Automotive News Canada Podcast: Recent Episodes
Automotive News Canada
Stellantis avoids Gordie Howe Bridge; tariffs might be here to stay; more EV chargers for N.B. Plus, Volkswagen Canada CEO Edgar Estrada on booming sales, new product, sedans, affordability, and more.
Gordie Howe Bridge opens; Toyota EV sales surge; Fast chargers idle. Plus, Toyota Canada CEO Cyril Dimitris talks sales, electrification, affordability, and more.
Trump’s new tariffs; Unifor ratifies Ford deal; Tariffs hurt U.S. auto. Plus, Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy breaks down the new collective bargaining agreement struck between Ford of Canada and Unifor.
Dealers second guess China; Dongfeng eyes Canada; Ford, Unifor deal. Plus, Kia Canada Director of Strategic Planning David Sherrard, discusses the new PV5 commercial electric van, from pricing to capabilities.
USMCA uncertainty; Subaru’s Solterra price cut; and sub deal lacks auto. Plus, J.D. Power Canada Director of OEM Solutions Robert Karwel talks first-half sales, pricing, leasing, incentives and more.
In this replay of the May 22, 2026 Automotive News Canada Podcast, Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe talks about the need for the Gordie Howe International Bridge to open. It’s a key link in the North American automotive supply chain.
China brands eye JVs, output; GM Oshawa’s future; and Honda Element’s comeback. Plus, Unifor President Lana Payne sets the table for the 2026 contract talks between her union and the Detroit 3 automakers.
China brands eye production; the USMCA case for Canada; and Honda’s warning. Plus, Toyota Canada Director of Corporate Strategy and External Affairs Scott MacKenzie on electrification, powertrains, Canadian production, affordability, USMCA and more.
BYD is hiring; Ineos is expanding; and Trump downplays USMCA. Plus, Magna CEO Swamy Kotagiri on capital investment, electric-vehicle volume shortfall, Chinese automakers, and how Magna is preparing for a renegotiated USMCA.
Linamar’s cobot bet; Mazda’s price cuts; and $122M in EV rebates. Plus, Hyundai Auto Canada CEO Steve Flamand talks record May sales, promotions, Genesis, electrification, tariffs and more.
A bridge to benefit auto; Hope for Stellantis Brampton; Honda halts Ridgeline. Plus, Director of Lexus Canada Martin Gilbert talks Lexus sales, the luxury market, electrification, the Lexus ES, sedans, and more
Nissan eyes China exports; Tech’s effect on pricing; VW Canada expansion. Plus, Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe talks about the need for the Gordie Howe International Bridge to open. It’s a key link in the North American automotive supply chain.
Honda’s cancelled EV plans; AutoCanada earnings dip; Chinese automakers’ market entry. Plus, Mazda North American Operations Director of Vehicle Safety Jennifer Morrison on safety features, how they become standard equipment, and at what cost, and how AI is integrated into safety development.
Chinese EVs are closer; Honda halts $15B plan; Tesla’s cheap Model 3 Plus, Infiniti Canada Managing Director Ken Hearn talks about the QX65, tariffs, the brand’s expanding lineup, affordability, and more.
Used EVs lose value; GM invests in Canada; Stellantis suggests regulatory change. Plus, Boston Consulting Group’s Eric Jesse discusses how automakers can find “white space” to win in different powertrain segments.
Genesis’ hybrid plan; Leapmotor idea panned; CADA’s warning. Plus, Nissan Chief Performance Officer Guillaume Cartier talks about profitability, new product, SUVs, and more.
BYD brand recognition; Stellantis Brampton stalled; Q1 sales recap. Plus, new Chrysler and Dodge brand CEO Matt McAlear talks about what Canadian dealers and consumers can expect from the two brands. He also discusses new product, affordability, and more.
401 Group’s AI buy; Clutch expands; slow trade talks. Plus, Australian Automotive Dealer Association CEO James Voortman offers a glimpse of what might lie ahead for Canadian dealers and consumers once Chinese brands land in Canada.
On this Automotive News Canada Podcast Replay from Feb. 20, 2026, Hyundai Canada CEO Steve Flamand sits down with Automotive News Canada for a lengthy fireside chat.
Tariff relief program; Groupe Park Avenue’s plan; EV security concerns. Plus, Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy speaks with Tony Weber, CEO of Australia’s Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. He discusses China’s sudden dominance of the Australian new-vehicle market.
EV sales slide; Chery eyes Canada; Sigma expansion. Plus, Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy explains in detail the Canada-China compromise that sees more China-made EVs on the way to Canada. He also explains the quota limits, who might sell them, and at what cost.
VW’s firm line; Chinese brands eye launch; Pacifica refresh on tap. Plus, Unifor President Lana Payne talks Canadian auto investment and gives her thoughts on the Government of Canada’s approach to tying new factories to a $12-billion submarine deal.
February’s flat sales; Linamar’s Q4 profits; EV rebates return. Plus, Dan Hearsch, global co-leader of the automotive and industrial practice at AlixPartners, explains how the latest military conflict in Iran could affect the auto industry.
Brampton’s murky future; a warning amid trade talks; auto investment for sub deal. Plus, Canadian International AutoShow GM Jason Campbell talks about the record-setting event, looks ahead, and talks about a possible Chinese presence in 2027.
GM spends in Oshawa; Toyota to deploy humanoid robots. Plus, Hyundai Canada CEO Steve Flamand sits down with Automotive News Canada for a lengthy fireside chat.
Trump’s latest threat; Chinese EV demand; More EV infrastructure. Plus, Canadian Automobile Dealers Association President Tim Reuss talks about Canada’s new auto strategy, 2025 sales and what’s ahead in 2026, and Chinese EVs.
EV rebates return; Canadians support Chinese EVs; Strong January sales. Plus, Canadian International AutoShow General Manager Jason Campbell sets the table for the 2026 event.
RAV4 output ramps up; GM Oshawa cuts a shift; Century Auto expands. Plus, Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell talks about the resurgence of minivans, the future of the Chrysler brand, affordability, and the brand’s plan to enter the car market.
Chinese EVs are coming, Changes to AutoTrader.ca; David Adams retiring. Plus, Cadillac Canada Managing Director Mike Speranzini talks about record sales, winning new customers, digital marketing, the Luxury market, image programs, new product, and more.
Canada courts VW, Hyundai plants; no Ford Escape; Tesla sales sink. Plus, AutoTrader.ca Vice-president of Insights and Intelligence Baris Akyurek talks about affordability, Canadian buying behaviour, the used market, EVs, tariffs, and more.
2025 sales were up; a better way to defrost; 401 Group expands in Ontario. Plus, new Nissan Canada President Steve Rhind talks about his new role, his priorities, dealer relations, affordability, product mix, new Canadian buyers, and more.
In this replay of the June 6, 2025 episode, former Senior Vice-President of Automotive Finance at Scotiabank Canada John Hiscock talks affordability, dealership health, fraud, and retirement.
In this replay of the May 30, 2025 episode, Google Strategic Insights Lead Nisha Hariharan offers some insight into Gen Z car buyers. She tells us who they are, what they want and need, and most importantly, how they shop for new vehicles.
Hybrid sales surge; AutoCanada’s new COO; hope for Stellantis Brampton. Plus, Stellantis Canada President Trevor Longley on his new role and what he learned while at Nissan Canada. He also discusses affordability, product, tariffs, Canadian manufacturing, and more.
GM preps CAMI payout; dealers spend big on EVs; 2026 EV pricing. Plus, Nissan Chairman of the Americas Christian Meunier on dealer relations, the merger of Infiniti and Nissan brands under single rooftops, sales projections, new product and more.
November sales slide; New Charger output starts; USMCA under scrutiny. Plus, Zanchin Automotive Group Principal and Executive Director Laura Zanchin talks EV investment, sales, rebates and more.
GM pressured over CAMI; trades when ‘appropriate’ | Leading Women Roundtables. Plus, Canadian International AutoShow General Manager Jason Campbell talks electric vehicles, consumer choice, and about the 2026 show.
B.C. scraps EV mandate; NACTOY finalists announced; Jeep Recon EV. Plus, Head of Turo Canada Bassem El-Rahimy talks about the car-sharing company’s core mission, the future of auto ownership, affordability, mobility, access over ownership, and more.
Aquilina leaves GM Canada; Volvo safety head on regulations; VW gets Supercharger access. Plus, Director of Lexus Canada Martin Gilbert talks about the Lexus LS Concept, the Century luxury brand, how luxury brand extensions get consumers and dealers engaged, and more.
Federal budget breakdown; OpenRoad buys into NewRoads; October sales. Plus, NextStar CEO Danies Lee talks about why the Stellantis-LG Energy Solution joint venture is now making energy storage systems instead of EV batteries in Windsor, Ont.
Honda adjusts production; hope for Brampton; exports lack U.S. content. Plus, Clarify Group co-founder and President Darren Slind discusses the latest findings in a survey about auto shows.
GM kills BrightDrop; QX60 imports start again; Best Dealerships to Work For. Plus QNX Chief Operating Officer John Wall talks about cybersecurity and how software recalls are changing vehicle tech development.
Stellantis changes Brampton plans; ZEV sales show life; Lyft expands. Plus, Head of the PBV Business Division at Kia Sangdae Kim talks about Kia’s new PV5 midsize passenger van, its Platform Beyond Vehicle concept, and the van's uses beyond just being a passenger vehicle.
Carney, Trump talk tariffs; Linamar’s big European buy; Jeep drops Wagoneer. Plus, Magna Vice-president of Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Todd Deaville explains how the supplier is leaning on artificial intelligence to improve manufacturing and to gain supply chain insights amid shifting trade policy.
Canadians choose hybrids; Australia’s Eagers buys into CanadaOne; NextStar battery plant complete. Plus, Stellantis Canada Head of Product Planning Mike Szymkiewicz on tariffs, Jeep Cherokee, EVs, affordability and more.
U.S. tariff collection spikes; Vip Palladino dies; 13 Porches damaged. Plus, Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association CEO Brain Kingston talks about the federal ZEV sales mandate, the potential return of the iZEV program, tariffs, and more.
The reason behind third shifts at GM, Stellantis; Premier Moe changes his EV tariff tune; AI saves Martinrea millions. Plus, Assistant Vice-president of Honda Canada Sales and Marketing Emile Korkor talks about the Prelude’s return, sports coupes, powertrains, and more.
GM Oshawa extends third shift; Stellantis to add shift in Windsor; Canada’s oldest Toyota store is sold. Plus, Canadian Automobile Dealers’ Association CEO Tim Ruess talks ZEV sales mandates, tariffs, sales and more.
August sales slump; EV maintenance money; Honda Prelude returns. Plus, Subaru Canada Car Line Manager Brad Evans talks about the automaker’s EV strategy, new product, Canadian sales and more.
Suppliers see reshoring efforts; BMW to resume imports; Tim Hortons adding EV chargers. Plus, a replay of the May 16 conversations with Kia Canada Chief Operating Officer Elias El-Achhab, who talks about Kia’s electrification strategy, EV incentives, affordability and more.
CAMI’s cloudy future; Glencore buys Li-Cycle; ZEV sales tank again. Plus, Ontario's Representative in Washington D.C. David Paterson talks tariffs, the trade war and negotiations.
Santa Cruz imports paused; Hyundai Canada's sales goals; Clutch returns to B.C. Plus, Plug 'N Drive CEO Cara Clairman assesses the current EV landscape and talks charging infrastructure.
Dilawri buys the Ritz; July sales surge. Plus, Unifor National President Lana Payne talks tariffs, retaliation, and gives an update on Ford and Stellantis retooling at Ontario assembly plants.
AutoCanada hires Car Gurus; Quebec battery investment audited; Champions of diversity nominations. Plus, a replay of the July 11 interview with Nissan Chair of the Americas Christian Meunier, who talks about the Canadian market, dealer relations, electrification, and more.
EV instability; U.S. marketshare down; Unifor’s NextStar agreement. Plus, Policaro Group CEO Francesco Policaro talks about the company’s new deal with Tedson Motors.
Flo layoffs; Assembly survives tariffs; Used exports flow to U.S. Plus, Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe details what it would it take — and mean — to create an all-Canadian automaker.
Nissan pauses some imports; Mayors want ZEV mandate changes; Tedson comes to Canada. Plus, Nissan Chair of the Americas Christian Meunier talks about the Canadian market, dealer relations, electrification, and more.
U.S. trade talks resume; Award-winning Canadian factories. Plus, Director of Lexus Canada Martin Gilbert talks about the luxury automakers growing portfolio, electrification, the dealer network, the importance of Canadian manufacturing, and more.
Canadian r&d doing well; Cadillac Optiq’s new charger; Ford Explorer gets Tremor trim. Plus, Volvo Canada Managing Director Matt Girgis talks about what Canadian consumers want when it comes to vehicle safety.
Toyota adds Canadian battery assembly; ZEV mandate to stay; Buzz Hargrove remembered. Plus, retiring Mazda Canada CEO David Klan on his replacement, ZEV sales mandates, the trade war and more.
ZEV sales mandate questioned; EcoPro halts construction; Military production in auto. Plus, Porsche Cars Canada CEO Trevor Arthur details the new Porsche Experience Centre in Toronto.
May sales surge; Hemi returns to Ram; Tariffs hammer auto output. Plus, Senior Vice President of Automotive Finance at Scotiabank Canada John Hiscock talks affordability, dealership health, fraud, and retirement.
Stellantis names a new CEO; Genesis sees luxury growth; Plus, Google Strategic Insights Lead Nisha Hariharan offers some insight into Gen Z car buyers. She tells us who they are, what they want and need, and most importantly, how they shop for new vehicles.
LeddarTech layoffs; Canada’s leading women in auto; Dodge trims Charger trims. Plus, Linamar Executive Chair Linda Hasenfratz talks about the need for strong leadership in the auto industry through uncertain times.
Honda pauses its EV plan; ZEV sales tank; AutoCanada’s Q1 earnings. Plus, Kia Canada Chief Operating Officer Elias El-Achhab talks about Kia’s electrification strategy, EV incentives, affordability, Canadian sales, and more.
AutoCanada drops AutoTrader; Carney meets Trump; and Stellantis delays third shift in Ontario. Plus, Benchmark Mineral Intelligence Principal Analyst Bryan Bille talks about how U.S. President Donald Trump is reshaping critical mineral developments and EV supply chains.
Trump’s tariff tweaks; B.C. unplugs EV rebates; and Magna’s autonomous vehicles. Plus, Country Manager at Polestar Canada Hugues Bissonnette talks about targeting Tesla drivers with enticing rebates, discusses tariffs, and speaks about the road to electrification.
Trump’s latest tariff threat; CADA’s safety standards plan; and the Conservatives target the ZEV sales mandate. Plus, Subaru Canada CEO Tomohiro Kubota talks tariffs, production, new product, and more.
Canada dials back auto tariffs; Honda Canada staying put; and Mazda kills the CX-50 in Canada, for now. Plus, Magna CEO Swamy Kotagiri explains why he believes this tariff environment is untenable for the auto industry in the long term.
Canada’s auto tariffs are now in effect; Magna opens a new China headquarters; and GM kills the Cadillac XT6. Plus, UpAuto CEO Michael Carmichael and Birchwood Automotive Group CEO Steve Chipman talk about first-quarter sales, tariffs, and what lies ahead in 2025.
Trump’s tariffs finally land; New possibilities for GM CAMI; and the Vancouver auto show wants Tesla back. Plus, Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association CEO Brian Kingston explains the effect U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs will have on Canadian assembly, talks about the future of EV rebates and mandates, and lets us know what automakers want from the next Canadian government.
More bad news for Tesla in Canada; Quebec brings back EV rebates; and the Vancouver International Auto Show saw record attendance. Plus, Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe talks about U.S. President Donald Trump’s auto tariffs, explains how they will affect Canada, and looks ahead at what might come next.
Tesla had a bad week in Canada; EVs best ICEVs in lifelong emissions; and AutoCanada looks to sell its U.S. stores. Plus, renowned Rotman School of Management professor, historian and author Dimitry Anastakis assesses the “madness” of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threat, explains the “chaos” it brings to the auto industry, and tell us whether they will work in bringing auto jobs back to America.
The Government of Canada expects automakers to honour commitments; Hyundai Canada has a new CEO; and PowerCo’s battery plant said to be “on schedule.” Plus, outgoing Hyundai Canada CEO Don Romano reflects on his time in Canada, has advice for his replacement, and talks about the current state of the brand.
Volkswagen Canada CEO Vito Paladino recently sat down for a fireside chat with Automotive News Canada Publisher Tim Dimopoulos to discuss U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats, electrification, battery plants, customer service, and more. This is that conversation.
Stellantis Canada CEO Jeff Hines recently sat down for a fireside chat with Automotive News Canada Digital and Mobile Editor Greg Layson to discuss U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats, the end of the federal iZEV program, the possible return of the Hemi engine, and more. This is that conversation.
Stellantis has paused retooling Brampton Assembly Plant; Polestar Canada has big plans for 2025; and Toyota Canada is committed to this country “for the long haul.” Plus, Waabi CEO Raquel Urtasun discusses a new partnership with Volvo Autonomous Solutions. She also details the generative AI advances at the heart of the company’s end-to-end AI stack and approach to developing “AV 2.0.”
Newly named Toyota Canada CEO Cyril Dimitris talks about the automaker’s executive shakeup, its product lineup, as well as value and affordability. He also discusses inventory levels with the COVID pandemic and semiconductor shortage in the past, and more.
January saw a spike in new-vehicle sales; the Kia EV5 is set to arrive; and Waabi partners with Volvo on self-driving trucks. Plus, Canadian International AutoShow General Manager Jason Campbell previews the 2025 edition of the show.
Canadian Automobile Dealers Association President and CEO Tim Reuss talks about the end of the Canadian Incentives for Zero Emissions Vehicles Program, discusses what CADA would like to see happen to the federal ZEV sales mandate, talks about sales, and more.
Unifor aims to organize EV battery plants; Linamar plans billions in upgrades in Ontario; Volkswagen says the ID7 won’t come to Canada. Plus, Linamar Executive Chair Linda Hasenfratz has a warning about U.S. tariffs on Canadian auto parts.
A new report shows how tough it would be to move Canadian auto assembly to the U.S.; Tesla hikes its Canadian prices; Canada’s Holand Automotive Group expands overseas. Plus, Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe is part of a federal Canada-U. S. relations council dealing with the incoming Trump administration’s vow to impose tariffs. He talks tariffs, trade wars and more.
America needs Canada-made vehicles; tariff threats worry Canadian suppliers; the federal iZEV program winds down. Plus, Unifor President Lana Payne discusses tariffs, organizing more of Canada’s autoworkers, the future of EV assembly, and more.
Jan. 10, 2025 | The week’s top stories and a chat with Nissan Canada’s Trevor Longley by Automotive News Canada
On this Automotive News Canada Podcast Replay from Sept. 20, 2024, new Managing Director of Infiniti Canada Ken Hearn talks about the QX80, the refreshening of the luxury brand’s lineup, customer loyalty and bringing Infiniti and Nissan stores under the same rooftop.
On this Automotive News Canada Podcast Replay from Oct. 11, 2024, Linda Hasenfratz reflects on her time as Linamar CEO, talks about what’s next for her at the company and discusses the current state of automotive and the influence of her father Frank.
Canada's auto industry reacts to Chrystia Freeland leaving cabinet. Quebec passes a law to ban the sale of ICE vehicles. Plus, Ontario Economic Development Minister Vic Fedeli says the province will see billions in auto investment in 2025. He also talks about Freeland’s decision and U.S. Preside-elect Donald Trump’s threat of 25-per-cent tariffs on all imports from Canada.
Uncertainty lies ahead in North American automotive. Toyota’s Stephen Beatty calls it a career. And Tim Kuniskis returns to Ram. Plus, Canadian International AutoShow General Manager Jason Campbell tees up the 2025 edition.
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares resigns. November sales surge. And some big names return to the Toronto Auto Show. Plus, Murray Haukaas, chair of the Stellantis National Dealer Council, and Jim McManes, of McManes Auto Group, talk about the resignation of Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares.
Trump’s latest tariff threats. Quebec’s EV battery material industry gets a boost. Magna’s Swamy Kotagiri is honoured. Plus, AutoTrader Vice-president of Insights and Intelligence Baris Akyurek talks about the latest Path to Purchase study, the used market, EVs, and the U.S. election.
Canadian Stellantis dealers are sounding off. Auto loan delinquencies are on the rise. And Legacy automakers powered federal iZEV claims to an all-time October high in. Plus, the APMA’s Flavio Volpe discusses Project Arrow 2.0, talks Trump and addresses the upcoming review of the USMCA.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has harsh words for Mexico. Linamar’s new gigacasting plant faces headwinds. And, AutoCanada earnings slip. Plus, retiring Toyota Canada Vice-president and Corporate Secretary Stephen Beatty reflects on his career, talks electrification, discusses the U.S. election, and more.
Scout lays out its retail plan for Canada. Umicore lengthens the pause on construction of an EV battery materials plant in Ontario, and October sales saw a surge. Plus, Mazda Canada Chief Operating Officer Amy Fleming talks product, EVs, China and more.
Hyundai Canada CEO Don Roman sat down for a fireside chat with Automotive News Canada Publisher Tim Dimopoulos during the 2024 Automotive News Canada Retail Forum. This is their conversation in its entirety.
Newly appointed Nissan Canada President Trevor Longley talks about how he landed his new role, discusses the new Kicks and Murano, addresses ZEV mandates, commits to sedans, and more.
On this Automotive News Canada Podcast Replay from Sept. 6, 2024, Canadian Automobile Dealers Association CEO Tim Reuss breaks down a pair of new reports from the organization. He discusses the recent CADA Data Report and the National Workforce Study. He talks about dealership consolidation, wages, zero-emission vehicle sales, the gender gap and more.
Linda Hasenfratz reflects on her time as Linamar CEO, talks about what’s next for her at the company and discusses the current state of automotive and the influence of her father Frank.
LeddarTech CEO Frantz Saintellemy talks about the tech company’s new focus on automotive software, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence and more.
Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe explains why Canada must follow the lead of the United States and ban automotive software and hardware used in connected vehicles from entering the country. He talks about national security, the importance of North American harmonization and opportunities for Canada.
New Managing Director of Infiniti Canada Ken Hearn talks about the QX80, the refreshening of the luxury brand’s lineup, customer loyalty and bringing Infiniti and Nissan stores under the same rooftop.
Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy breaks down the contract talks between Unifor and General Motors. The two sides are trying to hammer out a deal at the automaker’s Chevrolet BrightDrop EV van plant in Ontario. He also talks about some recent changes at the plant, and its future.
Canadian Automobile Dealers Association CEO Tim Reuss breaks down a pair of new reports from the organization. He discusses the recent CADA Data Report and the National Workforce Study. He talks about dealership consolidation, wages, zero-emission vehicle sales, the gender gap and more.
Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe talks about the APMA’s 2024 summit, Chinese electric vehicles, how the U.S. election could affect Canadian automotive, and more.
Hyundai Canada CEO Don Romano talks about the need for educating the public when it comes to electric vehicles, the automaker’s new Total Electric Vehicle Talks — or TEV Talks — and the sales success the brand is currently experiencing.
Former Nissan Canada President — now the Vice-President of Dealer Network Development, Customer Resources and Training for Nissan U.S. and Canada — Steve Milette discusses his Canadian tenure, vouches for his successor and talks about dealer relations. He also has thoughts on how upcoming U.S. and Canadian elections might affect the EV revolution.
On this Automotive News Canada Podcast Replay, Volvo Canada Managing Director Matt Girgis discusses what a survey conducted by the automaker reveals how Canadians feel about electric vehicles. He also talks affordability and what needs to be done to ease consumer concerns about EVs.
J.D. Power Canada Director of Customer Success for the Data and Analytics Division Robert Karwel updates us on where the industry stands when it comes to sales, pricing, incentives, inventory and electric-vehicle penetration. He also talks about what BYD might do to the Canadian retail segment.
Global Automakers of Canada CEO David Adams talks about the changing landscape when it comes to zero-emissions vehicle purchase incentives as Quebec prepares to eliminate them while Manitoba adds them. He’ll also discuss the current state of EV charging infrastructure and give his thoughts on Canada’s plan to impose tariffs on EVs imported from China.
Hyundai Canada Executive Director of Sales and Digital Strategy Steve Flamand on the secret of the automaker’s EV sales success. He also discusses affordability, government incentives, charging infrastructure, and more.
GM Canada Vice-president of Sales, Service, and Marketing Shane Peever talks about the staying power of the Denali brand and why it’s more than just a sub-brand. He also discusses Canada’s truck market, electrification, hybrids and sedans.
On this Automotive News Canada Podcast Replay, Ralph Gilles, chief designer at Stellantis, looks back on the Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Charger as the trio of cars, built in Brampton, Ont., come to an end. He also talks a bit about what replaces them and what’s next for Brampton.
Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association CEO Brian Kingston talks about the countdown to Canada’s zero-emissions sales mandate, a shortage of charging infrastructure, B.C.’s gutted EV rebates, and potential tariffs on China-made EVs.
Paays’ Head of Fraud Anne-Marie Kelly has advice for dealers and their customers when it comes to protecting against identity theft, fake IDs and fraudulent purchases. She also talks about who pays and how prevalent the problem is.
Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe talks about the APMA’s 2024 summit, Chinese electric vehicles, how the U.S. election could affect Canadian automotive, and more.
General Motors North America President Marissa West talks about the important role of hybrids, affordable electric vehicles, and the automaker’s zero-emissions goals.
Cadillac Canada Managing Director Mike Speranzini talks about what’s in store for the luxury brand in 2024, the importance of the Optiq EV, and which customers it’s targeting, and he discusses treating customers with special care.
Brendan Sweeney, the managing director of the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing, talks about what the recent run of investments automakers and suppliers have made in Ontario’s electric-vehicle and battery production means for Ontario, suppliers and the workforce. He also talks about what the future holds for investment and suppliers as some automakers appear to be pulling back on their rush to electrification.
Volvo Canada Managing Director Matt Girgis discusses what a survey conducted by the automaker reveals how Canadians feel about electric vehicles. He also talks affordability and what needs to be done to ease consumer concerns about EVs.
Century Auto Group CEO Michael MacGillivray checks in from the East Coast while McManes Automotive Group CEO Jim McManes weighs in from the Prairies. They paint a cross-county picture of what it’s like to be in auto retailing as the spring selling season heats up. They talk inventory, EVs, hybrids, affordability and more.
Newly hired Stellantis Canada President Jeff Hines talks about dealer relations, slowing sales, the future of the automaker’s several brands, muscle cars and more.
Toyota Canada Director of Corporate and External Affairs talks about the automaker’s electrification strategy, the important role Canadian production plays, how to solve auto theft, and more.
J.D. Power’s Robert Karwel talks about what first-quarter sales, incentives, and inventory say about the state of auto retailing. He also talks about what’s in store for the rest of 2024.
AutoForecast Solution Vice-president of Global Auto Forecasting Sam Fiorani talks about Ford’s decision to delay EV production at Oakville Assembly, assesses the likelihood of more Honda output in Alliston, Ont., and weighs in on whether ZEV mandates are doing their job.AutoForecast Solution’s Sam Fiorani on Ontario EV output
Nissan Canada President Steve Milette spoke with Automotive News Canada Publisher Tim Dimopoulos at the New York Auto Show, where they discussed the redesigned Kicks, government EV rebates, the Infiniti luxury line, and the automaker’s dealer footprint in Canada.
Country Manager for Polestar Canada Hugues Bissonnette tells us why the brand chose Montreal for its headquarters, breaks down the multitude of EV markets in Canada, explains why it picked the franchised model over online sales and outlines what’s next for the brand.
AutoTrader Vice-president of Insights and Intelligence Baris Akyurek leans on his wealth of data to break down rising inventory levels, current average listing prices, and what to expect from the used market moving forward.
David Adams, the CEO of the Global Automakers of Canada, which represents the interests of all overseas automakers in Canada, explains why he thinks Quebec’s decision to end electric-vehicle incentives is a bad idea, checks in on Alberta’s new EV registration fee, and talks about the “geopolitical war” Canada and the United States finds itself in with China and its EV industry.
The Canadian International AutoShow recently reported record attendance for its 2024 edition. CIAS General Manager Jason Campbell explains how that happened, what it means for the industry, and what’s in store for 2025.Jason Campbell on the record-breaking CIAS
Borealis AI Research Director Brian Keng explains how the rapid advancements of artificial intelligence can be harnessed to create deeper and more meaningful customer experiences in auto retailing, and how the technology might revolutionize mobility and transform autonomous transportation.
Porsche Cars Canada CEO John Cappella sat down for a fireside chat at the Automotive News Canada Congress in Toronto to talk about the luxury market, EVs, ZEV mandates, and the new Porsche Experience Centre in Toronto. This is that discussion in its entirety.
Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association CEO Brian Kingston and Canadian Automobile Dealers Association CEO Tim Reuss recap the federal government’s auto theft summit, explain what — and where — the problems are, and offer some solutions.
Canadian International AutoShow General Manager Jason Campbell explains how the 2024 show jumped to 44 brands from the 28 it had on display last year. He also talks about aiming to double the number of electric-vehicle test drives and moving part of that EV track outdoors. And, he says automakers still see great value in a show such as CIAS.
Hyundai Canada CEO Don Romano explains how the brand has been successful at selling EVs, why it supports a ZEV sales mandate and says affordability is still an issue. He also talks subscription services, logistic bottlenecks and the end of fossil fuel.
Deloitte Automotive Research Leader Ryan Robinson discusses the Global Automotive Consumer Study, its key findings, affordability, EVs, and more.
VinFast Chairwoman Madame Thuy talks about the VF3, Wild concept pickup, North America’s appetite for electric vehicles and the process of building out a dealership network in Canada and the United States.
BlackBerry QNX Vice-President of Products and Strategy Grant Courville tells us why he believes “the time has come for the software-defined vehicle.” He also explains BlackBerry’s role in automotive, talks about the tech giant’s latest partnership with Stellantis and Amazon, and identifies one challenge the company — and Canada as a whole — faces.
Canadian Automobile Dealers Association CEO Tim Reuss talks about 2023 as the start of a return to normal sales. He also discusses what lies ahead for dealers in 2024, talks ZEV sales mandates and clarifies what right to repair means in Canada.
In this replay of the Nov. 24, 2023, Automotive News Canada Podcast, Lana Payne, president of Unifor, takes us inside the contract talks with the Detroit Three automakers, how the deals affect the industry — from wages to the competition to pricing — and where the union goes from here.
David Adams, head of the Global Automakers of Canada, and Brian Kingston, who leads the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association, discuss all the issues their members have with the new federal Electric Vehicle Availability Standard, which forces automakers to sell a defined percentage of zero-emissions vehicles each year. They talk about incentives, infrastructure, and how achievable the goal of 100 percent ZEV sales by 2035 is.
Ralph Gilles, chief designer at Stellantis, looks back on the Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Charger as the trio of cars, built in Brampton, Ont., come to an end. He also talks a bit about what replaces them and what’s next for Brampton.
Ontario Economic Development Minister Vic Fedeli says auto investment in the province might have exceeded expectations in 2023 and says more is still to come.
Toyota Canada Inc. Vice-president Stephen Beatty talks about the automaker’s electrification strategy and why it’s so focused on hybrids. He discusses the Crown Insignia and explains why the Camry is available only in a hybrid in Canada.
Lana Payne, president of Unifor, takes us inside the contract talks with the Detroit Three automakers, how the deals affect the industry — from wages to the competition to pricing — and where the union goes from here.
Erin Kerrigan, founder and CEO of Kerrigan Advisors, talks about which automakers dealers trust the most — and least. She also says it’s still “raining Canadians” in southern U.S. states where Canadian dealers are buying stores. And, she explains how electric vehicles are affecting dealership valuations.
Flavio Volpe, head of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, tells us why he’s ringing alarm bells so loudly of China’s growing auto presence in Mexico. He explains Chinese automakers have advantages North American companies don’t and why that could hurt Canadian suppliers in the long run.
On this replay of the June 2, 2023 Automotive News Canada Podcast, Porsche Canada CEO John Cappella gives a lay of the Canadian luxury market, explains how electrification affects sports cars, and tells us what effect the luxury tax is having.
Ford Motor Co. of Canada CEO Bev Goodman talks electric vehicles, sales and more during a fireside chat at the 2023 Automotive News Canada Retail Forum.
In this Automotive News Canada Podcast replay from Aug. 25, 2023, Volkswagen Canada CEO Pierre Boutin talks about VW Canada’s role in the St. Thomas, Ont., electric-vehicle battery plant, new product, including the ID Buzz, the need for a harmonized North American charging standard, and more.
Brock University Labour Professor Larry Savage on the “celebrity status” of UAW President Shawn Fain in the U.S. and the “Lana Payne/Dave Cassidy drama” at Unifor in Canada. He also talks about the power unions currently hold and whether Unifor members at Stellantis might break from pattern bargaining.
Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecast at U.S.-based AutoForecast Solutions, says the North American auto industry is “under attack” from all sides. Labour strife, rising interest rates, and still spotty inventory are hitting the industry simultaneously. Still, he says inventory and output continue to rise.
John D’Agnolo, the head of Unifor’s Ford master bargaining committee, talks about what it was like bargaining with the automaker, breaks down what’s in the new contract, and explains why he believes it’s a winner. He also explains why comparing Unifor demands to those of the UAW isn’t realistic, and he talks about the impact UAW President Shawn Fain is having on negotiations between Unifor and the Detroit Three.
Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy breaks down everything we know about the tentative deal before Unifor and Ford Motor Co. of Canada. And he tells us what comes next.
Brendan Sweeney, managing director of the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing, Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, deconstructs the recent Parliamentary Budget Officer report that says it will take the federal government 20 years to break even on its investments in two electric-vehicle battery plants in Ontario.
Bruce Johnson, the senior director for dealer management systems at CDK Global, talks about the challenges dealers face right now, technology in the service department, the effect interests are having, and the firm's new deal with BMW Canada.
In this replay of the Aug. 4, 2023, Automotive News Canada Podcast, our Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy tells us what Unifor and the Detroit Three want from this year’s contract talks. He also explains what it means to have Unifor and the UAW in the United States bargaining at the same time and how the electric vehicle revolution could affect bargaining.
Volkswagen Canada CEO Pierre Boutin talks about VW Canada’s role in the St. Thomas, Ont., electric-vehicle battery plant, new products, including the ID Buzz, the need for a harmonized North American charging standard, and more.
Todd Bourgon, the executive director of the Motor Vehicle Retailers of Ontario, talks about the overwhelming shortage of service technicians in that province, dealers’ reliance on temporary foreign workers, and what needs to be done to really solve the problem.
JD Power Canada Senior Manager of Automotive Practice Robert Karwel breaks down the most current sales data, from average transaction price to average monthly payments to dealer margins. He also tells us why trucks aren’t selling as fast as they once were and why “cars are hot” right now.
Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy tells us what Unifor and the Detroit Three want from this year’s contract talks. He also explains what it means to have Unifor and the UAW in the United States bargaining at the same time, and how the electric-vehicle revolution could affect bargaining.
AutoTrader Vice-president of Insights and Intelligence Baris Akyurek leans on his wealth of data to break down current average listing prices, the inventory crunch, and how much Canadians are paying on a monthly basis for vehicles.
Nissan Canada President Steve Milette talks about how the Nissan Grand Prix is used to build a customer base and the next generation of racers.
John Currado, CEO of taq Automotive Intelligence, talks about the challenges of getting people to transact entirely online, discusses the differences in startup and legacy retail models, and talks about a new partnership with VinFast.
Scott Sharabura, vice president of electric vehicle charging at parkland corporation, which owns On the Run and Ultramar gas and convenience stores across Canada, talks about the company’s EV charging strategy, charge times, and where more chargers are needed.
In this replay of the May 12, 2023 Automotive News Canada Podcast, HeyAuto President Brett Jones explains what type of data — from text messages to body weight — is stored in a vehicle. He explains how it can be used for good and evil and the information needs to be wiped from a used vehicle before resale.
Kees Jansen, director of compliance at BC Hydro, explains how the utility is encouraging the purchase of electric vehicles through charging incentives. He also explains how the province and utility are meeting demand and making it easier to charge in condos and while traveling.
Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy spent two days at BEV In-Depth 2023, a mining conference in Sudbury, Ont., where several in the auto industry descended to talk critical minerals, mining, and policy. He tells us what he learned.
June 9, 2023 | VinFast Canada’s Daniel Morello on the VF 8, retailing and future models by Automotive News Canada
Porsche Canada CEO John Capella breaks down the Canadian luxury market, explains how electrification affects sports cars, and tells us what effect the luxury tax is having.
Linamar CEO Linda Hasenfratz explains giga-casting, what it means to the supplier, and why it’s building a new factory in Ontario to facilitate the process. She’ll also talk electric vehicles and about the company’s diversification plan.
Magna’s Vice-president of Factory of the Future Todd Deaville tells us what tomorrow’s auto plants will look like, explains why artificial intelligence is good for the industry, and why people aren’t going anywhere and will always be needed on shop floors.
HeyAuto President Brett Jones explains what type of data — from text messages to body weight — is stored in a vehicle. He explains how it can be used for good and evil and why the information needs to be wiped from a used vehicle before resale.
Todd Bourgon, executive director of the Motor Vehicle Retailers of Ontario, formerly the Trillium Automobile Dealers Association, talks about Ontario’s reluctance to offer EV rebates, explains how the view of direct sales has changed over the years, and says auto shows remain a very important piece of auto retailing.
Vice-president and Corporate Secretary of Toyota Canada Stephen Beatty explains how Canada’s ZEV sales mandate and the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act are going to affect sales and auto manufacturing in Canada. He also details why Toyota isn’t all-in on electric vehicles, and might never be.
GM Canada Vice-President of Sales, Service, and Marketing Sandor Piszar talks Q1 sales, demand, and affordable “gateway” EVs. He also explains what’s expected of Canadian GM dealers as they prepare to sell an all-electric lineup.
Nissan Canada President Steve Milette breaks down the automaker’s Ambition 2030 plan, talks about why the Ariya EV is such an important EV, and tells us what’s expected of dealers as they prep to sell more electric vehicles.
In this replay of the Feb. 24, 2023 Automotive News Canada Podcast, we caught up with Ontario Premier Doug Ford at the Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto. He shared his thoughts on the federal ZEV mandate, saying as soon as a government “starts mandating, it never works out.” He also said dealing with the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act is the responsibility of the federal government. And, he explained why he refuses to offer Ontarians an EV rebate.
Brian Kingston, the CEO of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association, says the 2023 federal budget does a good job at responding to the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, which he calls “green industrial policy on steroids.” Kingston says the budget keeps Canada in the game when it comes to landing new auto investment, saying “it was key Canada rolled out a plan to respond.”
Brendan Sweeney, managing director of the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing, says Volkswagen’s decision to build an EV battery plant in Canada might go down as the biggest automotive win in the country’s history. He explains how many direct and indirect jobs the plant will support, tells us what the plant says about Canada and says the government is justified in financially supporting such a venture with taxpayer money.
Managing Director for Cadillac in Canada Mike Speranzini tells us the secret to surging sales, explains why the interaction between driver and vehicle is one of the more important details in luxury automobiles and says upgrading dealerships to prep for electric vehicles is “not a task for the faint.”
The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act’s new tax incentives are compelling automakers to rethink their supply chains and manufacturing priorities. That’s true for Nissan, which is looking to build stronger supply chains in North America. Nissan Americas chairperson Jérémie Papin explains what that means for Canada.
Canadian International AutoShow General Manager Jason Campbell explains how the event succeeded after a two-year hiatus and stunned with the third-largest crowd on record. He also discusses how to keep the momentum and how to convince automakers that skipped the 2023 show to return next year.
We caught up with Ontario Premier Doug Ford at the Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto. He shared his thoughts on the federal ZEV mandate, saying as soon as a government “starts mandating, it never works out.” He also said dealing with the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act is the responsibility of the federal government. And, he explains why he refuses to offer Ontarians an EV rebate.
J.D. Power’s Robert Karwel tells us where the average transaction price of new vehicles is headed in 2023, when more robust incentives might return, and how interest rates might affect the industry this year.
Canadian International AutoShow General Manager Jason Campbell tees up the exhibit’s first live event since 2020. He explains the challenges the show overcame, talks about which automakers will be on hand, and what to expect.
Plug’N Drive CEO Cara Clairman updates us on Canada’s zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) inventory, talks about the price cuts Tesla and Ford made to the electric vehicles, and offers her thoughts on the federal ZEV sales mandate.
Hyundai Canada CEO Don Romano explains how the brand rose to become the No. 2 import in Canada. He also says Hyundai will not only compete with but beat Tesla in the EV game. And, he talks about how the brand will handle interest rate hikes and the risk of a recession.
Toyota Canada’s Vice-president of Sales and Marketing Cyril Dimitris talks about what it means to have the Corolla be Canada’s top-selling car, why the automaker believes in sedans, the new flagship Crown and EV readiness.
The Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe, the association’s Chief Technical Officer Colin Dhillon and Ontario Minister of Economic Development Vic Fedeli talk about what Project Arrow means to the Canadian auto industry and the province, break down the technical specs of the vehicle, lay out what’s next for the project and tell us when and where Canadians will finally get to see it in person.
Ontario Minister of Economic Development Vic Fedeli reflects on the province’s automotive successes of 2022, explains why the government now believes in financially assisting automakers and says 2023 is shaping up to — maybe — be better than 2023 when it comes to auto investment.
On this replay of the Aug. 5, 2022 episode of the Automotive News Canada Podcast, Kimoby’s Dan Robinson talks about how the software program he helped develop and market allows dealers to use text messaging to communicate with customers, helps stores run more efficiently and saves dealerships money. He also explains why good old-fashioned email and phone calls are already antiquated technology at dealerships and what makes instant messaging the go-to solution in customer service and retention.
On this replay of the Nov. 4, 2022 episode of the Automotive News Canada Podcast, Hanif Datoo, Telus vice-president of technical sales and the telecom’s connected cars specialist, explains why mass adoption of autonomous vehicles is likely two or more decades away. He describes the hurdles driverless cars face and details the AV research Telus is conducting in Canada.
E3 Lithium CEO Chris Doornbos talks about the company’s $87-million lithium project and what it means to the industry. He also discusses how the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act affects the mining industry, and addresses Alberta’s growing role in automotive
Flo Charging CEO Louis Tremblay discusses GM’s deal to buy its Canadian and U.S. dealers 40,000 charging stations, what it means for EV uptake in underserved markets and whether an order this big might lead to the expansion of his company.
Chief Design Officer for Stellantis North America Ralph Gilles talks about winning the Eyes on Design Award, the differences between designing production and concept vehicles, and how electric vehicles might change the way he works. He also lists his top three favourite designs.
In this replay of the Sept. 30 Automotive News Canada Podcast, GM Canada CEO Marissa West talks about the automaker’s battery supply chain, pickup production, electric vehicles, dealer network, and gender equity.
Al-Karim Awadia, head of automotive industry at google Canada, says the online giant’s 2022 Google Gearshift Canada Study shows waning brand loyalty, a faster shift to electric vehicles, a growing interest in online retailing, and more.
Brian Kingston, CEO of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association outlines what Canada needs to do next to take full advantage of the “generational opportunity” the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act offers the industry. He also talks charging infrastructure, EV incentives, and more.
Hanif Datoo, Telus vice-president of technical sales and the telecom’s connected cars specialist, tells why mass adoption of autonomous vehicles is likely two or more decades away. He describes the hurdles the auto industry faces and details the AV research Telus is conducting in a number of provinces. And, who’s liable when a connected car fails?
Head of Jeep Brand North America Jim Morrison talks new product, battery production, loyalty and competition from Ford.
Max Moruzzi, co-founder of the Toronto-based 3D printer Xaba, details how reliable, efficient, and important the technology is now — and will be — in the automotive industry. It’s not just for small parts and plastic toys. It’s for chassis, like the one on Project Arrow.
Canada’s automotive suppliers are preparing to gather for its first “normal” Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association Conference. President Flavio Volpe says a labour shortage is top of mind. He also talks about the growing number of links electric vehicles and mining are adding to the supply chain. And, he explains why a sneak peek of Project Arrow is just around the corner.
Hyundai Canada CEO Don Romano talks about why the agency model works for Genesis, and why it might not work for other brands.
GM Canada CEO Marissa West talks about the automaker’s battery supply chain, pickup production, electric vehicles, dealer network, and gender equity.
Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne says Canada has a “winning strategy” in automotive and “all the ingredients” to offer “generational opportunities for workers.” He talks about new investment, the EV supply chain, and pitching Canada “as a solution provider.”
Flo EV Charging CEO Louis Tremblay explains why Canadians need to be thinking about “sipping, not gulping” at EV chargers. He also talks about why his company recently expanded in Michigan and what new U.S. EV infrastructure money could mean to FLO. And, he explains why Quebec is a leader in EV uptake and manufacturing.
Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions says “we’re looking at this year hopefully being the bottom” of the chip and inventory shortages. He tells us how many new vehicles automakers will sell in Canada in 2022 and explains why the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act will inevitably “help Canada in the long run.” He also predicts which products Stellantis will assemble in its two Ontario factories.
Unifor’s newly elected national president Lana Payne sat down with Jamie Butters, executive editor of sister publication Automotive News in Detroit and the host of the Automotive News Daily Drive Podcast, to talk pattern bargaining, organizing Japanese plants in Canada, the country’s expanding battery supply chain, inflation and more.
Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy explains what the recent memoranda of agreement between Canada, Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz mean. He also explains how and why the Canadian government’s critical minerals and electric-vehicle strategy is working.
Flavio Volpe, head of the Canadian Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, explains how close Canadian auto assembly came to extinction and how the word “north” added to the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act turned the tide. He also tells us how the new U.S. EV tax credits will benefit Canada and affect the automotive supply chain.
Lana Payne is the new national president at Unifor. She says it’s time for the union to “turn a page” and restore trust in order to move past the kickback scandal that ended Jerry Dias’ presidency early. She also says nothing will change when it comes to auto bargaining unless committee members what to tweak that approach. And, she plans to grow the union and take its fight “in the street god damnit.”
Kimoby’s Dan Robinson helped develop and market a software program that allows dealers to use text messaging to communicate with customers, help stores run more efficiently, and save dealerships money. He tells us why good old-fashioned email and phone calls are already antiquated technology at dealerships and what makes instant messaging the go-to solution in customer service and retention.
Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy sets the scene less than two weeks before Unifor elects its next president. Who’s running? What’s the process? And what’s the first order of business for the union’s next national leader?
Rafih Auto Group CEO Terry Rafih compares and contrasts Canadian and U.S. operations discuss his new, unique Gen-5 Porsche store in Michigan, and talks about “the ups and downs of Detroit” as it relates to automotive. He also has some candid thoughts on the Canadian federal luxury tax.
Trader Corporation’s AutoSync President Edwin Ulak discusses how consumers always drive change in the retail space, particularly online. He also has some advice for dealers as the pace of digital transactions picks up.
Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association President Brian Kingston discusses his group’s new EV Readiness Dashboard, calls for tripling EV incentives, explains why Canada needs 1.6 million chargers, and tells us what he learned at the Electric Vehicle Symposium and Exhibition in Oslo, Norway.
Al-Karim Awadia, Google Canada’s Head of Industry - Automotive, tells us what Canadians are searching for, what dealers need to do to seamlessly transition to digital retailing, and looks at what lies ahead for automotive online.
Jeff Williams of Absolute Results says dealers need to look at new ways to measure success when inventory is tight and demand is high. He also has advice on how dealers should prepare now for a return to normal inventory levels. And, he says, the compensation model absolutely has to change as the digital revolution continues.
Huw Williams, a lobbyist for the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association, and Chris Pfaff, CEO of Pfaff Automotive Partners, talk about the “huge detrimental effect” the federal luxury tax will have on dealers. They also vow to keep fighting against the levy, despite it being scheduled to go into force on Sept. 1. They warn it will cost the industry jobs and millions of dollars.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada President Frank Voss explains why Canada is a good place to build vehicles, discusses its trade advantages and talks about how the country’s pledge to carbon neutrality affects decision making.
Nano One CEO Dan Blondal talks about Canada’s “really important role globally” when it comes to EV battery development. He explains why Quebec is so attractive to the EV battery-making process, and, what’s next for the expanding B.C. battery firm.
Leanne Kripp, Kijiji’s head of automotive, says there is a “significant shift to online transactions underway” and that Millennials and Generation X are most likely to buy a new car entirely online. She also let’s us know what gives new-vehicle buyers the most anxiety.
Plug’n Drive CEO Cara Clairman says demand for electric vehicles has never been higher. She explains why electric-vehicle incentives work, and why they aren’t needed for much longer. She also tells us Canada needs fewer EV chargers than many of us think.
Automotive News Canada Toronto Bureau Chief David Kennedy has been covering the race to replace former Unifor president Jerry Dias, since he abruptly retired and found himself under investigation. Kennedy brings us up to speed on who’s in the race, what the next steps are, and when we’ll learn who will be the union’s next leader.
Stellantis COO North America Mark Stewart, Unifor’s Danny Price, Flavio Volpe of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association and Brian Kingston, head of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association, all weigh in on the recent explosion of auto investment in Canada.
Canadian Black Book’s James Hancock tells us which used vehicle segments are hot and which are not. He also explains why prices won’t return to pre-pandemic levels until 2026.
Automotive News Canada Tim Dimopolous recently travelled to the VinFast assembly plant in Haiphong, Vietnam to get the story on how the electric-vehicle startup came to be. He also found a Canadian connection and discussed the automaker’s plan for Canada.
Global Automakers of Canada President David Adams talks about what’s right — and wrong — with the federal government’s zero-emissions vehicle sales mandate, offers up improvements and suggests ZEV rebates aren’t going to last forever.
Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions explains how the chip crisis has affected inventory of some of the best-selling vehicles in Canada while Robert Karwel of J.D. Power explains which vehicles people are buying, if they’re available.
Ontario Minister of Economic Development Vic Fedeli explains how his province landed an EV battery plant, what it means to the supply chain and to businesses, even those that aren't traditional players in the auto industry. He also promises “many, many, many more auto announcements to be made before the end of April.”
Tim Reuss, head of the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association talks about what’s top of mind this year for his members coast to coast, how dealers are preparing of an electrified future and what that means for showrooms and upgrades.
Al-Karim Awadia, Google Canada’s Head of Industry - Automotive, tells us what Canadians are searching for, what dealers need to do to seamlessly transition to digital retailing and looks at what lies ahead for automotive online.
David Paterson, GM Canada’s vice-president of corporate affairs, explains why General Motors chose Quebec to be home to its $500-million battery materials plant and talks about the key role Canada will play in the North American battery supply chain. He also says more Canadian announcements are coming.
Jason Campbell, general manager of the Canadian International AutoShow, says there is “no doubt” the 2023 show will go ahead as planned, post-COVID-19. And, he says it will have more experiential displays than in the past. Organizers took the time off to rethink what an auto show can and should be.
Brian Kingston of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association and Flavio Volpe of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association break down the monetary and political costs the six-day blockade of the Ambassador Bridge caused the Canadian auto industry. They also talk about how infrastructure changes on the horizon would make it more difficult for protesters to cause a similar disruption in the future.
Tara Andriga of the Partners for Automated Vehicle Education talks about the potential for autonomous vehicles, when they might finally arrive for the masses, just who might be liable should they crash, and more.
Automotive News Canada reporter Sam McEachern gives a lay of the land when it comes to which EV startups have their sights set on selling new vehicles in Canada. He breaks down the makes, models and the differences between the likes of Lucid, Rivian, VinFast and traditional legacy automakers.
Unifor’s Jerry Dias says he would like to see Canadian-made EVs qualify for U.S. tax rebates under President Joe Biden’s Build Back Better bill. The union boss also warns “there will be hell to pay” if Stellantis doesn’t allocate new product to its assembly plant in Brampton, Ont.
J.D. Power’s Robert Karwel said 2021 was a wild ride and 2022 will have some bumps in the road. But profits should remain high and inventory low. He also explains why an interest rate hike might not mean a thing.
David Adams, head of the Global Automakers of Canada, discusses the federal government’s “mandatory target” of having all sales of light-duty vehicles be of the zero-emissions variety by 2035. He also talks about the effects of a looming tax on luxury vehicles.
Jeff Williams of Absolute Results talks about retaining new-car buyers in the online era and he details how selling EVs in the digital realm differs from selling new vehicles powered by the traditional internal combustion engine.
Rebekah Young, director of fiscal and provincial economics at Scotiabank Economics, assess the health of the economy and predicts how many new vehicles Canadians will buy in 2022 while Downtown Auto Group CEO Shahin Alizadeh explains how his business will cope with the ongoing inventory and COVID-19 crises. Neither think much will change in the short term.
In this holiday replay of the Sept. 24, 2021 Automotive News Canada Podcast, Pfaff CEO Chris Pfaff explains how U.S.-based Lithia Motors went from “kicking tires” to buying Pfaff Automotive Partners “on our terms.” Pfaff also talks about why the deal was good for his company, and what’s next.
In this holiday replay of the May 7, 2021 Automotive News Canada Podcast, Scott Bell, president of General Motors Canada, explains why the company has advanced the launch of pickup production in Oshawa, Ont., talks about the hurdles the company had to overcome, and sings the praises of the Canadian workforce.
Ontario Minister of Economic Development Vic Fedeli talks about the province's pursuit of battery plants, the importance of the auto tech sector and why the government won’t reinstitute an EV rebate.
Mercedes-Benz Canada CEO Eva Wiese, Joe Zanchin of Zanchin Automotive Group and Sylvester Chuang of AWIN Group of Dealerships talk about Mercedes’ decision to sell seven stores in the GTA and why Zanchin and Chuang joined forces to buy the dealerships. The two dealers also talk about the future of consolidation.
Brendan Sweeney, the executive director of the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing, explains why now is the time for a national auto strategy. He also talks about Canada’s first Automobility Hub and what makes it different from others in the world.
Flavio Volpe, the head of the Canadian Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association was in Washington during the trilateral summit between Canada, the United States and Mexico. He breaks down how President Joe Biden’s purchase incentive for American-made EVs could decimate the Canadian auto industry. He also explains the latest way the microchip crisis is costing suppliers.
Magna CEO Swamy Kotagiri talks about what he calls “the strength of Magna,” how the supply giant has navigated COVID-19 and the chip crisis, what’s next after a failed Veoneer deal, and when might autonomous vehicles arrive?
Rebekah Young, the director of fiscal and provincial economics, at Scotiabank Economics, and Robert Karwel, J.D. Power Canada’s senior manager of automotive practice, discuss when the inventory shortage might end, what it’s doing to new-vehicle pricing and what it could mean for incentives in the new year.
Ryan Holtz, of Ryan Holtz Marketing and a podcast host, explains where the industry’s at when it comes to digital retailing and what dealers must do to capitalize on it. He also lays out some dos and don’ts for dealers using social media to sell cars and build relationships.
Unifor President Jerry Dias explains why his membership is now pushing back against vaccine mandates set to be implemented by the Detroit Three automakers. Dias says his union believes in vaccines but that the companies should be consulting with his executives before imposing mandates on employees.
Stellantis says it will reduce minivan output to a single shift in Windsor, Ont. But, Unifor Local 444 President David Cassidy says the company has promised new product and the return of three shifts, eventually. Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions says product is earmarked for the factory, but it’s contingent on the next collective agreement. Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Doug Ford says the province is willing to offer financial assistance to the automaker.
Mitsubishi Canada Marketing Director Steve Carter says the company’s dealer network supports the automaker’s virtual showroom ClickShop. He also says the brand is weighing whether to participate in auto shows moving forward.
Hyundai Canada CEO Don Romano says the global microchip and inventory shortages are “100 per cent” behind the automaker’s third-quarter, nine-per-cent sales decline, but he insists “demand is at record levels,” too. He also notes other kinks, such as a lack of shipping containers and truckers, are affecting the service bay.
Volvo Canada Managing Director Matt Girgis explains how the company’s unique shoe deal with Casca footwear came to be, and how it went international. He also discusses the importance of sustainability, how upgrades at the Port of Vancouver benefit Canadian dealers, and when inventory might get back to normal.
Pfaff CEO Chris Pfaff explains how U.S.-based Lithia Motors went from “kicking tires” to buying Pfaff Automotive Partners “on our terms.” Pfaff also talks about why the deal was good for his company, and what’s next.
Plug ’N’ Drive CEO Cara Clairman says there is more to electric-vehicle policy than just incentives. The next federal government needs to also focus on infrastructure and EV manufacturing.
Adam Ruppel is the organizer of the Drive Festival, just outside Toronto, and Christine Smith is the director of marketing for Hyundai Canada. They talk about dealing with COVID-19 while trying to get a live event off the ground and discuss the importance of auto shows making a return, and what they might look like moving forward.
Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions explains why automakers idle some Ontario plants before others worldwide, how long the on-again-off-again production due to the chip shortage might last, and which EVs Ford Oakville will be building.
Brian Kingston of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Assocation, Unifor President Jerry Dias and Huw Williams of the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association lay out what it is their members — from manufacturing to labour to retail — want from Canada’s next federal government.
Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe explains how his organization plans to spend $5 million in federal money on Project Arrow, whether the program remains on track and just how many suppliers want to be part of it.
J.D. Power’s Robert Karwel says every automaker is making sure they can continue to build expensive trims and high-end trucks and SUVs. “People are freely purchasing these,” Karwel says, and as a result, the industry is seeing sustained high prices despite low incentives.
Steele Auto Group COO Kim Day explains what made used-EV dealer All EV Canada such an attractive buy, discusses further expansion and reacts to U.S.-based Lithia Motors entering Canada.
Nissan Canada President Steve Milette discusses the new Rogue, the automaker’s best-selling vehicle in Canada, and the difficult decision to end sales of the full-size Titan pickup.
Nissan Canada President Steve Milette discusses the automaker’s ambitious lineup overhaul and digital showrooms, and what they mean for dealers.
Silvia Carfora, CEO of the Weis Group, a Toronto-based architectural firm, talks about whether now is the right time for dealer upgrades, and explains how the pandemic and rising cost of construction are affecting such plans.
On June 29th the federal government said it now aims to have all new-vehicle sales in Canada be of the zero-emissions variety by 2035. The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association CEO Brian Kingston calls the goal “ambitious.” But, he also asks: “Where’s the plan to get there?”
Cybersecurity firm Black Kite found 71 per cent of the automotive companies it surveyed have an "F" rating in the area of sending out and applying updates to software, leaving them vulnerable to ransomware attacks. Bob Maley, the company’s chief security officer, explains what it is thieves are looking for and says companies should practice good “cyber hygiene” to keep themselves safe.
It’s been a bumpy first year under the new USMCA trade pact, but Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe says that deal and Canada’s natural resources gives Canada “a little bit more leverage” in the global auto market.
HGreg CEO John Hairabedian explains what makes the U.S. market so attractive to Canadian auto groups, talks about his company's digital presence, and compares the used market on both sides of the border.
Kia Canada COO Elias El-Achhab explains how the brand weathered the pandemic and microchip shortage, talks about what makes the Kia Carnival sexy, and outlines what the automaker’s rebranding means for Canada’s dealers.
Rebekah Young, who watches the auto industry closely for Scotiabank Economics, says May sales were depressed, but that was expected. She has similar forecasts for June and July, but “ultimately we’re looking at a case of demand rolling out as the year advances.” She explains why she still expects Canadian dealers to sell 1.8 million new vehicles in 2021.
Kelly Harbridge, Magna International’s vice-president of people and general counsel, has been leading the supplier’s COVID-19 response. He details how the company went from lockdowns to running vaccination clinics in about 14 months.
Jeanine Lassaline-Berglund has quite the resume. She started her career in the skilled trades 30 years ago. She’s been a municipal economic development officer, and she helped get Canada’s cannabis sector off the ground. Now, she’s at the helm of both the Canadian Association of Moldmakers and Automate Canada.
The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association and the Global Automakers of Canada (GAC) commissioned an extensive survey to find out what’s keeping more Canadians from buying EVs. The answers produced a long list of concerns. GAC President David Adams explains what can be done about issues such as price and range anxiety. He also has some thoughts on the proposed federal luxury tax.
Scott Bell, president of General Motors Canada, explains why the company has advanced the launch of pickup production in Oshawa, Ont., talks about the hurdles the company had to overcome, and sings the praises of the Canadian workforce.
Sam Fiorani, vice-president of global vehicle forecasting at AutoForecast Solutions, says the auto industry has never faced a kink in the supply chain like one created by the microchip shortage. It’s creating unrecoverable production losses in Canada. And an end is a long way off while the solution to ensure it never happens again isn’t easy or cheap.
After nearly two years, the federal government finally tabled a budget. But just because there isn’t a lot of money targeted directly at automotive, doesn’t mean there aren’t billions of dollars auto — along with other industries — could tap into, if they’re planning green projects. What is in the budget is good news for auto assembly and Canada’s EV battery potential, says Unifor President Jerry Dias.
Magna International founder Frank Stronach wants “to leave a legacy,” so he’s building a micro mobility EV company in Ontario. He believes small, personal transportation is the only way to end congestion and lower greenhouse gas emissions. At 88 years old, he’s also big into organic farming, and has no plans of slowing down any time soon.
As head of the Global Automakers of Canada, David Adams lobbies governments in Canada on behalf of car companies based overseas. He has some ideas about what should be in the next federal budget, from EV incentives to a scrappage program. But how long should incentives last? He also talks about where sales might head in the remaining three quarters, after a fairly strong — but inventory-plagued — first three months of 2021.
Dealers Michael Carmichael in Ontario and Michael Wyant in Western Canada both say the pandemic and mild winter have affected the bottom line in the service bay. But, despite those hits and an inventory shortage, margins and profitability are up, in part because the pandemic forced them to find efficiencies and new ways to do business.
Jon Azzopardi, chair of the Canadian Association of Mold Makers, says ongoing pandemic-related border restrictions are causing his members to lose money and customers, some of which might never be recovered. He’s calling on the federal government to adopt border measures that would allow his members to cross more freely for the good of the auto industry.
Bob Larocque, head of the Canadian Fuels Association, has a simple suggestion for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who aims to have all new-vehicle sales be of the zero-emissions variety by 2040: “Please consider every potential option that gets you to net zero that allows flexibility for consumers. It’s not just one option.”
Susan Gubasta, a dealer principal, organizer of the WomenDriven event and first female head of Ontario’s Trillium Automobile Dealers Association, says that while women have come a long way in her nearly 30 years in the business, there’s still plenty more to do. She says all that talented, capable women really need is a chance.
Tim Reuss, the head of the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association, says COVID-19 has rapidly accelerated change throughout the industry. He also says now is not the time for automakers to ask dealers to upgrade stores or for the government to implement new taxes.
Former Toyota executive and auto adviser Ray Tanguay assesses Canada’s auto industry, explains why Canada’s transition to electric vehicles should start in the commercial and public transit sectors and says Canada has EV battery potential in more places than Ontario.
Lidar has become a linchpin technology for the development of autonomous vehicles, and Québec City-based LeddarTech is an industry leader. But, it makes more than just lidar. The head of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association once said: “Everything that you and I think is cool in vehicles, LeddarTech does it.” LeddarTech COO Frantz Saintellemy talks about the importance of diversity and expansion, how competitive the auto tech market is and how Canada’s engineering talent stacks up.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been around for a year, with a third wave of infections possible in Canada, yet it continues to be a seller's market with it comes to dealers looking to unload their stores. Farid Ahmad of Dealer Solutions Mergers and Acquisitions explains why owners are looking to sell, what makes a dealership attractive and who the potential buyers might be in 2021.
The global pandemic has created some serious inventory shortages in Canada. J.D. Power’s Robert Karwel explains how dealers and automakers are handling the situation and still maintaining some level of profitability. He also says the used-vehicle market is shaping up for a strong 2021.
Jim McManes, founder of McManes Automotive Group, owns 10 FCA branded dealerships in Western Canada. He’s lived through the Daimler and Fiat mergers and survived the Cerberus experiment. He offers his thoughts on the merger with Stellantis, its CEO Carols Taveres, what it might mean for Canadian dealers. McManes talks about where the holes are in FCA’s lineup and what PSA might be able to do to fill the gaps.
General Motors Canada President Scott Bell explains why the automaker moved contract talks with Unifor up eight months, what made the company’s CAMI plant in Ingersoll, Ont., the perfect place to build its new EV600 electric commercial van, and talks about a Canadian innovation that’s a very big part of GM’s BrightDrop division.
Carmine Pizzurro, plant manager of the former Delphi battery plant in Ontario and the co-founder of EV infrastructure company eCamion, says the province has to become a leader in EV battery production. And, if it does, it means longevity for auto plants there.
Rebekah Young, Scotiabank Economics’ director of fiscal and provincial economics, says a K-shaped recovery could be on the way, talks about how much money Canadians have managed to save during the pandemic and what all that might mean for sales in 2021.
Unifor President Jerry Dias discusses the Canadian labor union's success in bargaining with the Detroit Three automakers, the pandemic's ''positive'' impact on negotiations and ending the ''bitter fight'' over GM's Oshawa assembly plant.
Incoming Magna CEO Swamy Kotagiri discusses the road ahead for the Canadian supplier as Don Walker prepares to retire at the end of the year. He also shares insight on bringing new products to market and opportunities for Magna Steyr in North America.
Gerald Wood just couldn’t stay retired. Eighteen months after leaving Ford Canada, he became the head of the Motor Dealers’ Association of Alberta and finds himself helping his members navigate COVID-19 restrictions in a province that loves its trucks and whose oil workers are loyal to the internal combustion engine.
Jeff Schuster of auto forecaster LMC Automotive says restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19 will likely hurt December sales while inventory woes could linger into the first quarter. But, with a vaccine on the way, he says there’s hope for the spring selling season.
Mathew Growden of Google Canada’s Auto Retail Team reveals the two most important things car buyers want from a dealer website and talks about how the pandemic changed attitudes toward online sales “overnight.” But when it comes to a dealership’s digital strategy, Jeremy Koch of Koch Ford Lincoln says everyone must buy into a “complete overhaul” if it’s going to work.
Downtown Auto Group’s Shahin Alizadeh explains how economics and “thinking outside the box” led him to build a $100-million multi-brand store complete with nearly 900 condominiums on the same property.
GM Canada President Scott Bell says automaker “never gave up on Oshawa” and that the investment “is real, it’s happening.” He also says “the pavement is down” on the autonomous-vehicle test track there and is hopefully of a retail future, post-pandemic.
Kristin Dziczek, the vice-president of industry, labor and economics at the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich., talks about the Detroit Three’s “surprising” $5-billion investment in Canadian auto assembly, whether they can follow through on all those EV promises and what happens in 2023 when Unifor bargains at the same time as the United Auto Workers in the United States.
New Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association CEO Brian Kingston talks about what Ford’s and FCA’s EV commitments mean to the industry, what makes Canada a good place to invest and what his members would like to see in the way of government aid when it comes to helping the industry survive the COVID-19 pandemic.
Flavio Volpe, the head of the Canadian Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, provides an update on Project Arrow, talks about “tapping into the spirit of the Avro Arrow,” and assesses the potential Canada has in electric-vehicle manufacturing.
Retiring Magna CEO Don Walker talks about what he’s most proud of during his 33-year tenure, whether he has regrets, and says the ever-changing supply giant is in steady hands under his successor, Swamy Kotagiri.
Canadian Taxpayers Federation Federal Director Aaron Wudrick says contract talks between Unifor and the Detroit Three have become “hostage negotiations,” with jobs and investment at stake if governments don’t contribute tax dollars to retooling projects. But, he doesn’t blame the automakers for taking the money, calling an automaker’s decision to do so “completely rational” because governments around the world have “opened the floodgates” to cash.
J.D. Power’s Robert Karwel says inventory levels won’t return to normal until at least early next year. But, in the meantime, incentives are down and prices and profitability are up in the retail market.
Automotive News Canada reporter John Irwin has covered auto talks on both sides of the border for years. He breaks down the latest deal between Ford and Unifor, looks ahead to the FCA talks and beyond to what the pattern, promised investment and new wage grow-in mean for unionized autoworkers.
Volkswagen Canada CEO Pierre Boutin talks about what the all-electric ID4 means for the brand, how the pandemic and more electrification at the automaker might affect dealers, and the need to attract more consumers to the brand in Canada.
A.J. Khan, CEO of Vehiqilla Inc., says Canada has “a huge opportunity” in the automotive cybersecurity sector as more of the auto industry, from the supply chain to transportation infrastructure, becomes connected to the internet. He’s got warnings and advice for companies and consumers.
Rebekah Young, Scotiabank Economics’ director of fiscal and provincial economics, says some “idiosyncrasies” were behind August’s nine-per-cent decline in sales. She also explains “the strength we’re seeing in Canadian auto sales” as the industry recovers from the pandemic while forecasting 1.6 million in new-vehicle sales in 2020.
Unifor's Jerry Dias discusses his union’s plan as it embarks on the latest round of contract talks with the Detroit Three. He also talks about how USMCA and a low-flying loonie might benefit his union this round.
Canadian International AutoShow Marketing Director David McLean discusses planning a show amid a global pandemic, what a virtual exhibition might look like and whether dealers and consumers will attend.
New Magna International Executive Vice-President Sherif Marakby talks about why he left Ford for the Tier I supplier, how autonomous and electric vehicles fit into Magna’s long-term plans and what excites him about the future of automotive.
Plug'n Drive’s Cara Clairman says COVID-19 stay-at-home orders gave us “heavenly air quality,” illustrated how much pollution traditional transportation causes and could lead to more EV sales. But, incentives and government rebates are still needed.
J.D. Power Canada’s Robert Karwel says the retail rebound has left Canada’s auto industry “decently healthy” and not needing to “get crazy with incentives.” He also thinks “2021 is going to be a strong model year for selling.”
Infiniti Canada’s Steve Rhind on conquest sales, the need for luxury sedans and increased marketing so dealers can "quickly get back to generating revenue."
Mike Lewicki, of Lewicki Automotive Consulting Ltd., says Canada’s buy-sell market was fairly healthy to start 2020, then COVID-19 struck. So who’s buying, who’s selling and how has the market changed amid the pandemic?
Deloitte’s Andrew Hamer and Denizhan Uykur talk about their latest report on how COVID-19 is affecting dealers and lenders. They have some advice and note some pitfalls to avoid.
Rebekah Young, Scotiabank’s director or fiscal and provincial economics, says the sales rebound has been a surprise, that 1.5 million vehicles sold are possible, but that “we’re not out of the woods.”
Peter Hall, the chief economist at Export Development Canada, says USMCA and COVID-19 has the potential to change the attitudes toward Canadian auto investment.
Nissan Canada President Steve Milette says more Canadians in positions similar to his gives others hope; reflects on his first year on the job; and talks about what’s ahead.
Global Automakers of Canada CEO David Adams says it’s important to keep fuel standards harmonized with the U.S. and talks about whether similar cooperation is needed when it comes to AVs and data collection.
Auto analyst Dennis DesRosiers has been covering the Canadian market for more than 50 years and even he hasn’t seen a sales slump and crisis like the one the industry is enduring. He has nothing to compare it to but has some thoughts on how and when it might end.
Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association President Flavio Volpe talks about how his members shifted gears to make medical equipment during the pandemic, and how long that might last. He also weighs in on re-shoring manufacturing from China and the opportunities USMCA presents to suppliers.
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