Mark Fabischek

Some carmakers keep repeating that Canada won't reach its ZEV sales target. “We need to make sure that we’re revisiting targets to align targets with reality,” Frank Voss, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, said in an interview with Bloomberg. Talking about reality, here is one reality: good EVs and PHEVs sell well. Bad EVs and PHEVs... not so much. While the Toyota RAV4 Prime is a good PHEV and there is a 12 to 18 month waiting list, the Toyota bZ4x AWD is not a very good EV... and doesn't sell well. So, it's not just about the government. It's also about carmakers being able to offer good products to consumers.

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Statscan reports 53% jump in EV (BEV and PHEV) registrations in first quarter…great news! We need continued uptake by Canadians for the more than 7O ZEV models available supported by government efforts with respect to charging infrastructure and incentives to continue to transition the fleet.

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This morning, I was joined by Brian Kingston from the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association (CVMA) and David C. Adams from the Global Automakers of Canada (GAC) as we launched “Countdown to 2035” in Ottawa. These were my remarks: “As the Federal Government’s Zero Emissions Vehicle aspirations start to meet market realities around the country, the Countdown to 2035 will provide valuable information and insights to consumers and public officials as to what is required, where and at what pace. The positive progression towards higher Zero Emissions Vehicle adoption that we are seeing in Canada is also starting to lay bare the stark realities of what consumers consider to be essential pre-conditions for them to make the transition to these vehicles and what constitutes a positive ownership experience once they have done so: affordability and an available and functioning charging infrastructure. Without those two key factors, consumers are very hesitant to make this change. And for those that have made the change, they define their ownership experience and with it their desire to re-purchase and remain in an EV as evidenced by a recently published survey of McKinsey. The data presented by Countdown to 2035 not only shows how woefully short we are falling in meeting those needs, but also how non-sensical and counterproductive recent decisions by some Provinces to curtail their purchase incentives are. The bottom line is Canadians need Federal and Provincial action for better, more reliable charging infrastructure and supports for purchasing Zero Emission Vehicles in every segment of the market.”

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Exciting news for the Canadian eMobility landscape! 🌱🚗 🔋⚡ Honda might announce a significant investment in EV production in Ontario. What could this mean for the future of eMobility in Canada? We likely learn more about it on Thursday. #eMobility #EV #SustainableTransport #Innovation

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BRP's stock takes a beating - but it's not a bad thing! I've long invested a portion of my investments in businesses that choose to buck the trends. These are usually companies that play the long game. They aren't concerned about quarterly earnings reports. They don't care what the suits on the street think. They invest in the business and make the choices that drive the long-tail results. One of the ones that stands out the most to me is Amazon, and while I'm not a member of the "cult of Musk" Tesla has done some of the same. In BRP's recent earnings call, they came out and announced their plans to destock the pipeline, to reduce the volume of product in the field. They also made it clear that this would also cost some sales. Why do something that is going to sink the stock? Because it was the right thing to do. It's obvious that there is too much inventory in the field, and that can lead to a multitude of problems, especially in today's high interest environment. - Weak dealers who are losing money and possibly failing - High costs to BRP for incentive programs and promotional financing - Kicking the can down the road, as slow sales today mean slow orders tomorrow - The erosion of brand value. You'll never see a ROLEX on sale. Premium brands align supply and demand. Discount merchandise is sold at Walmart. I've not always agreed with all the choices that BRP has made, but I applaud them for choosing to play the long game, to go high when the others go low. The tightrope BRP is walking is in attempting to do the right thing for dealers and their company, while not allowing the competition to rent market share. The data from the field shows that the margin on BRP products are stronger than those of Polaris. I hope that dealers pay attention to the companies that have chosen to make the tough decisions, and reward them in the long run. Thanks BRP #DOO #BRP #Powersports #Stock #LongGame #LongTail #Inventory #FloorPlan

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Here is a great video explaining car theft rates in the Toronto Montreal corridor, which cars are a target, how you can protect yourself, and why this is not happening to this degree elsewhere, Great job Scott M. https://lnkd.in/gnuWfcMF

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A formal request from your dealers for BRP to make a few adjustments. We understand there are some differences between Canada and the United States. Small business operate differently than corporations. While both of our goals are to retail vehicles, the paths we take to get there might be a little different. Anyway, things you can do to help us 1 - The majorty of dealers are closed on Mondays. Tuesday is our first day. For those of you corportate folk who have never spent time in a dealership. Tuesday morning at 9:01 (or whenever the phones start ringing through) is messier than Wal-Mart when they open the doors for a black-friday sales. It's utter pandemonium. So, please update OMS so that orders are placed on Wednesday morning, not Tuesday. 2 - Stop updating the part numbers for oil. 4 changes in 4 years is too much. it's confusing for everyone, and it makes it hard for dealers who use order history to help us when placing restocking orders. There are many dealers who have the same oil on the shelf under 3 different SKUs. 3 - Fix your unit ordering system. Unlike corporate employees, dealership Owners, GMs, and Sales Managers don't have the luxury of planned meetings throughout the day. We are constantly dealing with issues, problems, heaters, sales reps, training, and 1000 other distractions. It's already bad enough that dealers had to set aside some time on a Tuesday to attempt to place orders, but then the system didn't work. We wasted time trying to get it to work, only to be told that it was broken and that we'd have to place orders again the next day. Guess what, when you turned on the system on Wednesday morning, it broke again. Finally got it to work, but we had about 5 hours into a project that should have taken 10 minutes. Our time is valuable, please treat it as such. This is not the first time OMS has broken, it's not the second, it's not the third. 4 - Provide flexibility in ordering. We understand that you are nearing the end of the production run for 2024 models. However, our stocking targets were based on the sales of the full lineup of vehicles, not a subset. If a dealer's allocation is for 20 vehicles, but only 50% of the SKUs are available to order, then allow us to adjust our orders based on availability. Many dealers have a year's supply of some models in stock, yet the only way to earn max flooring levels was to order more of the same. That's not a good business model. As we were working on our order, I thought of Steve Martin in "The Jerk" when he was working at the carnival and explaining to people what they could win. Something along the lines of you can win anything “between the chiclets and the erasers”. That's how our OMS order felt. Anyway, we are only going to win if we work together. Place more value on our time. Exert more energy understanding what it's like to run a dealership. Don't just be a vendor, be a business partner. Sincerely Your dealers #Powersports #Orders #Time #BRP #OMS

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Analysis of 10BASE-T1S Automotive Ethernet with CANoe version 18; see more here: https://lnkd.in/dwwsuYBE

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Federal Investment Powers Stellantis' EV Ambitions Exciting news for the automotive industry! The federal government, along with the Ontario provincial government, is investing over $1 billion to support Stellantis in retooling and modernizing its Brampton and Windsor plants. This investment aims to accelerate the creation of a vertically integrated electric vehicle (EV) supply chain in North America. Stellantis will use these funds to build new research and development centers focused on EVs and battery technology, ensuring Ontario becomes a major R&D hub. This strategic move will diversify production lines to include battery-electric and hybrid models, meeting the growing consumer demand for low-emission vehicles. This initiative not only supports technological advancements but also promises significant economic and environmental benefits, securing a sustainable future for the automotive sector. #ElectricVehicles #Stellantis #Innovation #SustainableFuture #AutoIndustry

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31 Audio Interviews on “Doing Business in Mexico”. Access all of the Interviews with leading Mexico Experts here. Free access. To view list of Interview topics, as well as to access the Mexico Audio Interviews, visit here: https://lnkd.in/dDjN9QmB #automotive #automotiveindustry #B2B #autoparts #suppliers #aftermarket #global #experts #subjectmatterexperts #HR #talent #customs #supplychain #supplierselection #manufacturing #realestate #facilities #logistics #legal #tax Chad Upton Cathie Bliss Ron Hesse John Horrell Lis McNeil

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As the industry is making significant investments to support the EV transition, we need governments to step up for consumers and close the infrastructure gap while maintaining EV incentives. 

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There are really no surprises here. EV adoption was never going to be a smooth upward curve… always a bumpy, halting, upward curve. The reality is that most real enthusiasts have already purchased their EVs and unless potential consumers are persuaded that EVs can meet all of their needs, will save them money and can be charged… rapidly… when and where they need to do so, it will continue to be a tough row to hoe. Zero emissions vehicles ARE where the industry is headed the only thing unclear is the ultimate timing for that transition and that will be largely up to consumers

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The Volkswagen ID.4: Your Answer to Rising Gas Prices in Canada As gas prices continue to climb across Canada, now surging by an additional 14 cents today, it’s becoming increasingly evident that the time has come to embrace the future of driving: electric vehicles (EVs). And when it comes to the perfect EV for Canadian roads, the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 stands out as a top contender. This versatile, all-electric SUV is not only environmentally friendly but also an efficient, stylish, and affordable option that can make a significant impact on your driving experience. 1. Say Goodbye to Painful Gas Prices One of the most appealing aspects of the VW ID.4 is its zero-emissions, all-electric powertrain. Instead of frequent visits to the gas station and worrying about fluctuating prices, you can enjoy the convenience and savings of charging your vehicle at home or at public charging stations. Charging costs are significantly lower than filling up a traditional gas tank, making your daily commute more affordable and hassle-free. 2. Efficient Range and Charging Options The ID.4 boasts an impressive range on a full charge, allowing you to go further on the road without worrying about range anxiety. With a variety of charging options available, including fast-charging stations across Canada, you can quickly recharge your vehicle and get back on the road in no time. 3. Comfort and Safety for All Seasons As a Canadian driver, you need a vehicle that can handle all kinds of weather conditions. The VW ID.4 is designed to perform well in varying climates, offering a smooth and comfortable ride through snow, rain, or sunshine. The SUV’s advanced safety features, including driver-assistance technology, provide peace of mind on every journey. 4. Modern and Stylish Design The 2024 VW ID.4 is not just about functionality; it also brings style and sophistication to the table. Its sleek design and modern interior create an inviting and comfortable environment for both drivers and passengers. You’ll enjoy a spacious cabin with intuitive controls and cutting-edge technology to enhance your driving experience. 5. Government Incentives and Savings In addition to lower fuel costs, you can also benefit from government incentives and rebates available for electric vehicles in Canada. These incentives can make your investment in the ID.4 even more cost-effective and rewarding. In conclusion, the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 is the ideal choice for Canadians looking to transition to electric vehicles amid rising gas prices. It offers exceptional range, comfort, safety, and style while helping you save money in the long run. If you haven’t yet experienced the future of driving, now is the perfect time to take a test drive in the ID.4 and discover why it’s becoming one of the most sought-after EVs in the country. Visit Maple Volkswagen today and drive away with a greener, more economical, and enjoyable ride!

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Great news from Honda Canada Inc. Electrification is a spectrum and although many are aware of Honda’s recent $15B announcement to build batteries and EVs in Canada, most would not be aware of Honda’s hybridized option of one of Canada’s best selling vehicles. This affordable option will save consumers on gasoline and reduce emissions at the same time. This is the benefit of having an emissions reduction target for automakers as opposed to a technology target

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United States and the European Commission announced plans to impose higher import tariffs on Chinese EVs this summer. Canada is planning to follow suit. It may good to Canada at some point, • protecting domestic automotive industry. • Boost domestic investment, local EV production facilities n technologies, fostering innovation and job creation within Canada. • trade balance. • national security n independence. (as what US trying to ban TikTok). On the other hand, it has potential drawback to Canada ; 🔺increase cost for local consumers. 🔺China might retaliate with its own tariffs or trade barriers, affecting other Canadian exports to China. 🔺Imposing surtaxes can distort the market, potentially leading to inefficiencies n unintended economic consequences. 🔺higher costs will slow the transition to EVs, this could have negative implications for Canada’s environmental goals and commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. #electricVehicle #canada #america #europe #sustainability #environmental #green #automotive

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Great to talk to Alex Ballingall at the Toronto Star here on why it’s important to understand the complex issues related to the EV transition and the USA’s move to invoke strong tariff barriers to cheap and compromised Chinese EVs. “Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers'​ Association, told the Star he knows the Prime Minister's Office is grappling with this issue, too. He expects the Liberals to make a decision "soon" to effectively match the American tariffs, since he believes Washington will expect Canada to make a "reciprocal arrangement" to try and slow China's growing EV dominance over the North American auto sector.” "The U.S. decided waking up late is better than never waking up," Volpe said. "China hasn't won yet, but if we keep going the same way, they will." Volpe predicted trade tensions with China will dominate the scheduled renegotiation of the USMCA in 2026. "It would be imprudent to fumble this one," he said. https://lnkd.in/gkxv2AKP

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Canadian Tire Corporation. Ltd. reported its first-quarter profit rose compared with a year ago as its revenue fell about five per cent. The retailer says its net income attributable to shareholders totalled $76.8 million or $1.38 per diluted share for the quarter ended March 30. The result was up from a profit of $7.8 million or 13 cents per diluted share in the same quarter last year when it was hit by costs related to a distribution centre fire. Canadian Tire says its normalized profit amounted to $1.38 per diluted share in its latest quarter, up from a normalized profit of $1.00 per diluted share in the same quarter last year.

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*** BDC Automotive Talk -"It has to hurt" Nothing worth having will come easy. Let me explain 👇 It is said that our hardest lessons in life come through painful events. If you're like me, you have often wondered why this would be. As a high performance BDC coach/consultant , I work with people and dealership BDC's that have lost their way for one reason or another. After more than 15 BDC builds in my career, more times than not the BDM or team leader of the BDC is fearful of: - Trying new things - Making hard decisions - Fear of looking stupid or making mistakes - Afraid to lose their job - Working extra hours I could have added many more items to this list buy BDM's you get what am saying. As an automotive growth strategist by way of BDC, I get to challenge, push, question, interrogate, and test my students theories more so on what would happen if we don't try. I call this tough love. BDM's, as you start out this new week keep this in mind. It has to hurt. There must be an element of pain in your lessons for you to truly understand the real cost of not pivoting. It has to hurt for it to be real. Then and only then will you truly be able to articulate with precision your beliefs towards making a contribution to the business. Do you agree? Shale Kazdan Martha Alvarado Courtney Armenta Mayra Munoz 😇🚐☎️ Wendy Reeves Dionte Yates Nikki Di Lollo Glenn Bowron III Gina Anguilla MBA Klaudia Sanecka Stephanie Dunn Karen Mallinos Eric Bravo Mark Cohen Sameha Khoshaba Bruny L. Elena E. echo mayo Carla Pence #servicemanagement #servicedepartment #leadservant #thisiswhatwedo #trainpassionately #leadperpetually #automotiveindustry #fixedops #guestexperience

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