Tag

Auto Sales

All articles tagged with #auto sales

U.S. auto market bifurcates as affluents buy pricier new cars while lower-income buyers pull back
business29 days ago

U.S. auto market bifurcates as affluents buy pricier new cars while lower-income buyers pull back

Affluent buyers are taking over new-car purchases at higher prices while lower-income shoppers retreat, signaling a K-shaped economy: the share of buyers earning under $100k dropped from 50% in 2020 to 37% in 2025, and those earning over $200k rose from 18% to 29%. With average MSRP around $51k in 2025, higher insurance costs and inflation, automakers have cut entry-level models and rely on wealthier buyers. About a third of Americans can’t afford new cars (roughly 110 affordable models for incomes ≤$65k vs 250 for ≤$105k), and average monthly payments rose to over $1,000 for 20% of buyers in Q4. Overall new-car sales cooled to 16.3 million in 2025 from over 17 million pre-2020, raising concerns that affordability constraints could shrink the market in the coming years.

economy5 months ago

US Retail Sales Rise in August Despite Economic Challenges

August retail sales increased by 0.6% from July, with a three-month average growth of 0.73%, indicating strong consumer spending despite inflation mainly driven by services. Auto sales showed volatility due to prior tariff fears, but overall retail categories like apparel, ecommerce, and restaurants are experiencing growth, reflecting robust consumer confidence and shifting purchasing patterns, including a move away from foreign direct sales and towards US-based retailers.

US Retail Sales Drop Significantly Amid Tariff Uncertainty
economy8 months ago

US Retail Sales Drop Significantly Amid Tariff Uncertainty

US retail sales declined by 0.9% in May, the largest drop in two years, largely due to tariff-related uncertainty causing a frontloading of purchases earlier in the year, especially in autos. While core retail sales showed some resilience, economists warn of a potential slowdown as tariffs impact disposable incomes and consumer behavior in the coming months.

US Retail Sales Drop Sharply in May Amid Tariff Concerns
economy8 months ago

US Retail Sales Drop Sharply in May Amid Tariff Concerns

US retail sales fell by 0.9% in May, the largest drop in four months, mainly due to decreased auto purchases amid tariff concerns, but some sectors like online and clothing sales showed growth. Despite the decline, consumer spending remains supported by solid wage growth, though risks such as a slowing labor market and tariff impacts could dampen future growth.

Record High Vehicle Ages in the U.S. as Owners Hold On Longer
automotive1 year ago

Record High Vehicle Ages in the U.S. as Owners Hold On Longer

The average age of cars, trucks, and SUVs in the US has reached a record 12.6 years in 2024 due to high new vehicle costs, though the growth in average age is slowing as new vehicle sales recover. With new vehicle prices averaging over $45,000, many consumers are keeping their older vehicles longer. Factors such as the decision between electric, hybrid, or gasoline vehicles and concerns about charging infrastructure also play a role. New vehicle sales are expected to rise to 16 million this year, which may stabilize the average vehicle age.

"GM's 2023 U.S. Sales Surge to Best in Years Despite Challenges"
economy2 years ago

"GM's 2023 U.S. Sales Surge to Best in Years Despite Challenges"

General Motors experienced a 14% increase in U.S. auto sales in 2023, selling 2.6 million vehicles as supply chain issues eased. However, Q4 sales showed signs of slowing, potentially due to rising interest rates. Electric vehicle sales grew, with GM selling nearly 76,000 units, but the overall EV market is expanding slower than anticipated. Despite the sales jump, GM's stock dropped by 2.5% following the announcement.

"GM Leads 2023 U.S. Auto Sales Surge Despite Market Challenges"
business2 years ago

"GM Leads 2023 U.S. Auto Sales Surge Despite Market Challenges"

General Motors (GM) has maintained its position as the top-selling automaker in the U.S. for 2023, with sales up 14.1% to 2,594,698 units, surpassing Toyota's 6.6% increase to 2,248,477 vehicles. The U.S. auto industry experienced its best year since the pandemic, with total vehicle sales reaching 15,499,224, the highest since 2019. Despite high vehicle prices and interest rates, demand for new vehicles remained strong, with electric vehicle (EV) sales also on the rise, accounting for about 8% of total auto sales in 2023. However, analysts caution that high interest rates may dampen demand in the coming year, including for EVs.