The Expert Podcast

• Inventory shortage reaching critical levels - dealerships that previously stocked 250-300 cars now have zero inventory
• Major Chevy dealer example - inventory dropped from 80 cars to just 5 cars on the lot
• Pre-sold inventory phenomenon - cars are delivered the same day they arrive at dealerships
• Extreme scarcity cases - only one Chrysler Pacifica hybrid minivan available within 300-mile radius, and it's already pre-sold
• Factory shutdowns compounding the problem - production facilities closing for extended periods (month and a half)
• Chip shortage excuse debunked - companies are intentionally ramping down production as part of new business model
• Soviet-style wait times - ordering a new car now requires 5-6 month waits (potentially longer)

• Price drops accelerating - used car values falling rapidly after months of inflation
• Previous price inversions - some used cars were selling for more than their original new car prices
• Auction market trends - Manheim and other major auctions showing declining values
• Repossessed vehicle influx - large volumes of repo cars hitting the marketplace
• Gas price impact - non-fuel efficient SUVs and larger trucks losing value due to demand destruction
• Average car payments soaring - exceeding $700 monthly (comparable to rent payments from 3-4 years ago)
• Market timing advice - buyers should wait 1-2 months for further price decreases

• VinFast emergence - Vietnamese startup entering US market with electric crossovers
• Rapid expansion plans - 24+ showrooms opening by end of 2022, targeting 30 total dealerships
• High volume production strategy - potentially offering vehicle availability when others cannot
• Market positioning - targeting consumers unable to find traditional new cars

• Demand destruction occurring - consumers spending more on gas, groceries, and rent, leaving less for vehicles
• Payment shock reality - some consumers paying over $1,000 monthly for car payments
• Market pause recommended - both cars and RVs showing price declines
• Historic industry moment - unprecedented combination of new car shortages and used car price volatility

• New car shortage is worsening, not improving despite earlier predictions
• Used car prices are collapsing after artificial inflation period
• Electric vehicles may be the only readily available new option in some markets
• Industry operating under new business model - low inventory as intentional strategy rather than supply chain issue