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Category Archives: marketing
Pre-Owned Vehicle Marketing – Stellantis, Cox Automotive
Stellantis (NYSE: STLA. STLAM.MI) and Cox Automotive Europe today announced the signing of a long-term collaboration agreement that is intended at creating a remarketing ecosystem dedicated exclusively to Stellantis-owned Pre-Owned Vehicles, to be accessible to all professional operators in the … Continue reading
Posted in aftermarket, auto news, customer satisfaction, marketing, milestones, mobility company, news analysis, sales, shows and events, transportation
Tagged auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, eCommerce, James Weston, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, Martin Forbes, SPOTICAR Trade, Stellantis-owned Pre-Owned Vehicles, X @KenAutoinformed
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IndyCar Cheating – New Independent Officiating for 2026 Series
“We are excited to launch this new structure of IndyCar officiating and know the officiating board will approach this charge with diligence and a sense of shared responsibility. They will work independently to hire the right person to carry this mission forward and provide successful implementation for the 2026 seasons,” said Mark Miles, Penske Entertainment Corp. President and CEO. [Roger Penske owns the IndyCar Series and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Read AutoInformed.com on: IndyCar – Penske Fires Senior Leadership Team. It was at least two instances of Penske team cheating that forced the issue. Still the IOB will be funded by Penske. Letting team owners including Penske run the rule enforcement so to speak is a dubious proposition. Key here is the next step. Who is the Managing Director? – AutoCrat.] Continue reading
Posted in auto news, marketing, milestones, news analysis, people, racing, shows and events
Tagged 2026 NTT IndyCar Series, auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Federation Internationale de I’Automobile, fia, FIA Drivers Commission, INDY NXT, indycar, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, Mark Miles, Penske Entertainment Corp., Raj Nair, Ray Evernham, roger penske, Ronan Morgan, X @KenAutoinformed
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Ford Expands Mustang Cup USA Series in 2026
Ford Motor (NYSE: F) announced today that a new class joins the Mustang Cup USA series in 2026 — Mustang Cup Classic. These Mustang models are eligible to compete in Mustang Cup Classic: the 2005-2010 FR500C, the 2008 FR500S, the … Continue reading
Posted in auto news, customer satisfaction, marketing, milestones, performance, racing, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Chris Ward, Dark Horse R cars, Ford Racing, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, Mustang Cup Classic cars, Mustang Cup series, USAC, X @KenAutoinformed, Yokohama tires
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Stellantis and Bolt Partner on Driverless Mobility
Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) and Bolt, a European mobility platform, today announced they have entered a partnership to jointly explore the development and use of Level 4 (driverless) autonomous vehicles for commercial operations across Europe. [The move is a defensive one as the Chinese undoubtedly are preparing to attack this lucrative segment – AutoCrat]*
“Our AV-Ready Platforms™ are designed for maximum flexibility, so we can deliver the best possible experience for European customers. Autonomous fleets can also contribute to a lower carbon footprint by enabling a shared and optimized mobility, reducing congestion and emissions. Partnering with Bolt is intended to bring this vision closer to reality, combining our engineering expertise with their operational reach in the hopes of making driverless mobility a trusted part of everyday life in Europe,” said Antonio Filosa, Stellantis CEO. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, autonomous vehicles, car sharing, environment, marketing, milestones, mobility company, news analysis, shows and events, software defined vehicles, transportation
Tagged Antonio Filosa, auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, Markus Villig, ride-hailing services, shared mobility services, Stellantis eK0 medium size van and STLA Small platforms, X @KenAutoinformed
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Lotus Esprit Refresh offered by Encor
“Production of the Encor Series 1 is limited to 50 individually commissioned cars worldwide. Prices begin at £430,000, excluding taxes, options and the required donor Esprit V8. Commissioning takes place either at Encor’s Chelmsford, UK HQ or via private consultation for international clients. Deliveries will begin in Q2 2026 and continue through 2027,” Encor claimed. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, design and styling, engineering, manufacturing, marketing, milestones, new vehicle, performance, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Chelmsford UK, Daniel Durrant, Encor Series 1, Hethel England, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, Lotus Esprit, Skyships, William Ives, X @KenAutoinformed
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American Honda Posts November Sales of 102,824
American Honda (NYSE: HMC) said today that sales totaled 102,824 units in November. Year-to-date sales were up a meager 1.8%. An industry-wide semiconductor supply shortage was a factor.
“Both the Honda and Acura brands continue to benefit from strong sales of all-new vehicles with balanced sales across light trucks and passenger cars along with a new annual sales record from electrified models,” American Honda claimed. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, economy, manufacturing, marketing, news analysis, results, sales
Tagged Acura ADX, Acura Integra, auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, civic, civic hybrid, cr-v, HR-V, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, X @KenAutoinformed
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Visit Qatar to Be Principal Partner of Audi F1 Team
The Audi F1 Team today announced that Visit Qatar will become a principal partner upon the team’s entry into the FIA Formula 1 World Championship in 2026. Qatar of course is developing as a hub of sport and tourism. It holds the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix and the FIFA World Cup. The timing was propitious. Not only is it the 2025 Qatar Grand Prix weekend underway at the Lusail International Circuit in Doha with both sprint race and a Grand Prix, but the disqualifications of both McLaren cars after the Las Vegas race made Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen tied in points, and only 24 points behind leader Lando Norris. The last race weekend of the season occurs on December 5-7: – the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. All three drivers could be contending there for the Driver’s Championship at the Yas Marina Circuit, United Arab Emirates. [Read AutoInformed.com on: F1 – Qatar Investment Authority Buys Into Sauber – AutoCrat] Continue reading
Posted in auto news, marketing, milestones, news, news analysis, racing, shows and events
Tagged Audi F1 Team, auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, FIFA World Cup, Jonathan Wheatley, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, McLaren F1 Las Vegas disqualifications, Oscar Piastri, Qatar Grand Prix, red bull, Visit Qatar, X @KenAutoinformed
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New Mercedes-Benz Electric CLA to start at $47,250
Mercedes-Benz USA said the week that its all-new electric CLA sedan will start at $47,250 (footnote 1) when the first vehicles appear on U.S. roads in December, with the available volume progressively ramping up through the first quarter of 2026.
“The compact sedan sets new standards with intuitive technologies, striking design, enhanced comfort and up to 374 miles (EPA) of electric range,” Mercedes-Benz claimed. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, design and styling, electric vehicles, electronics, engineering, global warming, marketing, mobility company, new vehicle, news analysis
Tagged AMG Line, AMG Line Plus, auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, DC fast charging, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, MBUX Superscreen, Mercedes-Benz Electric CLA, X @KenAutoinformed
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First and Last Look – BMW Z4 Final Edition
BMW said today in Woodcliff Lake, NJ that it will debut the Z4 Final Edition – a special Z4 M40i commemorating the end of production of the 2-seat Roadster. The Z4 Final Edition will be characterized by its exclusive BMW Individual paint, unique interior accents, and commemorative badging on the door sill plates. The two-seat sports car with a 3-liter inline six cylinder engine will have a MSRP of $77,500 plus $1175 destination and handling. There’s a long history of BMW sports cars including the BMW 328 Roadster, the BMW 507, and the BMW Z8.
“Fans will instantly recognize the BMW Z4 Final Edition by its exclusive BMW Individual Frozen Black metallic paint – a color that highlights the Z4’s unique design characteristics and dynamic flair. The special paint is subtly contrasted by the standard Shadowline Package, which adds high-gloss black trim to the mirror caps, kidney grill, lower air intake, air breathers, and exhaust finishers. The exterior design package of the Final Edition also incorporates a Moonlight Black soft top and red calipers on the standard M Sport brakes,” BMW said. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, design and styling, engineering, marketing, milestones, mobility company, performance, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, BMW Z4 Final Edition, BMW Z4 M40i, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, X @KenAutoinformed
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U.S. November New Vehicle Sales Forecast Down
November’s new-vehicle sales, when posted next week, are expected to fall in both volume and pace from last year’s levels. The November new-vehicle sales pace, or seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR), is forecast today by Cox Automotive to reach 15.7 million. This is up slightly from October’s 15.3 million pace, but significantly down from last year’s 16.5 million level. Through October, the monthly SAAR has averaged 16.2 million.*
“The new-vehicle sales pace had been expected to slow in the fourth quarter, and that’s what we are seeing,” said Cox Automotive Senior Economist Charlie Chesbrough. “The headwinds from higher prices and fewer government subsidies for electric vehicles are finally slowing the market after a surprisingly strong previous six months. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, economy, manufacturing, marketing, news analysis, results, sales, Trump Truth Tests
Tagged auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Charlie Chesbrough, Cox Automotive, Cox Automotive EV Market Monitor, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, X @KenAutoinformed
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ACEA – EU October Car Sales Flat. Tesla Tumbles
During October 2025 year-to-date (YTD), new EU car registrations increased by 1.4% compared to the same period last year, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association said today, aka ACEA at AutoInformed after its original French name.* Tesla in particular demonstrated once again how damaged its brand is. [Tesla in October was down -48% at 5647 units compared to 10,867 units in 2024. Market share plummeted from1.3% to 0.6%. For October 2025 YTD, Tesla sales dropped -39.2% at 117,000 (192,439) units for a market share of 1.3% compared to 2.2% in 2024. – AutoCrat]
“This is the fourth consecutive month of modest growth, ACEA said. “Despite this recent positive momentum, overall volumes remain far below pre-pandemic levels. The battery-electric car market share reached 16.4% YTD, yet it is still below the pace needed at this stage of the transition. Hybrid-electric vehicles lead as the most popular power type choice among buyers, with plug-in hybrids continuing to gain momentum.”** Continue reading
Posted in auto news, manufacturing, marketing, news analysis, results, sales
Tagged ACEA October 2025 EU sales, auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Chainsaw Elon Musk, Death of the diesel, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, Tesla EU sales, X @KenAutoinformed
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November U.S. and Global New Vehicle Sales Forecast Down
Total new-vehicle sales for November 2025, including retail and non-retail transactions, are estimated to reach 1,255,900, a 5.2% decrease year over year, according to a joint forecast from J.D. Power and GlobalData released today. The seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) for total new-vehicle sales is expected to be 15.4 million units, down 1.2 million units from November 2024. Global November sales are expected to decrease 3.9% from November 2024. The global selling rate is expected to reach 92.7 million units in November, down from a rate of 95.8 million units in November 2024.
“November’s results reflect another notable—yet anticipated—decline in the [U.S.] new-vehicle sales pace, driven largely by the pull-ahead of electric vehicle (EV) purchases prior to the expiration of federal EV tax credits on Sept. 30. That expiration prompted many shoppers to accelerate buying decisions, resulting in a surge in EV sales that temporarily inflated the overall industry sales pace. Now, two months after the credit expired, the industry continues to feel the effect of those accelerated purchases. In November, EVs are expected to account for just 6.0% of new-vehicle retail sales, consistent with October but well below the 12.9% recorded in September,” said Thomas King, president of OEM solutions at J.D. Power. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, economy, manufacturing, marketing, news analysis, results, sales
Tagged auto industry commentary, AutoInformed news, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, David Oakley, EV tax credits, global trade, J.D. Power and GlobalData, J.D. Power November 2025 sales forecast, Ken Zino of AutoInformed, Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com writing as AutoCrat, new-vehicle retail transaction prices, tariff dynamics, Thomas King, X @KenAutoinformed
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Bye Sauber – Hi Audi Revolut F1 Team
The Audi Revolut F1 Team today unveiled its official name, logo, and announced that its global launch will take place in Berlin on 20 January 2026. This is the latest phase for the Audi Revolut F1 Team toward joining the Formula One World Championship in 2026. The team name and logo combine Audi F1 and global fintech Revolut, following the confirmation of the title partnership in July 2025.*
“Unveiling the Audi Revolut F1 Team name and logo marks another major milestone on our journey into the pinnacle of motorsport. Both give our ambition a clear identity, reflecting a strong vision and innovative spirit. We now look ahead to Berlin in January, where we will officially present this exciting new chapter for the Audi brand to the world,” said Gernot Döllner, CEO of Audi AG and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sauber Motorsport AG. Continue reading →