#755 - 🚗 96% Dealers Embrace Analytics

TOGETHER WITH

Welcome back, Friend!

This Monday, we have some data from Cox Automotive, and news from Audi, China, and Ford in Europe.

P.S. — When was the last time you sent somebody a Marco Polo?

Keep Pushing Back
-Paul, Kyle, Chris & Kristi

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BUSINESS

Data and Deets

We grabbed some insights from Cox Auto's Power of Data Study conducted in late 2023 and early 2024. The study takes a close look at how U.S. auto dealers are using data to run their dealerships, make decisions, and boost customer value.

Deets:

• Data Usage: Nearly all dealers use Customer/Lead Data (96%), Vehicle Data (94%), and Dealership Data (96%). It’s clear that data is a big part of our operations.

• Benefits of Data: Over 80% of dealers see the upside of using data. They mention things like more accurate forecasting, better trend monitoring, higher revenue, and increased efficiency.

• Confidence in Data: However, confidence levels vary. While 72% trust their in-house data, only 66% trust third-party data. Many have experienced conflicting information, especially since OEM and third-party data can be outdated.

• Challenges with Real-Time Data: A big issue is the lag in real-time data. Most OEM and third-party data runs on 30, 60, or 90-day trends, which isn’t always helpful for day-to-day decision-making.

• Privacy and Compliance Concerns: Data privacy and compliance are major worries. About 66% of dealers are concerned about ensuring data privacy, and 44% have held off on adopting new tools because of these fears.

• Operational Goals: The top goals for using data are to increase revenue, improve customer experiences, and enhance internal operations. This includes everything from tracking employee performance to managing inventory more effectively.

What about you?

TOGETHER WITH MOSAIC

Webinar Invitation: Stay Ahead of the CARS Rule

The CARS Rule is under review at the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, with oral arguments scheduled for October 7th. A decision on its fate could come by the end of the year.

Don't miss this opportunity!

Join Paul and Kyle from ASOTU and Jim Ganther from Mosaic Compliance Solutions on Wednesday, August 7th, at 2:00 PM EST for an essential webinar on what to expect and how to stay ahead.

Register today to secure your spot!

BUSINESS CONT’D

News: Audi, China, and Blue Cruise

Audi Reconsiders Combustion Engine Plans

Audi had initially planned to transition to an all-electric lineup by 2033. However, due to shifting market dynamics and potential delays in EU regulations banning emission-producing cars by 2035, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner has emphasized a need for flexibility.

While Audi remains committed to electric vehicles for long-term CO2 neutrality, the company will continue to offer plug-in hybrids. This approach allows Audi to cater to market demands while progressing towards their EV goals. Other VW Group brands, like Porsche and Bentley, have also adjusted their electrification timelines.

Audi in China

In China, Audi is developing a new series of electric vehicles explicitly tailored for the Chinese market. Notably, these models will not feature the traditional four-ring logo.

Instead, they will carry the name "Audi" to better align with local brand perceptions and leverage the automotive architecture co-developed with Chinese partner SAIC. The first concept car of this series is set to be unveiled in November, with nine models planned by 2030.

China Market Insights

EV Market Surge in China

China continues to dominate the global EV market, with nearly 50% of new car sales in June being plug-in vehicles. 875,904 plug-in cars were registered, marking a 23% year-over-year increase. This surge is primarily driven by a 70% increase in plug-in hybrid sales, reflecting consumer concerns over battery-only reliability.

June 2024:

• BEVs: 482,500 registrations (28% market share)

• PHEVs: 393,000 registrations (22% market share)

• Total: 875,904 registrations (49.9% market share)

January to June 2024:

• BEVs: 2,550,000 registrations (25% market share)

• PHEVs: 1,690,000 registrations (18% market share)

• Total: 4,269,398 registrations (43% market share)

Li Auto's Record-Breaking Deliveries

Li Auto delivered a record 51,000 vehicles in July, spurred by its new, lower-cost Li L6 SUV. The Li L6 and other models with extended-range fuel tanks appeal to Chinese consumers who prioritize versatility and reliability over full electrification.

NIO's Consistent Performance

NIO crossed the 20,000 delivery mark for the third consecutive month in July, with 20,498 vehicles. Despite strong demand, deliveries slightly declined from the previous month. NIO's diverse lineup, including the new low-cost Onvo L60, continues to attract a robust customer base.

Ford's BlueCruise Approved Across Europe

Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving technology is now approved in 15 European countries, providing access to over 133,000 kilometers of designated highways.

This Level 2 system, initially introduced in Great Britain, Germany, and Spain, allows Mustang Mach-E drivers to experience hands-free driving while ensuring safety through continuous driver monitoring. The expansion signifies a significant milestone in making advanced driver assistance systems more widely available.

AROUND THE ASOTU-VERSE

ASOTU CON 2025!

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Currently you can just sign up for updates, but please do, so we can keep you up to date on all things ASOTU CON 2025!

CULTURE

NASA & SpaceX Seek Safe Return of Astronauts

What is Happening?
NASA is exploring all options to ensure the safe return of the Starliner crew due to technical issues. Boeing and SpaceX are actively working to resolve the situation, with the possibility of utilizing a Crew Dragon spacecraft.

Who is Involved?
NASA and Boeing are at the forefront, with SpaceX stepping in as a potential solution. The key astronauts involved are Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft.

When Did This Start?
The situation began eight weeks ago when Starliner launched into orbit on June 13. Originally, the crew was expected to return by June 14, but ongoing technical issues have extended their stay.

Where is the Crew?
The astronauts are currently aboard the International Space Station, where the Starliner is docked. Testing and evaluations are being conducted both in orbit and on the ground.

Why the Concern?
Technical problems with Starliner’s thrusters and helium leaks have caused delays, raising concerns about the spacecraft's reliability for a safe return journey to Earth.

How is the Issue Being Addressed?
NASA and Boeing have been rigorously testing the Starliner's systems, while SpaceX has prepared contingency plans to use their Crew Dragon spacecraft. NASA's final decision on the matter is expected soon.

Quick Hits

• Hackers are creating fake luxury car ads to phish info. 🎣 

• Intel stock drops following Q2 report and they announced a $10B cost-cutting plan, including 15K layoffs. 👎️ 

• Flavor Flav, the hype man of the rap group Public Enemy, has stepped up to financially support yet another U.S. Olympian. This time with her rent. 🏠️ 

August 5th in History

• 1899: Henry Ford starts his first car biz, the Detroit Automobile Company. ☝️ 

• 1955: The one-millionth VW Beetle. 📈 

• 1999: Mark McGwire hit his 500th home run at Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Missouri. ⚾️ 

Thanks for reading, friend! It's a new day, a new week, and still pretty close to the beginning of a new month. Let’s get after it!