BIGGER THAN THE BOOK - AUTOLINE THIS WEEK 1546

EV Channels Review

This episode of Autoline This Week features a candid discussion with Steve Wade, Chairman of the National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA), alongside journalists Jeff Bennett and Steve Finley. The conversation centers on the state of the automotive retail market, particularly in the aftermath of the 2008 recession and the significant dealership consolidation. Wade expresses strong reservations about the methods used in the GM and Chrysler dealership cuts, highlighting the devastating impact on individual franchisees. While acknowledging that some consolidation might have been necessary for the OEMs, he questions the benefit to consumers and dealers, especially regarding increased travel distances for service. A major point of contention is the manufacturers' costly image programs, which many dealers feel are excessive and not tied to demonstrable return on investment, particularly as consumers increasingly research and transact online. Wade emphasizes NADA's study to bring data-driven reasoning to these programs. The discussion also touches upon evolving consumer buying habits, the importance of fixed operations, and NADA's concerns about the feasibility and cost implications of ambitious new fuel economy standards.