So you're a smaller auto brand and you want to build your U.S. market share? Be ready to pay up.
That's the plan for Mazda as it tries to build volume and move upscale in the hypercompetitive U.S. light-vehicle market. Reporter Hans Greimel digs into Mazda's strategy in this story today. Mazda's incentives are growing while operating profits are shrinking, but this is a Japanese company that can afford it because of favorable currency exchange rates. It's not a stretch to conclude the strong U.S. dollar is helping Mazda finance a bigger market share.
Back here in Detroit, it took Stellantis nearly a day to finally respond to angry UAW strike threats, mainly pegged to the company's lack of progress reopening its idled plant in Belvidere, Ill. Stellantis confirmed those plans are delayed, but said the commitment remains in place and a UAW strike would be illegal.
Meanwhile, Asbury Automotive's upcoming fight with the FTC over a discrimination complaint stands to get political among FTC commissioners. Our story today by Reporter John Huetter digs into the legal and political nuances of these kinds of cases.
Speaking of politics, we'll take a look on Wednesday at how the auto industry is dealing with the Inflation Reduction Act — and what could happen if a new administration repeals it.
That's it for now. Have a great rest of your day.
