Automotive State of the Union

Episode #1081: Today’s episode sounds the alarm on EV shipping risks after a $560M shipwreck, dives into the dealer-driven defense of EV tax credits with Alex Lawrence at the helm, and bids farewell to Microsoft’s iconic Blue Screen of Death.

Episode #1080: Today we’re talking about winners - how Roger Penske was honored with the Automotive News Centennial Award, how 14 states have won back $5B in EV charging funs and how Meta and Anthropic both won copyright lawsuits.

Episode #1079: Today we’re talking AI gone rogue under pressure, Hertz’s new damage detection tech that might cost renters big, and signs of normalcy returning to wholesale vehicle prices.

Episode #1078: Today we’re talking stormy shareholder meetings at Nissan, the EV factory tours drawing crowds in China, and the Gen Z men getting caught outsourcing their work to AI.

Episode #1077: Today we’re talking about Stellantis’ cautious leadership shuffle, Tesla’s Robotaxi rollout with safety monitors in the passenger seat, and how AI is quietly shaping the way we talk—even if we don’t realize it.

Today, Chris Reeves joins Paul and Kyle to talk about how sourcing stories is like sitting by a river with little sailboats going down it. Then they talk about how Shelly Hux from Herrin-Gear Automotive Group wrote in to share how she's been empowered to make a difference in her community and how more dealers can do that at their stories.

Episode #1075: Today we’re talking CarMax’s record-setting quarter, Congress clashing over EV tax credits, and Honda’s surprising success in rocket science. Yep, you read that right—Honda landed a rocket.

Episode #1074: We’re diving into CDK’s post-attack transformation, Waymo’s bold NYC ambitions, and China’s booming AI-driven live commerce, where digital humans are outselling their creators.

Episode #1073: Six EVs crack the top 10 of Cars.com's American-Made Index, Tesla pauses Cybertruck and Model Y production, and the U.S. Senate gives crypto a win with new stablecoin regulations, clearing the path for mainstream adoption.

Episode #1072: Ferrari eases off the EV pedal, LAZ Parking launches a game-changing 50,000-charger rollout, and TikTok’s AI influencers threaten to upend the creator economy.

Episode #1071: In today’s episode, we unpack April’s surprising EV registration drop, spotlight top dealership strategies driving service and parts growth, and break down a fresh consumer sentiment boost that still comes with caution.

Today on the show, we've got Daniel Govaer joining Paul, Kyle and Chris to recap the Raptor Rally that he helped host. Together with Leif Johnson Ford and Rally Ready Ranch, they brought the high-performance Ford Raptor community together to benefit Central Texas Make-A-Wish.

Episode #1069: Trump eyes higher auto tariffs and axes California’s EV rules, Google quietly gains ground with Gen Z shoppers, and an AI-generated NBA Finals ad shows how fast, cheap, and creative the future of advertising can be.

Episode #1068: Congress considers sweeping reforms to EV and emissions incentives, while Toyota tightens its corporate family ties with a bold $33B buyout—cementing Akio Toyoda's hold at the top. Plus, Lowe’s gets into the creator game with Mr. Beast and other social stars.

Episode #1067: We’re covering how President Trump announced that China will provide rare earth minerals in a new trade deal. Plus Tesla’s push toward a robotaxi launch in Austin and what it means for the future of autonomy and Apple brings a major refresh to CarPlay in iOS26.

Episode #1066: Today we’re looking at the May economic data from Cox Automotive, how Lucid is reducing its dependence on foreign battery materials and how Meta has increased its ad revenue without increasing volume through targeting.

Episode #1065: Today we’re breaking down Rivian’s big win with VW, a wild scene in LA as Waymo vehicles go up in flames, and how back-to-school shopping is creeping into summer.

Paul, Kyle, and Chris realize their shared aspiration identity...Charles Ingles from Little House on the Prairie. They laugh about how ironically he is a representation of what it is to steward your community.

Today we’re talking about political fireworks as Trump and Musk’s bromance blows up, Ram’s surprising V8 comeback after admitting they “screwed up,” and Samsung phones getting a dose of AI-powered fashion ads, right on your lock screen.

Episode #1062: In a first on this show, Paul does a live food review of Buddy’s Pizza, provided by Steve Greenfield. Plus, we talk about how Amazon is preparing to have humanoid robots jump into the last mile of package delivery.

Episode #1061: China’s rare earth restrictions are causing real pain for Europe’s automakers, Costco’s gas game and checkout tech are stepping up, and American shoppers are oddly calm about rising tariffs—at least for now.

Episode #1060: Steve Greenfield sounds the alarm on rising repair and insurance costs, Tesla loses its charger deal on the New Jersey Turnpike, and Meta doubles down on AI-generated advertising—even as trust from brands wavers.

Episode #1059: Today we’re talking about the strength of dealership valuations despite sluggish buy-sells, Waymo's exponential takeover of the robotaxi race, and why your old boss might be your next one.

Episode 1058: It's the last day of the month and today Kyle is joined by Head Writer Chris Reeves to talk about how Baxter Subaru of Omaha, Nebraska reduced its trash output from 96 yards a week to 8. They’re now recycling over 90% of their waste.

Episode #1057: Nissan eyes a fire sale to survive, Trump’s tariff plan hits legal trouble, and GM claims Canada’s EV crown from Tesla—at least for now.

Episode #1056: Today we’re talking about Elon Musk’s dramatic exit from government, the rising appeal of extended-range EVs as a hybrid-EV mashup, and how Amazon wants to talk you into your next purchase—literally—with AI-generated audio highlights.

Episode #1055: Today we cover Stellantis’ new CEO facing a storm of tariffs and dealer tensions, GM’s surprising pivot back to big V-8s, and DeLorean’s futuristic EV launch… that’s more crypto maze than car.

Episode #1054: We’re kicking off Tuesday week with a look at surging used car sales and shrinking supply, BYD’s aggressive EV price cuts in China, and a Waffle House partnership that brings hash browns and high-speed charging together in the South.

Episode #1053: It’s Memorial Day, the un-official start of summer and a favorite of grillmasters everywhere, so we invited our good friend and grillmaster, James Ganther, to give some grilling tips for tasty food, and remind us of why we celebrate in the first place.

It's the Saturday after ASOTU CON and the energy is still buzzing. Nathan is joined by Chris Reeves and Ann-Marie Johnsons to talk about their favorite moments and the heart behind the event. Special guest Carol Marshall of ActivEngage brings her unique perspective on what it meant to be part of the unreasonable hospitality at ASOTU CON.

Episode #1051: We’re diving into the Senate’s move to block California’s gas car ban, Google’s new video AI that adds audio, and which brands — including top automakers — gained or lost consumer trust in the 2025 Axios/Harris reputation rankings.

Episode #1050: A record number of U.S. consumers are skipping auto loans over rejection fears, EV history unfolded as BYD overtook Tesla in Europe and Google’s I/O 2025 keynote was a full-court press on AI innovation.

Episode #1049: Today we’re diving into Toyota’s bold software move with the redesigned RAV4 Hybrid, watching Tesla and Waymo duel for robotaxi dominance, and seeing how Home Depot is holding the line on prices as tariffs rattle retail

Episode #1048: Today we’re diving into Honda’s EV strategy rethink and dealer drama in California, a mid-May dip in wholesale used vehicle prices, and the growing reality that side hustles aren’t just extra—they’re essential.

Episode #1047: Kia’s veteran apprenticeship program is creating certified techs and stronger stores, while “American-made” is a lot harder to accomplish than it sounds. Plus, OpenAI is taking on software engineering with a new update.

We're live from Friday morning at ASOTU CON.

Welcome to Day 2 at ASOTU CON!

Paul, Kyle and Michael hit the Content Corner to record a quick show before ASOTU CON 2025 kicks off officially. Follow all the action on social media!

Episode #1043: We’re coming to you live from ASOTU CON 25! Today we’re diving into Volkswagen and Uber’s plan to launch ID. Buzz robotaxis by 2026, TikTok’s surprising power in driving car sales, and what it all means for the future of mobility and marketing.

Today Paul is the last man standing in the studio as the entire crew is on their way to ASOTU CON 2025. He sets the stage of what to expect over the next week and tells you how to be a part of the event even if you can't be there this year.

Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.

Episode #1040: Today we’re diving into a transatlantic tariff feud shaking up the luxury auto sector, a multistate lawsuit over EV charging funds, and why VW’s nostalgic ID. Buzz just got benched.

Episode #1039: Today we’re talking about Carvana's record-setting quarter and bold new goal, Ford’s strategic price hikes post-tariffs, and why Google’s stock took a beating after an Apple exec dropped a courtroom AI bomb.

Episode #1038: Today we’re talking about the expected surge in auto dealership M&A activity, Hyundai’s latest software update that simplifies EV charging across major networks, and Tanger’s decision to launch its back-to-school campaign early in response to ongoing tariff concerns.

Episode #1037: Today we break down Ford’s Q1 fallout as tariffs cast a $1.5B shadow, electrified vehicles surge to nearly 25% of new-car sales led by hybrids and non-Tesla EVs, and Waymo revs up its driverless ambitions with a new Arizona mega-factory and major city expansion plans.

Episode #1036: Warren Buffett shocks investors with a surprise retirement announcement, Tesla sweetens the Model Y deal to boost lagging demand, and Harley’s LiveWire hits a wall while the legacy brand keeps the engine running.

On this Saturday that's getting closer and closer to ASOTU CON, Head Writer Chris Reeves joins the show to discuss the upcoming 3(!) car giveaways at ASOTU CON this year.

Episode #1034: Today we dive into a legal showdown brewing in California over Afeela’s sales strategy, Rivian’s new campaign powered by real owners, and Chipotle’s massive burrito giveaway honoring teachers and nurses.

Episode #1033: Today we’re talking Hyundai and Kia’s red-hot April sales streak, Ford’s surprise retreat from a major software project, and why most consumers still aren’t sold on AI or social shopping tools.

Episode #1032: Today we break down Trump’s new tariff offsets for U.S. automakers, GM’s massive recall of its flagship V-8, and a heartwarming $50K donation from West Herr’s CEO to support local youth.

Episode #1031: Today we’re talking about Trump’s possible easing of auto tariffs ahead of a Michigan trip, GM’s courtroom defense over driver data privacy, and why e-commerce might be losing its edge as shoppers crave more fun and surprise.

Episode #1031: Today we’re talking about Trump’s possible easing of auto tariffs ahead of a Michigan trip, GM’s courtroom defense over driver data privacy, and why e-commerce might be losing its edge as shoppers crave more fun and surprise.

Episode #1030: Today we’re talking about the real hurdles to moving auto production stateside, catching up with Carlos Ghosn’s new life as a leadership coach (and fugitive), and Amazon’s surprising new experiment that lets shoppers stray beyond its walls.

Episode #1028: Today we talk about VinFast ditching direct sales for a full franchise model, Slate launching a no-frills EV pickup that’s shaking things up under $20K, and the growing movement toward skills-based hiring over college degrees.

Episode #1027: Lithia leans into affordability while breaking records despite tariffs. Carvana boosts its reconditioning game in Colorado. And Chipotle turns up the charm, teaching 3,800 teams to smile their way to better hospitality.

Episode #1026: California dealers are taking legal action against Scout Motors over its direct-sales model. Elon Musk plans to scale back his government role amid Tesla’s slumping sales. And new code reveals OpenAI may soon integrate Shopify directly into ChatGPT, turning the AI into a full retail assistant.

Episode #1025: We cover Nissan’s plan to hold vehicle prices through early June and increase U.S. production in response to tariffs. Plus we examine Tesla’s strategic repositioning of the Cybertruck and how cybercriminals are creating a realistic-looking phishing campaign using Google’s own tools.

Episode #1025: Today we’re talking about how the Top 100 used-car dealers are adapting to a tougher wholesale market, why Tesla is hitting pause on its most affordable Model Y plans yet and what Sam’s Club is doing with checkout.

Episode #1023: From tariff talk taking over the New York Auto Show to Toyota rethinking RAV4 production, and LiveWire’s electric leap into law enforcement—we've got you covered.

Episode #1020: We’re breaking down retail sales insights for March (not just auto) driven by pre-tariff buying sprees as we dive into data from Cars Commerce’s latest Q1 report. We also talk about a household brand that helps people build things, diving into helping them be more engaged gamers. 

Episode #1019: On a special edition of the Automotive State of the Union, Paul and Kyle are joined by Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio, the first and only auto dealer in the senate.

Episode #1018: Paul, Kyle, Michael, and Nathan woke up at 4am so they could be in NYC by breakfast to begin the day of coverage at the JD Power Auto Forum in Manhattan. They’ll be talking to industry experts and Dealers about the current Dealer response to tariffs, inventory, and people strategy. 

Episode #1017: Today we talk Polestar’s bold Tesla takedown with a $20K lease play, Jeff Bezos’ stealthy new EV startup with big aspirations, and GM’s pause on BrightDrop van production despite rock-bottom pricing.

Episode #1015: Today we’re diving into how global tensions are reshaping Tesla’s China strategy, why car buyers rushed showrooms ahead of auto tariffs, and why Harvard says better mentoring might be the secret to fixing retail’s revolving door of turnover.

Episode #1014: Today, we’re covering President Trump’s pause on reciprocal tariffs leaves auto imports still facing steep duties, while a record number of buyers turn to 84-month loans to afford today’s rising prices. Meanwhile, customer service is at its worst level since 2016

Episode #1013: We cover the impact of upcoming tariffs on auto repair and insurance costs, seasonal shifts in EV range, and a new Pew survey revealing a major divide between AI experts and public opinion.

Episode #1012: Today we’re talking about Lithia Motors’ internal challenge to boost service growth, FM Capital’s $240M bet on auto tech startups—with strong dealer backing, and the mounting issues facing Tesla’s Cybertruck.

Episode #1011: Today we’re breaking down the early fallout from sweeping auto tariffs, Toyota’s recalibrated EV strategy, and why Gen Z is ghosting credit cards.

Episode #1009: Today we sit with COO of Matthews Auto Group Vincent Salvagani to discuss the question on every Dealer’s mind; What should I be doing with my inventory level? As consumers rush to beat tariffs, Dealers are worried about overpaying for replacement inventory and getting stuck holding the bag when things normalize.

Episode #1008: Cars Commerce drops a no-nonsense playbook for dealers while Ford rolls out employee pricing for all as tariffs loom large. Meanwhile, Tesla’s Q1 delivery miss raises red flags far beyond a Model Y changeover. 

Episode #1007: Consumers hit showrooms ahead of tariff hikes, juicing March sales and making record months and Q1s. Dealers like Rhett Ricart and Zac Kinch fielded a flood of buyers with questions and Amazon dropped Nova Act—an AI agent that shops, browses, and books like a pro.

Episode #1006: We’re joined by Brian Kramer, EVP of Cars Commerce to talk about the upcoming auto tariffs and how Tesla’s market share is declining. Plus, as the deadline to sell TikTok nears, some surprising potential buyers have emerged.

Episode #1005: The biggest dealership groups continue their march toward market dominance while Toyota’s hybrid boom is pushing suppliers to the limit. Meanwhile, Gen Z graduates face a tough reality as government hiring freezes throw career plans into chaos.

Episode #1003: Dealers and analysts react to President Trump’s tariff order, as the administration considers a tax deduction for auto loan interest paid. Plus, Fisker Oceans have found new life as a rideshare fleet in NYC.

Episode #1002: Today's show dives into Trump’s game-changing 25% auto tariff and what it means for car prices, Hyundai’s massive new EV plant in Georgia and OpenAI’s latest AI breakthrough in image and text generation.

Episode #1001: Nissan reveals a bold new roadmap, slashing vehicle development times and expanding its EV lineup. Meanwhile, California now boasts more EV chargers than gas nozzles and AI is taking orders at drive-thrus—will customers embrace the speed or miss the human touch?

On Tuesday, September 28, 2021, Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier pressed record for the very first time. Now, 1,274 days later, they’re recording the 1000th episode of the Automotive Troublemaker. Today we’ve got special guests, a look back, a look forward, and a HUGE announcement at the end.

With 1 more day until Episode 1000, Kyle is on his way to Syracuse and Paul is joined by Todd Caputo. Today, we dive into a quick cybersecurity response that saved hundreds of stores from a malware attack, Ford’s $18M legal loss over a dealership sale, and the effect the current administration could have on EV adoption.

Happy Friday! Today, we’re covering how Elon rallied Tesla employees during a surprise all hands meeting last night. Plus, auto auctions have their best year since 2020 and consumers prefer AI-generated responses to reviews over those written by humans.

Happy Thursday, Troublemakers! Today we’re talking about Amazon dipping its toe in the used car market, GM is going all-in on AI with Nvidia, and new data reveals surprising trends about who’s actually shopping on Amazon. 

Today in our little walk around the automotive landscape, Tesla takes a big step toward launching its robotaxi service in California, while BYD shakes up the EV world with game-changing 5-minute charging tech. Plus, a viral tweet sparks a $1M hackathon overnight—because the internet moves fast.

Today, we’re talking about how used car prices are on the rise—unless you’re driving a Tesla, where values are plummeting at three times the market rate. Plus, two NASA astronauts return home after an unexpected nine-month stay in space.

We’re under 2 months away from the auto industry accelerator, ASOTU CON! You can get your tickets now at asotucon.com. Today we’re talking about how tech giant Foxconn is getting ready to reveal new EV partnerships and speculate on who those could be. Plus, we cover affordability easing and In N Out’s servant leadership mentality.

As we wind down another week, we’re talking about the meeting between President Trump and GM CEO Mary Barra at the White House discussing American manufacturing. Plus, we look at February market insights from Cars Commerce and see how far the pendulum has swung away from remote work.

We’re only 10 episodes away from episode 1000 of this podcast, and today, we’re covering the JD Power 2025 US Customer Service Index Study. Plus, we’re looking at how the Trump administration is pushing back on emissions and fuel economy standards, and how Mr. Beast is profiting from something you might not expect.

Today, we’re talking about how the White House lawn became a Tesla dealership yesterday. Plus, we’re covering Ford’s investment into EV charging for its drivers and how Southwest is ending its longstanding free bag policy.

Today, struggling OEM Nissan has announced that current CEO Makoto Uchida will be replaced by Ivan Espinosa, their latest attempt to jumpstart a turnaround. Plus, chaos at a Carmax dealership as a customer rammed their vehicle into the building and China is making AI education mandatory, even for elementary school children.

We’ve got good news this Monday as the latest numbers show that dealership count and throughput are up, with stores averaging 511 new cars sold per year. Plus, we cover a quick turnaround for a vandalized Tesla charger and how United is upping its Wi-Fi game with Starlink internet.

As we wind down another week, we’re talking about how NADA and Mike Stanton are winding up their opposition of Scout Motors direct-to-consumer plans. Plus, we’re looking at a report that says that EV charging isn’t such a cost-effective alternative to gas, and how Shake Shack is introducing its first ever value meal.

The auto industry breathed a sigh of relief yesterday as it was announced that they will be exempt from the 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods. Plus, we’re looking at the cars that hold their value the best, and Google’s push towards AI search.

Today, we’re bringing you the latest information on how tariffs could affect the auto industry, including the Commerce Secretary hinting that President Trump could exempt the auto industry. Plus, we’re covering how Honda is bringing Civic production back to Indiana, and Paul and Kyle’s wild adventures this weekend.

Today is our fearless leader Paul J Daly’s birthday! So we gave him the morning off and tapped guest host Ben Hadley. We’re talking all about the new Canada and Mexico tariffs that put pressure on the automotive supply chains, plus the top depreciating cars and how Google is pushing to achieve artificial general intelligence.

As we greet the first full week of March, we’re live from Charlotte, North Carolina with good friend Todd Caputo. Today, we pause and remember titan sales trainer Jim Ziegler, who helped thousands of dealerships during his 48 years in the industry. Plus, we cover Carvana’s acquisition of a CJDR store in Arizona and what it might mean in the future.

It’s the last day of the month, and we’ve got the one and only Steve Greenfield of Automotive Ventures hopping in as a co-host! Today, we’re talking about President Trump saying that the Mexican and Canadian tariffs are back on and more tariffs are coming for Chinese imports. Plus, Ford is closing regionals centers for stocking and distributing EVs and OpenAI has released its latest model, ChatGPT 4.5.

As the month nears its close, we’re talking about Senator Bernie Moreno going to bat for the auto industry with a new bill. Plus, GM is raising its stock dividends while doing a new buy back and the Las Vegas PD debuts a fleet of Cybertrucks given to them by an anonymous donor.

Today, Paul and Kyle are coming to you live on location from Paul’s office! We’re talking about how Group 1 grew in 2024 through $1.3B in acquisitions, a new face on the top 5 best-selling EVs and how grassroots is trying to take Tesla down.

Today we’ve got guest host Michael Cirillo of the Dealer Playbook talking about his experiences at the Toronto Auto Show. Plus, we talk about a new report showing EV charger cyberattacks are on the rise and how Apple is investing $500B in AI with a specific focus in Detroit.

On this last week of the month, we’re looking at the state of the automotive M&A market and what dealers can expect for the rest of the year. Plus, we cover how Ford is adopting a new media and press strategy, and look at how In-N-Out cracked the top 10 of Best Large Employers.

It's the last weekend before the 2025 NADA Show and so we're looking ahead to next week. Head Writer Chris Reeves gives us the rundown on what to expect, what to look for and what to avoid.

9 days to NADA and you can feel the anticipation around the social media halls. Today, we’re talking about how the US Commerce Department is banning Chinese and Russian car hardware and software, Google’s new automotive AI agent debuting in the Mercedes CLA and Target changing production timelines to match social media trends.