#687 - 🚗 New Pledge

Ford Cuts, Off-Road Van, and a Fond Farewell

TOGETHER WITH

Friday is here, and ASOTU CON 2024 is a wrap!

From the ASOTU Crew, please know we really appreciate your time, presence, and genuine participation with all we, our partners, and your fellow participants brought for the community.

We hope you got something unique and valuable from your time. We know we all did.

Keep Pushing Back
-Paul, Kyle, Chris & Kristi

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AROUND THE ASOTU-VERSE

Farewell and Flyout!

Friends… yesterday was amazing!

Seeing Vehicles for Change give away a car, raising $10K auctioning off a custom More Than Cars guitar crafted by our own Kristi Canada from her Shreds Shop, and so much educational, cultural, and community-building content that it will be weeks before we all finish comparing notes.

Today, we meet at 7:30AM for a final coffee and some last-minute contact-swapping so we can keep these conversations going for weeks, months, and years to come.

Because there is one way to change the perception of retail auto, lead our teams to victory, and meet the needs of consumers for generations - together.

TOGETHER WITH COMPLYAUTO

Close Enough Isn’t Enough

Giphy/Polyvinyl Records

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Endorsed by over 40 dealer associations, they pride themselves on delivering superior, user-friendly solutions. Their unique offerings include a $1 million guarantee and a price match program, ensuring your dealership is protected affordably.

Additionally, their bundling discounts with Privacy+Guardian+Safety ensure full compliance and cost savings.

Schedule a free consultation today to learn how ComplyAuto is revolutionizing dealership compliance!

BUSINESS

Friday Feeling

According to the news, we may get electric Accords, Ford is looking for cheaper anything, and you could soon take the forest home from soccer practice. Grab some fries (or coffee) and let’s have a look at some news.

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Honda Pledges Big Bucks

Honda has pledged to invest $65 billion in electrification and software by FY2030, doubling its previous commitment. The investment will enhance battery procurement, cut production costs, and develop software-defined vehicles. Honda aims to launch seven new EV models globally by 2030, focusing on improving range and reducing expenses, especially in North America.

Ford vs. Supply Costs

Ford is seeking supplier ideas to cut EV costs after its Model e unit lost $1.3 billion in Q1. With a projected $5.5 billion loss for 2024, Ford is delaying projects and asking suppliers for cost-reduction proposals to improve profitability.

  • Ford's EVs, including the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, saw significant sales growth but remain unprofitable.

  • CEO Jim Farley emphasizes reducing battery costs and optimizing EV investments.

  • Suppliers are asked to propose incremental cost reductions for current and future models to help Ford achieve material cost efficiency.

Mitsubishi Takes the Whole Fam Off-Road

Mitsubishi may introduce an off-road minivan to its US lineup, based on the D:X concept. Expected later this decade, it features a plug-in hybrid powertrain and rugged design elements.

  • The D:X minivan could rejuvenate Mitsubishi's aging lineup.

  • Mitsubishi plans to launch two new models in untapped segments by 2030.

  • Upcoming additions include a lifted Outlander variant and a new entry-level hybrid crossover.

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Dinosaurs were once fierce rulers of the whole world. Big teeth and sharp claws and eyes like hawks. But they never had to give customers 100% on a Friday, so who’s really tougher? (It’s you, friend.)

Quick Hits

  • OpenAI and Reddit made a deal, and ChatGPT will now have access to Reddit content. 🤖

  • The new Bad Boy’s movie dropped its final trailer. 🎬

  • Disney, Fox, and Warner’s sports streaming service will be called Venu Sports. 🏀

History

  • 1875: The first Kentucky Derby horse race was held.🐎

  • 1954: The US Supreme Court ruled segregation unconstitutional in the Brown v. Board case. 👩‍⚖️

  • 1973: The investigation of Watergate by the Senate begins televised hearings on the Watergate scandal.📺

Thanks for reading, friend! We’re not ashamed to say it, we’re tired. So please accept this shorter email and our very best wishes. We are amazed you chose to be our community, friends, and co-troublemakers.