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    • Extra News
February 22.2026
2 Minutes Read

How the Acquisition of Martin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Reflects Trends in the Automotive Sector

Professional brokerage branding design with geometric elements.

New Ownership Signals Growth for Dealerships

In a significant move within the automotive dealership landscape, Kedge Cook has successfully acquired Martin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram located in Cleveland, Texas from Brian Bounds. This acquisition is not merely a change of ownership; it reflects a larger trend of consolidation and growth in the automotive sector, as dealers navigate the evolving market conditions.

The Impact of Experienced Brokers

Performance Brokerage Services, renowned for its leading role in dealership transactions across North America, facilitated this sale. With a staggering record of handling nearly 450 dealership sales over the past five years, the brokerage has established itself as a go-to entity for automotive buy-sell activities. Brian Bounds, the former owner, emphasized the excellent experience he had with the firm, highlighting the seamless communication and trust throughout the process. This showcases the importance of credible brokers in dealership acquisitions, especially when it involves complex transactions.

Kedge Cook's Vision for the Future

Kedge Cook, already a notable figure in the automotive industry with his Cook Ford Texas, has received accolades such as the Ford President's Award five times. His expansion into Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram signifies strategic growth. Not only will the dealership retain its established location, but it will also adopt the name Cook Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, creating brand synergy within his operations. This not only reflects a personal brand but also aligns with Cook’s commitment to customer satisfaction and business excellence.

Industry Trends and Challenges Ahead

As the automotive market faces challenges such as rising loan rates and fluctuating consumer demand, the acquisition emphasizes the need for dealerships to adapt. Current used car financing rates are experiencing changes, with reports indicating that the $1,000 monthly payment is becoming common, which may impact buyers’ purchasing decisions. This shift raises critical questions for both dealerships and customers in terms of financing options.

Preparing for Future Success

For those in the automotive sector, understanding the nuances of dealership sales is vital. It’s not just about buying and selling; it involves strategic planning, customer relationship management, and financial prudence. As rates for used car financing fluctuate, dealerships need to ensure they offer competitive loan rates to attract buyers. Whether it’s understanding the current used car loan percentage rate or how to refinance auto loans effectively, knowledge is power in this dynamic industry.

If you’re a dealership principal or a general manager looking to navigate these changes, consider the insights shared in this article and how they pertain to your operations and future strategies. The automotive landscape is evolving, and adaptability will be key to sustaining growth.

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02.22.2026

Discover the New Pro-Cut Training Program for Toyota Service Providers

Update Revolutionizing Brake Service Training In a significant partnership, Pro-Cut Brake Solutions and Toyota have launched a new training program designed to enhance the brake service capabilities of Toyota® and Lexus® service providers. This initiative incorporates the innovative Pro-Cut™X15 rotor matching system, emphasizing the importance of precision in brake servicing. The Pro-Cut X15 is not just any brake lathe; it's a state-of-the-art tool that underscores Toyota's commitment to quality and innovation in service training. The Cutting-Edge Technology Behind the Training The Pro-Cut X15 brake lathe is touted as the world’s first rotor matching system powered by a 48-volt DC motor, a feature that allows for smoother operation and tighter tolerances. With variable speed control and integrated disc tracking systems, technicians will be equipped to deliver superior brake service. This program’s rollout includes more than 40 X15 brake lathes at Toyota’s North American training centers, ensuring hands-on experience for each technician. Such integration into training not only aligns with warranty service requirements but also enhances the overall quality and consistency of brake services provided across dealerships. Impact on Warranty Performance and Customer Satisfaction According to Jeff Hastings, President of Pro-Cut, the partnership reflects a shared goal between Pro-Cut and Toyota to enhance customer confidence through precision and reliability. Since the Pro-Cut systems are recommended or mandated for warranty service by numerous major automotive manufacturers in the U.S., this training ensures that technicians can meet and exceed those industry standards. The implications of this training extend beyond service quality; they foster long-term customer satisfaction and enhance warranty performance, crucial elements for maintaining brand loyalty in a competitive market. Potential for Industry Standardization As the automotive landscape evolves, there’s a pressing need for standardized training processes across dealerships, particularly in the realm of brake services. Pro-Cut’s partnership with Toyota is a pioneering step that may pave the way for similar collaborations across other OEMs. By ensuring that technicians at all Toyota and Lexus dealerships are trained in effective brake service methods using advanced technology, the industry can look forward to improved service consistency, reduced operational costs, and enhanced customer service overall. This focus on collaborative training initiatives is key to shaping the future of automotive service standards. Importance of Continuous Learning in Automotive Service The initiative represents more than just a training program; it's a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation within the automotive service sector. As vehicles become more sophisticated, technicians must also evolve, acquiring new skills and adapting to evolving technologies. The Pro-Cut X15’s advanced features stand as a testament to this evolution, embodying the shift towards smarter automotive solutions. For dealership principals, GMs, and Fixed Ops Directors, investing in such training not only enhances service delivery but also fosters employee engagement and job satisfaction, leading to a more committed workforce. Next Steps for Dealerships For service managers and dealership leaders, now is the time to facilitate a seamless integration of this training within your service lanes. Embracing this technological advancement can yield significant operational efficiencies and enhanced customer loyalty. Evaluating existing service processes and identifying training opportunities will be key to harnessing the full potential of this groundbreaking program. With Pro-Cut’s advanced systems at your disposal, your team can deliver the quality service that Toyota and Lexus owners expect. **Explore the possibilities of upgrading your service training and ensure your technicians are at the forefront of automotive technology.**

02.22.2026

Why Cybersecurity Risks Span Systems: Vital Insights for Car Dealerships

Update A Concerning Shift in Automotive Cybersecurity Risks As the automotive industry rapidly evolves, so too do the threats associated with it. The latest findings from the VicOne Automotive Cybersecurity Report signal a significant shift in the nature of cyber risks within this sector. Traditional security paradigms that focus on isolated defense are becoming obsolete, as risks now span entire organizations, impacting business operations and brand trust. With the rise of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and deeper integration into cloud systems, vulnerabilities are increasingly manifesting in areas that were previously secure. Understanding the Overlap Era The term “Overlap Era” has been coined to describe the intricate interconnectedness of vehicles, cloud platforms, and enterprise IT systems. In this landscape, the boundaries that once separated automotive technology from other digital infrastructures are rapidly eroding. Max Cheng, CEO of VicOne, argues that this convergence necessitates a fundamental change in how organizations govern cybersecurity. The previous approach, where risks were managed in silos, can no longer sustain itself in a world where a breach in one area can have cascading effects across all systems. Rising Risks and Ransomware Threats Among the most concerning predictions is the potential for ransomware to cause operational paralysis across an entire fleet. If a cyber attack were to succeed in breaching over-the-air updates or driver-facing systems, the repercussions could reverberate throughout the organization, leading to significant disruptions and financial losses. With 33% of cyber risks now affecting elements like infotainment systems, car dealership owners must prioritize robust cybersecurity strategies moving forward. Strategies for Mitigating Cyber Risks As highlighted in a separate report by RSM, automotive manufacturers, suppliers, and technology providers must adopt a proactive approach to cybersecurity. This involves not just developing advanced technologies but also ensuring that they are housed within secure frameworks. Engaging in collaborative efforts across the supply chain, as recommended by industry leaders, can enhance resilience against the evolving threat landscape. Consumer Expectations and Brand Loyalty In this new era, consumer sentiment is shifting. More than ever, consumers are becoming aware of the potential risks associated with connected vehicles, demanding transparency and accountability from manufacturers. The 2025 Automotive Connected Car Cybersecurity Index indicates that awareness of cybersecurity issues is reshaping buying behaviors and influencing brand loyalty. Dealerships must be equipped to address these changing expectations, as consumer trust directly correlates with the perceived security of the vehicles they sell. Conclusion: Prioritizing Cybersecurity in Automotive Operations For car dealership owners and general managers, understanding and integrating robust cybersecurity measures into everyday operations is not just a necessity—it’s a matter of survival in this digital age. As we navigate through this innovative yet challenging landscape, prioritizing cybersecurity will not only protect assets but also foster customer trust and ultimately enhance branding. To delve deeper into strategies tailored to protect your dealership's digital assets, call us today at (860) 707-9125.

02.22.2026

Why EVs Bring the Most Satisfaction Among Drivers Today

Update The Growing Appeal of Electric Vehicles In an era where consumers are becoming increasingly eco-conscious, electric vehicles (EVs) are proving to be more appealing than ever. The latest findings from J.D. Power's annual ownership experience study reveal that EV satisfaction among owners has hit an all-time high. Despite the recent withdrawal of federal tax credits for EV purchases, 96% of battery-electric vehicle (BEV) owners expressed a willingness to consider another BEV for their next purchase. This remarkable statistic underlines a transformational shift in consumer sentiment toward electric mobility. Improved Charging Infrastructure and Vehicle Performance Several key factors have contributed to the rise in consumer satisfaction, including advancements in battery technology and enhancements in charging infrastructure. The improvement in public charging access has been the most significant metric this year, a fact that directly correlates with growing EV adoption. Many consumers now find that charging their vehicles is as convenient as refueling a gasoline car, significantly alleviating one major concern historically associated with electric driving. Brent Gruber, director of J.D. Power’s EV practice, emphasizes that the automotive industry has made substantial strides in refining the overall EV ownership experience. “Improvements in battery technology and overall vehicle performance have driven customer satisfaction to the highest level ever,” he stated, capturing the zeitgeist of the electric vehicle evolution. Understanding the Consumer Experience The study surveyed over 5,700 owners of 2025 and 2026 BEVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). The results indicated that pure electric vehicles outperformed their hybrid counterparts in terms of consumer satisfaction. For instance, BEVs scored 114 points higher in the premium segment compared to PHEVs, demonstrating a clearer preference among consumers for fully electric cars. Lower maintenance needs due to the absence of a gas engine significantly contribute to the higher satisfaction levels reported by BEV owners. Leading Brands and Models in Customer Satisfaction Among EV models, Tesla continues to dominate. The Tesla Model 3 achieved the highest satisfaction score overall, while the Model Y and BMW i4 followed suit closely. On the mass-market front, the Ford Mustang Mach-E leads, showcasing that consumers are increasingly feeling that their choices in the EV market are more varied and satisfying than ever before. This trend represents a broader strategy for auto dealerships: to embrace the shift towards EVs and align sales strategies with consumer preferences. What This Means for Car Dealership Owners As a car dealership owner, the rise in satisfaction for EVs could signify an essential pivot in your sales strategy. Offering customer training programs and educational resources on electric vehicles can foster a deeper connection with potential buyers. With automotive training centers becoming essential in today’s market, understanding how to sell both BEVs and PHEVs will be integral to ensuring that dealership staff are equipped to meet these evolving consumer demands. Furthermore, as EV purchases continue to rise, integrating online automotive classes and auto sales training could enhance your dealership's appeal, positioning you as a forward-thinking leader in the market. Future Trends in Electric Vehicle Adoption Looking ahead, it’s reasonable to predict that the satisfaction metrics surrounding electric vehicles will not only continue to improve but could also fundamentally transform consumer attitudes toward automobile fundamentals. As new models become available, and as charging infrastructures develop and evolve, dealerships must stay agile, adapting to these changes. The data indicates a strong movement toward electrification within the consumer base. The automotive landscape will likely continue shifting, and those who invest in knowledge and resources are bound to ride the wave of this electric revolution.

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