Q2 Auto Profits Surge, China Gets EV Bronco, Tesla Goes Retro

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Episode #1100: Franchised dealerships saw a 22% profit surge in Q2, led by strong gains in import and domestic brands. Ford unveiled a high-tech electric Bronco, but it’s only for China. Meanwhile, Tesla opened its retro-style diner and drive-in in Hollywood, complete with Superchargers, rooftop views, and robot service.

Franchised dealerships saw a big jump in net profits this quarter as customers rushed to buy before tariffs hit, according to the Q2 2025 Presidio-NCM Benchmark. Profit gains came with a small asterisk because of the big cybersecurity hit last year. However this does mark the first quarterly improvement in domestic brands in three years.

• Average franchised dealerships posted a 22% net profit increase year-over-year, helped by both import and domestic brand gains.
• Import stores led with a 34% profit rise, luxury stores up 32%, and domestic stores rebounded 24% for the first time since 2022.
• New-vehicle gross profit per unit rose 6.1% from Q1 2025 to $2,128, reversing a multi-year decline.
• Used-vehicle gross profit climbed 11%, while finance and insurance income increased 5.6%, supporting overall revenue growth to $22 million per dealership.
• “Sustained profitability will come from a focus on fundamentals and a willingness to adapt as market conditions continue to evolve,” said Paul Faletti, CEO of NCM Associates.

Ford has built a fully electric Bronco SUV with some impressive specs like 403-mile range, advanced EV tech, including lidar and 30+ sensors for semi-autonomous driving, and a heavier/smoother ride but there’s a catch… it’s only coming to China

• The Bronco New Energy offers two powertrains: a full electric with a 105 kWh battery and an extended-range hybrid (EREV) combining a 43.7 kWh battery with a 1.5L gas generator.
• The hybrid version can cover up to 800 miles total, with 137 miles purely on battery before the gas engine kicks in.
• The SUV is big and heavy—nearly 5,800 pounds and almost 9 inches longer than the gas Bronco—providing a planted ride but potentially slower cornering.
• Ford’s smart cabin includes unique modes like “naps, pets, camping overnight” designed for comfort and convenience.

Tesla’s new Diner and Drive-In in Hollywood is ready to serve nostalgia and innovation side by side. Opening July 21, 2025, this retro-futuristic spot combines classic diner vibes with 75 Tesla Supercharger stalls and even features a Tesla Optimus robot.

• The two-story, saucer-shaped diner sits on historic Route 66 and offers 9,300 sq ft including a rooftop bar with panoramic views.
• Classic movies and SpaceX launch footage play on two massive LED screens syncing audio to your Tesla’s stereo for a true drive-in experience.
• Tesla owners get exclusive perks like in-car touchscreen ordering and carhop service on roller skates delivering diner classics served in Cybertruck-themed packaging.
• Charging supports up to 250 kW for Models S, 3, X, Y, a

Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.

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