Business / Automotive
Monitor automotive industry strategy, production shifts, competition and long-term business transformation through curated summaries.
March 13, 2026 | Bonus Episode: Plug CEO Jimmy Douglas’ 2026 used EV predictions; testing 2026 Do...
Summary
Dealers must prepare for the return of over a million leased electric vehicles in the coming years. Developing expertise in selling used EVs is crucial for success in this evolving market. Having a minimum of 10 used EVs in inventory can significantly reduce sales time, with proactive sourcing being essential.
Sales teams need to be confident and knowledgeable about EVs to effectively educate customers. A commitment to the EV market is necessary, as half-hearted efforts can lead to poor outcomes. Dealers should either fully embrace the used EV market or opt out entirely.
The new Dodge Charger lineup introduces an all-wheel drive system, enhancing its winter driving capabilities while maintaining its muscle car identity. The transition from traditional V8 engines to a twin turbo inline six engine aims to appeal to a broader audience, especially in colder climates.
Pricing for the Charger lineup positions the RT model above $50,000, with the SCAT pack version nearing $60,000. Performance metrics remain strong, but the emotional connection to V8 engines may pose challenges for traditional muscle car enthusiasts.
Perspectives
summary of used EV market and Dodge Charger features
Pro EV Dealers
- Emphasizes the need for dealers to prepare for a wave of leased EV returns
- Highlights the importance of having at least 10 used EVs in stock for faster sales
- Stresses the necessity of a knowledgeable sales team to educate customers on EVs
- Advocates for a full commitment to the used EV market to avoid poor sales outcomes
- Encourages dealers to develop expertise in selling used EVs to capitalize on market conditions
Skeptical Traditionalists
- Questions the effectiveness of transitioning from V8 engines to inline six engines
- Highlights the potential disconnect between pricing strategy and consumer perceptions of value
Neutral / Shared
- Acknowledges the importance of winter driving capabilities for the new Charger
- Recognizes the performance metrics of both Charger models as competitive
- Mentions the need for dealers to adapt to changing customer demands in the EV market
Metrics
sales_time
50% slower days
average time to sell used EVs with fewer than 10 in stock
Longer sales times can lead to increased holding costs and reduced profitability.
compared to about 50% slower for dealers that have fewer than that
leased_ev_return
1.1 million units
number of leased electric vehicles returning over the next three years
This influx presents both a challenge and an opportunity for dealers to adapt their strategies.
more than a million least EVs are set to come back over the next three years
horsepower
550 units
horsepower of the SCAT pack
This level of power appeals to buyers seeking high performance.
The SCAT pack jumps to 550 horsepower and that's where things start getting seriously fast.
Key entities
Timeline highlights
00:00–05:00
Dealers must prepare for the return of 1.1 million leased electric vehicles over the next three years by developing skills to effectively sell used EVs. Having a minimum of 10 used EVs in inventory can significantly reduce sales time, highlighting the importance of proactive sourcing and commitment to the EV market.
- Dealers need to prepare for the influx of 1.1 million leased electric vehicles returning over the next three years, which requires developing skills to sell used EVs effectively
- Having a minimum of 10 used EVs in inventory can lead to faster sales, with these dealers selling vehicles in about 28 days compared to those with fewer options
- Proactively sourcing used EVs is essential for dealers to offer a diverse product range, demonstrating their commitment to the EV market
- Dealers must fully engage with the used EV market or risk failure, as a lack of commitment can hinder their ability to educate customers effectively
- For dealers hesitant to enter the used EV market, alternatives like cash offers through an EV trade desk can help liquidate inventory without retail pressure
- Gaining firsthand experience with electric vehicles is crucial for understanding the market, and test drives should include real-world usage to appreciate the nuances of EV ownership
05:00–10:00
Dealers are preparing for the return of 1.1 million leased electric vehicles over the next three years, necessitating expertise in selling used EVs. Maintaining a minimum of 10 used EVs in inventory can significantly reduce sales time, with dealers averaging 28 days to sell vehicles.
- Dealers must prepare for the return of 1.1 million leased electric vehicles in the next three years, which requires developing expertise in selling used EVs to effectively meet customer needs
- Maintaining at least 10 used EVs in inventory can significantly speed up sales, with these dealers averaging 28 days to sell vehicles, underscoring the importance of proactive inventory management
- A strong commitment to the EV market can provide dealers with a competitive edge, attracting customers specifically looking for electric vehicles
- Jimmy Douglas highlights the importance of engaging customers in educational discussions about EVs, as this knowledge builds confidence and supports informed purchasing decisions
- The new Dodge Charger lineup has been tested in winter conditions, demonstrating its all-wheel-drive capabilities, which enhances its appeal in regions with severe winter weather
- The Charger RT and Skat Pack models differ in performance but both deliver an enjoyable driving experience, allowing buyers to choose based on their budget without compromising quality
10:00–15:00
The new Dodge Charger features an all-wheel drive system that enhances winter driving confidence while maintaining its muscle car identity. The lineup includes a twin turbo inline six engine, with the RT model priced above $50,000 and offering 420 horsepower.
- The all-wheel drive system in the new Dodge Charger boosts confidence in winter driving, appealing to drivers in harsh climates
- Traditional muscle car fans may resist the shift from V8 engines to a twin turbo inline six in the new Charger lineup, despite strong performance
- The Charger lineups pricing is strategically set, with the RT starting above $50,000 and the SCAT pack close to $60,000, potentially encouraging buyers to opt for the higher performance model
- With 420 horsepower and a 0-60 time of around five seconds, the Charger RT is competitive in the full-size muscle car segment, while the SCAT pack offers 550 horsepower for those seeking more speed
- Dodges standard all-wheel drive allows the Charger to retain its muscle car identity while enhancing traction in winter, broadening its appeal in colder regions
- Dodge has designed a muscle car for year-round use, even in snowy conditions, but its acceptance will depend on traditional fans embracing the new engine setup