The Automotive Troublemaker

Thursday seems ready to run as we talk about CDK coming back on-line yesterday for a test group of dealers. We also talk about Waymo’s green light in San Francisco as well as a major Netflix experience coming to a mall near you.

Welcome to Wednesday as we talk about Volkswagen's significant investment in Rivian, the latest on the DMS Outage as well as how Target plans to empower its retail associates with a new GenAI-powered chatbot tool.

This Tuesday we dive into a new survey showing that over 95% of American drivers want to own their vehicle data. We also discuss Tesla's latest Cybertruck recalls over wiper and trim issues, as well as the (maybe not-so-) surprising approach of Gen Z to find the truth online.

It’s a busy Thursday in the dealership as stores across the country wake up to CDK Global’s DMS being offline for a second straight day. But it’s not all doom and gloom, as we’re highlighting how Carter Myers Automotive celebrates new apprentice techs with a signing day.

There’s light at the end of the tunnel this Monday as CDK starts the restoration process of its DMS. Today, we discuss the identity of their hacker, give an update on the Hyundai-Amazon partnership and look at a Chick-Fil-A summer camp that has the internet in an uproar.

We are on day 3 of dealers banding together to keep the doors open at CDK powered rooftops and the energy could not be better! Today we are looking at the impact lease returns will have on used inventory, the rise of EV registrations recently, and a TikTok car shopping myth buster is making waves.

Welcome to Wednesday as we dig into the 2024 Cars.com American-Made Index, revealing the most American cars. We also dig into a McKinsey survey showing how crucial smartphone integration is for car buyers and take a pass at the U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's proposal for social media warning labels to protect young people's mental health.

It’s Tuesday and today we’re talking about Fisker's Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing amid financial turmoil, Toyota shareholders re-electing Akio Toyoda despite governance concerns, and the future of Apple's wireless-only CarPlay system facing industry skepticism.

Welcome to a brand new week as we welcome Steve Greenfield as a guest host. Today we’re covering how the publics are adapting to the “new normal" and dive into Elon Musk’s Telsa pay package.

Head Writer Chris Reeves joins the show on this Saturday!

It’s the end of another week and today we’re talking about how Ford is allowing all franchise dealers to sell EVs, and how Tesla shareholders approved Elon Musk’s pay package. Plus, we cover how apps are selling driving data to insurance companies.

It’s Thursday and we’re talking about a McKinsey study showing many EV owners considering a return to combustion engines, a decline in used-vehicle wholesale prices, and Costco’s plans for a technological transformation under new leadership.

Welcome to Wednesday as we dive into Ford's CFO’s concerns over rising inventories, an EV charging joint venture's plans, and Starbucks' surprising venture into the film industry with the launch of Starbucks Studios. 

It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking about how Shawn Fain is under investigation, how a letter suggests Tesla would be better off with the dealer network, and how Apple is embracing AI.

It’s a fresh week and we’re talking about GM's strategy with Costco to boost EV sales, Fisker's aggressive move to sell the Ocean to employees at a discount, and Reynolds and Reynolds' $5 million donation to Northwood University for a new automotive studies center.

It's the second Saturday of June and writer Kristi Canada joins the show

We’ve got that Friday feeling as we cover a new KPMG survey that reveals Americans powertrain preferences. We also talk about a Democrat Senator slamming a failed EV charging program, as well as an epic celebration as Ford opens its train station renovation.

Thursday is upon us and we’re breaking down Lithia Motors' strategic layoffs aimed at saving $150 million annually, Virginia's decision to reverse its adoption of California’s strict EV standards, as well as IKEA hiring Roblox workers (you read that right).

Welcome to Wednesday as we talk about the US Senator encouraging US automakers to sue the government… and win. We also talk about the higher-than-ice repair costs of EVs as well as Tesla’s move to curb them with a former Geico exec.

It’s Tuesday and we’re talking about strong May sales from major brands, Ford's $950 million renovation of Michigan Central Station and star-studded grand reopening concert, as well as another sign of the times…increasing stamp prices and why it matters, or doesn’t.

It's a fresh week in a fresh month as we talk about Toyota's certification scandal, the booming trend of automotive retailers entering the powersports segment, and GM's innovative clutch pedal for EVs to win over driving enthusiasts.

On this first day of the month, we're talking about how the Veterans of Walser went to a local cemetery to refresh the graveside flags, plus we think about how dealers can be more involved in their communities on the holidays.

Day 2 with Cirillo and we figured some marketing wrap up was still in store. We are also taking a look at the much-talked-about Buick Envista and celebrating the life and accomplishments of Bob Kelley.

Today we have Michael Cirillo, host of The Dealer Playbook, joining the show in Paul’s absence. We are breaking down the questionable narrative in the EV slowdown, a dealer that is taking the More Than Cars mentality international, and a Google leak that is shocking the paid and organic media industry.

Happy Hump Day as we’re halfway through the week! Today we’re covering a BYD hybrid that can drive from NYC to Miami on a single charge/tank, how Toyota and other OEMs are decarbonizing with ICE and why Gen Z is getting summer jobs.

It’s Tuesday and we’re talking about Ford lifting restrictions on which dealers can sell EVs, the political divide impacting EV adoption, and Bass Pro Shops' is the next retailer leaning affordability amid inflation.

We’re thankful for our nation on this Memorial Day 2024 as we reflect on all that have given their lives as a member of the US Armed Forces.

We're kicking off Memorial Day weekend with a great story about two dealer groups being named in the top 50 best places to work by none other than Glassdoor. And that's sayin something.

We’re heading into a huge sales weekend and we’re talking big Memorial Day discounts on 2023 cars, Elon Musk's reversal on Chinese EV tariffs, and California's new bill requiring cars to beep when speeding.

It’s a busy Thursday as we roll towards the holiday weekend. Today, we explore the surprising interest in Chinese EVs among young Americans, Kia's launch of a new compact electric SUV amid cooling EV demand, and Yoshi Mobility's innovative mobile fast charging solution for EVs.

Welcome to Wednesday as we discuss the rising age of vehicles in the U.S., political attacks in Ohio's Senate race targeting a former car dealer, and how Gen Z workers' values align closely with those of their older colleagues.

It’s Tuesday and we’re talking about Nissan’s strategic shift in U.S. EV production, the recognition of Hendrick and Zeigler Auto Groups as best-run companies, and Walmart’s unexpected appeal to higher-income shoppers.

We’re coming in hot after an insane ASOTU CON as we dive into Carvana's recovery in 2023, the UAW's setback at a Mercedes plant, and how Gen Alpha kids are shaping their parents' buying decisions.

ASOTU CON is over, and we forgot to release yesterday’s live episode from the Main Stage with Steve Greenfield.

Welcome to Day 1 of ASOTU CON! Paul, Kyle and Michael are here with everything you need to know.

We. Are. HERE! Tonight hundreds of industry friends will descend on lower Baltimore (upper Annapolis) to kick off ASOTU CON at the welcome reception. But first, we have a few things to chat about; Big Tariffs from Biden, an employee-only dealership experience, and TikTok is now Google.

ASOTU CON is TOMORROW!

We're excited because ASOTU CON is only 2 days away!

Four days away from ASOTU CON we’re talking about Nissan’s move to push Dealers to advertise below invoice. We also talk about the growing percentage of F150 Hybrids being sold, as well as the very first passenger test of an eVTOL in Abu Dhabi.

Five days out from ASOTU CON we’re talking about Ford’s re-think of EV strategy in Europe of all places. We also talk about Tesla’s advantage in bi-directional charging, as well as an homage to an iconic mid-sized grocery getter.

We’re 6 days from the start of ASOTU CON and we’re talking about Toyota’s plateau plans to invest all of that profit. We’re also covering Tesla’s ‘pay to unlock range’ on some Model Y’s as well as GMs efforts to recruit displaced Tesla interns.

Jimmy's foresight and innovation are not just reshaping his company, but also providing a blueprint for the future of auto retailing.

It’s Tuesday and we’re just getting started as we talk about a new entrant to the autonomy game. We also cover Rivian’s new charging network plans as well as a rumored potential partnership with Apple.

Welcome to a fresh week as we review the new report that talks about which groups are responding to leads well. We also talk about Cadillac’s rethink of its all-EV pivot by 2030, as well as a new, all weather, all terrain, scooter for Seniors and beyond.

First Saturday of the month!

It’s the first Friday in May as we talk about Rivian stepping up their presence in Normal, IL. We also cover the latest JD Power report regarding the service department as well as Cali taking aim at junk fees…for food.

It’s Thursday and we’re talking about Carvana’s best performance ever. We’re also discussing Hertz’s decision to sell more of it’s EV inventory, as well as a wild story about the ongoing dispute around the legendary Delorean.

There’s nothing like a sunny May 1st. Today we talk about Ford’s new AI driven Dealer training tool. We also review the fastest and slowest moving inventory, as well as the newly launched ability for Roblox users to purchase real life Walmart items in-game.

As stores across the country are playing ‘The Final Countdown’ as April wraps up, we’re talking about Asbury’s listing strategy for 10 of their stores. We’re also talking about Tesla’s next round of layoffs, as well as one Tiktoker who is less than excited about their interest rate. 

We’re starting out on the last few days of the month with a look at the Top 100 Used Car Dealers in the US. We also take a look at the potential of Tesla’s deal with China’s Baidu, and what it means for Full Self Driving. We’ll also review the latest Experian EV insights report. 

Welcome to the last Saturday of the month!

It’s the last Friday of the month as we pay tribute to a Ford leader who broke the mold. We also talk about a hot debate over legacy OEMs flirting with DTC models as well as consumer luxury purchases going on the rise. 

Happy Thursday! Today we cover Ford’s stock price recovers due to hybrid sales, Honda invests $12 BILLION in EV supply chain, and automatic refunds when your next flight gets canceled or delayed.

We’re mid-week and talking about Tesla's strategic shift amid falling profits.. We also cover VinFast's aggressive U.S. dealership expansion and the heartwarming story of a Dealership serving a single mother in South Dakota.

This Tuesday we’re talking about why GM is smiling from their robust financial performance in Q1. We also talk about a controversial toggle on Tesla’s website, as well as what companies are ignoring in their surveys. 

It’s a fresh week and we’re talking about the UAW’s landmark unionization victory at Volkswagen's Chattanooga plant. We also cover Dealer response and legal threats over new sales models from Scout and Sony Honda Mobility as well as Tesla's swift response to a safety recall with a riveting fix. 

Today we're on with Head Writer Chris Reeves talking about how Car Dealers and OEMs are investing in generations. We also have a super secret promo code for ASOTUCON.com

It’s Friday already. Today we’re talking about Tesla's official Cybertruck recall. We also discuss GM's innovative move into hydrogen fuel as a diesel alternative, as well as the high-stakes wealth race in Silicon Valley as Mark Zuckerberg surpasses Elon Musk to become the world's third-richest person. 

Thursday is upon us as we talk about another EV-only carmaker announcing layoffs. We also talk about Ford’s new model year for the F150 Lightning, as well as a potential standard-setter for employee AI training. 

It’s a notable Wednesday as a looming UAW vote at the Chattanooga VW plant gets under way. We’re also talking about a new set of “trust principles” regarding autonomous vehicles, as well as a brand collab between Carvana and pro gaming. 

Today we’re talking about GM’s HQ move after 50 years. We also talk about Carmax’s major reduction in the customer return window, as well as an unintended acceleration issue with the Cybertruck. 

Tax day is exciting enough, but what’s better than starting the second half of the month on a Monday? Today we’re talking about how the remaining Fisker Dealers are feeling as well as Ford and Tesla’s tennis match.

We're only 31 days away from ASOTU CON on this Saturday, and writers Chris Reeves and Kristi Canada join the show to share some More Than Cars Moments.

We’re rounding the track on Friday as we cover CarMax’s latest bumpy road. We also talk about Ford’s truck wave as well as a massive nine figure trick shot from creators Dude Perfect. 

It’s Thursday and we’re going to review the recent Kain Friends and Family event in Lexington, KY. We’re also talking about the continued pricing pressing on car insurance, as well as a revealing look at a teardown of the Tesla Cybertruck

Welcome to Wednesday as we talk about GM’s Cruise staging a comeback. We also talk about the tension around the only active lithium mine in the US, as well as the potential return of the cubicle (yeah, those things). 

It’s Tuesday and we’ve got special guest Steve Greenfield to give us his hot takes on the Top 150 Dealer list as well as Tesla’s decision to halt its low cost EV. We also talk about the Arizona Attorney General’s ruling against one Dealership for not honoring advertised prices, as well as a look inside yesterday’s special Delta eclipse flight. 

Welcome to quite an eventful Monday as we not only take a first look at the Automotive News Top 150 Dealer list, but also dig into a he-said-she-said about Tesla’s affordable vehicle, as well as a quick primer on today’s eclipse frenzy. 

Welcome to the first Saturday of April!

It’s the first Friday of the Month and we’re talking about another OEM’s return to stair step incentive programs. We also talk about Ford’s throttling back on some new EV truck models, as well as GenZs propensity for financial responsibility. 

It’s Thursday and we’re talking about GM’s big power plant open in a Tennessee town. We also talk about the pricing and specs on the upcoming launch of the Silverado EV, as well as give you the need-to-know details on Monday’s full solar eclipse. 

Q1 numbers are rolling in and the reports are mixed…go figure. This Wednesday we are also looking at some cultural broad strokes, including the stark gender gap in EV purchase behavior and GenZ returning to college-less skilled trades.

The week is in full swing and Q1 results are starting to hit the news cycle. We take a look at BYD’s possible slide in Q1, Ford’s journey back to the discount aisle, and how big brands have leveraged the April Fools moment over the years.

Happy April 1st as we roll into a fresh week, fresh month, and fresh quarter all at the same time. Today we’re talking about landing Elon Musk as a special guest. We also ask what we have learned as an industry about inventory levels, as well as looking back on 20 years of Gmail. 

Welcome to the fifth Saturday of the month.

It’s a magical fifth Friday before a fifth Saturday and we’re ready to roll as we talk about the anticipated strong end to the month. We’re also covering the latest M&A report from the Presidio Group, as well as checking in on our old friend, the Costco Hot dog, Soda Combo. 

It’s a throwback Thursday today as we have JC in the house and we reflect on Volvo’s diesel legacy. We’re also talking about Fisker lowering MSRP on its troubled Ocean SUVs and the way AI is changing the video game.

Welcome to Wednesday as we recap yesterday’s trip to NYC, the AutoForum, VaynerMedia, and podcast with NYT Bestselling author, Will Guidara. We also talk about the plan to keep imported cars moving toward dealer lots despite the bridge collapse, as well as a Newsweek nod to Tom Doll’s lasting contribution to the Subaru brand and to the industry. 

We are wheels up to NYC, but not before a little tour around the world of auto. We are looking at how Nissan is setting up for a model release onslaught, Fisker running out of runway, and Starbucks thinking Locally Global.

It’s the last week in March as we head toward our 5th Friday and 5th Saturday. On our way, we’re covering Honda’s unilateral cut to Dealer profit margins plus BYD's 10k ‘Mini Lambo”, as well as another impending anchor on the power grid. 

Writers Chris Reeves and Kristi Canada join Head of Community Jordan Cox and Producer Nathan Southwick to talk about 2 inspiring stories from inside dealers

It’s the fourth Friday in March with one still to go as we talk about a new EV brand entering the US market. We also discuss the surprising cheapest lease in America right now, as well as a smooth stop for online retailer Vroom. 

It’s Thursday and we're talking about the impact of the Fed’s interest rate decision on Dealers. We’re also covering the dramatically changing used car market, as well as the end of the charging platform wars as we’ve known them. 

Welcome to Wednesday as we talk about the latest mega acquisition deal. We also cover the latest on Ford’s internal skunkworks EV project as well as a big move west for gas-station chain Buc-ee’s. 

It’s Tuesday and the Auto Industry is alive and well as we talk about the DOE final rules on EV requirements that are a win for OEMs. We also talk about the pending UAW vote at VWs Chattanooga plant as well as the legendary metal band, Metallica, going an an EV/hydrogen powered tour. 

Welcome to a beautiful Monday in Retail Auto as we weigh the merit of Tesla being labeled as a ‘Luxury brand’. We also discuss Trump’s proposed 100% tariff on China-made EVs as well as one Delta Pilot’s epic retirement flight. 

Writers Chris Reeves and Kristi Canada join Kyle Mountsier on this Saturday

Welcome back to the pod Michael Wood, whose dogs are as excited about this show as we are! Today we are looking at the road trip Jim Farley is about to embark on, how customers perceive automakers and dealers, and a car going under the microscope…er, x-ray machine!

It isn’t Pi day if we don’t mention it, and we are excited to ask Michael Wood what his favorite “pie” is. Today, we are all in the EV space chatting about broadening lineups for Hyundai, VW, and Jaguar.

Hump day has arrived yet again and Nissan is again attempting to get over the hump of overproduction. On the EV side of things, Tesla is beginning to crack down on resellers and a couple companies are bringing supercar power to their EV lineup.

The world is seemingly upside down again as Ben Hadley joins the pod to chat about a digital asset auction gone wild, automated driving under scrutiny, and insurance companies getting more data than consumers may have bargained for.

Just another EV Monday! The weekend was a bit light for automotive news, but GM is bringing back the Blazer EV, Rivian handed out Steve Jobs style surprises, and Marques Brownlee threw shade on the Ocean.

Head Writer Chris Reeves is joined by Head of Community Jordan Cox and Producer Nathan Southwick on this Saturday

It’s the second of five Friday’s in March and we’re talking about the results of a new Dealership Trust Survey. We also get into some specifics on Gen Z’s preferences in the F&I process, as well as peeking at the new Rivian R3 surprise release. 

It’s Thursday and we’re talking about Carvana’s strategic pivot from growth to efficiency. We’re also talking about Rivian’s leaked release details of today’s R2 drop

Welcome to a beautiful Wednesday in Retail Auto as we talk about GM’s collab with the US Department of Energy on hydrogen powered vehicles. We also talk about Europe’s efforts to enhance vehicle safety by bringing back buttons, as well as a new annual subscription from retail giant Target. 

Welcome to Tuesday as we talk about franchise dealership count going down while throughput goes up on the other side of the seesaw. We also talk about Dealer complaints about the use of AI in credit leading to misquotes on payments, as well as a follow up on the dealer-purchased Cybertruck from last week. 

Happy first week of the month (and happy birthday to our very own Paul Daly). Today, we’re covering Toyota’s concern over consumer demand, the fastest EV charger ever and robotaxis rolling on.

Writers Chris Reeves and Kristi Canada join the show today to tell about a Regina, Saskatchewan dealership that turned its showroom into a catwalk.

It’s the first day of March and we’re talking about Dealer concern over the growing Amazon-Hyundai partnership. We’re also discussing new entrant EV makers Fisker and Polestar’s current state, as well as getting to the bottom of who paid 244k for a used Cybertruck.