What does 2026 really look like for the automotive industry?

In this episode of The Automotive Advantage, we make bold predictions about where the industry is headed and what is about to change fast. From EV missteps and OEM course corrections to the rise of AI in launch photography, media, and marketing, nothing is off the table.

We break down real data from the Midway Index showing surprising momentum in the aftermarket, talk racing shakeups across F1, NASCAR, IHRA, and drag racing, and dig into what performance parts, diesel, and resto-mod culture look like next.

This episode also goes deep on events, attention over marketing, private equity, fatigue in the workforce, and how brands should actually prepare for the year ahead instead of guessing.

If you work in the automotive aftermarket, racing, OEM, media, or marketing world and want a grounded, no-hype look at what is coming in 2026, this one is required listening.

Topics include:
• The possible end of traditional automotive launch photography
• EV reality checks and OEM strategy shifts
• Racing predictions across F1, NASCAR, IHRA, and beyond
• Performance parts trends and where power is going next
• Events, attention, and why in-person matters more than ever
• Private equity, new product launches, and brand relevance
• How AI is already changing the industry in real ways

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