Online auto retail disruptors such as Carvana and Vroom continue to provide franchise dealers with competition in the pre-owned market. Although inventory shortages have made it challenging for all auto retailers this year, these “disruptors” continue to steal market share. Why? Pre-pandemic, I would have said it was because they offer a pure digital retailing experience, which is appealing to a certain percentage of customers. But these days most brick and mortar dealerships offer the same capabilities. The concept of buying a car online, completing the paperwork remotely, and having a vehicle delivered is no longer that new or novel.

Members of Generation Z, also known as Zoomers, were born between 1997 and 2010. The majority are in their late teens and early 20s, a prime age group for buying vehicles. In fact, 88% of Gen Z plans to purchase their first vehicle within the next five years, according to a recent survey by Autotrader.com.   Gen Z is large, more than 67 million strong with a combined $360 billion in spending powder, according to Bloomberg. For auto dealers, this presents a tremendous opportunity. Knowing how to market to this generation is key to attaining their business and loyalty.  

By Brian Cox In a recent Consumer Reports survey, 71 percent of consumers expressed at least some degree of interest in buying or leasing an electric vehicle. While that percentage may drop as gas prices drop, that is still a significant portion of your customers who are considering making the switch to electric. But the decision to purchase an EV is not an easy one to make and requires a significant amount of research on the part of the consumer. What are the different types of EVs? What is their mileage range? What is the best method of charging? What