GM’s Model Margins, Toyota’s Caution, and Grit from Fast Food

The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier

Shoot us a Text.

On this Thursday, we explore GM's increased profitability from simplifying gasoline models, Toyota's cautionary stance on an all-EV future with its job risks, and how fast-food jobs have shaped the careers of today's successful professionals.

• Amid the focus on EVs, GM has found profitability by simplifying its gasoline models, improving margins even on entry-level vehicles.
  • Chevrolet Trax and Buick Envista now yield mid- to high-single-digit margins with the 2024 Trax saw a 20% increase in profitability over the previous model.
  • Fewer configurations and cost reductions drive these gains.
  • GM projects a 4% earnings boost for the Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain.
  • "We're now profitable in the entry-level segments," said GM President Mark Reuss.

• Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda cautions against a full transition to electric vehicles, stating it could lead to job losses for those working on engine-related technologies.
  • 5.5 million people work in Japan's automotive industry.
  • Chairman Akio Toyoda highlights risks for long-time engine-related workers.
  • Toyota champions a "multi-pathway" to zero emissions, including hybrids and hydrogen.
  • The Toyota Chairman shares that EVs may only account for 30% of the global market.
  • "If EVs become the only choice... those people's jobs would be lost," Akio Toyoda emphasized.

• Many successful professionals credit their early fast-food jobs for shaping their work ethic and customer service skills, leaving a lasting impact on their careers.
  • Many professionals feel their early jobs left a mark, shaping their leadership skills.
  • The hustle and humility from these roles often translate to long-term career success.
  • Michael Erickson, Director at a PR firm in Georgia, recalls his time at McDonald’s as formative to his success.
  • Erickson shares that hard work and customer-service skills left an important mark on his professional journey.

Hosts: Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/

JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Read our most recent email at: https://www.asotu.com/media/push-back-email