Inside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick, powered by CBT News

Jim Fitzpatrick
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Inside Automotive is a groundbreaking show that offers a captivating blend of dealership news, automotive retailing best practices, and cutting-edge industry insights from top executives and analysts. Featuring trailblazing industry insiders, this show offers a comprehensive look into the latest happenings within dealerships, highlighting key trends and developments. Through interviews with successful dealers, expert analysis, and practical advice, viewers gain valuable knowledge on implementing effective strategies, improving operations, and navigating the ever-changing automotive landscape. For more like this visit us at CBTNews.com.

  1. 6D AGO

    Kevin Tynan on Why 2026 Is a Turning Point for Auto Retail

    Electric vehicle adoption, pricing power, and distribution strategy are converging at a pivotal moment for automotive retail. On this episode of Inside Automotive, Kevin Tynan, director of research at The Presidio Group, breaks down how shifting supply discipline, EV economics, and direct-sales models are reshaping dealer and OEM priorities heading into 2026. Tynan explains why disciplined production helped stabilize margins in 2025 and why automakers now face clear trade-offs between volume growth and pricing power. He also examines how fading EV subsidies have exposed weaknesses in EV business models, prompting OEMs to redirect capital toward higher-margin segments. The conversation explores emerging portfolio strategies for EV technology, the structural limits of direct-to-consumer sales at scale, and what these shifts mean for dealer profitability and inventory planning. As regulatory pressure eases, Tynan outlines why 2026 is shaping up as a reset year driven more by market forces than mandates. Topics covered: Production discipline and its impact on pricing and marginsEV demand trends following the loss of subsidiesOEM capital allocation and portfolio strategyAffordability challenges and demand-led EV deploymentDirect-to-consumer sales models and scale limitationsInside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick is powered by CBT News, your go-to source for the latest news, trends, and insights in retail automotive. Subscribe for more interviews with top industry leaders, dealership innovators, and experts shaping the future of automotive. For more content, visit CBTNews.com and follow us on your favorite podcast platform.

    23 min

  2. JAN 19

    Andy Wright on Dealer Profitability and OEM Incentives

    As dealers confront mounting pressure from OEM incentive structures and online pricing transparency, Andy Wright, managing partner at Vinart Dealerships, shares his perspective on how the industry can protect profitability and restore consumer trust. On this episode of Inside Automotive, Wright reflects on Vinart’s 2025 performance and explains why he remains cautiously optimistic about 2026 amid shifting market dynamics. Wright examines the challenges tied to stair-step incentive programs, describing how unpredictability complicates planning and undermines both dealer margins and the customer experience. He outlines a collaborative, objective-based alternative that brings dealers into the conversation earlier and aligns OEM goals with retail realities. The discussion also addresses conditional pricing on third-party marketplaces and the need for industry-led standards to prevent consumer confusion. Finally, Wright weighs in on growing direct-to-consumer efforts, including recent developments involving Scout Motors, and reinforces his belief in the long-term strength of the franchise model. Topics covered: The impact of stair-step programs on dealer profitabilityDealer–OEM collaboration as a path to sustainable incentivesPricing transparency challenges on third-party listing platformsIndustry self-regulation versus government interventionDirect-to-consumer tensions and the future of the franchise modelInside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick is powered by CBT News, your go-to source for the latest news, trends, and insights in retail automotive. Subscribe for more interviews with top industry leaders, dealership innovators, and experts shaping the future of automotive. For more content, visit CBTNews.com and follow us on your favorite podcast platform.

    21 min

  3. JAN 16

    Dave Cantin and David Wyler on a Unicorn Luxury Transaction

    A landmark acquisition is redefining Ohio’s luxury automotive landscape as the Jeff Wyler Automotive Family acquires Midwestern Auto Group and launches The Wyler Collection. On this episode of Inside Automotive, CEO David Wyler joins Dave Cantin, CEO and Chairman of the Dave Cantin Group, to discuss the strategy behind the transaction and what it means for luxury retail consolidation. The conversation explores why the single-site Dublin, Ohio luxury campus—home to 14 premium and ultra-luxury brands—represents a rare opportunity, and how the acquisition aligns with Wyler’s disciplined, regionally focused growth strategy. Wyler and Cantin also address the importance of cultural alignment, OEM relationships, and long-term planning in large-scale dealership transitions. Together, they offer insight into why legacy preservation, operational readiness, and generational thinking played a central role in bringing the deal together. Topics covered: The strategic rationale behind acquiring Midwestern Auto GroupLaunching The Wyler Collection and expanding luxury brand reachPreserving culture and legacy during ownership transitionsThe role of OEM alignment in complex luxury transactionsWhat the deal signals about luxury retail consolidationInside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick is powered by CBT News, your go-to source for the latest news, trends, and insights in retail automotive. Subscribe for more interviews with top industry leaders, dealership innovators, and experts shaping the future of automotive. For more content, visit CBTNews.com and follow us on your favorite podcast platform.

    14 min

  4. JAN 7

    Glenn Lundy on Building Momentum in the First Quarter

    Glenn Lundy, automotive leadership coach and founder of the 800% Elite Automotive Club, joins Inside Automotive to share practical strategies for helping dealerships start the year with clarity, focus, and momentum. Lundy outlines why simplifying processes is often the first step toward stronger execution and how leaders can build consistency by committing to clear 90-day priorities. He explains the relationship between accountability and alignment, and why many well-intentioned plans fail without a strong foundation of expectations. Lundy also challenges outdated sales benchmarks, arguing that today’s technology, marketing reach, and training investments demand a higher standard of performance. He emphasizes the dealer’s responsibility to drive traffic, the importance of continuous top-down training, and the growing role of social media as a modern visibility tool. Together, these elements form a roadmap for sustained growth as dealers move through the first quarter and beyond. Topics covered: Simplifying processes to restore clarity and executionSetting 90-day priorities across inventory, marketing, and peopleAccountability as the foundation for team alignmentRethinking sales benchmarks and performance expectationsTraining, leadership development, and social media visibilityInside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick is powered by CBT News, your go-to source for the latest news, trends, and insights in retail automotive. Subscribe for more interviews with top industry leaders, dealership innovators, and experts shaping the future of automotive. For more content, visit CBTNews.com and follow us on your favorite podcast platform.

    28 min

  5. JAN 5

    Joe Laham Breaks Down Scout Motors’ Impact on VW and Audi Dealers

    Premier Companies President Joe Laham joins Inside Automotive to discuss his group’s recent acquisition of a BMW dealership in Northern California and what it signals about brand confidence, market risk, and long-term strategy. Laham explains why California—despite regulatory pressure and dealer exits—still represents a compelling opportunity, particularly given BMW’s product mix and EV strength. He also shares candid concerns about Volkswagen-backed Scout Motors and its implications for franchise dealers, fixed operations, and technician retention. Drawing from Premier Companies’ multi-brand experience, Laham outlines why he believes direct-to-consumer efforts tied to legacy automakers differ fundamentally from independent EV startups. He also reflects on recent shifts in consumer demand, lessons from 2025 performance volatility, and what may lie ahead as affordability, leasing, and used-vehicle supply shape the road to 2026. Topics covered: Why Premier Companies expanded into California with a BMW acquisitionBrand trust and risk management in highly regulated marketsScout Motors and growing dealer concerns around direct salesPotential impacts on fixed operations and technician staffingMarket demand shifts and outlook for affordability in 2026Inside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick is powered by CBT News, your go-to source for the latest news, trends, and insights in retail automotive. Subscribe for more interviews with top industry leaders, dealership innovators, and experts shaping the future of automotive. For more content, visit CBTNews.com and follow us on your favorite podcast platform.

    22 min

  6. JAN 2

    Michael Dunne on China’s Expanding Grip on Global Auto Markets

    China’s rapid rise as a global automotive powerhouse is reshaping competitive dynamics worldwide. On this episode of Inside Automotive, Michael Dunne, CEO of Dunne Insights and host of Driving with Dunne, analyzes how the surge in Chinese vehicle exports is impacting automakers, dealers, and suppliers as the industry approaches 2026. Dunne explains how China has gone from a marginal exporter to a dominant force in just five years, outlines where Chinese brands are gaining traction, and assesses which global manufacturers face the greatest pressure. He also explores why affordability and improving quality are driving adoption abroad, how trade policy is responding, and what the next phase of expansion could look like, including potential North American production. The conversation frames China’s ascent as a structural shift that will force established players to adapt faster than ever. China’s unprecedented growth in global vehicle exportsKey international markets absorbing Chinese volumeCompetitive pressure on Japanese, Korean, and U.S. automakersPricing, quality, and affordability advantages of Chinese brandsAutomakers to watch, including BYD, Xiaomi, Xpeng, and LeapmotorImplications for dealers and manufacturers heading into 2026Inside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick is powered by CBT News, your go-to source for the latest news, trends, and insights in retail automotive. Subscribe for more interviews with top industry leaders, dealership innovators, and experts shaping the future of automotive. For more content, visit CBTNews.com and follow us on your favorite podcast platform.

    23 min

  7. 12/30/2025

    Don Hall on What Dealers Should Expect in 2026

    As the industry looks toward 2026, Don Hall, president and CEO of the Virginia Automobile Dealers Association, joins Inside Automotive to help dealers put market conditions and legislative priorities into context. Hall shares why Virginia’s vehicle sales remain a bright spot, with fleet purchases from businesses and government agencies playing a significant role in supporting overall volume. He reflects on how shifts in federal EV policy have affected demand, why hybrids continue to gain traction, and why consumer choice—not mandates—should guide powertrain adoption. The conversation also addresses rising inventory levels, margin pressure from volume-driven OEM strategies, and the growing threat of direct-to-consumer sales models. Looking ahead, Hall outlines advocacy priorities, workforce challenges, and the critical role dealer associations play in protecting the franchise system as economic and regulatory conditions evolve. Key discussion points include: Fleet sales and their impact on Virginia’s market performanceEV policy changes and consumer-driven powertrain adoptionRising inventory levels and dealer profitability concernsOEM volume strategies and franchise system risksDirect-to-consumer sales threats and dealer valueLegislative priorities and workforce investment for 2026Inside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick is powered by CBT News, your go-to source for the latest news, trends, and insights in retail automotive. Subscribe for more interviews with top industry leaders, dealership innovators, and experts shaping the future of automotive. For more content, visit CBTNews.com and follow us on your favorite podcast platform.

    22 min

  8. 12/24/2025

    Fred Emich IV on Why the Scout Motors Ruling Is a Wake-Up Call

    Colorado’s approval of Scout Motors’ dealer license has raised new concerns about franchise protections and manufacturer-owned retail models. On this episode of Inside Automotive, Fred Emich IV, managing partner at Emich Automotive and chairman of the Volkswagen National Dealer Council, explains why the ruling is a wake-up call for dealers and OEMs nationwide. Emich breaks down how legal gray areas around affiliated entities and same-line manufacturing allowed the decision to move forward, and why similar interpretations could surface in other states. He also discusses the impact on Volkswagen dealers, the broader implications for the franchise system, and how dealer groups are responding through legislative and legal channels. Looking ahead, Emich shares perspective on market volatility, EV demand in Colorado, and the operational challenges dealers may face in 2026 as policy, pricing, and retail models continue to evolve. Key discussion points include: Why the Scout Motors ruling exposes franchise law loopholesThe implications for Volkswagen dealers and OEM–dealer trustHow ambiguous state statutes can reshape retail modelsThe role of dealer associations in legislative responsesConsumer perception challenges facing franchise dealersWhat dealers should watch as similar cases emergeInside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick is powered by CBT News, your go-to source for the latest news, trends, and insights in retail automotive. Subscribe for more interviews with top industry leaders, dealership innovators, and experts shaping the future of automotive. For more content, visit CBTNews.com and follow us on your favorite podcast platform.

    18 min
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About

Inside Automotive is a groundbreaking show that offers a captivating blend of dealership news, automotive retailing best practices, and cutting-edge industry insights from top executives and analysts. Featuring trailblazing industry insiders, this show offers a comprehensive look into the latest happenings within dealerships, highlighting key trends and developments. Through interviews with successful dealers, expert analysis, and practical advice, viewers gain valuable knowledge on implementing effective strategies, improving operations, and navigating the ever-changing automotive landscape. For more like this visit us at CBTNews.com.

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