AAA – Pump Gasoline Prices Remain Steady

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Triple AAA* said yesterday that “drivers are feeling the slower pace of summer at the pump as gas prices remain steady.” (Read AutoInformed.com on: AAA – 2025 Gas Prices Holding Stable for Summer Travel)

“The national average for a gallon of regular is back at $3.16 after dropping a couple of cents this past week. The summer of lower gas prices continues thanks to crude oil prices averaging around $65 a barrel. Pump prices so far in 2025 haven’t had any major spikes or dips compared to other recent years,” according to AAA. Continue reading

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Cap-and-Invest Cleans Air in Most Polluted Areas

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A new report released today by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) shows that the California law funded by Cap-and-Invest dollars improves air in the state’s most polluted communities. In each of the 19 communities the program supports, CARB and the local air districts established partnerships to develop plans to address local pollution problems where people live, work and play. CARB is now expanding the program’s offerings to 64 communities in coordination with other regulatory partners. In AutotInformed’s view this is democracy in action – in sharp contrast to the politics of grievances by the super-rich.

“The Community Air Protection Program has become a critical tool for improving air quality in areas most impacted by sources of pollution,” said CARB Chair Liane Randolph. “As one of the hallmark efforts funded by Cap-and-Invest revenue, it is recognized as a national model for substantially and cost-effectively reducing harmful emissions in vulnerable communities. The success of the program is a testament to the power of partnerships and a result of our collective commitment to the pursuit of clean air for all Californians.” Continue reading

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Automaker Provided Insurance – Honda Joins Growing List

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American Honda Motor Company has announced the establishment of Honda Insurance Solutions, a licensed insurance agency that will provide the auto insurance needs of Acura and Honda customers. Competitive pricing and coverage options are claimed for autos, motorcycles, RVs, homes. The new Honda agency is working with omnichannel insurance brokerage VIU by HUB to offer  quoting and advice. This is the beginning of a broader insurance strategy with plans to integrate insurance into digital vehicle sales.

“Honda Insurance Solutions offers customers access to coverage through a brand they know and trust,” says Petar Vucurevic, President, American Honda Insurance Solutions, LLC and Senior Vice President, American Honda Finance Corporation. “Insurance is a key touchpoint in the vehicle ownership journey, and we aim to deliver a superior experience tailored to the unique needs of each customer, while promoting safer driving and increased peace of mind on the road.” Continue reading

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CARB Amends Clean Truck Regs With Trucking Industry!

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The California Air Resources Board (CARB) today approved amendments to the state’s Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) and Zero-Emission Powertrain (ZEP) Certification standards to maintain the emissions benefits while providing manufacturers additional flexibility. CARB’s actions affirm commitments made in the Clean Truck Partnership, an agreement with the nation’s leading major truck manufacturers to reduce emissions from the trucking industry.*

“California’s commitment to cleaner trucks has created an ecosystem of programs and incentives that will continue to drive progress despite the federal administration’s unlawful actions challenging our state’s efforts to reduce emissions and deploy to clean transportation technologies,” said CARB Chair Liane Randolph. “The amendments approved today provide manufacturers with flexibility, and we look forward to continued collaboration with manufacturers in efforts to reduce emissions, protect public health and ensure global competitiveness as the rest of the world shifts to zero-emission technologies.” Continue reading

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ACEA – June and H1 EU Sales Dropping

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During the first half of 2025 (H1 2025), new EU car registrations dropped by 1.9% compared to the same period last year, with a large -7.3% year-on-year (YOY) decline for June, according to data released today by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, aka ACEA at AutoInformed after its original French name.**

The lobbying group of 15 major European automakers said that “the battery-electric car market share for H1 2025 stood at 15.6%, still far from where it needs to be at this point in the transition. Hybrid-electric models continue to grow in popularity, retaining their place as the most popular power type amongst buyers.” Continue reading

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July Record – $49.8B Spent New Vehicles in U.S.

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Total U.S. new-vehicle sales for July 2025, including retail and non-retail transactions, are forecast to reach 1,380,500, a 3.2% increase from July 2024 according to a joint forecast from J.D. Power and GlobalData. Comparing the same sales volume without adjusting for the number of selling days translates to an increase of 7.4% from 2024. Nonetheless, consumer spending set record for month with $49.8 billion spent on new vehicles if the forecast holds, which is likely given the track record of the source.

“July retail sales are projected to finish 4.1% higher than a year ago but interpreting that gain requires care due to events both last year and this year that disrupted normal monthly sales patterns,” said Thomas King, president of the data and analytics division at J.D. Power. Continue reading

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Another Corvette C9 Concept from SoCal

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GM (NYSE: GM) has revealed the second in a series of three Chevrolet Corvette concept design studies debuting in 2025 (Read AutoInformed.com on: Concepts of What Could be a C9 Corvette Concept?) The so called California Corvette concept was developed by GM’s Advanced Design studios in Pasadena.

“Our Advanced Design teams are dedicated to shaping the future, driving innovation, and exploring what’s possible,” said Bryan Nesbitt, vice president of global design. “The California Corvette concept is another example of forward-thinking design. We invited multiple GM studios to envision Corvette-inspired hypercars, the first of which was revealed by our UK studio in March. The California team has now delivered a complementary study that honors Corvette’s legendary performance, while infusing it with their own distinctive vision.” Continue reading

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Penske Automotive Group Increases Dividend Again

Penske Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE: PAG) said today that its Board of Directors has approved a quarterly dividend of $1.32 per share, representing an increase of 4.8% or $0.06 per share. This is PAG’s 19th consecutive quarterly increase. The dividend is payable 3 September 2025 to shareholders of record as of 15 August 2025. (read AutoInformed.com on: Penske Automotive Adds Ferrari Dealership in Modena!)*

“We are pleased to provide shareholders with another increase in the quarterly dividend, reflecting the continued strength of our balance sheet and strong cash flow,” said Penske Automotive Group President Robert H. Kurnick, Jr.** Continue reading

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BMW i Ventures Invests in Estes Energy Solutions

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BMW i Ventures today announced  that it was part of an investment in Estes Energy Solutions, Inc., a California-based materials and manufacturing firm specializing in zero-emission power systems for the electrification of commercial and industrial markets using lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries that are relatively inexpensive to make because they don’t use rare earth metals such as cobalt and nickel. The pilot manufacturing line resulting from the influx of capital will enable Estes to increase the U.S.-based battery supply chain. The $11 million seed round was co-led with Fortescue Ventures with participation from New Systems Ventures, and early investor DCVC.

“What makes Estes different isn’t just the unique technology, it’s the people.” said Baris Guzel, Partner at BMW i Ventures. “This is a team that’s been in the trenches, building rugged, high-density battery systems with real-world safety and scale in mind. It’s that rare blend of deep engineering chops, operator mindset, and execution urgency. We couldn’t be more excited to partner with them.” Continue reading

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Football marketing – BYD and FC Internazionale Milano

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The BYD Group (1211 HKG), a massive China-based electric vehicle company announced the launch of a three-year strategic partnership with FC Internazionale Milano (Inter), becoming the club’s Global Automotive Partner. It’s the latest foray of Chinese EV companies into established markets. 

“BYD’s name means Build Your Dreams, and I think this partnership is a dream for young people, for everybody with a passion for football. Inter Milan is well recognized for its energy, for never giving up, for always fighting for success and for its rapid growth into a global brand with a worldwide fanbase that extends beyond the San Siro stadium and Serie A,” said Stella Li, Executive Vice President of BYD. Continue reading

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American Honda Joins Tesla Supercharger Network

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Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX owners now have access to more than 23,500 selected Tesla Superchargers across the United States with the availability of the first Honda-approved NACS-CCS DC fast-charging adapter, the company said today. The only DC fast charging adapter approved by Honda (NYSE: HMC) was tested for performance and compatibility for use with the Prologue and ZDX at any NACS DC fast-charging point. This confirms a previous announcement made in March 2025.*

“Planning a road trip just got a lot easier for our Honda and Acura EV owners with access to the Tesla Supercharger network,” said Ryan Harty, assistant vice president of Sustainability & Business Development at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Combined with other growing charging networks, Honda and Acura EV drivers now have added peace of mind with a wider range of dependable DC fast charging options nationwide.” Continue reading

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Annals of Marketing – Our Volvo Story Sweepstakes

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Volvo Car Americas said today that it is debuting a new ad campaign dubbed “Our Volvo Story” along with a sweepstakes to celebrate 70 years in the United States.*

“Everyone has a Volvo story and this is about honoring the people who have been a part of our journey, from families who have passed down their Volvo through generations, to the employees and retailers who have helped shape the brand,” said Luis Rezende, President, Volvo Car Americas. “As we celebrate 70 years and the impact we’ve had in the United States, we’re excited to invite consumers to create their own Volvo story with a chance to win a new Volvo EX90, assembled right here in South Carolina. This celebration is not just about where we’ve been but about honoring the people who’ve been with us along the way, and where we’re going next.”** Continue reading

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GM Posts Q2 Earnings of $3 Billion

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General Motors (NYSE: GM) today posted relatively strong earnings for Q2 and H1 2025 given the ongoing chaos of the Trump Administration and its obsession with economic policies and tariffs that are harmful to the economy, consumers, and GM, which took expensive tariff hits of $1.1 billion on its balance sheet. With Q2 global sales of 1,539,000, and strong U.S. Q2 sales growth at all brands, GM estimated it increased its U.S. market share to 17.4%, making it first in total sales, with 747,000 vehicles delivered during and Q2 and 1.4 million H1 deliveries. This not arguably, but almost certainly makes GM number one in retail sales, up 10% Q2 YoY and up 12% H1 YoY.

“Despite slower EV industry growth, we believe the long-term future is profitable electric vehicle production, and this continues to be our north star. As we adjust to changing demand, we will prioritize our customers, brands, and a flexible manufacturing footprint, and leverage our domestic battery investments and other profit-improvement plans,” said Mary Barra, GM Chair and CEO, “Overall, GM is well positioned to succeed in an ICE market that now has a longer runway, Barra said. Continue reading

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Ford Fuel Injector Leak Recall Now at ~694,000

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: Ford) is recalling 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5-liter engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment and cause a fire. This is an ongoing safety problem related to NHTSA Recall numbers 22V859, 24V187, 25V165. It’s the latest in a growing series of Ford recalls that were not properly repaired the first time because of software programming errors, requiring a recall of the recall, so to speak. The injectors were supplied by Dumarey Flowmotion Technologies S.R.L. of Italy. (read AutoInformed.com on: Ford Recalls Previous Bronco and Escape Fire Recalls)

The fix is currently under development. As an interim repair, dealers will update the engine control software, free of charge. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are not expected to be mailed until 18 August 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available, according to documents released by the National Highway Safety Administration today. Continue reading

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Stellantis Struggles – Q2 2025 Shipments Mostly Down Again

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Stellantis N.V. (NYSE: STLA) today released some preliminary and unaudited financial information for the First Half of 2025, in addition to its global quarterly consolidated shipment estimates and commentary on related trends in what appears to be an attempt to ameliorate financial market expectations based on its recently dismal operating results and program cancellations as it struggles to maintain what some consider too many brands and too little resources. See The Stellantis Spin below. (Read AutoInformed.com on: Stellantis Net Profit Down 70% in 2024)*

“In the absence of financial guidance, which was suspended by the Company on April 30, 2025, financial analyst consensus forecasts currently constitute the primary metric for market expectations. The disclosure of the following preliminary financial data for the First Half 2025 is intended to address the difference between these analyst consensus forecasts and the Company’s performance for the period,” Stellantis said.** Continue reading

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