September and third quarter sales proved disappointing for automakers after months of steady gains. But electrified vehicles created a bright spot for GM and several other manufacturers — and accounted for nearly half of Toyota’s sales in the U.S.
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Dock Strike Poses Problems for Carmakers, Car Buyers
A strike by longshoreman called in dispute over wages and use of automation threatens to choke off shipments to ports on the East and Gulf coasts, threatening to delay deliveries of everything from groceries to autos and auto parts.
Hurricane Helene Could Trigger Another Major Semiconductor Shortage
The damage wrought by Hurricane Helene could take months to calculate but it also could be felt worldwide. The floods that roared through the mountainous western part of North Carolina devastated one town, in particular, that is known for more than just its scenic views. It’s one of the world’s largest sources of the “high-purity quartz” needed to produce semiconductors. And it could touch off another major chip shortage in the months ahead.
Tesla Leads Industry in Q3 Recalls While Ford Makes Strides
A new report shows Tesla issued more recalls than any other automaker in the U.S. during the third quarter; however, they were all resolved with over-the-air updates. Plagued by recalls during the past several years, Ford made significant improvement in the period. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Ford Powers Promise of EVs by Offering Free Home Chargers
Ford CEO Jim Farley announced plans today to offer free home chargers and installation to buyers of the company’s slow-selling electric vehicles. Farley took to LinkedIn to outline the company’s newest incentive, the Ford Power Promise, to sell EVs while continuing to show his advocacy for them. Get details at Headlight.News.
McLaren’s W1 Will Be the Modern Reincarnation of the Legendary P1
Confirming long-standing rumors, McLaren said it will introduce a new supercar on October 6 that will serve as the modern day successor to the legendary P1. Here’s what’s we know about the new McLaren W1.
Norway, Land of the Midnight Sun, Lutefisk … and EVs
Conventional wisdom might seem to suggest that EVs have come unplugged, with traditional automakers such as Ford Motor Co. and Volkswagen AG pulling back on their plans to go all-electric. But don’t tell that to the folks in Norway. As contributing editor Joe Szczesny discovered during a visit this week, you’ll have to look hard to find a new vehicle drawing power from a tank of gasoline.
September to See Double-Digit Sales Drop, Analysts Predict
Analysts predict new vehicle sales will drop at least 12% on a year-over-year basis. However, it’s not all bad. If you compare apples to apples, the number is a lot more digestible: less than 2%. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Back in the News: Court Orders Carlos Ghosn to Return Super-Yacht and $32 Million to Nissan
Nissan showed its former CEO who’s “The Boss” as it won a battle in court ordering Carlos Ghosn to return a 121-foot yacht of that name, along with $32 million in damages. That’s the latest twist in a battle that began when the executive was arrested for alleged financial crimes in 2018.
New Vehicle Sales Expected to Drop for Q3
Analysts at Cox Automotive predict new vehicle sales in the U.S. will drop 2.1% on a year-over-year basis. They point to expected declines by General Motors, Toyota and Stellantis as the primary reason for the slide. However, it’s not all bad news. Find out why at Headlight.News.
Stellantis Set to Launch Layoffs Next Month — Even as it Faces Strike Threat
Stellantis Plans to lay off hundreds of full-time and seasonal employees starting October 1 as it enters “full execution mode” aimed at coping with slumping sales and earnings. But the cuts could lead to further friction even as members of the United Auto Workers Union vote on whether to authorize a strike at the Euro-American automaker.
Automotive Brands Expanding Owner Loyalty Numbers in 2024
Consumers in the auto space continue to buy what they already have, according to the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Automotive Brand Loyalty Study. Despite increased incentives and inventory issues, new vehicle buyers in larger numbers this year are sticking to the brand they currently own. Find out more at Headlight.News.