May 18, 2025
Car Culture
Toyota Motor North America Appoints CDO
Staff Writer
April 03, 2023
Tellis Bethel has been appointed chief diversity officer for Toyota Motor North America, effective April 3.
Bethel will lead Toyota’s long-standing efforts to advance diversity and inclusion through an integrated, holistic strategy that addresses the workplace, the marketplace and society and reflects the company’s core value of respect for people. In this role, Tellis will report to Ted Ogawa, president and chief executive officer, Toyota Motor North America.
Bethel will continue to serve as group vice president and chief social innovation officer where he oversees TMNA’s strategic partnerships, education initiatives such as Driving Possibilities, and the Way Forward Fund. With the goal of ensuring mobility for all, Bethel directs programs to expand access to opportunities and create a culture of inclusion that strengthens both communities and TMNA.
Bethel began his Toyota Financial Services career in risk management planning with an emphasis on financial hedging activities. He subsequently assumed roles of increasing responsibility in the risk, sales, marketing, and analytics departments.
Auto Research Group Adds to Staff
Staff Writer
March 29, 2023
The Center for Automotive Research welcomes two new team members. Marios Zenios, an executive with extensive experience in the auto industry, has joined as a strategic advisor, while Cheryl Cerqueira has joined as chief human resources officer.
CAR’s release stated, “Zenios brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. Most recently, he served as engineering vice president and head of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Connected Car, Infotainment, and Corporate Software Quality, where he led the creation and launch of Uconnect Infotainment Systems and Services. Marios also has extensive experience in the automotive and cellular industries, having worked at Motorola. He is credited with pioneering in-vehicle telematics and telecommunications solutions. Zenios graduated with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois and attended the Executive Leadership Program at Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University. He also holds two U.S. patents.
Cerqueira brings with her more than 20 years of experience in both the private and public sectors. She has held HR roles with the Michigan Department of Transportation, PepsiCo, Sara Lee, and Ford Motor Company. She has a master’s degree in human resources and labor & industrial relations from Michigan State University and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Central Michigan University.
Northwood Auto Aftermarket Program Expands
Staff Writer
March 28, 2023
James O’Dell is the new assistant director of aftermarket education at Northwood University.
“We are thrilled to welcome him,” stated Kristin Stehouwer, academic vice president and provost of Northwood University. “His professional experiences and network, along with that of our new University of Aftermarket executive director, will usher in an age of growth for our aftermarket programs, which will benefit the entire automotive industry.”
The automotive aftermarket includes vehicle parts, equipment, replacement tires, service repair, collision repair, and accessories sold after the sale of the original vehicle. The Auto Care Association, which represents the entire automotive aftermarket, estimates the auto care industry is a $400 billion industry with over 4.5 million workers.
“As our vehicle park continues to increase in age, and our miles driven have reached a new record high, opportunities in the automotive aftermarket continue to grow at a rapid pace,” stated O’Dell, who has served as the business development manager for Fisher Auto Parts in Ann Arbor, Mich., since 2019.
“I am proud to join Northwood. Its aftermarket program, and the Northwood Idea, are truly unique in the country. It inspires human potential through education and opportunity which uniquely prepares its students to make a difference and be successful. This is evident in that nearly 100% of Northwood aftermarket graduates are employed — and their average salary is nearly $63,000.”
Demon ‘Flies’ into Sin City
Staff Writer
March 27, 2023
The popular Dodge Roadkill Nights event hosted a dramatic helicopter-drop reveal of the 1,025-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
In addition to the debut of the most powerful muscle car in the world, the event featured appearances by Jay Leno, Dodge enthusiast and famed professional wrestler Bill Goldberg, renowned blues and rock guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Josh "Chop" Towbin.
Additional event activities included Dodge Hellcat Thrill Rides, Demon simulators, a cruise-in car show and sponsor/vendor midway areas. Grammy-winning superstar Diplo wrapped up the night with an epic one-hour performance.
Northwood University Receives $500,000 Gift
Staff Writer
March 21, 2023
Subaru of New England has given Northwood University a $500,000 gift to fund a new professorship, The Subaru of New England Professor of Automotive Strategy.
“The creation of this new professorship broadens Northwood University’s role as the market leader delivering undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs for the North American automotive industry,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald. “Subaru of New England is also an industry-leading organization and a well-respected brand in the automotive sector. This investment is excellent for the entire industry, and we are grateful for their commitment to developing the next generation of automotive leaders.”
The Subaru of New England Professor of Automotive Strategy will teach, conduct research, and engage in industry outreach to positively impact the rapidly evolving, dynamic, multibillion-dollar automotive industry. The position will be filled by an industry leader who will help ensure that Northwood University continues to expand its cutting-edge automotive industry programming.
“Northwood University has a rich history of excellence in the automotive industry,” stated Ernie Boch Jr., president and chief executive officer of Subaru of New England. “This industry — including production, wholesaling, retailing, and maintenance of motor vehicles — reaches into every state and territory in the U.S. and across the globe like virtually no other. We must have innovators leading this industry in the future, and we are proud to help bolster Northwood’s efforts of continuing to grow and deliver these renowned programs.”
The Alliance for Automotive Innovation estimates that each job for an automotive manufacturer in the U.S. creates nearly 11 other positions in industries across the economy — not including the jobs wholesalers, retailers, and others also create. It’s also estimated that jobs supported by the automotive industry account for $650 billion in paychecks for millions of workers across the country.
Trucker Group Lobbies Congress
Staff Writer
March 21, 2023
Representatives of the trade association Truckers Integral to Our Economy recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with members of Congress and discuss the importance of the independent contractor model.
During the two-day visit, the coalition met with 18 congressional offices, outlining the essential role independent contractors play in the American economy and the challenges these drivers and businesses face navigating the current legal and regulatory framework.
Gregg Troian, PGT Trucking; Sen. Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV); Ron Faherty, ARL Transport; Jennifer Recker, US 1; Mike Joyce, TIE
“One out of every seven trucks you see on the road in the United States today is operated by an independent contractor,” said TIE Executive Director Scott Brenner. “Our association is committed to ensuring that the independent contractor model remains a viable option for businesses and workers alike, providing opportunities for entrepreneurship and job flexibility.”
Kia Niro Named ‘Women’s Car of the Year’
Staff Writer
March 17, 2023
The Kia Niro has been named the 2023 Women’s World Car of the Year. While the Niro initially earned the “Urban Car of the Year” award from the all-female association earlier this year, the jury panel ultimately recognized the Niro as the overall “Supreme Winner” among all other category winners.
“We are honored to be recognized by the journalists who make up the Women’s World Car of the Year Awards association,” said Steven Center, COO and EVP, Kia America.
Beating out five other category winners, the Niro impressed the judges with its state-of-the-art electrified powertrain options wrapped in a sleek, aerodynamic, and technologically focused package. In its second generation, the Niro remains the only vehicle on the market available with three different electrified propulsion options.
“The Kia Niro is a worthy winner of the Women’s World Car of the Year. It’s comfortable with advanced safety features and it’s practical – it’s one of those vehicles that can easily fit into one’s lifestyle,” said Marta García, Executive President, Women’s World Car of the Year.
Dealer Trade Network Hires New SVP
Staff Writer
March 16, 2023
Dealer Trade Network, one of Louisville’s fastest-growing, privately held companies, has a new senior vice president of sales.
Brad Walsh joined the company this month, bringing more than 25 years of automotive sales, finance, and services experience with him from organizations like Cox Automotive, Santander Consumer, and most recently Allstate. In his role, Walsh will oversee the growth and development of the sales team, while using his experience to build strategic relationships within the industry. “Brad’s experience and deep industry knowledge will enhance our team’s ability to optimize inventory at new car dealerships,” Dealer Trade Network said in a statement.
Dealer Trade Network is the industry’s largest dealer-to-dealer trading network in the United States, helping new-car dealerships optimize inventory and increase profitability. In 2022, the company grew year-over-year revenue 95% and expanded its team by 50%. A similar level of growth is expected in 2023.
“Dealer Trade Network leads the industry in inventory optimization and continues to develop new solutions to better support our national network of dealership partners,” Walsh said.
Kia Tops ‘Best Cars for Families’ Awards
Staff Writer
March 15, 2023
U.S. News & World Report announced the 2023 Best Cars for Families awards after evaluating 92 vehicles across nine categories.
Kia won the most awards this year with three, followed by Toyota and Hyundai with two each. The 2023 Honda Odyssey won Best Minivan for Families for the 13th consecutive year, the longest streak in the awards’ history.
Among Kia’s wins, the 2023 Kia Telluride captured Best three-row SUV for Families for the fourth time in a row, while the 2023 Kia K5 had its first win for Best Midsize Sedan for Families. The 2023 Kia EV6 earned the inaugural award for Best Electric Vehicle for Families.
Toyota’s hybrid vehicles fared well, with the 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid earning the Best Hybrid Car for Families – its first win. The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid won Best Hybrid SUV for Families for the 10th time.
Hyundai earned recognition for two of its SUVs: the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe brought home its first Best 2-Row SUV for Families award, while the 2023 Hyundai Tucson was awarded the Best Compact SUV for Families for the second time.
In addition, the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban won Best Large SUV for Families for the third year in a row and the fifth time overall.
U.S. News uses an overall rating to determine quality, incorporating elements like safety data, predicted reliability ratings and the consensus opinion of the automotive press. Along with conventional factors like passenger and cargo room, U.S. News also considered tech features such as in-car wireless internet, teen driver controls, auto emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert and hands-free cargo doors.
The 2023 Best Cars for Families:
- Best 2-Row SUV for Families: 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe
- Best Hybrid Car for Families: 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid
- Best Minivan for Families: 2023 Honda Odyssey
- Best Midsize Car for Families: 2023 Kia K5
- Best Large SUV for Families: 2023 Chevrolet Suburban
- Best Electric Vehicle for Families: 2023 Kia EV6
- Best Hybrid SUV for Families: 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
- Best Compact SUV for Families: 2023 Hyundai Tucson
- Best 3-Row SUV for Families: 2023 Kia Telluride
Scholarship Program Open for Applications
Staff Writer
March 15, 2023
CDK Global, together with the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers, announced that the seventh annual “Fueling Careers” scholarship program is now accepting applications. The scholarship program was established to support ethnic minority high school students of dealership employees who demonstrate financial need in their pursuit of a college education.
The “Fueling Careers” Scholarship Program, funded by CDK Global, will once again award up to five $10,000 scholarships to high school seniors entering an accredited college or university. NAMAD members can select dealership employees to participate in the program.
“We have an exceptional chance and a crucial duty to play a role in shaping the future talent for the automotive industry,” said Hugene Fields, NAMAD president. “Supporting our minority dealer community has been an imperative agenda for both NAMAD and CDK Global, and implementing this scholarship program, we are clearing the path for exceptional students within our minority dealer network to excel.”
CDK Global introduced the program in 2017 and has awarded over $300,000 in scholarships to outstanding recipients.
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Hertz Racing Partners with Tom Brady
Staff Writer
March 02, 2023
Hertz Team JOTA, the new Hypercar motor racing team sponsored by Hertz and Singer Group, today announced Tom Brady’s BRADY as its Official Apparel Partner and unveiled the Porsche 963 LMDh race car’s new Hertz Racing Gold livery.
Hertz Team JOTA is competing in the 2023 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) and at one of the world’s largest sporting events, the 100th edition of the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours.
“Our sponsorship of Hertz Team JOTA marks the company’s return to premium motorsports and underscores Hertz’s commitment to speed, reliability, and innovation, both on and off the track, said Stephen Scherr, Hertz chief executive officer. “We look forward to collaborating with the BRADY Brand and Singer as we engage our customers and millions of racing fans during the 2023 FIA World Endurance Championship season.”
BRADY uses technical fabrications, generations of expertise, and considered practices to create product for all day comfort and performance. BRADY will provide official team kit as well as travel and leisure apparel highlighting BRADY’s signature quality, durability and comfort.
“I have been a big fan of motor racing for a long time, and for BRADY to now be a part of Hertz Team JOTA as the future of motorsport apparel and design is an incredibly exciting opportunity,” said Tom Brady, BRADY co-founder. “BRADY and Hertz are great brands that pride themselves on teamwork, determination and providing a seamless experience, making this the perfect partnership. We’re all looking forward to competing at the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours later this year.”
EBlock Names New President
Staff Writer
February 19, 2023
E Automotive Inc. and EBlock announced changes to their leadership team, promoting Lisa Scott from chief revenue officer to president of EBlock.
“Our goal is to create a single marketplace that brings land and technology together so dealers can transact where and how they prefer,” said E INC CEO, Jason McClenahan. “Since Lisa joined the company one year ago, she has been laser-focused on building a strong team to deliver on this goal. She’s been instrumental in bringing our land-meets-tech vision to life from our operations and services to our best-in-class digital platform.
“This move to president is a natural progression for her and the company to take the next leap. The timing is perfect, considering we’ve just expanded our presence through the acquisition of Houston Auto Auction earlier this year, and as we continue to build our presence in the Louisiana and Michigan markets.”
Prior to joining E INC, Scott served as the president of PAR North America, a leading provider of vehicle transition services for over four years, and she has also served as chief client officer at ADESA Canada.
“I am thrilled to be taking on this new role in such a dynamic company,” Scott said. “Our culture, technology, and team are truly unique to this industry and I know we will continue to add value to our partners in the future. I am committed to strengthening and refining our offerings in different wholesale verticals as well as introducing our first-to-market solution, LiveLanes.”
Enabled by LiveLanes, EBlock will be a combined auction platform bringing together digital and physical inventory. This innovation allows dealers to buy and sell onsite and offsite inventory in the same auction event.
AAA Charleston Raises $3,000 for Charity
Staff Writer
February 06, 2023
America’s Auto Auction - Charleston held its first sale of the year on Jan. 6 featuring 1,000 vehicles, 800 dealers, free breakfast and a $10,000 cash giveaway. By the end of the day, most of the vehicles were sold, and four dealers split the $10,000 cash giveaway.
Not only did the dealers make out well during this sale, so did the Project H.O.M.E. Foundation, which received $3,000 in donations from dealers in attendance.
The Project H.O.M.E. Foundation works to provide a structured and nurturing home environment for displaced male high school students between the ages of 17 and 21 that will help them experience success in learning and in life.
“This was a great way to kick off the new year,” said General Manager Bill McCready. “Selling a lot of cars and raising money for a great charity like Project H.O.M.E. Foundation made it a great day. We have many more promotions scheduled throughout the year and each of these will featuring a different charity.
“We look forward to selling a lot more cars and raising a lot more money for some great causes.”
Upcoming promotions for America’s Auto Auction – Charleston include the 22nd Anniversary sale on March 10 with $20,000 in cash and prizes.
MotorTrend Announces 75th Anniversary Power Tour
Staff Writer
February 06, 2023
MotorTrend Group announced the 2023 HOT ROD Power Tour in celebration of HOT ROD’s 75th anniversary.
The HOT ROD Power Tour Driven by Continental Tire will be heading south to Georgia, the Carolinas and Tennessee visiting five cities over five days in June. As America’s largest traveling car show, more than 6,000 cars and trucks of all years, makes and models will be on display for tens of thousands of automotive enthusiasts. The tour will feature over 1,000 miles of driving, with high-octane events such as drag racing, autocross and live entertainment.
“HOT ROD culture has defined generations of automotive customization and in 2023 we’re going into our biggest year ever for our 75th anniversary,” said Editor-in-Chief John McGann. “The HOT ROD Power Tour is a must for enthusiasts and new car fans alike, as we commemorate our history, define our future and share what classic car culture has to offer today’s car enthusiasts."
2023 HOT ROD Power Tour Locations:
- Day 1: Monday, June 12 – Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton, Ga.
- Day 2: Tuesday, June 13 – South Carolina State Fairgrounds, Columbia, S.C.
- Day 3: Wednesday, June 14 – Rockingham Speedway, Rockingham, N.C.
- Day 4: Thursday, June 15 -- zMAX Dragway, Concord, N.C.
- Day 5: Friday, June 16 – Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, Tenn.
