Category Archives: marketing

February 2026 U.S. Vehicle Sales Forecast is Down Again

Posted on 19 February 2026 by Ken Zino

“The February sales pace shows a modest improvement over January, but will be down from a year ago, with retail sales projected to decline 4.6%. As in January, performance is being shaped by depressed electric vehicle (EV) retail demand. EVs are expected to account for just 6.6% of retail sales, down 1.8 percentage points from a year ago, while elevated transaction prices continue to weigh on volumes through ongoing affordability pressure,” said Thomas King, president of OEM solutions at JD Power. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, economy, manufacturing, marketing, news, news analysis, sales | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Audi Revolut F1 Team and Fanwear Launched

Posted on 18 February 2026 by Ken Zino

“As a blend of modern lifestyle and sportswear, the fan collection – including the DNA Range, the Elevated Fanwear Range and drivers’ merchandise – targets a broad audience. Designed for everyday wear, not just race weekends, the diverse product portfolio spans T‑shirts, hoodies, jackets, caps, shoes and more,” Audi said in a release.

“The DNA Range forms the foundation of the collection, focusing on essential pieces built around core styles and the team’s primary colors to clearly express the Audi Revolut F1 Team identity. The Elevated Fanwear Range complements this with lifestyle‑driven key pieces that combine comfort, clean design and subtle branding for a modern everyday look.

“In addition, the collection includes exclusive merchandise from the team’s two drivers, Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. Several limited‑edition special drops released throughout the season further expand the collection – bold statements that celebrate style, culture and the evolving identity of the Audi Revolut F1 Team,” Audi said. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, marketing, milestones, mobility company, people, racing, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Toyota bZ Woodland Mid-Size SUV EV Priced at $45,300

Posted on 17 February 2026 by Ken Zino

“The 2026 bZ Woodland brings a different twist to the existing bZ’s style. It adds rugged black over-fenders to the Toyota hammerhead front end, has nearly 6-inches of additional length, and just under one inch of additional height in the rear. The extra length gives it a bit more space than its bZ sibling, with 74.3 cubic feet of storage with second row seats folded flat, versus the bZ model’s 67.1 cubic feet,” Toyota Motor said. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, electric vehicles, environment, fuel economy or emissions, global warming, marketing, milestones, mobility company, new vehicle, news analysis | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

First Look – 2027 Volkswagen Atlas Prototype

Posted on 16 February 2026 by Ken Zino

Prior to its spring debut at the New York International Auto Show in April, Volkswagen showcased the capability of the all‑new, second‑generation Atlas.* Camouflaged prototypes were put through their paces on a frozen lake in Québec for what was claimed to be “a true winter test.” Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, marketing, mobility company, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Annals of Marketing – NASCAR and Cuervo® Link

Posted on 11 February 2026 by Ken Zino

“Our fans come to the track to have a great time – to celebrate, connect and create memories around incredible racing – and Cuervo is a natural partner to help us elevate that experience,” said Craig Stimmel, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, NASCAR. “There’s a strong commonality between NASCAR fans and Cuervo consumers, and together we’ll bring that energy to life through premium activations (sic), immersive hospitality and unforgettable moments that make race day even more special.” Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, marketing, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Penske Automotive Group Posts $1.3 billion in 2025 Earnings

Posted on 11 February 2026 by Ken Zino

Penske Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE: PAG)* today announced 2025 Q4 and full-year 2025 results. For Q4 revenue was $7.8 billion compared to $8.1 billion for the same period in 2024. Net income attributable to common stockholders was $186.1 million compared … Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, economy, financial results, marketing, mobility company, new vehicle, news, news analysis, people, results, sales, transportation | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Ford Motor Posts 2025 Loss of $8.2B on Record Revenue

Posted on 10 February 2026 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor Co. (NYSE: F) today announced its disappointing Q4 and full-year 2025 financial results. Q4 and full-year revenue reached $45.9 billion and $187.3 billion, respectively. This was the  fifth consecutive year of full-year revenue growth. However, Q4  and full-year net losses of $11.1 billion and $8.2 billion, respectively, reflected impact of special items, some of them such as Trump tariff chaos and a shortage of aluminum because of a supplier fire were largely out of Ford management’s control.

“Ford delivered a strong 2025 in a dynamic and often volatile environment,” claimed Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO. “We improved our core business and execution, made significant progress in the areas of the business we control – lowering material and warranty costs and making real progress on quality – and made difficult but critical strategic decisions that set us up for a stronger future. Moving forward, we’ll continue building on our strong foundation to achieve our target of 8% adjusted EBIT margin by 2029.” Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, economy, electric vehicles, engineering, environment, financial results, labor issues, manufacturing, marketing, mobility company, news analysis, results, sales, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company Posts 2025 Loss of $1.7B

Posted on 9 February 2026 by Ken Zino

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NASDAQ: GT)* reported fourth quarter and full-year 2025 results today. The 2025 2025 net loss came in at -$1.7 billion. The 2025 net sales were $18.3 billion, with tire unit volumes totaling 158.7 million.

“We delivered another strong quarter, driven by execution of our Goodyear Forward plan,” said Mark Stewart, chief executive officer and president. “Our fourth quarter results mark the highest segment operating income and margin the company has achieved in more than seven years. While we continue to face challenging industry conditions in the first quarter, we are operating with greater focus and discipline on the elements within our control – much as we did throughout 2025 – to navigate the current environment.” Continue reading →

Posted in aftermarket, auto news, economy, financial results, manufacturing, marketing, results | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Toyota Motor Posts Q3 FY 2026 Net Income of $7.6 billion

Posted on 6 February 2026 by Ken Zino

“In Japan, operating income decreased due to factors such as the effects of foreign exchange rates and increased expenses. In North America, operating income decreased due to U.S. tariffs. Other regions saw an increase in operating income thanks to increased sales volume, model mix and other factors,” said Kenta Kon, Chief Financial Officer, TMC. [Kon will take over from chief executive Koji Sato on 1April. “This change in roles is intended to accelerate management decision-making in response to changes in the internal and external environment,” Toyota said in a release. Sato  becomes vice chairman with a newly created position of chief industry officer. – AutoCrat.] Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, economy, financial results, manufacturing, marketing, news analysis, results, sales | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Volvo Cars Posts a -44% Group Earnings Drop in 2025

Posted on 5 February 2026 by Ken Zino

“Our actions in 2025 have set us on a path to return to growth. We are confident of our long-term strategy and clear direction of travel,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive. During 2025, Chinese-owned Volvo Cars sold more than 710,000 cars, 46% of them electrified. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, economy, electric vehicles, engineering, environment, financial results, manufacturing, marketing, news analysis, results, sales | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Monumental Sports to Sell IndyCar Freedom 250 Sponsorships

Posted on 3 February 2026 by Ken Zino

“This marquee event is more than a race – it is a celebration of our nation’s history that puts fans at the center and showcases the nation’s capital as a world-class host of unforgettable sporting experiences,” said Jim Van Stone, president of business operations and chief commercial officer at Monumental Sports & Entertainment. “We’re thrilled to partner with IndyCar  to bring one of the most iconic motorsports experiences to the heart of Washington, D.C., and to power the sales and marketing efforts that will connect fans to this landmark event.” Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, marketing, news analysis, people, racing, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

IndyCar – Freedom 250 Grand Prix at Washington National Mall

Posted on 30 January 2026 by Ken Zino

“President Trump has bestowed an incredible distinction upon our sport, and we’re grateful for his trust and support as INDYCAR prepares to honor our country with a tremendous racing spectacle,” said Roger Penske, owner of the IndyCar series. “This will be a truly memorable event that celebrates our country’s independence and the legacy of patriotism, innovation and excellence that powers motorsports across America.”

The move while deeply surprising to AutoInformed is – on reflection given Fox Sports broadcasting control of the series and its parent company’s uncritical support of the Trump Administration – business as usual. Trump is turning to sports to help. To borrow a thought from a dictionary writer, it is not surprising that so many in all ages and countries made Patriotism a cloak for self-interest. We await to hear what Corporation or entity will be the title sponsor of the race. Oh, the Department of Transportation [your tax dollars] is funding this? Penske’s self-interest is obvious as well. This is a one-time event only? Then there’s the security costs… Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, AutoInformed Editorial, marketing, news analysis, racing, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Brr Frozen January U.S. Auto Sales

Posted on 30 January 2026 by Ken Zino

“Weather-related impacts from cold weather and late-month winter storm activity will likely contribute to some of the mild January result,” said Chris Hopson, manager of North American light vehicle sales forecasting for S&P Global Mobility. “Setting up what could be some volatility for the monthly SAAR metric in the first half of 2026.”

Continued development of battery-electric vehicle sales remains increasingly uncertain. The auto policy implications of the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA or One Big BAD Bill at AutoInformed.com – AutoCrat) and developing new regulatory standards could further temper long-term BEV demand growth. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, economy, marketing, news analysis, results, sales | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

First Look – Genesis X Skorpio Concept

Posted on 29 January 2026 by Ken Zino

Genesis this week unveiled the X Skorpio Concept, an off-road vehicle designed to perform within demanding terrain including deserts. This happened in Rub’ al Khali “Empty Quarter” desert in the UAE.* “The X Skorpio concept is an extreme off-road vehicle … Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, concept, marketing, milestones, performance, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

GM Posts 2025 Net of $12.7B on $185B Revenue

Posted on 27 January 2026 by Ken Zino

General Motors (NYSE: GM) today reported full-year 2025 net income attributable to stockholders of $2.7 billion and EBIT-adjusted of $12.7 billion. Fourth-quarter 2025 net income attributable to stockholders was a loss of $3.3 billion, EBIT-adjusted was $2.8 billion. The GM Board announced a dividend at 20% higher quarterly rate, and approved new $6 billion share repurchase authorization.

“We expect the U.S. new vehicle market will continue to be resilient, and with our compelling vehicles, technology-driven services, and operating discipline, 2026 should be an even better year for GM. We expect our full year EBIT-adjusted margins in North America will be back in the 8-10% margin range,” said Mary Barra GM CEO and Chair. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, engineering, financial results, manufacturing, marketing, mobility company, news analysis, results, sales, shows and events, transportation | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment