#669 - 🚗 Trucks and Jets

TOGETHER WITH

Communication is much more than sending and receiving information like arrows into targets.

It’s a bit more like throwing a ball to a teammate. They have to be able to catch it, or the throwing is worthless.

Let’s all try today to remember to talk for the other person, not at them.

Keep Pushing Back
-Paul, Kyle, Chris & Kristi

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BUSINESS

Don’t Be Worried, It’s Just News

Monday! You better show up with your a-game.

My a-game has always been Monopoly. My dad never let me win as a kid, so now I pass that energy to anybody willing to play.

We aren’t always sure what “bringing your a-game” means, but today it means this: Iron sharpens iron, but not if it isn’t willing to endure a little friction.

Enjoy.

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Hydrogen: Ups and Downs

We saw two hydrogen headlines today on different parts of the optimism-pessimism spectrum.

📈 Advancement in Hydrogen Fuel Cells:

• Innovator: Intelligent Energy

• Product: Ultrathin hydrogen fuel cell

• Output: 157 kW, demonstrating high energy density and efficient space utilization

• Features: Compact and lightweight design, zero emissions (only water vapor)

• Market Position: Positioned as a "commercially viable, turnkey solution."

• Requirement: Calls for an expanded network of hydrogen filling stations for optimal use

📉 Real-World Application Challenges:

• Case Study: Toyota's Mirai model

• Owner Feedback: Frustration due to inadequate refueling infrastructure leading to lawsuits and buyback demands

• Current State: Limited number of operational hydrogen stations, high fuel costs, and rapid vehicle depreciation

• Company Response: Toyota has acknowledged the issues and attempted to address them

• Broader Impact: Highlights significant barriers to the adoption and practicality of hydrogen fuel technology

What does it all mean? The development of Intelligent Energy's hydrogen fuel cell contrasts sharply with the practical challenges experienced by Toyota Mirai owners. 

While technological advancements continue to push the boundaries of what's possible, the lack of sufficient infrastructure can significantly hamper widespread adoption.

Chargers, Hydrogen stations, great big solar panels, whatever it is, this push to clean energy mobility has to connect to some clean energy stationary infrastructure, or it will keep tumbling in on itself. 

Ford, GM, EVs, and TRUCKS

EVs are up, EVs are down, we're all in, we're backing off. Maybe you'd spend less time adjusting your previous statements if you used less rigid language.

• GM and Ford are focusing on profitable gas-powered trucks amid slowing EV growth.

• US automakers are seeing EV sales slow and Chinese competition speed up. 

• ICE Trucks and SUVs are always solid at quarterly report time. 

It's not the ONLY game. While GM emphasizes its gas-powered truck sales amidst a slowdown in EV growth, the company is also innovating with its Chevy Silverado EV, introducing a new home energy bundle that transforms the vehicle into a mobile generator, priced at around $7,299.

Slowing how much, tho?? While ABI Research forecasts a 21% increase in global EV sales for 2024, the increase is a smaller increase when compared to previous years, which is what we are calling a slowdown. Really, EV sales are expected to speed up, but slower than when they sped up last year...

SUV, USA, NBA

Polestar launches its electric SUV in Korea, challenging local brands with unique design features. Meanwhile, Kia enhances the EV9 with customizable NBA team interior themes.

He said-she said. But what are they DOING?

• Launch Markets: Polestar 4 was introduced in Korea, while the Kia EV9 was already established in the US market.

• Starting Price: Polestar 4 starts at $56,300 in the US, while the Kia EV9 starts slightly higher at $56,395.

• Range: Polestar 4 offers up to 300 miles of range, comparable to the Kia EV9's higher-end trims, which offer up to 304 miles.

• Innovative Features: Polestar 4 lacks a rear window to maximize interior space; Kia EV9 offers customizable NBA team themes for interior displays.

• Vehicle Updates: Both models support over-the-air updates, enhancing functionality and owner experience post-purchase.

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Well, that’s what we managed to dig up to read today. Hydrogen is moving along. Trucks will always be trucks, and Polestar hopes to make its name in Kia’s hometown.

Check back tomorrow when they all change their minds in small ways that leave us unsure if anybody is actually in charge over there. 😅

TOGETHER WITH VEHICLES FOR CHANGE

The Gift of Transportation

Did you know? Our good friends over at Vehicles for Change will be giving away a car to a single mom in need LIVE on stage at this year’s ASOTU CON.

But, we need your help! We want to equip this family up with all the essentials they may need, like a car-seat, clothes, diapers, toys — all the good stuff!

Let’s work together to make a major impact. Join us and be part of the change!

/MTCM

If we tried to tell all the wonderful, charitable, and creative stories happening in dealerships across our industry, we would need a bigger email. But we have just enough space in this email for YOUR story.

Let us help show the community and world what you have going on in your store! 🕊️

AROUND THE ASOTU-VERSE

ASOTU CON 2024

You already know ASOTU CON is almost here, which means the world of automotive retail is about to take a step toward a brighter, more collaborative, more effective, and more optimistic place.

Don’t catch up with participants when they return talking about their new ideas, partnerships, and motivation. KEEP UP by being there yourself.

Grab your ticket now.

CULTURE

Fire Up The Jets, Boys

Well, the US has confirmed that the first AI-powered fighter jet has run some play dogfights with real pilots. That isn’t scary at all, right?

In the groundbreaking test, the US military staged the first real dogfight between an AI-controlled F-16 fighter jet and a human pilot at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Racing through the sky at 1,200mph, this test, conducted by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), showcased AI's ability to analyze and react in real time using machine learning.

This high-stakes trial proved the technology's capabilities as the AI-operated X-62A VISTA performed without human intervention. While the winner remains undisclosed, DARPA described the event as a "transformational moment in aerospace history," signaling a future where AI might manage complex and hazardous tasks, potentially revolutionizing military and other high-risk operations.

Quick Hits

• NYT gave Taylor Swift’s new album less than a shining review. Don’t let the Swifties find out. 🎻

• The science shows no magic power in intermittent fasting compared to other forms of calorie-aware dieting, but it DOES work for a lot of people. 💪

• The US finalized rules limiting Alaskan oil drilling developments. 🛢

History

• 1870: Mitsubishi is founded with 3 old steamships 🎉

• 1952: US broadcasts first live atomic bomb test 🎥

• 1970: First Earth Day observed in the US 🌎

Thank you for reading, friend! Plenty to do today, this week, and beyond so we won’t keep you from it. But hit us up and let us know what you hope to see, do, or bring to ASOTU CON.