Stellantis withdrawal from the North American auto show circuit.

[Uparms]

In a notable decision reflecting the evolving dynamics of the automotive industry, Stellantis has formally announced its withdrawal from the North American auto show circuit. The automaker, encompassing several brands, including Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, FIAT, and Ram, cited the challenges inherent in the current automotive market as the primary rationale behind this strategic shift."

“In an interview with Automotive News Canada, a Stellantis representative highlighted the company’s strategic direction, emphasizing, ‘With a focus on preserving business fundamentals to mitigate the impact of a challenging automotive market in North America, Stellantis is working to optimize its marketing strategy as it relates to auto shows.’ This statement underscores the concerted efforts undertaken by the conglomerate to navigate the complexities of the current automotive landscape.”


Cash Strapped???

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[Aj58]

We’re gonna optimize our marketing by um, let’s just not release the pricing for the 24 gladiators. That should save us some money.

 

[Great Offender]

No matter what they say the optics are awful and at first blush it looks like Stellantis is letting N. America know "There's nothing new to see here". After a decision like this there should be no complaining about diminished sales figures because it's hard to get people excited when you have nothing exciting to show!

 

[Puch]

No matter what they say the optics are awful and at first blush it looks like Stellantis is letting N. America know "There's nothing new to see here". After a decision like this there should be no complaining about diminished sales figures because it's hard to get people excited when you have nothing exciting to show!

I hear that Hornet is an amazing success! ?
500+ days supply on the lots.

 

[Volt0]

Consumers need reliable, cost effective transportation. Function over form.

Can you imagine a desirable farm truck on display at one of these shows? It could be one of the best farm trucks out there, and at an affordable price, but nobody would go to these shows and look at it. Further more, it would get bloated with emissions/electronics that the average rural working person wouldn’t need or want, just to be 50 state compliant. I’m not a farmer, but I can see the need for something basic, that’s not intended for those Tier-I / Tier-II cities.

for these reasons, I expect road legal SxS will likely keep cutting into portions of the car market.

 

[TheRealStreetcommander]

The car show circuit is a complete waste of time and money. Auto enthusiasts and the media are the only attendees. Stellantis is simply saying, "hey, our car show boondoggle will effect exactly 0% of our 2024 sales so, --lets spend the cash on something more meaningful." Sounds like an adult decision.

FWIW, I enjoy auto, motorcycle, and boat shows.

 

[Scott L]

If I had to guess they are looking for a buyer. Mercedes plundered the Chrysler Marque because they wanted a bigger distribution channel for their sprinter vans. Once they accomplished that they dumped it. Stellantis bought thinking they would sell Fiats alongside Dodges and Chryslers with Alfas being their luxury brand. That hasnt worked out to well so far. Jeep has always been the awkward stepchild within the Chrysler family. Wish it could break away and stand alone but their is no way that could happen. The North American market is very difficult and expensive to navigate with unpredictable consumer demand and burdensome regulations. That causes consolidation and offers consumers less choice at greater cost. Don't be surprised if we see the end of Stellantis in North America.

 

[kevman65]

Majority of people "shop" for new vehicles on the internet.

Actual press coverage at these events is almost nil now, it's mostly so called "influencers" throwing up EweToob content for viewer hits.

With the current economic state of things, the Return Of Investment isn't there. Have to pay to be in the show, have to pay people to man the booth, have to pay room and board for said people, have to pay to send people and vehicles.

It's actually smart business sense to not be involved in the show circuit.

Sales are down for all auto manufacturers, now isn't the time to be in big, flashy shows.

In the middle of a market correction, have to watch all the pennies.

 

[BourbonRunner]

I'm not entirely surprised. Manufacturer auto shows have become a bore ever since the internet has given us so data up front with a couple clicks avoiding all interactions with the slimy salesmen.

I can remember as a kid collecting the brochures of each car and pouring over the options, colors, trims, etc. They don't even give out printed brochures anymore. And concept cars? Not on the regional circuit, that's for sure. If you did get a concept it was a year+ old and already been written up in R&T, C&D and MT extensively and stale by that point.

Consumer focuses have changed, too. Going to see it in person for free at the dealership that has your preferred build in stock per the website is a lot easier than spending $20 to wander around, maybe catch the trim/option spec you're interested in and eat a piece of cardboard pizza and chase it with a lukewarm Miller Lite.

I think the only ones that benefit are the guys selling gutter helmets, shammy cloths, and non-stick cookware.

I'd still go to NY or Detroit if given the opportunity but it isn't exactly a priority either.

 

[Minty JL]

I have not gone to one since 2017.

Dealing with the people, traffic and parking all nullify the possible experience inside the venue.

 

[sharpsicle]

Let's be honest; they don't need a "circuit" these days. They can host one show a year, nationally, and rotate locations each year. The "circuit" idea is baloney, and the multiple shows a year just gets drowned out and frustrates people who go to one to see jack sh!t and then see another one had the announcement/display they were actually hoping for.

Do it once, with everything in one spot, without playing games, and you'll make attendees happier and reduce costs all at the same time. The "circuit" is antiquated and in dire need of a change.

 

[WestwallNF104A]

The only car show I actually want to go to is SEMA.

 

[ZoMojave]

I hear that Hornet is an amazing success! ?
500+ days supply on the lots.

An absolute disaster. Who wants a rebadged Alfa?

 

[ZoMojave]

Ah yes, gone are the days of being a young man and the sights of the auto shows!

 

[Main Line Willys]

Jeep is not the only manufacturer ditching car shows.
The Philadelphia Auto Show will also be missing displays from BMW, Porsche, Mercedes and Audi.
I half wonder if this is the manufacturers pushing back against electric vehicle mandates.

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