Gas Over Electric, Senator Slams, Detroit Jams

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We’ve got that Friday feeling as we cover a new KPMG survey that reveals Americans powertrain preferences. We also talk about a Democrat Senator slamming a failed EV charging program, as well as an epic celebration as Ford opens its train station renovation. 

Show Notes with links:

• A recent KPMG study reveals that Americans still favor gas vehicles over hybrids or EVs, even when prices and features are the same. 
  • Only 20% of respondents would choose an EV over gas or hybrid vehicles.
  • 60% of US consumers want EV charging times of 20 minutes or less, while 41% of auto executives think longer times are acceptable.
  • Consumers prioritize safety, WiFi, and charging locators over self-driving features and in-car entertainment.
  • The preference for gas vehicles persists despite a global push for EV adoption, causing automakers like Ford, GM, and Mercedes to rethink their EV strategies. 

• Democratic senator Jeff Merkley has been very vocal in his criticism of the progress of a $5-billion U.S. government program to deploy EV-charging stations which has only seven EV-charging stations operating under the program that was initiated back in 2021.
  • Senator Merkley has labeled the progress as a "vast administrative failure" and is calling for corrective action as he said "That is pathetic. We're now three years into this ...
  • Shailen Bhatt, head of the Federal Highway Administration, acknowledges the slow progress and cites states dealing with multiple programs as a contributing factor.
  • Merkley also criticizes existing rules that prevent EV-charging stations at rest stops.
  • Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm expects about 1,000 stations to be operational by year-end and are still aiming for 500,000 nationwide…there are currently about 183k

• Michigan Central Station's six-year makeover concluded with an all-Detroit concert produced by Eminem, drawing thousands to the historic venue.
  • The concert featured performances by Jack White, Diana Ross, Big Sean, and other Detroit stars, celebrating the station's transformation.
  • Eminem surprised the audience by performing with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, followed by collaborations with Jelly Roll and Trick Trick.
  • The show concluded with Eminem's hit "Not Afraid," as he expressed his love for Detroit.
  • The station's restoration was part of a $950 million project, transforming it into a hub for Ford employees and public spaces.

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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