Dec. 4, 2025 | How dealers should shop for AI tools; Trump unveils relaxed CAFE standards
About this episode
Ally's expertise in dealer financial services is highlighted as the podcast discusses the current state of the automotive industry. The Trump administration's proposal to relax CAFE standards is a major topic, with industry leaders expressing relief over the changes. Toyota regains its title as the most reliable brand, while dealers report low sentiment due to economic pressures. Yuri Demidko from Fox Motors shares insights on how dealerships should approach AI tool selection, emphasizing the importance of understanding specific needs and ensuring data quality before implementation.
Yuri Demidko, chief information Officer at Fox Motors, outlines the steps dealers need to take before settling on new artificial intelligence tools for their stores. President Donald Trump unveils his plan to slash fuel economy rules. Plus, dealer sentiment sinks as the tariff rush fades and tax credits end.
fuel economy standards
"[66.5s] would be required to meet an average of 34.5 miles per gallon across 2031 model year vehicles."
These rules help make cars use less gas, which is better for the environment and can save drivers money on fuel.
Fuel economy standards are government rules that set minimum average miles per gallon (MPG) that car manufacturers must achieve for their vehicles.
Ford
"[81.0s] President Trump defended the move at a White House event attended by Ford CEO Jim Farley,"
Ford builds cars and trucks that many people use every day, especially in the United States.
Ford is an American automaker famous for models like the F‑Series trucks, Mustang, and Explorer.
Stellantis
"[86.6s] Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa, and GM executives."
Stellantis owns several car brands that you might see on the road, such as Jeep and Ram trucks.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive company formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, owning brands like Jeep, Ram, Peugeot, and Citroën.
Toyota
"Toyota is back in the top spot on consumer reports' annual ranking of the most reliable car brands for the first time since 2022 edging out Subaru."
Toyota makes cars like the Camry and trucks that many people trust to last a long time without major problems.
Toyota is a Japanese automaker known for producing reliable, fuel‑efficient vehicles that consistently rank high in consumer reliability surveys.
Subaru
"Toyota is back in the top spot on consumer reports' annual ranking of the most reliable car brands for the first time since 2022 edging out Subaru."
Subaru makes cars that can handle snow and rough roads because they all have power to every wheel.
Subaru is a Japanese automaker famous for its all‑wheel drive platforms and rugged, off‑road capable vehicles.
Camry
"Improved reliability of the Camry, Tacoma, and Tundra gave Toyota just enough momentum to pass last year's winner."
The Camry is a popular family car that runs smoothly and doesn't need expensive repairs most of the time.
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan that has earned a reputation for durability, fuel efficiency, and low ownership costs.
Tacoma
"Improved reliability of the Camry, Tacoma, and Tundra gave Toyota just enough momentum to pass last year's winner."
The Tacoma is a small truck that can handle tough trails and still be comfortable inside.
The Toyota Tacoma is a compact pickup truck known for its off‑road capability and long-term durability.
Tundra
"Improved reliability of the Camry, Tacoma, and Tundra gave Toyota just enough momentum to pass last year's winner."
The Tundra is a big truck that can haul heavy loads and still run smoothly.
The Toyota Tundra is a full‑size pickup truck that offers strong towing capacity and dependable performance.
electric vehicles
"Consumer reports says electric vehicles and plug‑in hybrids experienced about 80% more problems than combustion engine vehicles."
EVs are cars that use electricity instead of gasoline, so they don't emit exhaust gases.
Electric vehicles (EVs) run solely on electric motors powered by rechargeable batteries, producing zero tailpipe emissions.
plug-in hybrid
"Consumer reports says electric vehicles and plug‑in hybrids experienced about 80% more problems than combustion engine vehicles."
Plug‑in hybrids are cars that can run on electricity for a while before the gas engine kicks in, saving fuel.
A plug‑in hybrid combines an internal combustion engine with a battery that can be charged from an external source, allowing for electric‑only driving over short distances.
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