What Does the 2026 Outlook Mean for Car Dealerships in a Shifting Market?

The Race for Battery Supremacy: Ford vs. GM and Its Impact on Used Car Financing

Update The Electric Showdown: Ford vs. GM in Battery Manufacturing The automotive industry is witnessing a transformative era, with major players like Ford and GM navigating through electrification challenges. As competition escalates, the iconic rivals are now grappling with yet another arena: battery manufacturing. This emerging rivalry is reshaping the landscape of American automotive manufacturing, marked by their shared ambition towards sustainable energy solutions. A New Frontier in Electric Vehicle Production Both Ford and GM aim to establish robust battery manufacturing capabilities to produce electric vehicles (EVs) on a grand scale. *Ford, in particular*, has announced plans to invest upwards of $11 billion in a new battery plant in Tennessee, while *GM continues to expand its Ultium battery production platform*. This competition isn't just about creating vehicles; it's about ensuring a sustainable supply chain critical for meeting consumer demand and regulatory pressures. With both automakers aggressively investing in technology and infrastructure, the outcome of this infrastructure battle could redefine market leadership within the EV sector. Why Batteries Are the New Gold Standard Batteries have become the heart of the EV revolution. The current focus on battery technology highlights the strategic importance of securing advances in efficiency, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. In 2025, the demand for batteries will only soar as consumers increasingly turn towards electric options, making the stakes even higher. Such shifts lead to increased financing conversations around vehicles, as potential buyers now also consider total ownership costs, including the price of financing and maintaining EVs. Understanding the Financing Landscape for EVs As Ford and GM battle to establish themselves in battery manufacturing, dealership principals must remain informed about changing *used car financing rates* as more consumers opt for electric options. For dealerships, understanding *used car loan rates* and *finance rates for used cars* becomes essential. As the market shifts, those who can navigate these financial waters will undoubtedly have an edge in meeting evolving customer needs. Offering customers the best used-car financing rates is also crucial as the dealership landscape adapts to consumer preferences. Future Implications for the Automotive Industry The push for better batteries will not merely affect Ford and GM; it will ripple through the entire automotive industry. Emerging domestic battery supply chains may lead to more competitive *used car interest rates current* and favorable terms for vehicle financing. *What’s more*, as battery technology improves, it could lead to prices dropping across the board, directly impacting demand for both new and used vehicles. The Role of Consumer Education in Financing Decisions It's imperative for dealership leaders to educate consumers efficiently. By demystifying terms such as *used car financing*, *low-interest rates on car loans*, and *how to refinance auto loans*, they empower buyers with knowledge. Tools like the *used auto financing calculator* can simplify the financing process for consumers, allowing them to make informed purchasing decisions regarding their next vehicle. In light of the competitive strategy being executed by Ford and GM, it’s critical to consider how each company's choices in battery manufacturing will shape dealership strategies moving forward. Whether you are a dealership principal, GM, or a fixed operations director, aligning financing offers with the digital evolution of vehicles will be vital as the market shifts. Understanding these dynamics will not only help businesses stay ahead but empower customers along the way. In this current transformative phase of the automotive industry, engaging with peers through platforms like LinkedIn can facilitate knowledge sharing. Stay ahead of trends, and explore how advancements can enhance your dealership's strategic position. The future is electric, and now is the time to adapt.