by CULSBlogger
4. February 2012 08:39
Not one to rest on recent success, Chrysler-Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, 59,addressed the 2012 National Automobile Dealers Association Convention with strong statements about the future.
Regarding fuel standards, Marchionne said that the auto industry will need to meet proposed 54.5 mpg standards by 2025 despite dealer protests. “This standard is 14 years out,“ he told reporters after the speech. “If you start giving up on projects that are 14 years out, we might as well choose another occupation.”
The Chrysler-Fiat CEO also addressed the manufacturer-dealer relationship, noting that dealers should enjoy some autonomy to effectively serve their customer base. “We have been receiving accolades in the press, but the truth is that Chrysler itself didn’t sell a single car to consumers,” Marchionne said. “It was Chrysler dealers who moved the metal, one vehicle at a time.”
Recognizing a growing trend in auto sales, Marchionnenoted the importance of Internet presence and encouraged pricing transparency among dealers. “Price negotiating is being taken out of [dealers’] hands, and it is a trend that will only continue.”
Marchionne effectively recognized the trends, tactics and technology affecting auto sales – which do you feel will make the strongest impact on the industry this year?
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