Ford’s approach, though more flexible, has angered dealer associations across the country, who accuse the company of being unfair and violating state franchise laws. It has received 32 letters from state associations and is working with the council to lay out changes intended to alleviate some of the concerns.
“I think we are on a really good path right now,” said Arizona dealer Tim Hobick, who is leading the council. car news“We have listened to the various points that have been raised and are working with the company to make adjustments.
Changes include narrowing the difference between the two stages of the program. One of them is limiting EV sales in exchange for reducing investment in charging facilities.
The brand is looking to change certain marketing-related perks that “certified elite” dealers receive over dealers who opt for the cheaper “certified” tier. com and I have not received a demo unit of the EV.
Hovik said Ford is also considering relaxing the conditions that require dealers to provide public EV charging around the clock.
Finally, Ford may change how it sells EVs in the future. For now, sales of certified tier EVs are capped at 25 per year, but Hovik said he’s moving to a fairer allocation scheme similar to how current models are distributed today. He said he was considering doing so.
“I think the formula will end up with similar numbers to the caps, but I think adjusting the allocation formula will give dealers an opportunity to grow, which is what we really want,” Hobik said. It is to be.”
About 1,000 Ford dealers have chosen not to invest in the EV program. They can stay branded, but will be limited to selling petrol-powered and hybrid models.Ford plans to give these dealers another chance to participate in the program in 2027.
At Cadillac, more than a third of its 875 dealerships will follow acquisitions the brand offers from 2020, bringing the number of U.S. dealerships to around 560, officials said. Offers typically ranged from $300,000 to $500,000.
Cadillac spokesman Michael Albano said the brand added three points in New York, Los Angeles and Atlanta.