Dec. 2, 2025 | Hybrids surge in November; Helion President Erik Nachbahr
About this episode
November saw a surge in hybrid vehicle sales, contrasting with a slump in EVs, as major automakers like Toyota and Ford reported mixed results. Helion Technologies' president, Erik Knockbar, discussed the evolving landscape of cybersecurity in dealerships, highlighting the obsolescence of outdated protection methods and the rise of AI-driven threats. He emphasized the need for dealerships to adopt advanced security measures to combat increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks. The episode also touched on Stellantis' hiring spree, signaling renewed focus on North America amidst previous cutbacks.
Toyota, Ford, Honda, Hyundai and Kia posted mixed November U.S. sales, with strong hybrid volume offset by an EV slump. JLR fires the design boss behind Jaguar’s polarizing rebrand. Plus, Helion Technologies President Erik Nachbahr explains why the cybersecurity tools dealerships relied on five years ago are becoming obsolete.
Hybrid
"Ford sales dipped less than 1%, EV sales dropped 61%"
Hybrid cars use both gasoline engines and electric motors to save fuel.
A hybrid vehicle uses both an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
EV
"Ford sales dipped less than 1%, EV sales dropped 61%"
EV means electric car. It runs on batteries and electric motors, not gasoline.
EV stands for Electric Vehicle, a car powered entirely or primarily by electric motors and rechargeable batteries instead of internal combustion engines.
Acura ZDX
"Honda sales fell 15%, which it blamed on the next-period chip shortage, the company's two EVs, the prologue, and Acura ZDX, plunged 87%"
Acura ZDX is a small SUV made by Honda’s luxury brand. It has a turbo engine and sits between the RDX and MDX models.
The Acura ZDX is a compact crossover SUV introduced by Honda’s luxury division, Acura. It features a turbocharged four‑engine and is positioned between the smaller RDX and larger MDX.
Honda Prologue
"Honda sales fell 15%, which it blamed on the next-period chip shortage, the company's two EVs, the prologue, and Acura ZDX"
Honda Prologue is a new electric crossover car from Honda, shown at the 2023 Detroit Auto Show. It’s part of Honda’s move to electric vehicles.
The Honda Prologue is an upcoming all‑electric crossover that debuted at the 2023 Detroit Auto Show. It showcases Honda’s shift toward electrification with a sleek design and advanced tech.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
"Hyundai's core crossover has posted double digit gains, but its Ionic 5 and 6 EVs slumped more than 56%"
Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an electric crossover SUV from Hyundai, launched in 2021. It can charge quickly and has a roomy interior.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a battery‑electric crossover SUV that debuted in 2021. It’s known for its fast charging, spacious interior, and distinctive retro‑futuristic styling.
federal tax credits
"US light vehicle sales are expected to fall a second straight month on weaker EV demand following the end of federal tax credits"
Federal tax credits let you pay less in taxes when buying an electric car, but they end after a company sells 200,000 cars.
Federal tax credits are government incentives that reduce the amount of federal income tax owed for purchasing or leasing qualifying electric vehicles. They typically expire after a manufacturer sells 200,000 units.
JLR
"And JLR has reportedly fired chief creative officer Jerry McGovern. The design boss behind the controversial Jaguar rebrand."
JLR is a company that makes cars like the Jaguar and Land Rover models.
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is a British automotive company that owns the Jaguar and Land Rover brands.
Jaguar
"And JLR has reportedly fired chief creative officer Jerry McGovern. The design boss behind the controversial Jaguar rebrand."
Jaguar makes fancy cars that are more expensive and stylish than many other brands.
Jaguar is a luxury car brand owned by JLR, known for high-performance and premium vehicles.
Type 00 concept
"Just weeks ago at the Miami launch of the Type 00 concept, McGovern defended his bold vision."
The Type 00 is a prototype car that Jaguar showed to give people an idea of what future cars might look like.
The Type 00 is a concept car unveiled by Jaguar to showcase future design and technology directions, often featuring cutting‑edge styling and electric powertrains.
Land Rover Defender
"McGovern spent 21 years at JLR and was responsible for modern designs, including the Land Rover Defender and Range Rover lineup."
The Defender is a tough, off‑road vehicle that can handle rough trails and bad weather.
The Land Rover Defender is a rugged off‑road SUV known for its durability and capability in challenging terrain.
Range Rover lineup
"McGovern spent 21 years at JLR and was responsible for modern designs, including the Land Rover Defender and Range Rover lineup."
Range Rover cars are fancy SUVs that can also go off the road if needed.
The Range Rover lineup refers to a series of luxury SUVs from Land Rover that combine high-end comfort with off‑road capability.
Bentley
"He won't be at the company to see the launch of his most controversial project, repositioning Jaguar as a luxury electric rival to Bentley."
Bentley makes very expensive and luxurious cars that are often seen as status symbols.
Bentley is a British luxury car manufacturer known for high‑performance, hand‑crafted vehicles.
Stellantis
"[281.0s] The nerve center was very much shifting to Europe... [345.0s] All right, Kurt, thank you so much for joining me."
Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different brands of cars, like Jeep and Ram. It was created when two large car groups joined together.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Peugeot S.A.S., owning brands like Jeep, Ram, Alfa Romeo, and more.
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