Category: AutomotiveUnited States

30 Years of APEAL: All Vehicle Areas Improve for First Time in Nearly a Decade, JD Power Finds

2025-07-23

jillian.breska

TROY, Mich.: 24 July 2025 — New-vehicle owners today are more passionate about their vehicle than ever, according to the JD Power 2025 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study,SM released today. Overall satisfaction is 851 (on a 1,000-point scale), an increase of 4 index points from a year ago and the highest level since the study was last redesigned in 2020. 

Scores in all 10 categories in the study improve compared with last year—an achievement for the industry that has not occurred in almost a decade. The gains are led by a 13-point improvement in satisfaction with fuel economy, followed by infotainment and interior, which each increase by 6 points. 

“For three decades, the APEAL Study has tracked which new vehicles excite and delight owners the most,” said Frank Hanley, senior director of auto benchmarking at JD Power. “Manufacturers have made significant advancements that continue to redefine the vehicle ownership experience and have become more adept at translating innovation into meaningful customer engagement. However, the study finds that owners of new models have lower levels of satisfaction with vehicle setup and startup—as well as infotainment systems—compared with owners of carryover models. This suggests that increasing technology and menu complexity remain persistent challenges for the industry.”

Now in its 30th year, the APEAL Study complements the annual JD Power U.S. Initial Quality Study^SM (IQS) and the JD Power U.S. Tech Experience Index (TXI) Study^SM by measuring owners’ emotional attachment and level of excitement with their new vehicle. The APEAL Study asks owners to consider 37 attributes, ranging from the sense of comfort they feel when climbing into the driver’s seat to their exhilaration when they step on the accelerator. Vehicle owners’ responses to queries about these attributes are aggregated to compute an overall APEAL Index score.

Following are some key findings of the 2025 study:

• Premium brands outpace mass market brands in emotional satisfaction gains, led by Tesla: While emotional satisfaction among owners of mass market brands improves 2 points, it rises 11 points among owners of premium vehicles, largely driven by Tesla. The brand has achieved a year-over-year improvement of 20 points or more across all categories in the study, with the exception of powertrain (+6 points), which has consistently remained its area of greatest strength.
• Complicated technology derails owner satisfaction with new-model launches: Owners of carryover models express more emotional affinity for their vehicle than do owners of new-model launches (852 vs. 846, respectively) for a second consecutive year. Similarly, new models—which make up 14% of the industry this year—suffered from lower quality performance in this year’s JD Power U.S. Initial Quality Study. Also, in this year’s APEAL Study, the largest satisfaction gaps for launch vehicles are in vehicle setup/startup (via the app) and infotainment—gaps that are especially pronounced in the premium segment, where carryover models score 48 points higher for setup/startup and 26 points higher for infotainment.
• Satisfaction more consistent among ICE and hybrid owners: The study indicates that among new-vehicle owners, internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid vehicles deliver more consistent satisfaction, while plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) exhibit greater year-over-year fluctuations. Notably, satisfaction among owners of BEVs (860, excluding Tesla) drops 17 points from a year ago when comparing across fuel types, while PHEVs (855) improve 14 points.Customers indicate that PHEVs and hybrids hit the sweet spot for pleasing them with regard to fuel economy, range and charging speed.
• Individual user profiles boost vehicle appeal: Just over half (55%) of vehicle owners are creating individual user profiles in their vehicle—features that allow personalization of settings such as seat position and climate control. The study reveals that premium vehicle owners are adopting this feature at twice the rate of mass market owners, and that when profiles are set up, owners across both segments cite increased emotional satisfaction. 

Highest-Ranking Brands

Porsche ranks highest among premium brands for a second consecutive year, with a score of 890. Land Rover (886) ranks second and BMW (881) ranks third.

MINI ranks highest among mass market brands for a second consecutive year, with a score of 876. Dodge (868) ranks second and GMC (852) ranks third.

Model-Level APEAL Awards

The corporation receiving the most model-level awards (for models ranking highest in their respective segment) is BMW AG (five segment awards and highest-ranking model), followed by Hyundai Motor Group (four segment awards), and Ford Motor Company and Volkswagen AG, each with three segment awards.

The complete list of award recipients is:

BMW AG: BMW X6, BMW X1, BMW 4 Series, BMW X4 and MINI Countryman

Hyundai Motor Group: Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Santa Cruz, Kia K4 and Kia K5

Ford Motor Company: Ford Super Duty, Ford Mustang and Lincoln Nautilus 

Volkswagen AG: Volkswagen ID.Buzz, Porsche Taycan and Porsche 911

General Motors Company: Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Hummer EV

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd: Nissan Rogue and Nissan Murano 

Jaguar Land Rover Limited: Land Rover Range Rover 

Toyota Motor Corporation: Lexus ES

Stellantis NV: Dodge Durango  

BMW X6 is the highest-ranking individual model. Kia K5 receives a model-level award for a fifth consecutive year. BMW X4, MINI Countryman, Land Rover Range Rover and Porsche Taycan each receive model-level awards for a third consecutive year. Hyundai Sante Fe and Ford Super Duty each receive model-level awards for a second consecutive year. 

The 2025 U.S. APEAL Study is based on responses from 92,964 owners of new 2025 model-year vehicles who were surveyed after 90 days of ownership. The study was fielded from June 2024 through May 2025 based on vehicles registered from March 2024 through February 2025.

For more information about the U.S. APEAL Study, visit https://www.jdpower.com/business/us-automotive-performance-execution-and-layout-apeal-study.

About JD Power
JD Power is a global leader in automotive data and analytics, and provides industry intelligence, consumer insights and advisory solutions to the automotive industry and selected non-automotive industries. JD Power leverages its extensive proprietary datasets and software capabilities combined with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to help its clients optimize business performance.

JD Power was founded in 1968 and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit jdpower.com/business. The JD Power auto-shopping tool can be found at jdpower.com.

Media Relations Contacts
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]
Shane Smith; East Coast; 424-903-3665; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: https://www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info

 

New-Vehicle Retail Sales Rise 14.7% in April as Shoppers Buy in Advance of Potential Price Increases

2025-04-23

jillian.breska

The Total Sales Forecast

Total new-vehicle sales for April 2025, including retail and non-retail transactions, are projected to reach 1,519,900, a 10.5% increase from April 2024 according to a joint forecast from JD Power and GlobalData. April 2025 has 26 selling days, one more than April 2024. Comparing the same sales volume without adjusting for the number of selling days translates to an increase of 14.9% from 2024.

The seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) for total new-vehicle sales is expected to be 17.9 million units, up 1.9 million units from April 2024. 

The Retail Sales Forecast

New-vehicle retail sales for April 2025 are expected to increase from a year ago. Retail sales of new vehicles are expected to reach 1,284,800, a 14.7% increase from April 2024. Comparing the same sales volume without adjusting for the number of selling days translates to an increase of 19.3% from 2024.

The Takeaways

Thomas King, president of the data and analytics division at JD Power:
“April results are dominated by the prospect of future vehicle price increases due to tariffs.   Beginning at the end of March, and continuing through April, consumers have been accelerating their vehicle purchases under the expectation that prices will rise soon. In fact, an extra 83,000 sales in March and 139,000 in April have occurred due to accelerated vehicle purchases.

“However, as multiple manufacturers have committed to keep MSRPs stable through the early summer months, and uncertainty about tariffs in general persists, the rush to dealer showrooms has slowed significantly. In the first week of April, the sales pace was 28% above normal levels, but by the third week, sales were just 6% above normal. In showrooms, shoppers are finding deals that are comparable to recent months, although discounts from manufacturers and dealers have moderated slightly.”

The average manufacturer incentive spend per vehicle is on track to reach $2,808, a decrease of $260 from March, but an increase of $209 from a year ago.  Expressed as a percentage of MSRP, incentive spending is currently at 5.6%, an increase of 0.3 percentage points from a year ago. 

“Unsurprisingly, given the rush to showrooms, dealers are offering slightly smaller discounts which is resulting in higher retailer profits. Total retailer profit per unit—which includes vehicle gross plus finance and insurance income—is expected to be $2,525, similar to April 2024 but up $361 from March. Total aggregate retailer profit from new-vehicle sales for this month is projected to be $3.1 billion, up 18.8% from April 2024.

“The moderation of discounting from manufacturers and dealers means the average transaction price for new vehicles has risen. The average new-vehicle retail transaction price in April is expected to reach $45,764, up $887 from April 2024, and up $975 from March.

“The strong sales pace, combined with high average transaction prices mean consumers will spend more money buying new vehicles this month than any other April on record—and the third highest of any month on record. Consumers are on track to spend nearly $55.8 billion on new vehicles this month—21.2% higher than a year ago.”

Higher prices translate to higher monthly loan payments. Average monthly finance payments in April are on track to reach $742, an increase of $19 from April 2024, and the highest on record for the month of April. The average interest rate for new-vehicle loans is 6.80%, a nominal 18 basis point decrease from a year ago.

“Fleet sales are projected to decline 7.8% from a year ago, as manufacturers continue to prioritize retail buyers over the historically less profitable fleet channel.

“The average used-vehicle price is trending towards $28,725, up $200 from a year ago. This reflects the combination of reduced supply of recent model-year used vehicles—due to lower new-vehicle production during the pandemic—fewer lease maturities and manufacturers moderating discounts. An increase in used-vehicle prices means that average trade-in equity is expected to rise slightly, up $328 year over year to $8,313. Currently, 23.3% of trade-ins carry negative equity—a decrease of 0.2 percentage points from April 2024. 

“The strong volume and value of vehicles sold in April will be difficult for the industry to maintain. The potential for price increases in the coming months is meaningful and, if realized, will reduce the industry’s sales pace. Furthermore, the large number of buyers who purchased in late March and April instead of later in the year will create a further sales headwind in the coming months.

“However, the timing and magnitude of these effects are intrinsically linked to tariffs—which remain fluid—and the subsequent response of manufacturers to those tariffs. The cost effect of tariffs that are currently in place or announced vary significantly between manufacturers, models and vehicle segments. Given this variation, coupled with the highly competitive nature of the auto industry, it is likely that tariff-related price increases will take several months to fully manifest themselves.

Sales & SAAR Comparison

U.S. New Vehicle	April 20251, 2	March 2025	April 2024
Retail Sales	1,284,826 units  (14.7% higher than April 2024)2	1,350,882 units	1,077,405 units
Total Sales	1,519,897 units (10.5% higher than April 2024)2	1,611,159 units	1,322,540 units
Retail SAAR	15.6 million units	15.0 million units	13.5 million units
Total SAAR	17.9 million units	17.8 million units	16.0 million units

¹ Figures cited for April 2025 are forecasted based on the first 17 selling days of the month.
² April 2025 has 26 selling days, one more than April 2024. 

The Details

• Fleet sales are expected to total 235,071 units in April, down 7.8% from April 2024. Fleet volume is expected to account for 15.5% of total light-vehicle sales, down 3.1 percentage points from a year ago.
• Internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles are projected to account for 76.1% of new-vehicle retail sales, a decrease of 3.8 percentage points from a year ago. Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) sales are expected to reach 12.6%, an increase of 2.9 percentage points from a year ago. Plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) are on pace to make up 2.3% of sales, gaining 0.4 percentage points from last April, while electric vehicles (EV) are expected to account for 8.7% of sales, up 0.2 percentage points from a year ago.
• U.S. final assembly vehicles are expected to make up 51.8% of sales in April, unchanged from a year ago.
• Trucks/SUVs are on pace to account for 82.1% of new-vehicle retail sales, up 2.5 percentage points from April 2024.
• Retail inventory levels are currently at 2.15 million units, a 21.4% increase from April 2024.
• The industry’s inventory days of supply is at 63 days in April, up 7 days from a year ago.
• 59.5% of sales had positive vehicle gross, up 0.3 percentage points from a year ago.
• The average new-vehicle retail transaction price in April is expected to reach $45,764, up $887 from April 2024. Transaction price as a percentage of MSRP held steady at 91.3%, which is flat from a year ago.
• Retail buyers are on pace to spend $55.8 billion on new vehicles, up $9.8 billion from April 2024.
• Average incentive spending per unit in April is expected to reach $2,808, up $209 from April 2024. Spending as a percentage of the average MSRP is expected to increase to 5.6%, up 0.3 percentage points from April 2024.
• Average incentive spending per unit on trucks/SUVs in March is expected to be $2,936, up $228 from a year ago, while the average spending on cars is expected to be $2,186, up $17 from a year ago.
• Leasing is expected to account for 20.6% of sales this month, down 3.2 percentage points from a year ago.
• The average time a new vehicle remains in the dealer’s possession before sale is expected to be 52 days in April, up from 8 days a year ago.
• 33.6% of vehicles sold in less than 10 days in April, down 0.3 percentage points from a year ago.
• Average monthly finance payments are on pace to be $742, up $19 from April 2024. The average interest rate for new-vehicle loans is expected to be 6.80%, down 0.18 percentage points from a year ago.
• So far in April, average used-vehicle retail prices are $28,725, up $200 from a year ago. Trade-in equity is trending towards $8,313, which is up $328 from a year ago.
• Currently, 23.3% of trade-ins carry negative equity—a decrease of 0.2 percentage points from April 2024.

EV Outlook

Elizabeth Krear, vice president of the electric vehicle practice at JD Power:
“As the auto industry navigates the potential effects of tariffs, the $7,500 federal EV tax incentive remains in place—for now. This credit, and a myriad of incentives offered by states, local governments and utilities, give EVs a distinct value proposition right now. Coupled with lower operating costs make the present time a sweet spot, one might say, for those looking to buy an electric vehicle.

“There are more than 60 EV models on the market today. It’s notable that 79% of premium vehicle shoppers and 58% of mass market vehicle shoppers have an EV alternative that meets their buying preferences, based on segment, brand and price. EV market coverage has grown 50% since a year ago and EV inventory is at a healthy 6.5% of the industry. To put it mildly, there’s a lot of consumer choice!

“EV sales growth continues during uncertainty over EV regulations. In Q1 2025, EV retail share grew 1.5 percentage points to 9.5% from Q1 2024. The growth can be attributed to the increase in EV selection from major brands in popular segments, lower pricing and high appeal among current EV owners.”

Global Sales Outlook

David Oakley, manager, Americas vehicle sales forecasts at GlobalData:
“March global light-vehicle sales increased 7.6% year over year to 8.6 million units, as many regions performed strongly. The selling rate for March finished at 90.7 million units. This represented an increase from an upwardly revised rate of 87.5 million units in February.

“Global growth in March was driven chiefly by year-over-year sales gains in North and South America, China and Japan. In the United States, sales grew 11.2% due to the clear pull-forward effect, as consumers sought to make purchases before prices reflected tariffs. Meanwhile in China, government incentives focused on New Energy Vehicles helped support the market, and sales rose 11.3%. Activity was more sedate in Western Europe, where sales increased only 0.6% year over year.

“April sales are expected to increase just under 5% from April 2024. As most manufacturers are keeping U.S. pricing unchanged for now—or even offering discounts—U.S. sales are expected to be robust. We forecast China to see year-over-year growth, though Japan should see only modest gains. The global selling rate is expected to reach 90.6 million units, up from a rate of 87.2 million units in April 2024.

“The emerging trade war has the potential to slow economic growth globally, affecting auto sales. Although the full details are yet to emerge—and a recent 90-day pause in U.S. reciprocal tariffs offers some hope that the worst-case scenario could be averted—we have cut our global 2025 sales forecast to 89.5 million units, up 0.8% from 2024 volumes.”

Media Relations Contacts
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info

About GlobalData https://www.globaldata.com/

 

Aftermarket Service Providers Make Strides in Satisfaction but Still Face Technology and Communication Gaps, JD Power Finds

2025-04-28

jillian.breska

TROY, Mich.: 29 April 2025 — Satisfaction continues to improve across all three segments examined in the JD Power 2025 U.S. Aftermarket Service Index (ASI) Study,SM released today. Tire replacement sees the greatest improvement (+19 points on a 1,000-point scale), followed by quick oil change (+17) and full-service maintenance and repair (+15). Improved service completion time and greater perceived fairness of charges are key factors driving the boosts in satisfaction.

“The aftermarket service industry is gradually returning to normal following major disruptions caused by the pandemic, including limited technician availability,” said Leonard Martin, director of automotive retail at JD Power. “However, there is still room for improvement, especially in areas like facility cleanliness; post-service follow-up to ensure work was performed satisfactorily; and promptly attending to customers upon arrival. Across all three segments in the study, completion rates for these three key performance indicators remain below 50%. By improving these rates, aftermarket service providers have a strong opportunity to buoy customer satisfaction.”

Following are some key findings of the 2025 study: 

• Aftermarket service providers lag when it comes to use of technology: Compared with aftermarket providers, franchised dealerships continue to garner higher levels of customer trust for the use of technology to make service more efficient—and the gap has become more pronounced during the past year. Scores from dealership customers in this area average 6.161¹ (on a 7-point scale), compared with scores from tire replacement customers (5.98); full-service maintenance and repair customers (5.97); and quick oil change customers (5.92). Similarly, aftermarket providers also trail dealerships in customer trust when it comes to performing complex vehicle repairs.
• Customers prefer text message updates—but are more likely to receive phone calls: More than half (56%) of tire replacement customers and quick oil change customers cite text messages as their preferred method of work update communication, but some say they received phone calls instead. When customers who indicate a preference for text messaging receive texts, their overall satisfaction score is 854 and satisfaction with their advisor is 861. These scores are, respectively, 34 and 31 points above the study averages in these areas.
• Photo and video multi-point inspection (MPI) results being used more frequently: In all three segments, most customers receive an MPI along with their vehicle service, but aftermarket providers are less likely to provide an accompanying picture or video. Service providers who do provide this digital documentation have a much easier time getting customers to accept additional work recommendations. For instance, among full-service maintenance and repair customers who receive an MPI with photo/video, 41% have the recommended work done. Without photo/video, only 17% of customers who receive an MPI choose to have additional work done.
• Less common amenities have greatest effect on satisfaction: Across all three segments, charging stations for computers/phones and complimentary snacks/beverages are the most appreciated service facility amenities, yet they are among the least frequently offered. Providing charging stations has the greatest effect on service facility satisfaction among quick oil change customers (+101 points), while offering complimentary snacks/beverages is most influential on satisfaction among tire replacement customers (+103 points).

Study Rankings

Christian Brothers Automotive ranks highest in the full-service maintenance and repair segment for a sixth consecutive year, with a score of 855. Meineke Car Care Centers (843) ranks second and Goodyear Auto Service (828) ranks third. 

Express Oil Change and Tire Engineers ranks highest in the quick oil change segment for a third consecutive year, with a score of 845. Take 5 (826) ranks second and Jiffy Lube (819) ranks third.

Midas ranks highest in the tire replacement segment with a score of 863. Jiffy Lube (857) ranks second and Meineke Car Care Centers (856) ranks third. 

The U.S. Aftermarket Service Index (ASI) Study, now in its sixth year, measures customer satisfaction with aftermarket service facilities, providing a numerical index ranking of the highest-performing facilities in the U.S. aftermarket. Performance in three segments—full-service maintenance and repair; quick oil change; and tire replacement—is based on the combined scores for seven factors that comprise the vehicle owner service experience. These factors are (in alphabetical order): ease of scheduling/getting vehicle in for service; fairness of charges; service advisor courtesy; service advisor performance; service facility; time to complete service; and quality of work.

The 2025 study is based on responses from 10,348 vehicle owners. Survey data collection was conducted online from February through April 2025. Survey respondents were initially selected from online consumer panels. Beginning in 2025, respondents who indicated in the JD Power 2025 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study^SM that they had taken their vehicle to an aftermarket provider were asked ASI questions within that survey experience. The data they provided is included in this year’s ASI study.

For more information about the U.S. Aftermarket Service Index (ASI) Study, visit https://www.jdpower.com/business/automotive/us-aftermarket-service-index-asi-study.

About JD Power
JD Power is a global leader in automotive data and analytics, and provides industry intelligence, consumer insights and advisory solutions to the automotive industry and selected non-automotive industries. JD Power leverages its extensive proprietary datasets and software capabilities combined with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to help its clients optimize business performance.

JD Power was founded in 1968 and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. The JD Power auto-shopping tool can be found at JDPower.com.

Media Relations Contacts
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]
Shane Smith; East Coast; 424-903-3665; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: https://www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info

¹JD Power 2025 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study^SM

 

EV Purchase Consideration Holds Steady amid Market Uncertainty, JD Power Finds 

2025-05-13

jillian.breska

TROY, Mich.: 15 May 2025 — Despite a cloud of uncertainty around future EV interest and potential economic headwinds hanging over the automotive industry, consumer demand for electric vehicles (EVs) has remained stable, according to the JD Power 2025 U.S. Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) Study,^SM  released today. The study reveals that 24% of vehicle shoppers say they are “very likely” to consider purchasing an EV and 35% say they are “somewhat likely,” both of which remain unchanged from a year ago.  

“Despite the market volatility, EVs have found a solid ground for consumer consideration,” said Brent Gruber, executive director of the EV practice at JD Power. “To further capitalize on that interest and spur adoption moving forward, the industry needs to have products that meet consumer needs and wants at prices that are affordable. Additionally, the industry should better educate consumers about EV ownership to ease concerns—many of which, such as those related to public charging, are less problematic than they might seem when it comes to actually owning an EV.”

Following are some key findings of the 2025 study: 

• EV customers active in cross-shopping: EV shoppers who say they are “very likely” to consider an EV cross-shop an average of 2.9 brands, while those who say they are “somewhat likely” shop an average of 2.8 brands. This is in alignment with the JD Power 2024 U.S. Sales Satisfaction Index Study, ^SM which found EV buyers shopped 3.0 different dealer brands compared to 2.5 for gas-powered vehicle shoppers. “As more EV options come to market, this should serve as an encouraging sign for automakers because it’s an opportunity for them to gain a foothold and pull shoppers from outside their brands. This year’s study results also show that EV shoppers consider products from mass market and premium brands alike, highlighting the opportunity to capture consumer interest with brands or products that shoppers may not have otherwise considered,” Gruber said.
• Purchase price and cost of ownership concerns decline, while charging concerns persist: Charging station availability remains the top concern, with 52% of shoppers citing it as a reason for rejecting EVs. The continuing concern with charging, coupled with flattening overall EV interest, points to a lack of progress in consumer education on these issues. However, while consumer rejection due to purchase price has dropped 4 percentage points year over year to 43%, concern with cost of ownership has dropped 2 percentage points to 33%.
• Young and higher-income shoppers show most interest but rarely overlap: Only 17% of consumers who are in the 25-49 age range have an annual income of over $100,000. “It’s an interesting dichotomy because younger consumers are the most receptive to EVs, but also the least likely to be able to afford them, while older consumers have the financial means but show less interest,” Gruber said. “Much of the recent growth in the EV space has been fueled by products from mass market brands, which demonstrates the pent-up demand for more affordable products.”
• Midwest states least enthusiastic about EVs: When looking at EV consideration by region, the lowest shares of consumers who say they are “very likely” to consider purchasing an EV live in Wisconsin and Kentucky (18% each), Minnesota (17%) and Ohio (16%). This is influenced by several factors, including concerns about EV performance in cold climates and the stronger loyalty of consumers in these regions to traditional automakers.

The U.S. Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) Study, now in its fifth year, is an industry benchmark focusing on gauging fully electric or battery electric vehicle shopper consideration. Study content includes overall EV consideration by geography; demographics; vehicle experience and use; lifestyle; and psychographics. It also includes model-level consideration details such as “why buy” findings and analysis of reasons for EV rejection. This year’s study measures responses from 8,164 consumers who intend to buy or lease a new vehicle in the next 12 months and was fielded from January through April 2025.

For more information about the U.S. Electric Vehicle Consideration (EVC) Study, visit https://www.jdpower.com/business/automotive/electric-vehicle-consideration-study.

About JD Power
JD Power is a global leader in automotive data and analytics, and provides industry intelligence, consumer insights and advisory solutions to the automotive industry and selected non-automotive industries. JD Power leverages its extensive proprietary datasets and software capabilities combined with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to help its clients optimize business performance.

JD Power was founded in 1968 and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit jdpower.com/business. The JD Power auto-shopping tool can be found at jdpower.com.

Media Relations Contacts
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]
Shane Smith; East Coast; 424-903-3665; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: https://www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info

 

JD Power Names Joshua Peirez New CEO

2025-05-16

jillian.breska

TROY, Mich.: 16 May 2025 — JD Power today announced that Joshua Peirez will assume the role of President and CEO of JD Power, guiding the company in its next phase of growth as a global data, analytics and software leader. Dave Habiger, who has served as JD Power President and CEO since 2018, has been appointed Vice Chairman and will assist Peirez through the transition.

A veteran data-driven technology company leader, Peirez joins JD Power from Sterling Check Corp., a global provider of technology-enabled background and identity verification services, where he served as CEO and Director beginning in 2018. Peirez played an instrumental role in driving the company’s impressive growth through its initial public offering in 2021 and its combination with First Advantage Corporation in 2024.

JD Power is in its fifth consecutive year of strong growth, continuing its focus on working with clients to address their most important challenges. Over the past seven years, under Habiger’s leadership, JD Power has successfully transformed from a benchmarking company to a leading provider of data, analytics and decisioning software in the automotive segment and other key industries. During this time, the company tripled its size and substantially expanded its proprietary automotive datasets and has created a vast network of thousands of talented employees across the globe. 

“I am enormously proud of the trajectory we are on and am excited for Josh to lead the company in its next phase of growth,” said Habiger. “We recognized early on that robust, trusted data and proven insights would be the key for our customers to unlock value from JD Power’s predictive analytics and AI-powered solutions. We’ve never been better positioned to capitalize on our industry leadership, with Josh having the ideal background to drive continued growth.”

“JD Power is a world-renowned brand that has developed some of the most powerful datasets, analytics capabilities and software solutions used in the automotive industry today. The company also has deep industry intelligence and a team of experts who understand the intricacies of the key industries in the automotive ecosystem,” said Peirez. “I look forward to building on the amazing company Dave and his team have developed to fuel its continued expansion and deepen its value to our customer base.”

Prior to his experience at Sterling Check Corp., Peirez served as President and Chief Operating Officer at Dun & Bradstreet, a global provider of business decisioning data and analytics. He joined Dun & Bradstreet following a decade at MasterCard, where he served most recently as Chief Innovation Officer for MasterCard Worldwide. 

About JD Power
JD Power is a global leader in automotive data and analytics, and provides industry intelligence, consumer insights and advisory solutions to the automotive industry and selected non-automotive industries. JD Power leverages its extensive proprietary datasets and software capabilities combined with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to help its clients optimize business performance.

JD Power was founded in 1968 and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. 

Media Relations Contacts
John Roderick; East Coast; 631-584-2200; [email protected] 
Shane Smith; East Coast; 424-903-3665; [email protected]
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info 

 

New-Vehicle Retail Sales Rise 1.1% in May as Tariff-Driven Rush to Showrooms Tapers Off; Consumers Spend Record Amount for May

2025-05-22

jillian.breska

The Total Sales Forecast

Total new-vehicle sales for May 2025, including retail and non-retail transactions, are projected to reach 1,489,800, which is flat from May 2024 according to a joint forecast from JD Power and GlobalData. May 2025 has 27 selling days, one more than May 2024. Comparing the same sales volume without adjusting for the number of selling days translates to an increase of 3.4% from 2024.

The seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) for total new-vehicle sales is expected to be 15.6 million units, down 0.1 million units from May 2024. 

The Retail Sales Forecast

New-vehicle retail sales for May 2025 are projected to reach 1,235,700, a 1.1% increase from May 2024. Comparing the same sales volume without adjusting for the number of selling days translates to an increase of 5.0% from 2024.

The Takeaways

Thomas King, president of the data and analytics division at JD Power:
“Following the surge in vehicle purchases in March and April, driven by the fear of tariff-related price increases, May sales reflect a more tempered market. While many May sales were made by shoppers who accelerated their purchases, the sales benefit is being muted by the payback from shoppers who purchased in March and April instead of May.

“In March and April, approximately 149,000 extra vehicles were sold simply due to buyers re-timing their purchases on the expectation of significant future price increases. These re-timed sales will present a headwind to the industry sales pace for the balance of this year. Despite this effect, retail demand for new vehicles remains robust, with retail sales expected to increase 1.1% over a year ago. 

“The threat of higher vehicle prices has yet to materialize in a meaningful way. Most manufacturers have made explicit commitments to maintain stable vehicle prices for the near-term. The consumer rush to showrooms in March and April did drive prices slightly higher, but the return to a more typical sales pace in May has led to a stabilization of average prices. The average new-vehicle retail transaction price in May is expected to reach $45,462, up $649 or 1.4% from May 2024, but down $592 or 1.3% from April.”

In showrooms, shoppers are still finding competitive deals, although the value of discounts from manufacturers has fallen slightly. The average manufacturer incentive per vehicle is on track to reach $2,563, a decrease of $200 from April, and a decrease of $143 from a year ago.  Expressed as a percentage of MSRP, incentive spending is currently at 5.1%, a decrease of 0.3 percentage points from a year ago.

A similar dynamic exists with retailer profitability, which is slightly elevated but showing signs of normalization. Total retailer profit per unit—which includes vehicle gross plus finance and insurance income—is expected to be $2,502, up $98 from May 2024, but down $29 from April. Total aggregate retailer profit from new-vehicle sales for this month is projected to be $3.0 billion, up 9.8% from May 2024. 

“The strong sales pace, combined with high average transaction prices mean consumers will spend more money buying new vehicles this month than any other May on record—and the fourth highest of any month on record. Consumers are on track to spend nearly $53.8 billion on new vehicles this month—7.0% higher than a year ago.”

Higher prices translate to higher monthly loan payments. Average monthly finance payments in April are on track to reach $748, an increase of $21 from May 2024, and the highest on record for the month of May. The average interest rate for new-vehicle loans is 6.93%, a nominal 10 basis point decrease from a year ago.

“Fleet sales are projected to decline 7.0% from a year ago, as manufacturers continue to prioritize retail buyers over the historically less profitable fleet channel. 

“The average used-vehicle price is trending towards $29,168, up $130 from a year ago. This reflects the combination of reduced supply of recent model-year used vehicles—due to lower new-vehicle production during the pandemic—fewer lease maturities and manufacturers moderating discounts. An increase in used-vehicle prices means that average trade-in equity is rising, up $415 year over year to $8,292.  Despite higher used-vehicle prices, the number of new-vehicle buyers with negative equity on their trade-in is expected to reach 24.4%—an increase of 0.5 percentage points from May 2024. 

“Looking forward, the industry sales pace faces challenges on a number of fronts. For certain, sales pulled forward into March, April and May will become a meaningful headwind for the balance of the year.

“Less certain are the challenges related to tariffs. The effect of tariffs on the general economy remains ambiguous but, directionally, pose a meaningful risk to vehicle demand.

“Tariffs on imported vehicles and parts will increase costs significantly for many—but not all—manufacturers. For the industry, the current tariffs on imported vehicles and vehicle parts will increase the manufacturers’ cost of the average vehicle by $4,275. However, the tariff effect varies dramatically across manufacturers and also across vehicles within a manufacturer’s portfolio, depending on where those vehicles are produced and where their components are sourced from. Recently announced changes to the tariff structure mean that many domestically produced vehicles face a negligible increase in costs, while imported vehicles are incurring increases of up to 25%.

“While higher production costs will ultimately lead to higher prices on many vehicles, the fact that prices for consumers remain largely status-quo—for now—should not be surprising. The highly competitive nature of the auto industry, coupled with the fact that many vehicles currently in dealer inventory were produced before tariffs took effect, mean that manufacturers are taking a cautious approach to their pricing strategies. The appropriateness of this cautious approach is further reinforced by ongoing uncertainty regarding the structure of tariffs, particularly for imported vehicles. The resolution of trade negotiations with one country, resulting in significantly reduced import tariffs, has provided some optimism. To the extent that similar agreements are made with other countries, cost increases and the associated pressure to raise prices could be significantly diminished.

“The net of these dynamics is that automakers’ pricing responses are likely to evolve gradually in the coming months, with each automaker facing unique circumstances in cost and competitive positioning. In general, prices are expected to rise, but by an amount significantly below that which is implied by the tariffs—and not at all on some models. Some pricing actions are anticipated to occur in June and July, but it is likely that it will be year-end before go-forward pricing fully materializes.”

Sales & SAAR Comparison

U.S. New Vehicle	May 20251, 2	April 2025	May 2024
Retail Sales	1,235,713 units  (1.1% higher than May 2024)2	1,223,677 units	1,177,305 units
Total Sales	1,489,782 units (0.4% lower than May 2024)2	1,472,919 units	1,440,328 units
Retail SAAR	13.0 million units	14.9 million units	12.9 million units
Total SAAR	15.6 million units	17.6 million units	15.7 million units

¹ Figures cited for May 2025 are forecasted based on the first 15 selling days of the month.
² May 2025 has 27 selling days, one more than May 2024. 

The Details

• Fleet sales are expected to total 254,069 units in May, down 7.0% from May 2024. Fleet volume is expected to account for 17.1% of total light-vehicle sales, down 1.2 percentage points from a year ago.
• Internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles are projected to account for 74.9% of new-vehicle retail sales, a decrease of 4.1 percentage points from a year ago. Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) sales are expected to reach 14.8%, an increase of 4.3 percentage points from a year ago. Plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) are on pace to make up 2.1% of sales, up 0.1 percentage points from May 2024, while electric vehicles (EV) are expected to account for 8.1% of sales, down 0.4 percentage points.
• U.S. final assembly vehicles are expected to make up 53.6% of sales in May, up 1.4 percentage points from a year ago.
• Trucks/SUVs are on pace to account for 81.9% of new-vehicle retail sales, up 1.8 percentage points from May 2024.
• Retail inventory levels are currently at 2.13 million units, a 23.0% increase from May 2024.
• The industry’s inventory days of supply is 57 days in May, up 7 days from a year ago.
• 57.5% of sales had positive vehicle gross, up 0.2 percentage points from a year ago.
• The average new-vehicle retail transaction price in May is expected to reach $45,462,up $649 from May 2024. Transaction price as a percentage of MSRP increased to 91.4%, up 0.4 percentage points from a year ago.
• Retail buyers are on pace to spend $53.8 billion on new vehicles, up $3.5 billion from May 2024.
• Average incentive spending per unit in May is expected to fall to $2,536, down $143 from May 2024. Spending as a percentage of the average MSRP is expected to decrease to 5.1%, down 0.3 percentage points from May 2024.
• Average incentive spending per unit on trucks/SUVs in May is expected to be $2,670, down $87 from a year ago, while the average spending on cars is expected to be $1,948, down $417 from a year ago.
• Leasing is expected to account for 20.7% of sales this month, down 3.3 percentage points from a year ago.
• The average time a new vehicle remains in the dealer’s possession before sale is expected to be 49 days in May, up from 45 days a year ago.
• 34.5% of vehicles sold in less than 10 days in May, up 1.2 percentage points from a year ago.
• Average monthly finance payments are on pace to be $748, up $21 from May 2024. The average interest rate for new-vehicle loans is expected to be 6.93%, down 0.10 percentage points from a year ago.
• So far in May, average used-vehicle retail prices are $29,168, up $130 from a year ago. Trade-in equity is trending towards $8,292, which is up $415 from a year ago.
• 24.4% of trade-ins are expected to carry negative equity this month—an increase of 0.5 percentage points from May 2024.

EV Outlook

Tyson Jominy, senior vice president of data and analytics at JD Power:
“The electric vehicle segment is facing a notable downturn this month. Its share of retail sales has declined 0.5 percentage points year over year, marking the weakest performance since February 2024 and effectively erasing nearly two years of growth.

“However, the broader electrification trend tells a more nuanced story. Electrified vehicle sales—including hybrids and plug-in hybrids—have surged to 25% of total industry retail sales, driven largely by strategic shifts from automakers like Toyota and Honda. These manufacturers are aggressively transitioning their lineups toward hybrid models, contributing to an increase of 4.1 percentage points in overall electrification share from a year ago. As an example, the 2026 model-year Toyota RAV4 unveiled this week will be offered exclusively as a hybrid or a high-performance plug-in hybrid. This signals a deeper commitment to hybridization, even as industry plug-in hybrid sales remain flat at just 2% of the market.”

Global Sales Outlook

David Oakley, manager, Americas vehicle sales forecasts at GlobalData:
“Global light-vehicle sales in April increased 6.0% year over year to 7.3 million units, with most regions showing year-over-year growth. The selling rate for April finished at 91.8 million units, up from a downwardly revised result of 90.4 million units in March.

“North America, China and Japan were the main contributors to year-over-year sales increases in April. The pull-forward effect that was observed in both the United States and Canada in March, as consumers sought to avoid price hikes due to tariffs, was repeated to some extent in April, with sales increasing 11.3% year over year in the United States and 7.8% in Canada. In China, continued government subsidies helped boost the market, particularly for new energy vehicles, with overall volumes growing 12.0%. Sales fell 2.2% in Western Europe amid economic concerns.

“May sales are expected to increase 4.6% from May 2024. U.S. sales are likely to see robust growth as there is still a window—albeit a closing one—for customers to make purchases before the effect of tariffs is reflected in higher pricing. China and Japan are both expected to see year-over-year growth, while the economic recovery in Argentina and favorable calendar effects in Brazil should enable an expansion in sales in South America. The global selling rate is projected to reach 90.1 million units, up from a rate of 87.6 million units in May 2024.

“Some of the worst fears regarding a global trade war have eased in recent weeks thanks to the announcement of lower tariffs between the United States and China for at least 90 days. Still, there are many potential pitfalls due to the unpredictable nature of U.S. trade policy and economic risks. Out 2025 global sales forecast stands at 89.8 million units, up 1.1% on 2024 volumes.”

Media Relations Contacts
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info

About GlobalData https://www.globaldata.com/

 

Vehicle Dependability Still Suffering Due to Pandemic Aftershocks, JD Power Finds

2025-02-12

jillian.breska

TROY, Mich.: 13 Feb. 2025 — Vehicle problems after three years of ownership have reached the highest level since 2009, according to the JD Power 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study^SM (VDS), released today. Compared with 2024 results, the industry experiences a 6% increase in problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), which is 12 PP100 worse than a year ago, resulting in an industry average of 202 PP100. The rise in problems is attributable to mass market brands experiencing a 16 PP100 increase related in part to software defects. A lower score indicates higher vehicle quality.

The results of this year’s study are not unexpected given the results of the JD Power 2022 Initial Quality Study,^SM which tracked problems early in the ownership period of 2022 model-year vehicles. That year, initial vehicle quality notably declined from 2021, and problems also reached a record high. Three years later, the issues continue to be problematic for owners, according to findings of the 2025 VDS.

“While the increase in problems this year may be a thorn in the side of automakers and owners, it’s important to remember that today’s three-year-old vehicles were built during a time when the industry was grappling with major disruptions,” said Jason Norton, director of auto benchmarking at JD Power. “Supply chain issues, record-high vehicle prices, and personnel disruption in the wake of the pandemic were problematic.”

The study, now in its 36^th year, covers 184 specific problem areas across nine major vehicle categories: climate; driving assistance; driving experience; exterior; features/controls/displays; infotainment; interior; powertrain; and seats.

Following are some key findings of the 2025 study:

• Problems related to software defects increase: Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity remains the top problem in the industry for a second consecutive year, increasing to 8.4 PP100 from 6.3 PP100 in 2024. Built-in Bluetooth systems (4.6 PP100) and Wi-Fi (2.4 PP100) are also among the top problems related to software defects this year. While software defects comprise only 9% of the total problems owners experience, as vehicles become more software-reliant, this risk becomes more prominent.
• Personal device integration falls short: Of the top 10 problems industry wide, half are related to smartphone integration, usage or connectivity. Keeping pace with the rate of change in smartphone technology is a challenge for the auto industry. Over-the-air (OTA) updates provide automakers the opportunity to overcome out-of-date software, with 36% of owners indicating they performed an OTA on their vehicle during the first three years of ownership. However, only 30% of these owners say there was an improvement after the update, while 56% of owners say there was no noticeable improvement.
• Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) get better as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) get worse: BEVs have improved 33 PP100 year over year, while PHEVs have declined 26 PP100, making PHEVs the most problematic of all vehicle fuel types. Hybrid vehicles experience the fewest problems (199 PP100), followed by gas-powered vehicles (200 PP100); BEVs (223 PP100); diesel (233 PP100); and PHEVs (242 PP100). The gap between gas-powered vehicles and BEVs has narrowed significantly this year.
• New model launches struggle: Of the 27 new models that launched in the 2022 model year, only four have performed better than their segment average for dependability in the 2025 VDS. New models launched in 2022 average 241 PP100 in the 2025 VDS, whereas carryover models have 196 PP100 and perform better in all nine vehicle categories.

Highest-Ranked Brands 

Lexus ranks highest overall in vehicle dependability for a third consecutive year, with a score of 140 PP100. Among premium brands, Cadillac (169 PP100) ranks second and Porsche (186 PP100) ranks third.

Buick ranks highest in the mass market segment, with a score of 143 PP100. Mazda (161 PP100) ranks second and Toyota (162 PP100) ranks third. 

Toyota Motor Corporation has the top overall model in the study, Toyota Avalon. Toyota Motor Corporation and General Motors Company receive the most model-level awards with six each. Model-level award recipients for Toyota Motor Corporation are Lexus GX, Toyota Camry, Toyota Corolla, Toyota RAV4, Toyota Sienna, and Toyota Tacoma. Model-level award recipients for General Motors Company are Cadillac XT6, Chevrolet Corvette, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Silverado HD, Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Acadia. Nissan Motor Co, Ltd., receives two model-level awards for Nissan Kicks and Nissan Murano.

The 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study is based on responses from 34,175 original owners of 2022 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership. The study was fielded from August through November 2024.

To learn more about the U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, visit https://www.jdpower.com/business/automotive/us-vehicle-dependability-study.

About JD Power
JD Power is a global leader in automotive data and analytics, and provides industry intelligence, consumer insights and advisory solutions to the automotive industry and selected non-automotive industries. JD Power leverages its extensive proprietary datasets and software capabilities combined with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to help its clients optimize business performance.

JD Power was founded in 1968 and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. The JD Power auto-shopping tool can be found at JDPower.com.

Media Relations Contacts
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]
Shane Smith; East Coast; 424-903-3665; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: http://www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info

 

New-Vehicle Retail Sales Expected to Rise 8.1% While Consumer Spending Expected to Set a Monthly Record for February   

2025-02-20

jillian.breska

The Total Sales Forecast

Total new-vehicle sales for February 2025, including retail and non-retail transactions, are projected to reach 1,243,700, a 3.5% increase from February 2024 according to a joint forecast from JD Power and GlobalData. February 2025 has 24 selling days, one fewer than February 2024. Comparing the same sales volume without adjusting for the number of selling days translates to a decrease of 0.6% from 2024.

The seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) for total new-vehicle sales is expected to be 16.6 million units, up 0.3 million units from February 2024.  

The Retail Sales Forecast

New-vehicle retail sales for February 2025 are expected to increase from a year ago. Retail sales of new vehicles are expected to reach 1,010,000, an 8.1% increase from February 2024. Comparing the same sales volume without adjusting for the number of selling days translates to an increase of 3.8% from 2024.

The Takeaways

Thomas King, president of the data and analytics division at JD Power:
“Consumer demand for new vehicles continues to exhibit strength. February marks the fifth consecutive month of year-over-year retail sales growth, with an 8.1% increase on a selling day adjusted basis. The strong retail sales pace and resiliently high average transaction prices mean consumers will spend more money buying new vehicles this month than any other February on record.

“While strong retail sales and record consumer expenditure point to a generally healthy market, the industry is not without its challenges. Rising inventory levels on dealer lots and increased competition for new-vehicle buyers is pressuring both manufacturer and retailer profitability, as evidenced by rising discounts from manufacturers and falling profit margins for retailers.

“Also notable is the decline in sales to fleet customers, which are expected to fall 12.5% from February 2024. This means that fleet sales will account for just 18.8% of total light-vehicle sales, down 3.4 percentage points from a year ago. Although the drop in fleet sales is especially notable in the context of rising retail sales, it is driven primarily by manufacturers limiting discounts for fleet buyers. Instead, manufacturers are choosing to focus on historically more profitable retail buyers. Nevertheless, the fleet market remains a significant opportunity to increase sales this year for manufacturers willing to offer more compelling discounts.”

Manufacturer discounts for consumers are continuing to increase. The average incentive spend per vehicle is expected to grow 22.8% from February 2024 and is on track to reach $3,227. Expressed as a percentage of MSRP, incentive spending is currently at 6.5%, an increase of 1.1 percentage point from a year ago.

“Total retailer profit per unit—which includes vehicles gross plus finance and insurance income—is expected to be $2,171, down 11.8% from February 2024. The decline in profits is primarily driven by rising inventory levels and increased competition for new-vehicle buyers. Far fewer vehicles are selling above the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). Thus far in February, only 11.9% of new vehicles have been sold above MSRP, down from 19.2% a year ago.

“Despite rising manufacturer discounts and falling retailer profits, average transaction prices remain high. The average retail transaction price for new vehicles is trending toward $44,619, up $71 (0.2%) from February 2024.”

The combination of sales growth and a small increase in prices means that buyers are on track to spend nearly $42.6 billion on new vehicles this month—2.5% higher than February 2024, and the highest February on record.

“For retailers, the rise in sales is not enough to offset the decline in per unit profits. Total aggregate retailer profit from new-vehicle sales for this month is projected to be $2.1 billion, down 10.1% from February 2024.

“Vehicle affordability remains a challenge for the industry and is the primary reason why the sales pace, while strengthening, has not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Average monthly finance payments this month are on pace to be $738, up $17 from February 2024, and the highest February on record. The average interest rate for new-vehicle loans is expected to be 6.80%, down 3 basis points from a year ago.

“So far in February, used-vehicle retail prices have exhibited strength. The average used-vehicle price is $28,263, up $289 from a year ago. Despite relatively strong used prices, consumers have less equity on their trade-ins. Average trade-in equity is expected to decline $173 from a year ago, trending towards $7,625. Furthermore, the proportion of new-vehicle buyers who have negative equity on their trade-in is increasing. Currently, 25.5% of trade-ins have negative equity, up 2.0 percentage points from February 2024. These trade-in equity dynamics further exacerbate the industry’s affordability challenges, as more consumers must now deal with the double challenge of high new-vehicle prices compounded by negative equity, leading to even higher monthly loan payments.

“Sales volumes in January and February are typically the lowest of the year and are frequently a weak indicator of overall market conditions. However, January and February results are consistent with trends observed in the latter part of 2024, characterized by rising sales driven by increased discounts from both manufacturers and retailers. This pattern is expected to continue into March and beyond. That said, several factors could affect the market in the months ahead, including changes to electric vehicle tax credits, fuel economy regulations and import tariffs. There is considerable uncertainty over whether these changes will materialize and, if so, when they will take effect and how significant the changes will be. In the interim, consumer demand remains strong, as evidenced by total consumer spending on new vehicles in January and February reaching record levels.”

Sales & SAAR Comparison

U.S. New Vehicle	February 20251, 2	January 2025	February 2024
Retail Sales	1,010,029 units  (8.1% higher than February 2024)2	910,650 units	973,177 units
Total Sales	1,243,720 units (3.5% higher than February 2024)2	1,105,457 units	1,251,315 units
Retail SAAR	13.8 million units	13.4 million units	13.0 million units
Total SAAR	16.6 million units	15.6 million units	16.3 million units

¹ Figures cited for February 2025 are forecasted based on the first 13 selling days of the month.
² February 2025 has 24 selling days, one fewer than February 2024.

The Details

• The average new-vehicle retail transaction price in February is expected to reach $44,619, up $71 from February 2024. The highest for any month—$47,329—was set in December 2022.
• Average incentive spending per unit in February is expected to reach $3,227, up $599 from February 2024. Spending as a percentage of the average MSRP is expected to increase to 6.5%, up 1.1 percentage point from February 2024.
• Average incentive spending per unit on trucks/SUVs in February is expected to be $3,393, up $633 from a year ago, while the average spending on cars is expected to be $2,467, up $371 from a year ago. 
• Retail buyers are on pace to spend $42.6 billion on new vehicles, up $1 billion from February 2024.
• Trucks/SUVs are on pace to account for 81.3% of new-vehicle retail sales in February.
• Fleet sales are expected to total 233,691 units in February, down 12.5% from February 2024. Fleet volume is expected to account for 18.8% of total light-vehicle sales, down 3.4 percentage points from a year ago.
• Average interest rates for new-vehicle loans are expected to be 6.80%, down 3 basis points from a year ago.

EV Outlook

Elizabeth Krear, vice president of the electric vehicle practice at JD Power:
“Electric vehicle sales started the year strong, reaching 9.8% monthly retail share in January, which is a 1.4-percentage-point increase from January 2024. The percentage of new-vehicle shoppers who are ‘very likely’ to consider an EV peaked at 29% in January, 3.5 percentage points higher than a year ago.  Furthermore, shoppers who are ‘very unlikely’ to consider an EV reached a low of 18%, the lowest percentage in more than a year. The average transaction price of a battery electric vehicle—including the $7,500 federal tax incentive, when applicable—was just $750 more than the average transaction price of a non-BEV in January.

“These tailwinds, however, are expected to be offset by headwinds as federal tax incentives, infrastructure funding and regulations are expected to change. To what degree remains to be seen. Based on these factors, JD Power projects the pace of EV retail share growth to level off in 2025, holding at a retail share of 9.1%. Longer term, the forecast calls for the EV market to reach 26% retail share by 2030, which is approximately half of the market share the Biden administration targeted.”

Global Sales Outlook

Jeff Schuster, vice president of research, automotive at GlobalData:
“Global light-vehicle sales in January increased 2% year over year to 6.8 million units, continuing the momentum from the close of 2024. The selling rate for January finished at 89.0 million units, a level not seen since January 2018.

“Global sales results in January were mixed, with growth being driven by strength in Japan (+12%), stability in North America (+5%) and a surge in Brazil/Argentina (+22%). China experienced a 1% decline as much of the country did not have access to the incentive extension before the Lunar New Year holiday. Additionally, Western Europe faced political and economic headwinds that caused demand to contract 3%.

“February is expected to increase 7% from February 2024, as China is expected to rebound. The selling rate declining slightly to the 86-88-million-unit level but remains 2-3 million units above the selling rate from a year ago.

“Despite the high level of uncertainty, including the potential for a global trade war, global vehicle sales are showing resilience. The forecast for the year remains 91.6 million units, representing an increase of nearly 4% from 2024. We remain cautiously optimistic yet realistic about the health of the global auto market, as there are significant variables from trade risks to economic pressures that could affect the trajectory of sales in the near term.”

Media Relations Contacts
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info

About GlobalData https://www.globaldata.com/

 

EV Owner Satisfaction Improves but Regulatory, Incentive Uncertainties Create Challenges, JD Power Finds

2025-02-24

jillian.breska

TROY, Mich.: 25 Feb. 2025 — After a decline in overall satisfaction in 2024, owners of both premium and mass market battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are expressing a change of sentiment this year, according to the JD Power 2025 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership Study,^SM released today. Notable, too, is that year-end retail sales data from JD Power shows that BEVs reached a market share of 9.1% in 2024, up from 8.4% in 2023, fueled in part by a growing number of mass market BEV models entering the market. 

This comes as uncertainty surrounds the EV landscape, given the current presidential administration’s signal to eliminate or reduce EV tax incentives and public charging infrastructure funding. Notably, updates to the Inflation Reduction Act more than doubled the amount of owners who indicated they received a federal tax credit/rebate, and more than half of BEV buyers cited tax credits as a reason for purchasing their vehicle, which is among the most influential purchase drivers. As a result, JD Power is forecasting EV share of retail sales to remain flat in 2025. 

“The elimination of EV tax incentives and public charging funding has the potential to affect two critical barriers to EV adoption: public charging availability and vehicle prices,” said Brent Gruber, executive director of the EV practice at JD Power. “This temporary slowdown in market share growth for EVs creates a unique challenge for the industry as manufacturers forge ahead with new vehicle introductions. The EV market will be faced with expanded product offerings and flat share, creating increased competition.”

Following are some key findings of the 2025 study:

• Opportunity to improve BEV ownership experience via customer education: In this year’s study, owners were asked if their dealership or manufacturer staff provided any specific education or training on aspects of EV ownership during the purchase process. The study finds that 69% of first-time BEV buyers received some form of education or training when buying their vehicle. However, when it comes to the specific education topics needed to optimize the ownership experience, the range goes from a high of 46% of first-time buyers who received education on how specific features work to a low of 12% who were provided with education for the total cost to own an EV. “First-time EV buyers are receiving minimal education or training,” said Gruber. “Dealer and manufacturer representatives play the crucial role of front-line educators, but when it comes to EVs, the specific education needed to shorten the learning curve just isn’t happening often enough. The shortfall in buyer education is something we’re seeing with all brands.”
• Mass market BEV quality continues to outperform premium BEVs: Owners of mass market BEVs once again experience fewer problems than do owners of premium BEVs, albeit the gap has narrowed this year. Among the top 10 BEV models with the fewest reported problems in the study, seven are in the mass market segment. “In both segments, the two highest-ranked models in the index rankings are also the best-performing models in total quality,” Gruber said. “This illustrates the important link between vehicle quality and overall ownership satisfaction.”
• Premium plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) may be a viable alternative: Previous iterations of this study have found that PHEV owners were much less satisfied than BEV owners. However, new for this year is the addition of the premium PHEV segment. Satisfaction among owners in this segment is 741, which is higher than mass market BEVs (725) and mass market PHEVs (632) and only 15 index points lower than satisfaction among owners of premium BEVs. For customers who are hesitant to make the leap to a full EV, a premium PHEV may be a satisfactory alternative.  
• Public charging woes persist but improvement seen among mass market owners: Although a significant gap in satisfaction regarding public charger availability still exists between premium and mass market BEV owners, it is now narrower than ever before. Among mass market BEV owners, satisfaction is up 86 points year over year (396) as infrastructure buildout continues and brands benefit from the opening of the Tesla Supercharger network. Satisfaction with public charger availability is highest among owners of premium BEVs (551).
• BEV owners have strong intent to stick with EVs for next vehicle purchase: Overall, 94% of BEV owners are likely to consider purchasing another BEV for their next vehicle, a rate that is also matched by first-time buyers. Manufacturers should take note of the strong consumer commitment to EVs as the high rate of repurchase intent offers the ability to generate brand loyal customers if the experience is a positive one. In fact, during the past several years, the BEV repurchase intent percentage has fluctuated very little, ranging between 94-97%. This year’s study also finds that only 12% of BEV owners are likely to consider replacing their EV with an internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered vehicle during their next purchase. “With five years of conducting this study and surveying thousands of EV owners, it’s apparent that once consumers enter the EV fold, they’re highly likely to remain committed to the technology,” Gruber said.

Study Rankings

BMW iX ranks highest overall and highest in the premium BEV segment with a score of 790. BMW i4 (783) ranks second and Rivian R1S (770) ranks third.

Hyundai IONIQ 6 ranks highest in the mass market BEV segment with a score of 751. Kia EV6 (743) ranks second and Chevrolet Equinox EV (737) ranks third.

There are eight award-eligible models in the premium segment, which is unchanged from a year ago, and 12 award-eligible models in the mass market segment, down from 14. Satisfaction among owners of premium BEVs averages 756, while satisfaction among owners of mass market BEVs averages 725.

The U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership Study, now in its fifth year, focuses on the crucial first year of ownership. The overall EVX ownership index score measures electric vehicle owner satisfaction in both premium and mass market segments. The 2025 study includes 10 factors (in alphabetical order): accuracy of stated battery range; availability of public charging stations; battery range; cost of ownership; driving enjoyment; ease of charging at home; interior and exterior styling; safety and technology features; service experience; and vehicle quality and reliability.

The study is conducted in collaboration with PlugShare, the leading EV driver app maker and research firm. This study sets the standard for benchmarking satisfaction with the critical attributes that affect the total or overall EV ownership experience for both BEV and PHEV vehicles. Survey respondents include 6,164 owners of 2024 and 2025 model-year BEVs and PHEVs. The study was fielded from August through December 2024.

For more information about the U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership Study, visit https://www.jdpower.com/business/automotive/electric-vehicle-experience-evx-ownership-study.

About PlugShare
Based in El Segundo, Calif., PlugShare maintains the most comprehensive census of EV infrastructure in the world. They make the PlugShare app for iOS, Android and the Web, the most popular EV driver app globally, in use by most drivers in North America and more than seven million EV drivers worldwide. PlugShare also provides sophisticated data tools, reports, custom consulting and comprehensive research on EVs for automakers, utilities, charging networks, government and the rest of the EV industry. It operates the world’s largest EV driver survey research panel, PlugInsights, now with more than 150,000 members.

About JD Power
JD Power is a global leader in automotive data and analytics, and provides industry intelligence, consumer insights and advisory solutions to the automotive industry and selected non-automotive industries. JD Power leverages its extensive proprietary datasets and software capabilities combined with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to help its clients optimize business performance.

JD Power was founded in 1968 and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. The JD Power auto-shopping tool can be found at JDPower.com.

Media Relations Contacts
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]
Shane Smith; East Coast; 424-903-3665; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: http://www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info 

 

JD Power Acquires Superior Integrated Auctions (SIA) to Expand Used Vehicle Marketplace Capabilities

2025-03-01

jillian.breska

TROY, Mich.: 3 March 2025 — JD Power, a global leader in data analytics, today announced the acquisition of Superior Integrated Auctions (SIA), a leader in modernizing vehicle remarketing. The acquisition brings together SIA’s advanced online auction marketplace capabilities with JD Power inventory, extensive vehicle valuation data, predictive analytics and digital marketing solutions to streamline pre-owned vehicle inventory management.

This new functionality will expand the JD Power Marketplace,^SM an electronic platform designed to revolutionize how dealers acquire pre-owned inventory by bringing the traditional auction process online, giving dealers access to more than 30,000 front-line ready vehicles at the click of a button. The platform also allows manufacturers, dealers, automobile finance companies, car rental companies and other industry stakeholders to create white-label online auctions and sales tools, thereby expanding access to thousands of front-line-ready vehicles available through JD Power.

“Inventory of high quality, front-line-ready, pre-owned vehicles is trending toward the lowest level in a decade, which is putting pressure on dealers to find vehicles when and where they need them without incurring huge upfront costs,” said Phillip Battista, president, dealership technologies and head of modern retailing at JD Power. “By adding SIA’s industry-leading auction platform to our existing JD Power Marketplace capabilities, we’re giving manufacturers, dealers and other key players the ability to take control of their inventory management process, bypassing expensive auction fees and cumbersome vehicle acquisition processes along the way.”

In addition to core online vehicle sales, auction and inventory capabilities, the JD Power Marketplace also includes JD Power industry-leading vehicle valuation data, which gives users the most accurate, up-to-the-minute information on average retail transaction value, high and low auction values and trending prices. The platform also leverages JD Power ChromeData software and technology which provides detailed build data containing options and features of each vehicle based on its individual vehicle identification number (VIN) and allows users to easily create digital marketing materials.

“By combining our strengths in digital sales and all aspects of vehicle data, we’re creating the ultimate one-stop shop for pre-owned inventory management,” said Jeremie Beckner, COO of Superior Integrated Auctions. “It’s an opportunity to keep working on an initiative that can address some serious pain points in the automobile industry.”

SIA’s senior leadership and all its employees will become part of the JD Power Marketplace team. Beckner will continue to lead the team as senior vice president of JD Power Marketplace, reporting to Battista.

About JD Power
JD Power is a global leader in automotive data and analytics, and provides industry intelligence, consumer insights and advisory solutions to the automotive industry and selected non-automotive industries. JD Power leverages its extensive proprietary datasets and software capabilities combined with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to help its clients optimize business performance.

JD Power was founded in 1968 and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. The JD Power auto-shopping tool can be found at JDPower.com.

Media Relations Contacts
Geno Effler, JD Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

About JD Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info