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- #632 - ⏰🚗🦋 Time, Tape, and Transformation
#632 - ⏰🚗🦋 Time, Tape, and Transformation
Weekly Recap, ASOTU Pods, and BMW Bits
Life is all about perspective.
When considering daylight savings at this time of year, some think: ”bummer, one less hour of sleep.” Others think: “yay, one more hour of daylight!”
As we adjust our clocks tomorrow, let's also adjust our perspective to appreciate the gift of time. Let’s challenge ourselves to not just chase after it, but to make it meaningful. To create moments that matter, both for ourselves and for those we serve.
Keep Pushing Back
-Paul, Kyle, Chris & Kristi
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On Friday, we touched on global investments reshaping the future of mobility, from Stellantis's $6B strategy in South America to Rivian's more affordable EV launch and California's milestone in EV charging infrastructure, setting the stage for a more electrified future. ⚡️
Thursday was a day packed with OEM updates. We learned about Toyota’s plans to wave goodbye to some employees with a hefty severance, Tesla facing the heat of both arson and Elon's email saga, Dodge flaunting a macho EV, BYD slashing prices to conquer new shores, and VW cozying up to farmers while fending off fire fallout. 🗞️
Then, on Wednesday, we saw the White House eye Chinese EVs, Euro NCAP reignite button love, flying cars take off with Alef's pre-orders, and Ford's electrified sales. Then, we took a dive into "Unreasonable Hospitality," because who wouldn't want their car journey sprinkled with a little magic? 🪄
Tuesday’s scoop showed EV sales hit a speed bump, a Volvo swinging from a crane in a marketing stunt, and Aptera betting on solar dreams. Plus, we tip our hats to Park Place Dealerships for their generous donation to eighteen North Texas non-profits. 💗
On Monday, we covered the UK's legal pivot to autonomous vehicles, Toyota's lean towards hydrogen and hybrids over EVs, and updates on Tesla's inclusive charging network. We also discuss “The Unknown” and why it’s definitely going to be our next Halloween costume. 🍭
The Automotive Troublemaker Podcast
The Automotive Troublemakers were on the fly this week and recorded Thursday’s episode from the home of Coca-Cola (ATL). Just before they took back to the skies, they discussed Carvana’s strategic transformation under CEO Ernie Garcia, and took a look at the recently leaked release details of Rivian’s latest EV, the R2.
Live from terminal D — check out the replay here.
Auto Collabs Podcast
Step into the forefront of automotive innovation and challenges in California with our latest episode of Auto Collabs, featuring the esteemed Brian Maas, President of the California New Car Dealers Association. With California at the helm of setting auto trends and regulations, Brian shares invaluable insights into the state's retail landscape, the push for zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, and the intricate balance between forward-thinking innovation, consumer demands, and practical strategies.
The ASOTU Wheelhouse
Unlock the secrets to enhancing your customer experience effortlessly with the latest episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse. Host Daniel Govaer and a distinguished panel including Michael Wood (Checkered Flag Auto Group), Jen Suzuki (eDealer Solutions), and Erica Bruno (Global SUV) share straightforward, impactful strategies that can elevate your approach to the customer experience without costing a dime.
SOMETHING FUN
BMW: Tape, Blocks, and Joy Rides
Duct Tape
Everybody has a great duct tape story. The tried and true method of movement removal using our favorite silver sticky strips is like an American tradition. So, while BMW is a German brand at least this one is an honorary member of the great US of A.
 Before |  After |
Designer Davis Yongwon Lee reimagines the controversial BMW M2 with nothing but tape, giving it a sportier, more appealing look. It's proof that sometimes, unconventional tools create striking transformations.
Too pricey?
Lego, another "building block" of the American imagination, has a $45 BMW set that brings luxury speedster ownership a touch closer to those of us picking between avocado toast and other sorts of toast.
Lego's new BMW M4 GT3 and M Hybrid V-8 sets are 676 pieces and perfect for your desk. Unless you work at a non-BMW dealership, maybe you can get a dragon set instead.
Boy Behind the Wheel
You didn't hear it from us, but BMWs are totally stealable. If you are really hurting to take one around the block, we advise against looking eleven years old or driving it attached to a camping trailer.
While car theft is a social media trend here in the US (#KiaBoyz), this story is from the UK, where an 11-year-old boy took a BMW X5 for a joyride. The vehicle was reported stolen, and being attached to a small home-sized caravan, it was easy to spot. The car and schoolboy were each unharmed by the event.
Quick Hits
A boxing match between internet celebrity, Jake Paul, and legendary boxer, Mike Tyson, has officially been scheduled for this summer. 🥊
According to a report by Forbes, Adam Sandler was the highest-paid actor of 2023. 💰
Just in time for National Ranch Day on March 10th, Hidden Valley is dropping six new flavors of ranch dressing, including Cheez-It and Nashville Hot. 🔥
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