Category Archives: marketing

Penske Automotive Adds Ferrari Dealership in Modena!

Posted on 3 July 2025 by Ken Zino

Penske Automotive Group (NYSE: PAG)* said today that it has completed the acquisition of the Ferrari dealership in Modena, Italy. Located in Emilia Romagna, the heart of the so-called Italian Motor Valley that is home to Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, Ducati and Dallara, this Ferrari dealership expands the PAG’s existing luxury presence in Italy to 29 automotive retail locations. PAG now represents nine Ferrari locations worldwide, including Maranello Classic Parts, the only official Ferrari classic parts distributor in the world. The forecast estimated annualized revenue of the Modena location is $40 million. Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – Mercedes-Benz VLE Test Drive

Posted on 2 July 2025 by Ken Zino

Mercedes-Benz said today that two prototypes of its new Van Electric Architecture (VLE) drove from Stuttgart through the Alps to Rome with only two 15-minute charging stops under “real‑life “driving conditions. Starting in 2026, Mercedes-Benz will launch its newly developed modular and scalable Van Architecture. This new platform is attempting to successfully straddle luxury-focused Grand Limousines and commercial vans where Mercedes has a longstanding market presence. Continue reading →

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American Honda Posts Q2 2025 Sales Increase of 8.4%

Posted on 1 July 2025 by Ken Zino

American Honda said today that it posted sales increases in June, Q2 and thereby leading to relatively strong First Half Sales Increase of 8.4%.

“The Honda and Acura brands continue to buck industry trends with sales increases in June and the second quarter as our strong sales momentum continues through the first half of the year,” said Lance Woelfer, vice president of Auto Sales at American Honda Motor Co. Inc. “Driven by the success of all-new products like the Honda Passport and Acura ADX, and record sales of electrified models we continue to meet customer needs and manage changing market conditions.” Continue reading →

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Toyota Motor North America Q2 Sales up 7.2%

Posted on 1 July 2025 by Ken Zino

“Steady demand for our Toyota and Lexus brands resulted in strong sales throughout the second quarter,” said Mark Templin, executive vice president and chief operating officer, TMNA. “Our lineup of 32 electrified vehicles was a big part of that draw as they represented over 46% of our sales in June.” Continue reading →

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GM Posts Strong YTD 2025 U.S. Sales

Posted on 1 July 2025 by Ken Zino

General Motors (NYSE: GM) said today that its U.S. sales increased 7% in the second quarter and 12% in the 2025 first half. GM led the U.S. automotive industry in total and retail sales in the year’s first six months, with sales growth well ahead of the estimated 4% total auto industry growth. This is in sharp contrast to Ford Motor Company claims today and is the result of selective use of categories and time periods by both companies.

“The investments we have made in our crossovers, SUVs, and pickups – both gas and electric – along with great execution by our employees, suppliers and dealers, have made GM the engine of growth for the U.S. industry this year,” said Duncan Aldred, GM senior VP and president of North America. Continue reading →

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Ford Motor Q2 2025 Sales up 14.2%

Posted on 1 July 2025 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) said today that Q2 sales rose 14.2%, largely because of sales of trucks and SUVs. Ford claimed that it was well ahead of the U.S. industry in Q2 by increasing, sales ~10 times the estimated 1.4% industry increase. It also said it expanded market share to an estimated 14.3%, up 1.8 percentage points compared to Q1 2025. Continue reading →

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1908 Echoed at Cadillac?

Posted on 27 June 2025 by Ken Zino

“This week Cadillac said the CELESTIQ represents a new era of ultra-luxury at Cadillac. Each CELESTIQ embodies the ultimate expression of Cadillac technology, performance, refinement and innovation. Working with a CELESTIQ concierge, and with available curation assistance from a Cadillac designer, each client has the opportunity to create an entirely unique CELESTIQ to fit their tastes and desires,” Cadillac claimed. Continue reading →

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Dealers Now Have the Infiniti 2026 QX60 SUV

Posted on 27 June 2025 by Ken Zino

The 2026 Infiniti QX60 is now on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide with a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $51,200. The first-ever QX60 SPORT grade, which elevates the model with its “most statement-making appearance yet,” is priced from $61,700. The QX60 is offered in four grades: Pure, Luxe, Sport and Autograph. Destination and handling charge on all grades adds $1350.

“QX60 continues to be a cornerstone of our lineup and a compelling choice for today’s premium SUV buyer,” said Brian Maragno, director, Product Marketing, Infiniti USA. “Accounting for 45% of Infiniti sales last quarter, QX60 reflects our product strategy at work – blending bold design, advanced technology and thoughtful features that resonate with our Infiniti clients.” Continue reading →

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Trump Tariff Legacy – U.S. June Auto Sales Soft

Posted on 25 June 2025 by Ken Zino

Total U.S. new-vehicle sales during June 2025, including retail and non-retail transactions, are projected to reach 1,247,900, a slight 2.5% increase from June 2024 according to a joint forecast from J.D. Power and GlobalData released today.* June 2025 has 24 selling days, two fewer than June 2024. Comparing the same sales volume without adjusting for the number of selling days translates to a decrease of 5.4% from 2024.The seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) for total new-vehicle sales is expected to be 15.0 million units, up 0.2 million units from June 2024. Continue reading →

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ACEA – May 2025 EU Car Sales Flat. Tesla Down Again!

Posted on 25 June 2025 by Ken Zino

During the May 2025 year-to-date (YTD) period, new EU car registrations fell by 0.6% compared to the same period last year, according to data released today by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, aka ACEA at AutoInformed based on its original French name. Notably, the anti Elon Musk backlash continued as Tesla sales dropped to 13,863 from 19,227 or -27.9% YoY in May. Year-to Date sales of Musk-mobiles are off -37.1% at 75,196, down from 119,482 YoY.

The lobbying group of 15 major European automakers said that, “Nonetheless, year-on-year (YOY) registrations for May increased by 1.6% compared to the same month last year.” Continue reading →

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First Look – 2026 Nissan Armada NISMO

Posted on 24 June 2025 by Ken Zino

Nissan said today that it is expanding the Nissan Armada range just one year after the introduction of the all-new 2025 model. Offered in SV, SL, Platinum, PRO-4X, the new NISMO, and Platinum Reserve trims, the full-size SUV is in the center – crossfire? – of the extreme off-road vehicle marketing wars well underway in the United States. The 2026 Armada is arriving at Nissan dealerships this fall. Continue reading →

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First Look – Explorer Tremor Off Roader

Posted on 24 June 2025 by Ken Zino

“When we set out to develop an Explorer Tremor, we challenged ourselves to do something different. We wanted to build an off-road machine engineered to handle challenging terrain,” said Matthew Duffield, Explorer brand manager.

“Working closely with Brian Naspinsky, our Explorer Vehicle engineering manager, and his team, we set out to create an Explorer that could confidently tackle muddy trails, sandy beaches, and rocky mountain passes. We looked at every aspect of the vehicle, from its suspension and drivetrain to its underbody protection and technology, and made targeted improvements to enhance its off-road performance,” claimed Duffield. Continue reading →

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June Auto Market – Consumer Sentiment is Trump Chaotic

Posted on 24 June 2025 by Ken Zino

“Cox Automotive leading g indicators are mixed … in mid-June with a decreasing week-over -week trend related to service appointments, which were down 4% against 2024 in the week ending June 14 as geopolitical issues drive down consumer sentiment. We risk seeing momentum further decline in retail vehicle sales with scorching temperatures at the start of summer. Consumers may stay inside and away from dealerships with high prices and high uncertainty about what comes next in Iran and with uncertainty about when gas prices, interest rates and – of course – tariffs will come back down,” said Jonathan Smoke, Chief Economist. Continue reading →

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Ford Motor – New Offers for Military and Veterans

Posted on 20 June 2025 by Ken Zino

“As we get closer to July 4, it really makes you reflect on what this holiday is all about — independence, freedom, and the sacrifices made to secure it. At Ford and Lincoln, we’ve always felt it’s important to show our gratitude and appreciation for the folks who’ve served our country. It’s a core part of who we are as a company,” said Rob Kaffl Ford director, U.S. sales and dealer relations. Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – Porsche Italia and Ferragamo

Posted on 19 June 2025 by Ken Zino

Porsche (P911.DE) said today that Porsche Italia is observing its 40th anniversary with two special-edition models based on the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS and the Porsche Taycan 4S. Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur workers have decoratively enhanced the exterior and the interior of the two sports cars.

“Our dream was to create something truly unique that embodies the spirit that has guided us for the past 40 years: Porsche style combined with Italian culture and aesthetics. That’s why we chose Ferragamo as a partner for this project, a brand with which we share values such as excellence of craftsmanship, timeless elegance and a tireless attention to detail,” said Pietro Innocenti, CEO of Porsche Italia. Salvatore Ferragamo became famous in Hollywood by custom-making shoes for movie stars. In 1927, the ‘shoemaker of dreams’, as he was known, returned to his homeland and settled near Florence. Continue reading →

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