Author Archives: BEBdata

AI & CAR SALES PART 1 OF 5

The auto industry has always been at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge technology, and now, artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the sector even further. By integrating AI into auto sales and marketing, dealerships and manufacturers are discovering new ways to engage customers and drive growth.

One impactful way AI is changing the game is through the use of chatbots. In today’s world, where instant communication is highly valued, chatbots provide real-time support to potential buyers. While there may be concerns about relying solely on AI language models like ChatGPT, with the right algorithm and data, these conversational agents can answer inquiries, provide product information, and even guide customers through the purchasing process with just a click of a button.

Many dealerships are already reaping the benefits of AI. According to a survey by CDK Global, 76% of dealers believe that AI has had a positive impact on their business. The chatbots available today are no longer limited to simple Q&A; they offer interactive and personalized experiences, becoming an essential tool for auto dealers to engage with prospects 24/7.

There is evidence to support the effectiveness of chatbots. IBM’s Watson Assistant site mentions that personalized retail experiences make consumers 40% more likely to spend more than they originally planned. Personalization always yields positive results.

Marketing With Consumer Bankruptcy Data

In an era of data-driven marketing, leveraging consumer bankruptcy data can give businesses a competitive advantage. By understanding consumer behavior, identifying targeted segments, and creating personalized offerings, companies can enhance their marketing campaigns and achieve higher conversion rates. Moreover, utilizing bankruptcy data helps businesses mitigate risk, engage customers on a deeper level, and continually improve their strategies. Embracing this valuable resource can unlock new opportunities and ensure long-term success in an ever-changing marketplace.

Is There A Credit Crisis on the Horizon?

It’s interesting to see the resilience of the US economy during the first half of the year, especially considering the expectations of economists who anticipated a recession. The second half of the year however, may present some challenges. Federal Reserve policymakers are indicating their intention to continue implementing interest rate hikes, which might introduce some volatility.

Although inflation rates are gradually declining, price pressures persist, and the Fed has suggested that benchmark interest rates will remain elevated for a longer period. Banks are likely to continue tightening lending standards in the coming months, making it more challenging and costly for households, to secure funding.

Consumer debt delinquencies have risen across various categories. It’s crucial to consider these trends in the broader context of credit conditions.

Many analysts  no longer predict an imminent recession. Growth prospects have slowed, and persistent inflation is eroding purchasing power, particularly for less affluent consumers who are relying on credit card debt. Households are depleting the cash reserves they accumulated during the pandemic, which will have an impact on corporate growth prospects.

Overall, while the economy is not on the brink of a recession, slower growth and economic challenges lie ahead, driven by factors such as inflation, tight lending standards, and rising consumer debt.

INTEREST RATES WEIGH HEAVY ON DEALERS

As Inventory Concerns Begin to Fade, Economic Uncertainty and High Interest Rates Take Center Stage for U.S. Automobile Dealers

Latest Cox Automotive Dealer Sentiment Index shows inflation, interest rates, and the economy continue to weigh on dealers and hold back their business.

Read more here…https://www.coxautoinc.com/news/q2-2023-cadsi/

CAR SALES AND INTEREST RATES

It’s true that interest rates have been a challenge in the auto market lately. With rates steadily increasing and loans becoming more difficult to obtain, car buyers have faced obstacles in financing their purchases. On average, term lengths for car loans have been reaching 72 months, while rates for new and used cars are around 7% and 10.5% respectively.

Despite these challenges, auto sales have been surprisingly robust, which is encouraging. It seems that even with higher rates, customers have been finding ways to make their purchases work. It’s worth noting that the Federal Reserve has indicated a possible shift in their approach to rising costs. They may pause or even reverse their series of rate hikes, which could stabilize rates in the latter half of this year and potentially lead to a decrease in 2024.

AUTO MARKETING READY TO RISE

The Car Sales Industry in 2022 increased focus on branding and EV marketing. That combined with anticipated improvements in production this year, is looks like auto marketing is poised for growth in 2023. Experts predict that the automotive category will experience an increase in marketing spending for the first time in a few years.

Notably, commercials promoting EVs made up 24% of auto makers’ TV spending in 2022, up from 13.8% in 2021, indicating a greater emphasis on promoting electric vehicles. Kia, for example, continued its marketing spend in support of future demand, recognizing the ongoing transformation to EVs. They even utilized the Super Bowl to introduce their EV6, not for immediate high sales volume, but to establish themselves as a legitimate EV brand and generate interest in their forthcoming models like the EV9.

However, not all brands are adopting the same approach. Ford CEO Jim Farley, for instance, expressed skepticism about spending on traditional marketing, advocating for customer incentives and vehicle updates instead. Nevertheless, the focus on EVs has become more prominent, as automakers shift their advertising efforts towards vehicles that they want consumers to be aware of, given the decreased need for sales incentives.

Overall, with the importance placed on branding, the rise of EVs, and an anticipated rebound in production, the outlook for auto marketing in 2023 appears promising.