Tiny Cars, Big Trend, Why Americans are Downsizing at Record Rates
American drivers may have reached peak big-vehicle love. Car buyers have gravitated toward larger, roomier vehicles over recent years. However, that trend is beginning to shift.
Economic pressures, including stubbornly high car prices and sticky interest rates, are forcing buyers to rethink their priorities. For a growing number of Americans, the question is no longer about how big a vehicle can be but how well it can fit their budget. That shift has created an unexpected renaissance for smaller cars and compact SUVs. After years of declining sales, these vehicles are making a comeback, offering an affordable alternative for cost-conscious buyers.
Fleet Pro Focus: Dario Ramos, Fleet Maintenance Manager at GCC
By Tod Trousdell, Fleet Marketing Consultant and Owner, RobertsTrousdell Communications
This week’s fleet professional profile features Dario Ramos, Fleet Maintenance Manager for GCC, a ready-mix concrete company headquartered in El Paso, Texas.
Dario provides insight into his management style, as well as the challenges fleet managers face today. He also allows us a brief look into life away from the fleet.
What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the fleet industry?
Right now, maintenance and the cost challenges around it. Obviously, the more maintenance we can do internally the better, but the price of maintenance – especially when we have to outsource – is a major issue and something I think will continue to be a growing issue going forward.
Ford Extends Power Promise Program for EVs Through March
Ford is extending its Power Promise program through March 31. The initiative, initially launched in October to address common barriers to EV adoption, applies to select model-year 2024 and 2025 Ford EVs.
The Ford Power Promise offers a complimentary home charger and standard installation for those who buy or lease a 2024 or 2025 Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning or E-Transit cargo van from participating Ford dealerships by Jan. 31 (fleet and commercial customers are not eligible). Installation must be completed through Ford’s preferred company, Qmerit, by Sept. 30. Customers can choose a $1,000 cash alternative instead of the charger and installation if preferred.
Major Beverage Distributor is Shaking up the Industry by Transforming its Delivery Process
Reyes Beverage Group, the distributor behind brands such as Coors Light, Corona, Poppi, and more, is working with Daimler Truck North America to deploy almost 30 zero-tailpipe-emissions semi trucks to its California fleet.
The addition is part of a long-term plan to have a fully electric fleet by 2039.
"We are excited to be among the first in our industry to adopt these electric vehicles," RBG West President Tom Reyes told the outlet. "This is a significant step toward our sustainability goals and ensuring compliance with state regulation as we transition our fleet to EV."
American Coating Company Welcomes Fleet Industry Veteran Henry Chedraoui to Lead Its Patriot Fleet Solutions Division
American Coating Company, creator of the renowned Patriot Liner brand, announced the launch of Patriot Fleet Solutions, aimed at revolutionizing the fleet upfitting industry. To lead this bold initiative, the company has appointed industry veteran Henry Chedraoui, whose 22-year career in the fleet sector is marked by innovation and success.
“Henry brings unparalleled expertise to our team,” said Josh DeLaune, founder and owner of the Patriot divisions. “His strategic vision and proven ability to build impactful systems make him the ideal leader for this transformative venture.”
