Mitten State Updates - Innovation and Regulation

Two big stories have recently come out of Michigan - one involving the production of cars and the other the selling of them.

First, the good:

Nexteer Innovates

Nexteer was recently one of four named a General Motors Innovation Award winner at the Supplier of the Year ceremony held last month in Florida. The award was given for the company’s High Availability Electric Power Steering System (EPS). Increasingly, we’re seeing more and more new cars use EPS to increase efficiency. Nexteer’s system is also optimized for advanced safety and varied levels of autonomous driving.

Nexteer in Saginaw, Michigan.

Overall at the event, GM recognized 132 suppliers from 17 countries for outstanding value and continuations. Nexteer has 25 manufacturing facilities, 5 engineering centers, and 11 customer service centers in total globally, including operations in Saginaw, Michigan. New innovation can start local and grow globally!

And now, the not so good...

Patsy Lou Chevrolet Stop-Sale

Patsy Lou Chevy, a dealer located in Flint, Michigan, has been banned from selling cars for 15 days. The mid-Michigan dealer’s license was suspended following numerous customer complaints and violations. On the list of complaints by customers are grievances such as a title was never provided to them after purchase, which is required by law. Secretary of State Ruth Johnson says, “No dealer is above the law.”

This is a rather serious consequence, as Patsy Lou has other dealers in Michigan as well, so the whole franchise image could be tarnished. However, I’m in favor of the punishment, as I’ve had my own terrible dealer experiences in the past couple years. I don’t understand the concept of a dealer or salesman being “unwilling” to make a sale... You’re only hurting YOURSELF and YOUR DEALER at the end of the day! I can always go elsewhere (or talk to a different salesman) to get my car. And that’s exactly what I did at Garber Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Saginaw, Michigan - and I left with my 2018 Jeep Compass Latitude after working with a more ethical salesperson. Time will tell beyond the 15 days what implications this will have on Patsy Lou’s brand.

Share your thoughts on Nexteer, Patsy Lou, or any other local business awards and or dealer experiences you have as well! My advice is always be well prepared to make a deal and reap your rewards.

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