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. 2D AGO

    Colorado Greenlights Direct Sales For Scout

    Colorado’s decision to grant Scout Motors a dealer license has reignited national debate over direct-to-consumer sales and the future of the franchise model. On this episode of Inside Automotive, Mike Maroone, CEO of Mike Maroone Auto and former AutoNation executive, shares his perspective on why the move represents a circumvention of long-standing franchise protections and risks destabilizing OEM–dealer relationships. Maroone challenges Scout’s claims of independence from Volkswagen, argues that bypassing dealers does not benefit consumers, and outlines the potential legal, political, and market consequences of the decision. He also discusses how Colorado’s strong EV market, shifting incentives, and growing interest in hybrids factor into the broader picture, while emphasizing the importance of dealer associations and advocacy. The conversation closes with Maroone’s outlook on acquisitions, tariffs, and why respecting the franchise system remains critical as the industry evolves. Don't miss: Scout Motors’ dealer license and franchise law implicationsOEM–dealer relationship strain and long-term risksLitigation, negotiation, and political advocacy options for dealersEV demand trends, incentives, and hybrid adoption in ColoradoDirect-to-consumer sales and precedent-setting concernsInside 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.

    11 min

  2. 2D AGO

    Minnesota Auto Trends and Dealer Advocacy with Scott Lambert

    Minnesota’s auto market is entering a period of reset, and Scott Lambert, president of the Minnesota Automobile Dealers Association, joins Inside Automotive to break down the forces shaping dealerships statewide. Lambert explains how soft economic conditions—driven in part by agriculture headwinds and rising tariffs—are influencing vehicle demand and affordability. He also details ongoing legal and legislative challenges, including enforcement of Minnesota’s third-party time guide law and negotiations with manufacturers over warranty reimbursement. The conversation explores how parts theft and fraud continue to impact dealer operations, as well as why EV adoption in cold-weather markets like Minnesota remains uneven. Looking ahead, Lambert outlines MADA’s priorities for 2026, including modernizing title and registration systems and maintaining a firm advocacy posture to protect franchise dealers as the market evolves. Discussion topics include: Economic and agriculture-related pressures on vehicle demandWarranty reimbursement and manufacturer compliance challengesParts theft, fraud, and dealer cost exposureEV and hybrid adoption trends in cold-climate marketsLegislative priorities and dealer advocacy 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.

    16 min

  3. 5D AGO

    Dave Cantin on AutoNation’s Toyota Deal and Dealer Succession Planning

    As 2025 comes to a close, Dave Cantin, CEO and Chairman of the Dave Cantin Group, joins Inside Automotive to discuss AutoNation’s acquisition of Jerry’s Toyota—its first Toyota deal in more than a decade—and what it signals for dealer succession planning and the future of automotive M&A. Cantin explains why more than half of dealerships remain without a formal succession plan and how that gap can limit optionality when opportunities arise. He outlines why successful transactions require more than top-line pricing, emphasizing preparation, legacy protection, and long-term strategic fit. The conversation also explores broader consolidation trends, buyer and seller behavior heading into 2026, and why mid-sized dealer groups are expected to be especially active. Cantin closes by addressing direct-to-consumer developments and reinforcing the resilience of U.S. dealers amid ongoing industry change. Key points: AutoNation’s Toyota acquisition and its strategic significanceThe growing importance of dealership succession planningShifts in buyer and seller behavior in automotive M&AConsolidation trends among public, private, and mid-sized groupsDealer performance and resilience 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.

    14 min

  4. 6D AGO

    NADA CEO Mike Stanton Breaks Down 2025 Sales and Policy Gains

    On this episode of Inside Automotive, NADA CEO Mike Stanton reviews how dealer advocacy shaped a strong 2025 and outlines the priorities guiding franchise retailers into 2026. Stanton discusses industry sales momentum, noting that U.S. dealers are on pace to exceed 16 million vehicle sales, alongside improved profitability compared with 2024. He explains how coordinated, dealer-led advocacy efforts delivered meaningful regulatory and policy outcomes, reinforcing the value of alignment between NADA, state associations, and dealer members. The conversation also looks ahead to emerging legal challenges from EV manufacturers, evolving fuel-economy standards, and the role education and technology will play in the year ahead. Stanton closes with a preview of the 2026 NADA Show and its focus on practical AI applications for dealerships. 2025 U.S. vehicle sales performance and profitability trendsMajor advocacy wins on regulation, taxes, and EV policyLegal challenges related to direct-to-consumer EV salesFuel economy and CAFE reform efforts2026 NADA Show highlights and education prioritiesInside 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.

    12 min

  5. DEC 17

    Scout Motors’ License and Franchise Implications – Matthew Groves

    On this episode of Inside Automotive, Matthew Groves, CEO of the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association (CADA), discusses the implications of Scout Motors being granted a dealer license in Colorado, a move that has sparked national attention among franchised dealers. Groves examines the legal, regulatory, and market factors at play, emphasizing the risks such decisions pose to the franchise system and the broader dealer network. He also outlines how Colorado’s unique EV market, legislative constraints, and Volkswagen’s involvement create a complex landscape for automakers and dealers alike. The conversation highlights the importance of advocacy, strategic preparation, and vigilance as the industry navigates new EV entrants and evolving regulations. Don't miss: Details of Scout Motors’ Colorado dealer license and its limitationsLegal and regulatory concerns regarding franchise laws and manufacturer influenceThe EV market in Colorado and its impact on dealer strategiesChallenges for dealer advocacy and procedural vulnerabilitiesThe role of CADA in preparing defenses for franchise dealersColorado automotive market performance and outlook 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.

    9 min

  6. DEC 16

    Automotive Market Stability and Challenges with Kevin Tynan

    On this episode of Inside Automotive, Kevin Tynan, director of research at The Presidio Group, provides a forward-looking analysis of the automotive industry as it transitions from 2025 into 2026. Tynan discusses how policy shifts, geopolitical factors, and temporary market catalysts have shaped the current landscape, and what dealers and manufacturers should anticipate in the coming year. He highlights the importance of inventory discipline, pricing strategies, and profitability management, emphasizing that volume alone does not guarantee sustainable margins. The conversation also explores the evolving electric vehicle market, affordability pressures, and the critical role of revenue diversification for dealerships. Key discussion points include: 2025 industry performance and pull-ahead effects on SAARInventory levels and their impact on pricing integrity and marginsAffordability challenges and anticipated price increases per vehicleEV market adjustments and implications for profitabilityImportance of diversifying dealer revenue through used vehicles, fixed ops, and servicesThe role of technology and AI in improving efficiency and sustaining profitsInside 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.

    15 min

  7. DEC 10

    Bernie Moreno on Making Cars Affordable Again

    In this special edition of Inside Automotive, Senator Bernie Moreno, a former car dealer, outlines the Trump administration’s “freedom means affordable cars” proposal and what it could mean for consumers, dealers, and manufacturers. Moreno explains how proposed changes to EV mandates, CAFÉ standards, and federal incentives are intended to lower vehicle prices and restore consumer choice in the showroom. He also discusses how unified national emissions rules could reduce regulatory complexity for automakers and dealerships alike. The conversation explores affordability challenges facing today’s buyers, the impact of trade and tariff policies on domestic production, and why Moreno believes pent-up demand will drive a strong sales rebound in the coming years. Senator Bernie Moreno covers: Eliminating EV mandates and resetting CAFÉ standardsHow regulatory costs influence vehicle affordabilityThe role of consumer choice in vehicle purchasing decisionsInterest deductions on auto loans and their impact on demandTrade policy, tariffs, and incentives for U.S.-assembled vehiclesWhy Moreno forecasts a 17 million SAAR 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.

    10 min

  8. DEC 8

    How Tessa Nadik and Rob DeGeorge See AI Empowering Dealers

    In this episode of Inside Automotive, Cox Automotive leaders Tessa Nadik, AVP of Product Management, and Rob DeGeorge, Director of Product Consulting, discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping dealership operations without replacing people. They explain why AI should be viewed as a tool to improve efficiency, decision-making, and customer trust, rather than a threat to jobs. The conversation centers on the foundational role of clean, integrated data, the importance of training employees to use AI effectively, and how consumer behavior is evolving as shoppers increasingly rely on AI tools during the buying journey. Nadik and DeGeorge also outline how dealers can evaluate AI solutions based on outcomes instead of hype and prepare their teams for long-term success as technology adoption accelerates toward 2026. Topics explored in this episode include: Why AI adoption depends on clean, connected dealership dataHow AI can enhance productivity while elevating human interactionsShifts in consumer research driven by generative AI toolsEvaluating AI vendors based on measurable results, not promisesPractical use cases for generative, predictive, and conversational AISteps dealers can take to adopt AI strategically and responsiblyInside 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
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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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