WOULD YOU RIDE IN THE CRUISE POD? AND OTHER AUTOMOTIVE ADVENTURES - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 493

EV Channels Review

Autoline After Hours 493 delves into the complexities of the automotive market, featuring insights from Jeff Schuster of LMC Automotive. The discussion highlights a surprisingly strong 2019 for overall vehicle sales, driven by consumer demand despite industry uncertainty, with affordability and new product offerings playing key roles. A significant portion of the episode scrutinizes Jeep's sales decline, attributing it to an aging lineup and increased competition, though a rebound is anticipated for 2020 with the Gladiator's first full year. Nissan's dramatic sales drop is also analyzed, with the panel pointing to an aging product portfolio and internal turmoil rather than consumer awareness of scandals. The conversation shifts to the burgeoning electric vehicle market, noting Tesla's dominance and the challenges faced by other OEMs in the US, contrasting it with regulatory-driven growth in Europe and China. Finally, the episode explores GM's Cruise Origin autonomous shuttle, questioning its immediate impact and long-term viability as a replacement for personal vehicle ownership, while also touching upon Rolls-Royce's niche market and the challenges of reviving legacy brands in the luxury segment.