What Dealers Can Learn from Direct-To-Consumer EV Brands with Michael Wood

In this ASOTU CON 2025 conversation, Michael Wood of Checkered Flag joins Elena Ciccotelli to explore the current state and future of Jaguar, the complexities of EV retail, and the importance of improving the customer experience in the dealership model. Michael passionately defends Jaguar's return to its roots, pushing boundaries in design and technology while rejecting criticism from purists who misunderstand the brand’s evolution. He sheds light on the realities of franchise laws, using Scout as an example of how direct-to-consumer EV brands are clashing with regulatory frameworks—particularly in states like Virginia.

The conversation also confronts the flaws in traditional dealership experiences that fuel consumer interest in direct-to-consumer models. Michael urges dealers to improve the variable side of their business and leverage their superior after-sales infrastructure as a competitive advantage. From his views on tariffs and inventory management to trends he’s watching in used car strategy, Michael delivers insights with unfiltered honesty and wit. This session is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the intersection of luxury automotive, customer loyalty, and EV disruption.

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⏱️ Timestamped Takeaways

0:00 Intro

0:11 Michael Wood returns to discuss Jaguar's evolving brand identity

1:39 Jaguar reclaims its heritage by pushing boundaries, not playing it safe

3:52 Franchise laws conflict with direct-to-consumer EV models like Scout

5:18 Dealerships must improve variable ops to compete with new entrants

6:41 EV buyers want a full-service, reliable dealership experience

7:28 Cars are now high-tech devices—customer support must reflect that

8:07 Tariffs may disrupt inventory, but used car ops are the best insulation

9:29 Michael’s current rides: Defender 110 and a plug-in Range Rover