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Episode #1108: Today we’re joined by Ben Hadley to talk about Toyota’s exports to the US rising in June, and get Ben’s thoughts on AI use by dealers and tech partners.

Show Notes with links:

• Despite U.S. tariffs on Japanese auto imports, Toyota kept exports rolling in June, posting record-breaking sales powered by booming hybrid demand and resilient U.S. shipments. The move highlights both consumer appetite and Toyota’s ability to shrug off trade turbulence.
  • Toyota’s U.S. exports rose 16% in June, totaling 52,745 vehicles.
  • Global sales hit 937,246 vehicles for the month, a 2.7% increase.
  • First-half sales reached a record 5.54 million, with electrified models leading growth.
  • Hybrid sales in North America jumped 38% to 651,000 vehicles.
  • A Toyota spokeswoman credited “strong demand” but declined comment on future tariff impacts.
• OpenAI is taking a swing at the “CheatGPT” label with a major update designed to help, not hand out answers. The new “study mode” in ChatGPT aims to guide students through learning rather than doing the work for them.
  • Study Mode is live for all users now, with ChatGPT Edu access coming soon.
  • It uses Socratic questioning and scaffolded responses to build understanding.
  • Offers personalized support and quizzes for deeper learning.
  • Students are calling it “a live, 24/7, all-knowing office hours.”
  • OpenAI is partnering with Stanford to evaluate its real educational impact.
  • “It helped me finally understand a concept I’d struggled with for months,” said one college tester.

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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