Inventory Continues Climb
New-car supplies grow in October despite strikes’ impact.

Stellantis had the most supply, though it was one of the big three automakers targeted by the Detroit-based strikes.
IMAGE: Stellantis
New-vehicle inventory rose in October despite six weeks of Detroit-based worker strikes, Cox Automotive data shows.
Supply reached 2.4 million units, up 62% year-over-year, Cox said. Days’ supply ended the month at 67, up from 60 month-over-month and by 41% year-over-year. Cox said the last time it measured in the 60s, which had been considered normal for the industry, was in March 2021.
“Days of supply is creeping higher as the sales pace is slowing at the start of this year’s final quarter,” said Cox Automotive Senior Economist Charlie Chesbrough. “The supply issues that started in 2021 appear to have passed as most brands have seen their availability improve substantially.”
He said that economic pressures, including high interest rates and still-high vehicle prices, though, are softening sales.
“As we enter the holiday sales season, greater discounting from the automakers seems likely. Otherwise, the days of supply will rise even further.”
Cox said Jeep maker Stellantis had the biggest inventory, despite being one of the strikers’ targets. Dodge, Chrysler, Ram and Jeep all had more than 100 days’ supply.
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
More Showroom

Used Lots Getting the Business
Many consumers are seeking out the units to save money, and the demand – higher in July than normal – is keeping supply limited and prices up.
Read More →
Used Market Stabilizes
The Carfax Used Car Index noted a major drop in used-vehicle price increases in July after several months of hikes.
Read More →
California Hybrids Reach State Record
The Golden State still leads the country in electric-vehicle registrations, but much like the rest of the U.S. its hybrid market share is up while full electrics stabilize after a dramatic first-quarter dip.
Read More →
My Mercedes in the U.S.
The German brand debuted its studio dealership concept for the first time in the states in Los Angeles, tapping Americans’ penchant for creative distinctions.
Read More →
Used Sales Hit Summer Drag
The vacation season, combined with high prices, has dented deliveries and added to inventories, though supply is still slim enough to keep listings elevated.
Read More →
California Launches EV Rebate Program
Participating automakers are matching the state's $13.5 million investment in new electric-vehicle rebates scheduled to take effect later this summer.
Read More →
OEM Poll Sees Industry Evolution
Kerrigan Advisors’ survey of automakers finds that tariffs, technology, network tightening and other factors are poised to reshape auto retail.
Read More →
The Trade-In Paradox
Retailing older cars with confidence in today’s market is a matter of establishing and following a clear process that can turn greater profit for auto dealers as they aim to meet used-unit hunger.
Read More →
Focus on Vehicle Cabins
The market for interior materials will grow in coming years as automakers look to meet consumer demand while staying competitive with changeups to sourcing and included features.
Read More →
State Follows Federal Warning on Auto Ads
The Massachusetts attorney general cautioned the state’s automotive dealers to be upfront with the consuming public about their vehicle prices or risk punishment.
Read More →