In this episode, The Car Chick discusses the latest trends in the automotive industry, focusing on the exciting new models set to be released in 2025. The conversation highlights the significant shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, as well as the continued presence of gas-powered models. LeeAnn shares her insights on various upcoming vehicles, including the Nissan Maxima EV, Kia EV3, and the return of the Honda Prelude as a hybrid. She also touches on the redesign of popular models like the Hyundai Palisade and Honda Passport, emphasizing the importance of affordability and practicality in the evolving automotive landscape.

takeaways

• Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular among manufacturers.
• The Nissan Maxima is returning as a fully electric vehicle.
• Kia's EV3 aims to provide an affordable electric SUV option.
• The Chevy Bolt is making a comeback with improved features.
• Honda is reviving the Prelude as a hybrid sports coupe.
• Mazda and Subaru are introducing new hybrid models.
• The redesigned Honda Passport will look more rugged.
• The redesigned Hyundai Palisade will include a hybrid option.
• Affordability remains a key concern in the automotive market.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

Summary

In this episode of 'The Straight Shift', LeeAnn Shattuck discusses the automotive market predictions for 2025, addressing common misconceptions fueled by clickbait media. She analyzes the current state of new and used car sales, the impact of profit margins on affordability, and the financial tools available for car buyers. The conversation also highlights market trends, potential discounts on specific vehicles, and the anticipated rise of electric vehicles. LeeAnn concludes with insights on how to navigate the car buying process effectively in the coming year.

Takeaways

• 2025 is expected to be a good year for car buyers.
• New car sales are slightly up, indicating market stability.
• Profit margins for dealerships and automakers are declining.
• Financial incentives will likely improve for car buyers in 2025.
• Electric vehicle sales are projected to rise significantly in 2025.
• The automotive industry is cautiously optimistic about the future.
• Understanding market trends can empower better car buying decisions.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

In part 1 of this two-part episode, The Car Chick gives her predictions for the automotive industry in 2025, focusing on the potential merger between Nissan and Honda. She analyzes the implications of this merger, the challenges both companies face, and the cultural dynamics at play. LeeAnn emphasizes the need for strategic partnerships in the evolving automotive landscape, particularly in the context of electric vehicles and market competition.

Takeaways

• The automotive industry is facing significant changes in 2025.
• Nissan and Honda are in talks for a potential merger.
• The merger could create the world's third-largest automaker.
• Nissan's struggles have been ongoing for decades, impacting its profitability.
• Honda needs to diversify its vehicle offerings to remain competitive.
• Electric vehicle technology is a key focus for both companies.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick explores the world of limousines with 30 year transportation industry veteran, Jonce Gibson from Bayside Limousines. They discuss how limousines are made, the current costs associated with them, and the types of events for which people typically rent limousines. They also cover important considerations when choosing a limousine service, planning for a successful experience, safety regulations, the impact of ride-sharing services, and etiquette for passengers. The episode concludes with memorable experiences from the limousine business, including encounters with famous passengers.

 Takeaways

• Limousines are often made by cutting and stretching regular vehicles.
• Weddings and corporate events are common reasons for renting limousines.
• Choosing a reputable limousine service is crucial for a good experience.
• Planning ahead can reduce stress on important days like weddings.
• Safety regulations for limousines have become stricter over the years.
• Ride-sharing services have changed the landscape of transportation.
• Limousine etiquette is important for a pleasant experience.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

In this episode, The Car Chick discusses the alarming rise in car prices, exploring the reasons behind the lack of affordable vehicles in the U.S. market. She delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain issues, and the shift in automakers' priorities towards higher profit margins. The conversation also highlights the competitive advantages of Chinese automakers and the need for a cultural shift in the U.S. auto industry to produce more affordable cars in the future.

Takeaways

• The average price of a new car in the U.S. is nearly $50,000.
• Car prices have outpaced regular inflation by 7%.
• Automakers are focusing on profits over producing affordable vehicles.
• Chinese automakers have significantly faster development and lower manufacturing costs compared to U.S. automakers.
• The U.S. auto industry needs to rethink manufacturing processes to lower costs.
• Affordable cars in the future will likely be electric vehicles.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

In this episode of The Straight Shift,The Car Chick discusses her Thanksgiving experiences and transitions into the topic of Black Friday car deals. She explains the current state of the automotive market, highlighting the inventory surplus and the best deals available for the end of the year.LeeAnn breaks down the types of incentives offered by manufacturers and emphasizes the importance of doing homework before purchasing a vehicle. She also touches on the electric vehicle market and concludes with resources for car buyers.

Takeaways

·        2024 is expected to be a better year for car shopping.

·        Inventory levels are historically high, leading to better deals.

·        Manufacturers are offering various incentives to boost sales.

·        Jeep has significant cash rebates available this December.

·        Electric vehicles are seeing good deals due to market changes.

·        Do your research on incentives based on your region.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick discusses her experiences at the 2024 Charlotte Auto Show, highlighting the decline of auto shows, the rise of electric vehicles, and her personal awards for the best and worst vehicles showcased. She provides insights into various car models, their features, and her critiques of design choices, particularly focusing on new offerings from Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Kia, as well as a controversial color pairing in the Lexus NX.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick shares her personal story of adopting two kittens and seamlessly transitions into a discussion about the fascinating world of car sounds. She explains the physics behind why different engines produce unique sounds, the impact of engine configurations, and the role of exhaust systems. The episode also highlights the best and worst sounding cars, emphasizing the subjective nature of sound preferences among car enthusiasts. LeeAnn concludes with a call to action for listeners to share their favorite car sounds and introduces her online car buying course.

Takeaways

• Different engines sound unique due to physics and design.
• Car manufacturers invest heavily in sound design for brand loyalty.
• The number of cylinders affects the depth and smoothness of sound.
• Engine layout and firing order influence the overall engine tone.
• Exhaust systems play a crucial role in the sound of a car.
• The Lexus LFA is often regarded as the best sounding car.
• Diesel engines are generally perceived as having unpleasant sounds.
• Sound preferences in cars are highly subjective and personal.
• LeeAnn offers a car buying course for those interested.
• Listeners are encouraged to share their favorite car sounds.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

So... we had an election last week.  In this episode, I discuss the potential impacts of the second Trump administration on the automotive industry, focusing on consumer implications, regulatory changes, and the effects of tariffs. I highlight the importance of the CARS rule, the future of electric vehicles, and how tariffs could influence car prices and availability. I also show you how to adapt your car buying strategies in light of these changes, ensuring you remain informed and proactive in your purchasing decisions.

Topics 

• How changes to federal regulations could overturn the CARS Rule, eliminating transparency in car buying and encouraging deceptive sales practices.
• Electric vehicle tax credits may be targeted, affecting EV sales and costing  automakers millions.
• How increased tariffs on imported goods could increase new car price, repair costs and insurance premiums for car buyers and owners.
• What strategies car buyers should use to get a good deal despite regulatory and market changes.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

We've got a great episode today! I am so excited to have my guest and longtime friend, Dr. Glenn Jaffe on the show. A couple of years ago, I did an episode dedicated to what it would be like to really live with an electric vehicle. At the time, we heard all the hype and everyone was really excited. However, at the time I recorded that episode, it was still a little more theoretical. But now, EVs have been around for a while and more people have been living with them so we have some more empirical data. This is why I'm excited to actually hear from someone who lived with an electric vehicle for a time. Glenn bought a Rivian R1S, and while the process of taking delivery was great, his overall experience wasn’t what he expected it would be which led him to selling the vehicle after only 9 months of ownership. 

Topics:

• Why Glenn chose Rivian for his first electric vehicle and why he didn’t have any reservations investing in a car from a brand new company 
• The process of taking delivery of a Rivian and why Glenn felt as if it was a luxury experience, highlighting where the company went above and beyond 
• What Glenn loved about Rivian from the car itself, it’s engineering and handling, and even the app that is used to control the car 
• Charging and range issues that Glenn ran into and why he believes the infrastructure for electric vehicles is not efficient or where it needs to be for confident ownership 

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.