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.
Sales
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.
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.
Chrysler Voyager Returns; Adds “Budget Friendly” Option to Minivan Line-Up
Chrysler is doubling the size of its current line-up – and offering a more wallet-friendly option in the process – with the return of the Voyager minivan. The new model will start at just under $40,000 when it goes on sale late this year.
Stellantis CEO Tavares May Be on His Way Out
Once one of the most respected executives in the auto industry, CEO Carlos Tavares is coming under withering fire from investors, dealers and employees as the company’s fortunes fade – especially in North America, its most profitable region. With his contract set to expire early next year, the automaker is considering whether it’s time for a management shake-up.
Ram Offers Early Look at 2025 Heavy Duty Lineup
Ram, Stellantis’ truck unit, rolled out its 2025 model year light-duty pickups earlier this year, putting its 2500 and 3500 offerings on hold — until now. While not a full release, the company’s providing an early look at the portfolio before its full reveal sometime next months. Check out the new models at Headlight.News.
Biden Administration Pushes Forward with Chinese Connected Car Ban
The Biden administration pushed forward with plans to make it difficult to import vehicles from China. The Department of Commerce proposed a rule that would ban vehicles equipped with Chinese-made connected vehicle technologies. Get details at Headlight.News.
Jeep Cuts Gladiator Pricing Amid Ongoing Sales Slump
Jeep, along with Ram, are Stellantis’ cash cows, providing the funding for brands that, if not on life support, don’t realize nearly the profits that these American powerhouse brands bring. So, you have to wonder: What took Stellantis so long to realize that Jeep had issues — major issues. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Ineos Halting Production of Grenadier Off-Roader
The maker of the off-road-focused Grenadier, Ineos Automotive, plans to stop production of the SUV at is plant in France. The company says financial issues at a supplier resulted in a parts shortage, forcing the stoppage. Get details at Headlight.News.
GM EV Owners Get to Use Tesla Superchargers with New Adapter
Like so many other automakers making electric vehicles, General Motors signed on to use the Tesla Supercharger network. Now owners of Cadillac Lyriqs, Chevrolet Equinox EVs and more can use the chargers with a new NACS DC adapter from the automaker. Find out more at Headlight.News.