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It’s a terrific Tuesday morning, and we have guest host Amit Chandarana, newly announced CEO of Curbee! We’ll be discussing how auto dealers are integrating AI into their operations (or how they aren’t), the refreshed Mustang Mach-E and Chick-Fil-A’s new streaming network.

Show Notes with links:

• Auto dealerships are embracing AI with hopes of transforming operations, but the technology’s initial impact has been hit-or-miss. While there are real gains, the promises of instant transformation haven’t fully delivered.
  • AI has successfully streamlined back-office tasks and improved online customer interactions.
  • Generative AI tools like ChatGPT help with service scheduling and customer emails, but chatbots have struggled.
  • In 2023, pranksters hijacked dealership chatbots with absurd requests, forcing some to shut them down.
  • Dealers remain hopeful, but many are cautious about AI’s potential with some like Jason Bickford of Bickford Ford seeing AI as a valuable tool that will improve over time. "It's a really strong tool of support and helps you to do your job faster and better, and be more thoughtful with it."
  • Steve Greenfield of Automotive Ventures said, "We've only just scratched the surface, and the fear is we may have dealers ... that are already getting disillusioned with the overpromise and under delivery of what AI can do for them. They may already be getting numb around entertaining any vendor that is trying to sell them AI-enabled features."

• Ford is refreshing its popular Mustang Mach-E for 2025 by actually making it look like a Mustang. It features key upgrades in both tech and design, all while slashing the price to stay competitive in the EV market.
  • The new starting price is $36,495, undercutting Tesla's Model Y by nearly $8,000.
  • The 2025 Mach-E adds a standard heat pump, improving winter performance and charging efficiency.
  • Exterior upgrades include a Sport Appearance Package with design cues from the GT model and Brembo brake calipers, while inside has sportier accents like red stitching, sport pedals, and ventilated front seats.
  • Ford's updated BlueCruise 1.5 now features automatic lane change, available via subscription.

• Chick-fil-A is officially branching out into the entertainment space with a new app launching November 18, aimed at keeping families engaged with original content, games, and more.
  • The app will offer podcasts, games, recipes, and animated shows to entertain families.
  • It’s part of a strategy to connect with customers outside the restaurant, especially in the drive-thru or at home.
  • Family-friendly content will center around themes like friendship, problem-solving, and generosity.
  • “We want it to be an extension of our in-restaurant hospitality and generosity,” said Khalilah Cooper, VP of brand strategy.

Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.

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