Tall ones, short ones, young ones, old ones. They come in all shapes and sizes — and all embracing the thrill of sitting in a new vehicle in an auto show venue, where they can leisurely get a sneak peek at everything from the new powerplants, to new body styling to new paint technology and color schemes, to active safety and driver-assistance features, and even some cool concept cars.
So, whether it’s the Detroit, Los Angeles, Chicago or New York auto show, consumers can get a glimpse of the 2016 models, writing their own reviews, as they plant themselves in the seat, grasp the wheel, and touch the various knobs and buttons in the cockpit.
Just look at the below vehicle accolades and positive sales data recently posted in the news; they are sure to generate even more excitement for new vehicle purchases.
• Audi reported that its February 2016 sales increased 2.3% to 11,718 vehicles, a total that stands as the brand’s 62nd straight month of record U.S. sales.
• American Honda Motor Co. reported record February sales of 118,985 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 12.8%. The new Civic and Honda Division lead with second consecutive monthly records.
• Toyota Motor Sales’ Lexus brand ranks highest in J.D. Power vehicle dependability study for the fifth consecutive year.
Auto show excitement typically spurs thoughts of new vehicle purchases, helping increase overall U.S. light vehicle sales and contributing to total vehicles in operation (VIO). This vehicle pipeline translates into more vehicles on the road, and more vehicles for you to service.
So just as you are the ambassadors of the quality brands you install on your customers’ current vehicles, be ready to answer their questions if, and when, they are ready to make a new vehicle purchase, especially those questions that are related to new technology, as your customers respect your expertise and want your input.
Similarly, be prepared to get up to speed on this new technology, as these vehicles will be driving into your bays for service sooner than you think.
And, if your customers don’t want to take the plunge in purchasing a new vehicle, that’s all the more reason for you to tout the benefits of regular maintenance to keep their current vehicle in top-running shape. You’re the one who can best help them with that task.
