DEALERSHIPS VS. DIRECT EV SALES | FORD'S EV EXPERIENCE | BEST ELECTRIC LINEUP? COAST-TO-COAST EVS 17

EV Channels Review

This episode delves into the complex landscape of EV sales models, contrasting the traditional dealership approach with direct-to-consumer sales. The discussion highlights Ford's recent struggles with its Model-e program, which aimed to certify dealerships for EV sales but faced significant pushback and was ultimately sunsetted. Guest Chris Bowe, an F-150 Lightning owner, shares his positive ownership experience, emphasizing Ford's engagement with owners and their efforts to improve the EV experience, despite acknowledging technological limitations in software updates compared to competitors like Tesla and Rivian. The conversation also touches upon the viability of the dealership model, particularly for fleet sales and managing inventory during demand lulls, while acknowledging the negative impact of dealer markups on consumer perception. The emergence of the IONNA charging network and its initial site in Houston is also briefly covered.