giving everyone a second opinion—but not always the right one.AI is now widely used for symptom checking, legal strategy, and even therapy prep.One in three Americans consult AI weekly for health advice; 57% use it or would for legal issues.Professionals report clients showing up with AI-generated legal gameplans or diagnoses—often filled with emojis.AI's authority and 24/7 availability make it feel more trustworthy and convenient than waiting weeks for an expert.“We have to dispel the information clients were able to obtain vs what is actually going on and kind of work backwards,” said New Jersey attorney Jamie Berger.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 #1236: We're continuing our coverage of CES with headlines on Hyundai's humanoid robot plans and Sony Honda's SUV twist on the Afeela. Plus, a dramatic EV fire at a gas station is stopped cold by some simple, new tech.https://www.autonews.com/technology/an-ces-2026-hyundai-robotics-strategy-0105/Hyundai is jumping headfirst into the humanoid robot race, revealing a bold new plan to deploy thousands of AI-driven robots at its factories, starting with its Georgia Metaplant. The timeline? Hyundai aims to produce 30,000 Atlas humanoid robots per year by 2028.The robots will begin by handling parts-sequencing tasks at the Georgia plant.Developed by Boston Dynamics, Atlas can lift 110 pounds and is built for rugged environments.Hyundai's roadmap includes complex assembly work by 2030, supported by AI from Nvidia and Google DeepMind.“Robotics brings many different domains of machine learning together… That makes robotics a frontier application of AI,” said Carolina Parada of Google DeepMind.https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/sony-honda-mobilitys-afeela-prototype-2026-puts-an-suv-spin-on-its-too-familiar-sedan-at-ces-043927882.htmlSony Honda Mobility is back at CES with another Afeela concept — this time, it's an SUV. The new Afeela Prototype 2026 offers familiar styling with a taller twist, signaling the joint venture's attempt to better cater to American preferences.The SUV prototype mimics the Afeela 1 sedan, complete with nose-mounted LCD.Targeted release is “as early as 2028,” though 2029 is more likely.Meanwhile, the Afeela 1 sedan is still set to launch at the end of 2026 — but only in California.Starting at $90K, the sedan offers 300 miles of range and promises future Level 4 autonomy yet only charges at 150 kwh…half of what most Teslas and Hyundai's can do“You could drive in Gran Turismo 7 while your car drove you to work,” Sony Honda Mobility teased.https://www.jalopnik.com/2068144/firefighters-blanket-turtle-ev-fire/In an ironic turn, an EV caught fire at a gas station . Thanks to quick-thinking cops and some seriously clever firefighting tech, it didn't turn into a Hollywood-style explosion. This near-disaster in Minnesota gave emergency responders a chance to flex some new tools built just for EV firesA burning Kia EV6 was parked at a gas pump — yes, a gas pump.First, Police used cruisers to push the smoking EV away from the pump to a safe location.Then, firefighters used a giant fire blanket to control vapors and smoke.Finally, they also deployed the “Turtle” — a shell-shaped water cannon developed by Jersey City Fire Captain Howard "Buddy" Hayes after he discovered the shortcomings of his department's existing equipment in battling EV fires.The Turtle pumps 500 gallons per minute to cool EV battery packs from underneath avoiding ‘thermal runaway' that looks more like those crazy EV fires you've seenJoin 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 #1235: Welcome to the first news show of the new year! CES puts autonomy and AI front and center as EV plans cool. Dealer sentiment improves—but trust gaps threaten CDJR and Nissan valuations. And despite years of doom-and-gloom, physical retail dominates holiday spending, with AI quietly reshaping how consumers shop across every channel.Show Notes with links:https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/self-driving-tech-ai-take-center-stage-ces-automakers-dial-back-ev-plans-2026-01-05/As EV hype cools down, CES 2026 is turning the spotlight toward AI and autonomy. With EV rollouts slowing due to cost and policy, automakers are looking to autonomous tech as the next frontier.Automakers pull back EV launches amid weaker policy support.AI and autonomous systems dominate CES 2026 exhibits.Tesla and Waymo's recent moves have reignited AV momentum.Rivian teases “eyes-off” driving for city streets.“That connectivity on autonomous, I do think will be front and center,” said C.J. Finn of PwC.https://www.autonews.com/retail/an-kerrigan-dealership-2026-trust-valuation-0104/The latest Kerrigan Advisors survey shows dealer optimism growing—but not for every brand. CDJR, Nissan, and Infiniti topped the least-trusted list, with many dealers expecting declining valuations for these franchises in 2026.64% of dealers have no trust in CDJR and Nissan; 61% distrust Infiniti.Dealers anticipate Toyota, Lexus, and Kia stores will gain the most value.Chevrolet sees a reputation bump, with higher dealer trust and value outlook.CDJR showed the biggest improvement in valuation sentiment year-over-year.“Dealers that trust the franchise are going to invest in the franchise,” said Erin Kerrigan.https://retailwire.com/discussion/lessons-physical-retail-holiday-season/Despite endless headlines forecasting its decline, physical retail flexed its muscles this holiday season—capturing 73% of spend, according to Visa's latest data. But the real story may be the rise of AI and its impact on how we shop.Total holiday spend rose 4.2% YoY; real growth closer to 2.2% after inflation.Physical stores dominated spend, though e-commerce grew 7.8%.Consumer electronics and fashion led category growth.AI drove smarter shopping—price comparisons, discovery, and decision-making.“This led to a more informed, more intentional consumer,” said Visa's Wayne Best.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 #1234: Kicking off 2026, Paul and Kyle welcome Damon Lester for a deeply personal conversation about burnout, mental health, and leadership in retail auto. Damon opens up about his own breaking point—and why hustle culture may be costing the industry more than it realizes.Damon Lester shares how nonstop pressure from dealerships, associations, family, and personal loss led to burnout and a mental health crisis he could no longer outrun.The industry's obsession with perfection and constant performance leaves little room for leaders to grieve, rest, or admit they're struggling—often with dangerous consequences.Damon reframes leadership through the idea of “taking the cape off,” rejecting the superhero myth that leaders never sleep, stop, or need help.Practical boundaries matter. Something as small as limiting phone access, removing devices from the dinner table, or protecting personal energy can begin the healing process.The takeaway for 2026: leaders are human first. Titles, numbers, and stages come second—and sustainable leadership starts with honesty and breath.0:00 Intro with Paul Daly & Kyle Mountsier3:36 Damon Lester joins the show4:15 What led to Damon's burnout and mental crash7:27 Why perfection culture is so damaging8:22 What “taking the cape off” really means12:03 Small boundaries leaders can start withThank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/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.Have insights into how 2025 went or how 2026 is shaping up?Let us know by sending an email to crew@asotu.com and maybe we'll respond on this show!Episode #1233: Happy New Year! Today we're celebrating by looking back on the biggest themes that dominated the retail auto landscape in 2025, and prognosticating the future by looking at the big things we think the industry will face in 2026.Top 10 Themes of 2025#10 – Gen Z Disrupts Expectations They demand transparency, flexibility, and quick accountability.#9 – Service Became the MVP Fixed ops carried the weight during sales slowdowns.#8 – China Asserts Dominance Chinese automakers scale massively with vertical integration.#7 – Autonomy Advances (Cautiously) Waymo plays it safe; Tesla pushes limits.#6 – AI Did the Mundane (And Everyone Loved It) No revolutions—just reliable lead follow-ups and call answering.#5 – Tech ≠ Efficiency More dashboards didn't fix poor processes.#4 – Used Cars Were the Rock More affordable and practical than new.#3 – Hybrids Became the Compromise Consumers leaned toward electric and gas.#2 – EVs Didn't Die, They Rerouted Slowed demand post-tax incentives forced OEM rethink.#1 – Affordability Dominated Everything Record-high monthly payments scared off buyers.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 #1231: We close the year with the smartest auto industry analyst in the game. Paul and Kyle bring on Steve Greenfield to make sense of a fast-moving 2025 and what dealers should really prepare for in 2026. From tariffs to AI-driven efficiency, this is a clear-eyed look at what's coming and what's controllable.Greenfield says the biggest unresolved story from 2025 is tariffs. Automakers absorbed the pain last year, but that likely changes in 2026 with pressure flowing to MSRPs or dealer margins.Despite political, economic, and affordability headwinds, the auto industry proved once again how resilient it is. Consumers kept buying, and dealers kept selling.Front-end grosses are already back to pre-COVID realities for many brands, making F&I performance, cost discipline, and fixed ops efficiency more critical than ever.AI isn't about buzzwords—it's about efficiency. Dealers should start with the metrics they want to move, then choose technology that directly supports those goals.For dealers and vendors alike, having a clear, practical AI strategy is no longer optional. Investors, partners, and customers all expect it.Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/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 #1231: Paul sits down with Cars Commerce's Brian Kramer to break down how 2025 is ending and what dealers should expect in Q1 2026. The big themes: used car supply shifts, EV-heavy off-lease inventory, and why clarity beats cleverness heading into next year.Used car supply is finally climbing out of a multi-year trough, but it won't look like the past. The next wave of inventory is coming largely from leases signed during COVID-era production constraints.EVs will make up a bigger share of used inventory whether dealers “lean in” or not, driven by EV-heavy lease returns and rental fleet activity. Dealers won't really have a choice.Winning dealers are shifting focus from “look to book” to appraisal volume. If you sell 100 cars, you should be appraising closer to 200—automation is no longer optional.AI search engines are already fact-checking dealer websites against reviews, Reddit, and third-party content. Multiple CTAs, overpromises, or messy workflows can quietly tank visibility.Kramer sums it up with one word for 2026: clarity. Simple workflows, fewer claims, and actually delivering on what you promise online is now a competitive advantage0:00 Intro with Paul Daly2:07 Brian Kramer joins the show4:02 How used car supply finished 20255:05 Why EVs will dominate off-lease inventory6:50 What winning dealers are doing differently9:22 How AI search is changing dealer visibility11:43 Why clarity is the defining theme for 2026Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/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 #1230: Paul and Kyle sit down with CMA's Liza Borches to talk people, culture, and leadership. From gratitude for the industry to intentional connection with employees, Liza shares how she's orienting her team for the year ahead.Liza reminds dealers that even during slow months or challenging cycles, the automotive industry remains a meaningful, life-impacting business that provides opportunity and stability for millions.She emphasizes optimism without naivety—acknowledging that 2026 will bring challenges, while reinforcing confidence that teams have the tools and strength to find solutions and grow through them.As CMA continues to grow, Liza's focus is alignment through intention. Her 2026 word is “reach,” guiding both customer engagement and deeper employee connection.On the employee side, she's prioritizing reaching voices that often go unheard—especially technicians—to better understand engagement, workplace needs, and long-term retention.Liza reframes great customer experience as a downstream result of great employee experience, noting that discretionary effort comes from feeling cared for, not just compensation plans.0:00 Intro with Paul Daly & Kyle Mountsier2:51 Liza Borches joins the show3:00 What 2025 revealed about people and culture4:33 How leaders should balance optimism with realism5:57 How CMA is aligning a growing organization around culture8:52 Why reaching deeper with employees matters11:30 How Liza is approaching NADA differently in 2026Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/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 last Saturday of the year, Chris Reeves joins Paul and Kyle to discuss Christmas, New Year's Resolutions and how they've seen themselves change over the last year, and their plans to see continued growth and success in 2026.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 #1228: The day after Christmas, Kyle flies solo with Brian Benstock to talk 2026 strategy. Benstock's take: the year will bring “difficulty mixed with opportunities,” and dealers who prepare now—especially around affordability messaging and trade-cycle tech—will be ready when the tide comes in.Benstock is bullish on 2026: lower inflation and easing interest-rate pressure should help affordability, which benefits dealers, OEMs, and the broader economy.He applauds policy moves that reduce EV mandates and questions consumer-subsidized EV incentives, arguing adoption should be driven by product superiority, not taxpayers.“Set up your fishing nets during low tide.” Benstock urges leaders to prepare teams now—process, messaging, and mindset—so they can capitalize quickly when demand rises.Trade-cycle management is the big unlock: real-time equity awareness + timely, personalized offers could move customers like telecom upgrades do—same payment, newest model.The blocker is vendor fragmentation: hundreds of tools that don't integrate, plus “toll booths” that limit data flow. Benstock calls integration the next frontier.0:00 Intro with Kyle Mountsier 1:46 Brian Benstock joins the show 3:26 Why Benstock is bullish on the 2026 economy 7:12 How dealers should prepare during “low tide” 8:36 Why trade-cycle management is the next frontier 12:45 How affordability messaging can grow SARThank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/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 #1227: It's Christmas Eve and Paul and Kyle are in holiday mode. After some banter about an automotive Dancing With The Stars, they talk through their Christmas Eve traditions, why dealers should be closed on Christmas Day, and a little bit of encouragement for your holiday season.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 #1226: We're talking rising auto prices and longer-term debt in the U.S., Kazakhstan's record-setting manufacturing momentum, and Simon Sinek's take on why Gen Z might be the most rational workforce yet.As new car prices have climbed 33% since 2020, affordability is slipping out of reach for many. Buyers are stretching loan terms to eight, nine, even ten years—trading short-term relief for long-term debt.Average new vehicle price broke $50K this fall, up from under $38K in early 2020.Monthly payments now average $760; rising prices and high interest rates are fueling defaults.One-third of buyers now take loans of at least 72 months; some exceed 100 months, especially on pickups.Automakers are lowering prices and leaning into base trims—Ford's Maverick jumped 76% in November sales.Kazakhstan's automotive sector is on a record-breaking run. Through the first 11 months of 2025, vehicle production has already topped the full-year total from 2024, signaling both rising demand and growing sophistication in local manufacturing. With nearly $4 billion in output, the industry is becoming a major economic engine.From January to November, Kazakhstan built 146,163 vehicles valued at $3.9B—a 15.7% jump from 2024.November alone set a monthly record with 22,580 units produced worth $601M, up 25.5% year-over-year.Auto manufacturing now makes up 41.7% of the country's entire machine-building sector, up from 2024.Growth was led by Allur (79K+ units) in Kostanay and Hyundai plants in Almaty and Shymkent (up 26.7%), including those operated by our friends at Astana MotorsSimon Sinek and Garry Ridge are taking aim at the "lazy Gen Z" stereotype. In a recent podcast conversation, the leadership thinkers argue that Gen Z's workplace demands are less about entitlement—and more about a rational response to broken corporate trust.On A Bit of Optimism, Sinek says Gen Z's need for upfront value stems from growing up in a world with "no loyalty from the company."Ridge, former WD-40 CEO, agrees: leaders must build trust and ditch outdated performance models.Both advocate for regular coaching check-ins over once-a-year reviews.Gen Z doesn't want delayed recognition—they want feedback, growth, and transparency now.“I don't want to wait 364 days for you to tell me what I should've done better,” said RidgeThank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier4:21 Average Monthly Payments arJoin 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.Why Dealers Will Win, Frozen Waymos, Gen Z Loves Holiday ShoppingDescription:Episode #1225: Cars Commerce's Alex breaks down why the future isn't car vending machines, Waymo robotaxis freeze during a San Francisco power outage, and Gen Z embraces the holiday experiences.SPONSOR READ:There will always be that customer who calls at 11:47 PM asking if the blue Tahoe is still available.Before Mia? That call went poof. Lost to the universe. And that customer? Who knows?Mia answers that customer at 11:47 pm, instantly and cheerfully. She books the appointment, checks inventory, sends the details, and suddenly that late-night caller becomes taillights over the curbShe's handled over a million customer calls to date and created millions in incremental revenue.Don't leave your late night callers hanging, give Mia a call. AnnouncementNext weeks 2026 Strategy Sessions12/26 Brian Benstock12/29 12/30 Brian Kramer12/31 Steve Greenfield1/1 2025 In Review1/2 Damon LesterUpcoming ASOTU Edge Webinar on January 7th at 2PM - AI That Works as Hard as You Do: Practical Tips for Faster Sales with Danny Veliz and Sarah HicksInterview with Cars Commerce CEO Alex Vetter - Show Notes with links:In a reflective interview, Cars Commerce leader Alex encourages dealers to use better tech to get leaner, faster, and more customer-friendly. Alex says the next wave of dealership tech has to reduce SG&A and improve operational efficiency, not just add more dashboards.He calls out a stubborn reality: sales per salesperson hasn't improved in about a decade, even as tools multiplied — and says AI should finally change that.He pushes back on the “dealers hate change” narrative, arguing dealers are highly adaptable entrepreneurs who will adopt what actually helps them win.The consumer journey gets more complicated closer to purchase, with more indecision around vehicle feel, color, space, and drive — meaning the funnel “widens” at the end.His bottom line: the winning model is omnichannel that finishes with a strong local dealer, saying, “I don't think the consumer wants a vending machine… they want an online experience that finishes with a local partner.”Waymo's driverless ride service ran into a very human problem this weekend: no power. A widespread outage across San Francisco left robotaxis frozen mid-ride, snarling traffic and raising fresh questions about how autonomous vehicles handle chaotic, real-world conditions.A power outage knocked out traffic lights across San Francisco, with social media videos showing mJoin 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.What does real leadership look like when it's time to let go?In this reflective conversation, Paul sits down with Alex Vetter as he prepares to hand the baton after decades of leadership at Cars.com and Cars Commerce. The episode opens with a simple moment—Alex helping carry a couch onto a stage—that quietly captures his leadership philosophy: no job is beneath you when you're building something that matters. From the early days of dial-up internet and widespread distrust of online commerce, Alex recounts the controversial decisions that defined his tenure, including publishing invoice pricing and choosing transparency long before it was popular.As the conversation unfolds, Alex zooms out on the industry he helped shape. He challenges the idea that dealers resist change, explains why the car-buying funnel gets more complicated—not simpler—near the finish line, and shares why the “vending machine” vision of auto retail misses the human reality of the last mile. Most importantly, he reflects on succession: what it takes to trust the next leader, why he's confident in the future under Toby's leadership, and why this moment feels less like an ending and more like acceleration.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 #1223: Cars Commerce lines up its next CEO as a new chapter begins for dealer tech. Lucid's factory-backed used pricing puts EV depreciation in plain sight. And even as consumers keep spending this holiday season, a growing “joy deficit” reveals how tired—and cautious—shoppers really are.Show Notes with links:Our good friends at Cars Commerce are teeing up a major leadership transition. Longtime CEO Alex Vetter will hand the keys to Tobias “Tobi” Hartmann in early 2026, marking the end of an era and signaling a renewed push around growth, digital tools, and AI for dealers.Hartmann brings 25+ years of experience leading global marketplaces, most recently as CEO of Scout24 and previously at HelloFresh and eBay Enterprise.Alex Vetter, who has been with Cars.com since its 1998 launch, will step down after transforming the company into a vertical SaaS and marketplace platform for dealers.Under Vetter, Cars Commerce expanded through acquisitions like Dealer Inspire, AccuTrade, and DealerClub, strengthening its dealer-facing tech stack.Alex Vetter: “I'm confident that Tobi will continue our momentum for the next chapter of firsts. He will be a tremendous leader for this next phase of growth.”Lucid just launched its first factory-backed used-car program, and the pricing is doing more talking than the marketing.Lucid Recharged is the brand's certified pre-owned program for the Air sedan, with the Gravity SUV coming later.Eligible cars must be single-owner examples under 62,000 miles and pass a 160+ point factory inspection.Pricing is the headline: a 2023 Air Pure with ~20,000 miles can land in the mid-$40Ks versus a new MSRP just under $71K.Consumers are still spending this holiday season—but they're not exactly enjoying it as a new Retail Dive report says shoppers are leaning heavily on credit and BNPL.Katie Thomas of the Kearney Consumer Institute summed it up bluntly: there's a “real joy deficit for consumers,” driven by high prices and constant anxiety-focused messaging.Despite steady spending, consumers are fatigued, stressed, and increasingly reliant on credit, resale, and “dupe” gifting to get through the holidays.Shoppers feel stuck in an echo chamber of stress—online, in ads, and in daily life—where everything is expensive and brands keep reminding them of it.“Getting emotional doesn't have to be serious,” Thomas noted0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier6:05 Cars Commerce Announces Leadership Transition9:52 Lucid Launches CPO Program12:31 The Joy Deficit In RetailThank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coveraJoin 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 #1222: Today we break down Cox Automotive's 2026 forecast and why fragmentation is becoming the industry's defining theme. We also cover California regulators taking aim at Tesla's Autopilot language.Show Notes with links:Cox Automotive says the auto industry beat expectations in 2025, but 2026 will be shaped by fragmentation everywhere—from consumers and labor to policy, EVs, and AI. The result is softer volumes, tighter margins, and a market that rewards precision over optimism.The 5 big forces at play: A bifurcated consumer trading down, a stagnant job market, inflation easing but Fed uncertainty lingering, shifting policy and an EV incentive cliff, and AI hitting an operational inflection point—all pulling the market in different directions.New-vehicle volumes reset lower: Cox forecasts 15.8 million SAAR in 2026, down 2.4% YoY, signaling the high-15 million range as the new normal rather than a temporary dip.Retail, fleet, and leasing cool: New retail sales fall about 1.5%, fleet declines more sharply, and lease penetration drops toward 21%, the lowest level in three years as EV tax credits and leasing loopholes disappear.Used remains the pressure valve: Total used sales dip roughly 1%, but tight retail inventory and affordability concerns keep demand steady, pushing more shoppers toward lower-priced vehicles.Wholesale values normalize: Cox expects the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index to rise 2% by the end of 2026, pointing to normal depreciation—with growing EV volume adding pricing complexity.California regulators ruled Tesla misled consumers with its “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving” marketing, giving the automaker 90 days to fix its language. The case briefly threatened Tesla's ability to sell cars in the state, but stops short of halting production.The DMV ordered a 30-day suspension of Tesla's dealer license, which would prevent Tesla from selling vehicles directly to consumers in California if it goes into effect.That dealer suspension is stayed for 90 days, meaning Tesla can keep selling cars as long as it updates its advertising and disclosures within that window.A separate manufacturing license suspension—which could have affected Tesla's ability to build vehicles in California—was permanently stayed and will not take effect.Regulators say Tesla's use of “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving Capability” implied autonomy that doesn't exist, creating unsafe assumptions for drivers.Tesla pushed back strongly, saying no consumer complained and stating, “Tesla has never misled consumers.”Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/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 #1221: Today we break down GM's post-Cruise autonomy reboot, why used EVs are quietly outperforming new ones as buyers regain confidence, and how a soaring SpaceX valuation has pushed Elon Musk's wealth past $650 billion.A year after pulling the plug on Cruise robotaxis, GM is rebooting autonomy with a very different endgame. Instead of ride-hailing, the focus is now on hands-free, eyes-off driver assistance designed to scale across consumer vehicles.GM has deployed 138 test vehicles — Cadillac Escalade IQs and GMC Yukons — equipped with lidar, radar, cameras, and advanced computing to collect real-world driving data across the U.S.Cruise's technology and talent have been merged with GM's Super Cruise team, signaling a full pivot away from robotaxis toward scalable driver-assistance for retail customers.The goal is a Level 3 “eyes-off” highway system debuting on the Escalade IQ around 2028, with plans to expand across brands and vehicle sizes.Jason Ekelmann of GM's advanced vehicle integration team: “It's that we're coming together to do something unique and awesome and really, really hard.”November revealed a split EV market. New EV buyers slowed down and waited for clarity, while used EV shoppers kept moving. The contrast highlights where confidence is building — and where the industry is still adjusting to life after heavy incentives.New EV sales cooled to about 70,000 units as shoppers paused amid tax credit changes, pushing new inventory to 149 days' supply and forcing incentives back into play.Used EVs told a different story, with sales up 14% year over year to more than 28,000 units in November.Used EV pricing averaged around $36,000, with many mainstream models now below $30,000, while supply stayed tight at 46 days, supporting healthier resale confidence.Cox Automotive's Stephanie Valdez Streaty framed it simply, saying the industry is “adjusting to a post-incentive environment.”Elon Musk just crossed a line no one else ever has. A new SpaceX valuation pushed his net worth past $650 billion, moving him closer to becoming the world's first trillionaireSpaceX launched a tender offer valuing the company at $800 billion, doubling its valuation since August and setting the stage for a potential 2026 IPO that could value it near $1.5 trillion.Musk owns roughly 42% of SpaceX, making that stake worth about $336 billion and now the largest single contributor to his net worth.Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier3:40 GM Building 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 #1220: Ford slams the brakes on big EV bets and kills the Lightning, pivoting to hybrids and EREVs. HGreg proves luxury buyers don't need a separate dealership—just a smarter one. GM learns loyalty points are real money after a rewards loophole wipes out a loan.Show Notes with links:Ford just hit the brakes on its EV ambitions, announcing nearly $19.5 billion in charges as it pivots away from loss-heavy electric trucks.Ford will discontinue the all-electric F-150 Lightning, replacing it with an extended-range electric version that includes a gas engine.Its Kentucky EV battery plant will be repurposed to produce stationary battery storage for utilities, data centers, and renewable energy projects.The company has already lost $13 billion on EVs since 2023, and intends to shift to more hybrid and EREV models, including a mid-size pickup expected to launch in 2027.CEO Jim Farley: “Instead of plowing billions into the future knowing these large EVs will never make money, we are pivoting. “We now know enough about the U.S. market where we have a lot more certainty in this second inning” Canada-based dealer group HGreg has opened a Lux boutique inside its flagship Orlando used-car store, betting that high-line buyers want a premium experience without leaving the pre-owned ecosystem.The new HGreg Lux Orlando is a dealership-within-a-dealership, marking the group's fifth Lux location across Florida and California.HGreg is leaning into convenience and flexibility with same-day delivery, contactless buying, and even cryptocurrency payments.CEO John Hairabedian framed the move as emotional as much as strategic, saying, “For many of us, driving a luxury car is one of life's most memorable moments.”GM's loyalty program briefly turned into free money. A loophole in GM Rewards let users generate millions of points without spending a dime—most notably a Cadillac Escalade-V owner who used nearly $60,000 worth of points to pay down a GM Financial loan before GM shut it down.Users could earn up to 16,000 free points per account by completing surveys and watching GM videos, then repeat the process by creating new accounts.Points were instantly transferable, allowing millions to be stacked in minutes and funneled into a single account.The biggest problem for GM: points could be redeemed on service, accessories, and even vehicle loans—not just swag.GM fixed the exploit but honored the points, taking a page from the airlines: protect the program, not just the balance sheet.Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at httpsJoin 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 #1219: Carvana adds another CDJR store as its retail expansion heats up. Mexico hits Chinese auto imports with a crushing 50% tariff. And Tesla tests its first fully driverless vehicle on the streets of Austin — no humans required.Carvana's push into franchised retail continues as it acquires South Atlanta CDJR‑Fiat, marking its fourth traditional dealership buy of 2025. Once known for vending machines and used cars, Carvana is rapidly becoming a notable player in new‑car retail.The store, now Carvana CDJR of South Atlanta, sits in Union City, GA, just outside Atlanta.It was acquired from Houston‑based ZT Corporate, a group ranked 132nd among U.S. dealership organizations.The aggressive expansion comes on the heels of a Q3 record: $5.6B in revenue, up 55%, and 155,941 used units sold—a 44% increase YoY.Carvana has said it's “always experimenting” and views select dealership acquisitions as tests to learn how to “provide great customer experiences” in a franchise setting.Mexico is drawing a bold line in the sand, approving sweeping new tariffs with some aimed squarely at imported Chinese cars.Chinese vehicles will now face a 50% import tariff, the highest among 1,400 affected products.The policy is seen as a direct defense against a surge of low-cost Chinese EVs and ICE vehicles entering Latin America.Mexico's auto industry has voiced support, fearing China's growing presence could erode market share and local jobs.Beijing slammed the move as “protectionist” and warned of possible retaliation.The future Elon Musk promised is officially rolling through Austin — driverless, empty, and already controversial. Tesla has begun testing its Robotaxi platform without a human behind the wheel or even a safety monitor in the car, marking its most aggressive autonomy move yet.The sighting appears to involve a Model Y testbed rigged for Tesla's upcoming Robotaxi platform.Elon Musk confirmed: “Testing is underway with no occupant in the car.”This marks the first known on-road test without a safety driver or passenger.According to NHTSA filings, Tesla's Robotaxi tests in Austin have already logged a crash every ~62,000 miles — with safety monitors still inside.Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/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 #1218: Kyle Mountsier and Chris Reeves jump into the middle of December to talk about the all-team in-person meeting that More Than Cars had this past week.Then they talk about a simple act of giving back. Carla Cosenzi, President of TommyCar Auto Group showed up to local first responders with cookies. As she said, its "a small gesture compared to the huge impact they make every day."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 #1217: Ionna ramps up charging despite slumping EV demand, VW rethinks its electric strategy with range extenders, and a Waymo ride turns into a delivery room as a newborn arrives before first responders.Show Notes with links:Ionna—the eight-automaker EV charging company—keeps speeding up its nationwide charging ambitions even as EV demand cools. With reliability still a major pain point for buyers, the group is betting big that better infrastructure will unlock future EV sales and stabilize the retail market.The JV plans 30,000 charging bays by 2030, aiming to rival Tesla's Supercharger network in quality and convenience.49 stations are already open, with 1,200 bays open or under construction and 4,000 sites under contract.Tesla still dominates fast charging and is projected to grow to 69,000 plugs by 2030, but analysts expect Ionna to secure the No. 2 spot.Automakers view the investment as essential, especially as federal incentives shrink and consumer hesitancy grows around public charging reliability.“If we're successful, we think this will unlock the market in terms of folks wanting to buy an EV, because now they have a network that goes with it,” said CEO Seth Cutler.After early promises with the ID.4, demand for VW EVs has softened, models are being pulled, and prices are heading in the wrong direction. Now VW is eyeing gas-assisted EVs as a potential lifeline.The ID.7 has been scrapped for North America, and the ID. Buzz has underperformed, pushing some models from big markups to nearly $20,000 discounts.VW says consumer demand will dictate where and when range-extended models appear, noting the concept is already reserved for future platforms.As Ford CEO Jim Farley put it, range extenders deliver EV driving “without range anxiety… and comparable to an ICE vehicle in terms of cost.”A routine autonomous ride turned into a delivery room when a pregnant passenger in San Francisco gave birth in the back of a Waymo. The car still made it to the hospital — just a little more “occupied” than when it started.Waymo detected “unusual activity” and called to check in, then alerted 911 once it realized a birth was underway.The vehicle reached UCSF Hospital before first responders could catch up, marking at least the second baby ever born in a Waymo.“We're proud to be a trusted ride for moments big and small… serving riders from just seconds old to many years young,” Waymo said.Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier0:50 Recapping the week at More Than Cars3:10 Upcoming Episodes of Auto Collabs3:38 Ionna Aiming For 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 #1216: Today we dig into the tightening-but-shifting new-car inventory landscape, explore Nissan's bold attempt to rediscover its “North Star”, and watch Target leapfrog competitors by baking full-on AI shopping directly into ChatGPT.Show Notes with links:November brought a slight dip in overall new-vehicle inventory, but the real headline for dealers is how quickly anything under $25K is evaporating from lots—and how quickly EV days' supply is rising. Here's the breakdown:U.S. new-vehicle inventory fell 1.6% to 3.09M units, but days' supply ticked up from 70 to 73.Sub-$25K vehicles are practically mythical—spending 1.5 days on lots.EV supply ballooned from 107 to 126 daysHybrids sit at a 60-day supply, ICE vehicles at 75 days; minivans remain leanest at 58 days.Toyota continues to run the tightest ship in the industry with 31 days of supply.Christian Meunier isn't pulling punches—Nissan has been drifting for years, and he says the U.S. turnaround now depends on sharper execution, stronger product, and yes…better dealer performance.Meunier says Nissan had “no North star, no vision and no direction,” prompting him to bring headquarters staff back in-office four days a week to accelerate decisions and rebuild momentum.U.S. sales have fallen 40% in a decade, market share is down to 6.4%, and heavy discounting has trained shoppers to view Nissan as “the cheap one.”Nissan needs at least 7–8% retail share to support its 1,067 U.S. stores, and if the brand can't lift demand, fewer dealers may be necessary.“Christian is the right man for the job. It's just a hard job,” said dealer council lead Mike Rezi.Target is jumping headfirst into AI commerce by embedding its shopping experience directly into ChatGPT, building on OpenAI's growing presence in e-commerce with Shopify and Etsy integrations.Users can search, add to cart, and check out via ChatGPT using their Target account.The integration supports drive-thru and pickup orders within the chat interface.This move mirrors Walmart's AI ambitions, but Target is first to market with a confirmed rollout.“Target is a great example of what that shift looks like when it's done with ambition and speed,” said Fidji Simo, OpenAI CEO of Applications.Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texting (SMS) follow-up for sales, service, and reception. Learn more at https://www.mia.inc/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 #1215: Today we break down why monthly payments keep climbing despite improving fundamentals, VinFast's shrinking U.S. footprint as it pivots overseas, and VaynerMedia's Anti-Trend Report showing why trend-chasing is officially dead in 2026.Show Notes with links:New-vehicle payments hit a November record at $760, but underneath the headline, several affordability pressures are actually starting to ease. Softer interest rates and strong used-vehicle values are helping cushion buyers as the market normalizes into year-end.Rates dipped to 6.1% and robust used values are keeping trade-in equity near historic highs.Dealer profits stayed steady at $2,161 per vehicle, showing margin stability.However, negative equity rose to 27% of all trades and lease expirations are down 15% YoY and 50% vs. 2023“How aggressively manufacturers choose to adjust discounting and promotional activity during December will be critical in shaping the close of 2025.” said J.D. Power's Thomas King.VinFast's retreat from the U.S. market is accelerating as its retail network falls below two dozen active stores. Falling sales, stalled product plans, and shifting global priorities are prompting dealers to exit while the brand refocuses on markets where demand is stronger.Holman's North Carolina store — VinFast's first U.S. franchise — ends sales Dec. 31, marking the third dealer exit in six months.U.S. registrations fell 57% through October, even as overall EV sales grew 11% in the same period.Several listed stores show no inventory or are “coming soon,” and many active rooftops have 15 or fewer vehicles in stock.“Given the tariff situation and the instability in the EV market, we just need to see how that settles before we push hard in the U.S.,” said VinFast chairwoman Thuy Thu Le.VaynerMedia's new Anti-Trend Report argues that social trends are collapsing faster than ever, making 2026 the year brands stop chasing virality and start pursuing genuine relevance. With algorithms fragmenting attention, emotional connection becomes the new competitive advantage.The report says trend fatigue is accelerating — trends now fade 14x faster than they used to, and 1/3 of consumers think brands “jumping on viral trends” is embarrassing.Platforms are blurring: TikTok layouts show up on Instagram, Facebook-style text posts appear everywhere — meaning content format matters more than platform identity.Audiences expect authenticity, not broadcasts; brands must create two-way social conversations, not passive content streams.“In 2026, the brands that win won't be those who shout the loudest, but those who show up the most real.” — Allan Blair, SVP & Head of Strategy, VaynerMediaThank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texJoin 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 #1214: Asbury sets the stage for its next leadership chapter, Ford teams with Renault to regain momentum in Europe, and the President's kei-car wish sparks a reality check on what it would take to bring microcars to U.S. dealerships.Show Notes with links:Asbury Automotive is gearing up for a major leadership handoff this May as longtime CEO David Hult moves into the Executive Chairman role and COO Dan Clara steps into the top seat. The move caps a disciplined succession plan following years of rapid growth.Hult, 60, says the transition comes at “the right time” as Asbury continues strong momentum from record acquisitions and profit expansion.Under Hult, Asbury tripled earnings and shareholder value while nearly tripling annual new-vehicle volume.Clara joined Asbury as a client adviser at a BMW store in 2002 and rose through the ranks, most recently becoming COO in February.Leadership praised Clara's operational chops, strategic mindset, and success integrating large-scale acquisitions.“His drive, strategic mindset, and strong dedication to our values make him the logical choice to serve as Asbury's next CEO,” Hult said.Ford is teaming up with Renault to develop small EVs tailored for Europe as competition from Chinese automakers accelerates. The partnership gives Ford a more cost-competitive path forward after years of shrinking share and restructuring in the region.Renault will build two Ford-designed small EVs in France, with the first arriving in 2028.Ford's U.S. “skunk works” EV platform is too large and expensive for Europe's compact segments.Ford's European share has fallen to 3.3%, down from 7.2% in 2015, despite multiple restructuring rounds and job cuts.““We know we're in a fight for our lives in our industry, and no better example than here in Europe,” CEO Jim Farley told reporters.After the President floated the idea of bringing Japan's tiny kei cars to the U.S. to address vehicle affordability, experts quickly noted the steep sales and production hurdles. While automakers say they're always exploring lower-cost options, kei cars would require a level of demand the U.S. has never shown.In a Truth Social post, Trump said he had "just approved TINY CARS to be built in America," calling them "inexpensive, safe, fuel efficient and, quite simply, AMAZING!!!"  and urged manufacturers, "START BUILDING THEM NOW!"Microcars peaked at just 114,000 U.S. sales in 2014—far below the volume needed to make kei-car production viable today.Analysts say an automaker would need around 200,000 annual sales to justify investment, even under ideal conditions.“When we had a chance to buy smaller cars in the past, most of us chose not to purchase them,” said Stephanie Brinley of S&P Global Mobility.Thank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage anJoin 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/