Category Archives: marketing

Porsche Sales Tank in China. So-So Elsewhere

Posted on 9 October 2025 by Ken Zino

Porsche (P911.DE) said today that a total of 212,509 cars were delivered to customers worldwide between January and September, of which 35.2% were electrified (+12.8 percentage points). However, in China the world’s largest market, Porsche has lost its once gleaming image and lucrative result. In China, 32,195 cars were delivered to customers (-26%.) The primary Porsche excuses for this decline “remain the challenging market conditions, particularly in the luxury segment, and the intense competition in the Chinese market.” The gleam is also fading elsewhere for Porsche.

“Porsche continues to maintain robust delivery figures this year. The level is in line with our expectations, especially considering the ongoing geopolitical and economic conditions,“ claimed Matthias Becker, Member of the Executive Board for Sales and Marketing at Porsche AG. “In the coming months, our customers can look forward to many exceptional product offerings. We recently unveiled the new 911 Turbo S at the IAA, the range-topping version of our iconic sports car. This strengthens our brand core. Demand for the new flagship is very strong, and the car has received a lot of praise from the media and prospective customers.” Continue reading →

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Chevrolet Bolt Returns as 2027 Model at ~$30,000

Posted on 9 October 2025 by Ken Zino

“The Chevrolet Bolt was the industry’s first affordable mass-market, long-range EV and it commanded one of GM’s most loyal customer bases thanks to its price, versatility and practicality,” said Scott Bell, vice president, Global Chevrolet. “After production ended, we heard our customer’s feedback and their love for this product. So the Bolt is coming back, by popular demand and better than ever, for a limited time. Continue reading →

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First Look -Volvo Car USA 2026 EV Lineup

Posted on 7 October 2025 by Ken Zino

Volvo Car USA today announced details of its 2026 fully electric lineup with upgrades to the 2026 Volvo EX90, as well as the arrival of the EX30 Cross Country and Single Motor variants for U.S. customers.

“The 2026 EX90 has a new 800-volt electrical architecture that delivers faster, more efficient charging**- adding up to 155 miles of range in just 10 minutes at a compatible 800-volt charging station. This figure is the typical time to charge from 10 to 80 % at a 153kW DC fast charging station (CCS2). Figures are preliminary and derived from estimates and calculations performed for the Volvo EX30,” Volvo Cars said. Continue reading →

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Mercedes-Benz Group Posts So-So Q3 Sales

Posted on 7 October 2025 by Ken Zino

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported Q3 2025 retail sales of 73,500 passenger cars. Year-to- date, U.S. retail sales to customers rose 6% to 223,800 units, helped by strong demand for Mercedes-Benz SUVs and expensive models. Mercedes-Benz Vans reported third quarter 2025 sales of 9500 units. The MBUSA overall total is 83,000 units retailed in the third quarter. Mercedes-Benz Group globally sold 441,500 cars in Q3 2025. [This gives the bragging rights to BMW Group at 588,300 – AutoCrat. BMW Group – Small Sales Increase YTD. Board Slashes Outlook]

“With sustained strong demand across our entire product lineup, our third-quarter sales results demonstrate the strength of the Mercedes-Benz brand and reflect the hard work and determination of our employees and outstanding dealer partners. We remain focused on consistently delivering our customers class-leading products and benchmark experiences with our 2026 models now arriving, including the stunning Mercedes- Maybach SL 680 at the very top end of the portfolio through to a highly compelling new all-electric entry point to the brand with the CLA that will reach U.S. dealerships before the end of the year,” said Adam Chamberlain, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA. Continue reading →

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Porsche Dumps World Endurance Cup!

Posted on 7 October 2025 by Ken Zino

Porsche AG (P911.DE)* said this morning will in future focus on two factory projects in motorsport. Porsche Motorsport will run the Porsche 99X Electric in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. Porsche will also run 963 in the North American IMSA WeatherTech series SportsCar Championship. The surprise move abandons some racing that Porsche was long involved with. Porsche Penske Motorsport will end its involvement in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) at the end of the current season. (However, the cost of new model introductions as well as Trump’s tariff wars and formidable Chinese competition on EVs, dividends for shareholders no doubt weighed heavily on the retreat – AutoCrat.)**

“We very much regret that, due to the current circumstances, we will not be continuing our involvement in the WEC after this season,” said Dr Michael Steiner, Deputy Chairman and Member of the Executive Board Research and Development, Porsche AG. Steiner has been at Porsche since 2002 after leaving Daimler AG. Continue reading →

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Milestones – Volvo Cars One Millionth Plug-In Hybrid

Posted on 2 October 2025 by Ken Zino

Volvo Cars (VOLCAR-B.STO)* said today it reached a milestone in its electrification goal in September when it delivered its one millionth plug-in hybrid. The Chinese-owned company** is transitioning to becoming a fully electrified car maker with plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) as part of the plan. Volvo posted a significant loss in Q2 2025 as it was caught in the crossfire of resident Trump’s ongoing tariff chaos.

“Volvo Cars is committed to a fully electric future, and we will get there in a pace that suits our customers,” says Erik Severinson, chief commercial officer at Volvo Cars. “Our plug-in hybrid cars are a crucial bridge towards that future for those customers who are not yet ready to go fully electric.” Continue reading →

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American Honda Posts 358,848 Q3 U.S. Sales

Posted on 2 October 2025 by Ken Zino

American Honda’s Acura and Honda brands posted combined September 2025 sales of 105,097 and Q3 combined sales of 356,848. Year-to-date, American Honda has sold 1,097,799 cars and trucks, ~4% increase. The challenge forthcoming is the end of the EV tax credits, which has now expired. Still, American Honda is well positioned with its line of hybrid models.

“Balanced sales of light trucks, passenger cars, including record sales of electrified models and helping Honda and Acura manage the challenging market conditions,” said Lance Woelfer, vice president of Auto Sales at American Honda Motor Co. Inc. “Our investment in the ability to make hybrid-electric vehicles in America, including the Honda hybrid system, has led to record sales of CR-V, Accord and Civic hybrid models.” Continue reading →

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Toyota Motor N.A. Posts Q3 Sales of 629,137

Posted on 1 October 2025 by Ken Zino

Toyota Motor North America (TMNA. NYSE: TM, 7203T) today reported September 2025 U.S. sales of 185,748 vehicles, up 14.2% on a volume basis and up 9.5% on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis compared with September 2024. Sales of electrified vehicles for the month totaled 85,092 up 8.% on a volume basis and up 3.6% DSR, representing 45.8% of total sales volume.

“Strong customer demand continues across our entire lineup, and vehicles are selling as fast as we build them,” said Andrew Gilleland, senior vice president at Toyota Motor North America. Continue reading →

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Ford Motor Posts Q3 U.S. Sales of 545,522

Posted on 1 October 2025 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) today posted Q3 U.S. sales of 545,522, an increase of 8.2% across Ford’s line of gas, hybrid, and electric vehicles, as well as increased services from Ford Pro. Ford trailed GM in volume, which posted sales of 710,347 for a 7.7% increase. Car sales remain problematic for Ford Motor, reflecting the growth of trucks and SUVs in the U.S. at most companies.

“This quarter’s growth showcases our portfolio’s unmatched flexibility and breadth,” said Andrew Frick, president, Ford Blue and Model e. “We saw strong performance in gas, hybrid, and electrified powertrains, while at the same time growing our paid software solutions, all embedded in vehicles such as Expedition, Explorer and F-150.” Continue reading →

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General Motors Posts Strong Q3 U.S. Sales – 710,347

Posted on 1 October 2025 by Ken Zino

General Motors (NYSE: GM) today posted record U.S. sales for the GMC brand, crossover vehicles, and EVs for Q3 2025. Total GM sales were 710,347.

“No one is in a stronger position for a changing U.S. market than GM. We have the best lineup of ICE and EV vehicles we’ve ever had, and our brands have grown market share with consistently strong pricing, low incentives and inventory,” said Duncan Aldred GM Senior Vice President and President, North America. Continue reading →

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Approved Auto Repair – AAA celebrates 50th Anniversary

Posted on 30 September 2025 by Ken Zino

AAA said today that it is proudly celebrating the 50th anniversary of its Approved Auto Repair (AAR) program. Since its inception in 1975, the AAR program has connected drivers with auto repair services that uphold the highest standards of quality and affordability.

“Fifty years ago, we recognized a huge gap in the automotive repair marketplace, where consumer frustration was all too common,” said Margaret Pittelkow, Vice President of AAA Automotive Services. “Today, our AAR program stands as a testament to AAA’s commitment to supporting drivers in their journey, providing them peace of mind and a hassle-free repair experience.” Continue reading →

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Goodyear Tire & Rubber to Form a Global Racing Unit

Posted on 30 September 2025 by Ken Zino

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NASDAQ: GT) today announced the formation of its new Global Racing organization. This combines all motorsport operations under a single global structure. Xavier Fraipont will lead the newly formed organization as vice president, Global Racing, effective 1 October.

“Goodyear has been synonymous with car racing since the very beginning of our history,” said Chris Helsel, senior vice president and chief technical officer. “With Xavier’s deep expertise and leadership at the helm, we’re advancing our commitment to innovation – enhancing performance and elevating our competitive edge worldwide.” Continue reading →

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Lexus Adds F-Sport Trim to the 2026 LX 

Posted on 26 September 2025 by Ken Zino

Lexus said today that the LX for the 2026 model year will offer an F SPORT Appearance Package, available exclusively on the LX 700h F SPORT Handling model. The package has color-keyed lower front and rear bumper accents, black outside mirror covers, black rear spoiler winglets, and color-keyed running board accents. The 2026 LX is offered in five grades: Premium, F SPORT Handling, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and Overtrail. For the first time a Hybrid Powertrain is available. Pricing ranges from $107,950 to $142,450. Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – Carrera GT 25 Anniversary and ZEPETO

Posted on 26 September 2025 by Ken Zino

Porsche and Arthur Kar have teamed to launch an exclusive capsule collection celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Carrera GT. ZEPETO, a global avatar platform with a claimed +400 million registered users, is partnering with Porsche as it marks the 25th anniversary of the Carrera GT. Attached to the collection launch, Porsche presents a Paris showcase and exhibition near the Champs-Élysées. ZEPETO is extending the celebration to millions of users around the world. Four exclusive items from the 25Y Porsche Carrera GT Anniversary Collection, including a jacket, T-shirt, cap, and Porsche x PUMA trainers will be available in the Porsche shop on ZEPETO.

“Running from September 26 to October 25, ZEPETO users will be invited to step into three immersive booths, each offering a narrative thread drawn from the Carrera GT’s heritage. This includes racing the Carrera GT on the Porsche Leipzig track, posing in its former production line, and revisiting its debut in Paris. By creating photo and video content within these environments, participants become part of the story themselves, re-imagining Porsche’s legacy spirit through their avatars and aesthetic preferences,” ZEPETO claimed. Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – Subaru Connection Hub

Posted on 25 September 2025 by Ken Zino

Subaru of America today unveiled the Subaru Connection Hub, the automaker’s first full redesign of its national retailer network since 2007. Customers will begin to see the Subaru Connection Hub at participating retailers in 2026.

“Following decades of growth and evolution at Subaru, the new Connection Hub reflects where our brand stands today and where we are headed, while reinforcing our long-standing commitment to our customers and communities through the Subaru Love Promise. This is more than a design update – it transforms our retailers’ facilities into welcoming hubs for customers and communities to connect, collaborate, and celebrate what they love about our brand,” said Tim Stallings, Vice President, Retailer Development, Subaru of America. Continue reading →

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