🚗 Franchise Law Under Scrutiny?

TOGETHER WITH

July 18th.

One more thought on de-buzz-wording “consistency” for the week.

Consistency isn’t routine.

Routine is doing the same thing.
Consistency is showing up with the same intention.

The processes can repeat or evolve.
But when the intention behind the actions stays the same, that’s consistency. That’s service.

It shows, over time, that you are invested in finding good outcomes for your team, your customers, and your community.

Keep Pushing Back
-Paul, Kyle, Chris & Kristi

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MORE THAN CARS MOMENTS

Driven to Protect

Some heroes don’t wear capes—they drive F-150s.

When Richard Pryor saw a man pulling a weapon outside Crosspointe Church during Vacation Bible School, he didn’t freeze. He floored it. The deacon used his truck to stop what could’ve been a tragic day in Wayne, MI.

Though he saved countless lives that day, unfortunately his truck didn’t survive the harrowing incident.

When Demmer Ford heard what Richard had done, they handed him the keys to a new 2025 F-150 as a gesture of appreciation for his courage and quick action.

We may not all have Richard’s bravery, but every one of us has the power to do something that matters. The key is keeping your eyes open and your heart ready.

THE UNION

From the Automotive State of the Union

Yesterday, Paul and Kyle covered the franchise law “holy wars,” and more on Stellantis backing off hydrogen.

Deets:

• The Alliance for Automotive Innovation wants DOJ scrutiny on franchise laws—NADA (and basically all of retail auto) is pushing back.

• Stellantis quietly pulls the plug on hydrogen vans.

It’s Friday. Let’s stay focused on what matters: people, presence, and being in the right place at the right time.

From The News w/ ASOTU

Today’s Digest is a study in leadership—under pressure, under scrutiny, and in motion.

We’re seeing what happens when bold strategy collides with consumer reality.

• Volvo is scaling back its U.S. lineup in response to tariff headwinds.

• Dodge is learning the cost of leaving its loyalists behind.

• Mercedes is turning cars into productivity hubs (because apparently, we need one more office).

• And Uber’s robotaxi play forces us to rethink what “service” really means.

But through it all, one thing holds true: great leadership isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s just quietly building something that lasts.

TOGETHER WITH VEHICLES FOR CHANGE

A Party with a Purpose

Vehicles for Change has spent more than 25 years putting people in motion, and their annual Custom Cars, Cocktails & Change Gala highlights the work that happens when stable transportation meets real opportunity.

Hosted at our ol’ ASTOU CON stomping grounds at the Maryland Live! Hotel and Casino, this year’s event comes at a critical time. Recent shifts in funding could slow down programs that help families gain independence and returning citizens build careers in auto tech.

The gala invites supporters to take part in something practical and lasting. One evening of good food, good music, and strong community to keep the momentum going.

Get your tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities with VFC today!

SOMETHING ELSE

Intentional Experience Win

Experiential retail is no longer a novelty; it’s becoming a strategy. U.S. pop-up shops now generate an estimated $80B annually, with projections pushing toward $95B by 2026, according to recent industry data. And it’s not just the big players. 80% of retailers who’ve tried a pop-up call it a success, with most spending under $5K to launch.

The goals?

• Build brand awareness (66%)

• Deepen customer connection (63%)

• Test or launch products (46%)

But here's the nuance: McKinsey notes many of these formats take 3–5 years to become profitable, and without clear intent, they can confuse more than convert.

For auto retailers, this isn’t about axe throwing or neon mini golf. It’s about meeting people where they are—in malls, markets, and high-traffic spaces—and giving them a reason to stop, stay, and come back.

The question isn’t should you explore experiential.
It’s: How can you make it meaningful?

AROUND THE ASOTU-VERSE

The Used Car Remedy for Tariff Hysteria

On the ASOTU CON Podcast Sessions, Michael L. Wood told Elena Ciccotelli why he's not buying into the tariff hysteria.

🥊 Quick Hits

• A Darth Vader lightsaber used in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi is headed to auction and expected to pull in up to $3M. 🔦

• Google’s AI can now make phone calls for you. 🤙

• Every little bit helps. Following steep budget cuts, national park rangers hosted a bake sale to take on the deficit. 🧁

🔁 Today in History

• 1862: First ascent of Dent Blanche, one of the highest summits in the Alps. 🏔️ 

• 1936: The Wienermobile debuts. 🌭 

• 1968: Intel is founded in Mountain View, California. 💾 

The Friday feeling 👇️