Larry’s weekly summary is a must read for anyone interested in the automotive industry.

The Auto Channel’s Weekly Recap

A Look Back at the Week’s Top Stories

Every Sunday, Larry Nutson, The Chicago Car Guy and Auto Channel Executive Producer, compiles the top automotive news stories of the week into a concise and informative summary. This weekly recap, affectionately known as “The Auto Channel’s take,” is a must-read for anyone interested in the automotive industry.

What to Expect from This Week’s Recap

  • A comprehensive overview of the week’s top news stories
  • Insights from Larry Nutson, a renowned expert in the automotive industry
  • A concise and easy-to-digest format, perfect for busy professionals and car enthusiasts alike

    • The Top Stories of the Week

    Electric Vehicles: A Growing Trend

  • The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to gain momentum, with several major manufacturers announcing plans to expand their EV offerings. Tesla, in particular, has been at the forefront of the EV revolution, with its Model 3 and Model S models leading the charge. Other manufacturers, such as General Motors and Volkswagen, are also investing heavily in EV technology, with plans to launch new models in the coming years.

    The Outlook for New-Vehicle Sales in 2025

    The automotive industry is expected to experience a gradual recovery in 2025, with new-vehicle sales projected to increase modestly. According to Cox Automotive, the sales forecast for 2025 is a SAAR of 16.3 million, indicating a slow but steady improvement from the previous year.

    Factors Influencing the Outlook

    Several factors are expected to influence the outlook for new-vehicle sales in 2025. These include:

  • Economic growth: A moderate economic recovery is expected to drive demand for new vehicles. Low interest rates: Low interest rates are expected to make it more affordable for consumers to purchase new vehicles. Technological advancements: Advances in technology, such as electric vehicles and autonomous driving, are expected to attract new buyers. Government incentives: Government incentives, such as tax credits and rebates, are expected to encourage consumers to purchase new vehicles. ### Challenges Ahead

    • Challenges Ahead

    Despite the positive outlook, there are several challenges that the automotive industry faces in 2025.

  • “News influencers” became “go-to sources” to use more descriptive and engaging language. “car enthusiasts” became “seeking news and information” to use more varied and descriptive language. The article will be structured around the following subheadings: ## Introduction, ## The Top 10 Picks, ## Ford’s New Content Channel, and ## Conclusion. ## Introduction

    • Introduction, ## The Top 10 Picks, ## Ford’s New Content Channel, and ## Conclusion. ## Introduction

    Consumer Reports, a well-established and reputable organization, has released its annual list of the top 10 picks for the best cars of 2024. This list is highly anticipated by car enthusiasts and is considered a benchmark for evaluating the quality and performance of various vehicles.

    The Decline of Pickup Trucks

    The average price of a used pickup truck has been steadily decreasing over the past few years, with a significant drop of $350 last month. This marks the first time the average price of a used pickup truck has fallen below $32,000. The decline can be attributed to several factors, including:

  • Increased competition from other vehicle types
  • Shift in consumer preferences towards more fuel-efficient options
  • Rise in supply of used trucks on the market

    • As a result, buyers are now able to find a reliable used pickup truck at a lower price point, making it more accessible to a wider range of consumers.

    SUVs, Luxury SUVs, Hybrids & Electric Vehicles (EVs), and Vans: The Rise of Alternative Options

    While the average price of a used pickup truck has decreased, other categories have seen significant price increases. SUVs, Luxury SUVs, Hybrids & Electric Vehicles (EVs), and Vans have all experienced price hikes, indicating a shift in consumer preferences towards these alternative options. SUVs: With their spacious interiors, comfortable ride, and versatility, SUVs have become increasingly popular among consumers. As a result, prices for used SUVs have risen, with some models reaching prices above $40,000. Luxury SUVs: Luxury SUVs offer a more premium experience, with advanced features and high-end materials. As a result, prices for used luxury SUVs have also increased, with some models reaching prices above $60,000. Hybrids & Electric Vehicles (EVs): With growing concerns about climate change and air pollution, consumers are increasingly turning to eco-friendly options.

    The Waiver: A Key Component of California’s Environmental Leadership

    The waiver, granted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), allows California to set its own vehicle emission standards, which are more stringent than the federal standards. This waiver has been in place since 2007 and has been renewed several times. The current waiver is set to expire on September 1, 2020.

    Why the Trump Administration is Seeking to Repeal the Waiver

    The Trump administration is seeking to repeal the waiver due to concerns about the economic impact of California’s stricter emissions standards. The administration argues that the waiver is unfair to other states that do not have the same level of economic resources as California. The administration claims that California’s standards are too expensive for other states to implement, and that the waiver is a form of “regulatory overreach.”

  • The administration also argues that the waiver is not necessary, as the federal standards are sufficient to protect the environment. ### The Impact on Other States

    • The Impact on Other States

    If the waiver is repealed, other states that have adopted California’s standards will be forced to revert to the federal standards.

    The study also found that the most popular EV models in the U.S. market are the Tesla Model 3, the Chevrolet Bolt, and the Nissan Leaf.

    The Rise of Electric Vehicles

    The electric vehicle (EV) market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing consumer demand and government incentives. As a result, the number of EV models available in the market has expanded, offering consumers a wider range of choices. Key statistics:

    • • Over 2 million EVs were sold in the U.S. in 2022, a 70% increase from • The global EV market is expected to reach 14 million units by • Governments worldwide are offering incentives to encourage the adoption of EVs, such as tax credits, rebates, and exemptions from certain fees. The growth of the EV market has been driven by several factors, including:
  • Increasing consumer awareness and acceptance of EVs
  • Advances in battery technology, making EVs more efficient and affordable
  • Government policies and incentives, such as tax credits and rebates
  • Decreasing production costs, making EVs more competitive with internal combustion engine vehicles

    • BMW iX and Hyundai IONIQ 6: The Winners of the J.D. Power Study

    The J.D.

    The affected vehicles are equipped with a hybrid powertrain and have a specific seat assembly design.

    What is the Recall? The recall is being conducted by Toyota due to a potential safety concern. The issue arises when the seat assembly bolts are not tightened properly, which can lead to a loss of structural integrity and potentially cause the seat to detach from the vehicle. ### Why is the Recall Necessary? The recall is necessary because the improper tightening of seat assembly bolts can lead to a range of safety issues. These issues include:

  • Loss of structural integrity: If the seat assembly bolts are not tightened properly, the seat can become loose and detach from the vehicle, potentially causing injury to the occupants. Increased risk of accident: A loose seat can also increase the risk of an accident, as it can shift or move unexpectedly, causing the occupants to lose control of the vehicle. Potential for damage: In extreme cases, a loose seat can also cause damage to the vehicle’s interior, including the seat itself, the floor, and surrounding components.

    The event, which took place from May 1 to May 7, 2023, was a massive success, attracting thousands of participants and spectators alike.

    The New Director of the GPDA

    Carlos Sainz, the Spanish Formula 1 driver, has been appointed as the new director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA). This appointment comes after Sebastian Vettel, the former F1 World Champion, stepped down from the role. Sainz, who currently drives for Ferrari, will take over the position from July 1, 2023. Key aspects of Sainz’s appointment:

    • He will be the first Spanish driver to hold the position. Sainz has expressed his commitment to the GPDA and its mission. He will work closely with the existing GPDA leadership to ensure a smooth transition.

      Stay safe. Be Well. Larry Nutson, the Chicago Car Guy