An analysis of October buzz for top luxury automakers reveals that key buzz spikes relate to consumer discussion of concept vehicles. Also grabbing consumer attention is the viral video series “Meet the Beckers,” which spoofs Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Lexus drivers; the first two episodes are among the top cited video links among consumers discussing these luxury brands.
Buzz shows that consumers are also speculating about mergers and takeovers in the automotive world. While several automakers have reportedly been involved in merger talks with Chrysler, a potential Chrysler/GM merger garners the most discussion. Consumers express numerous concerns about this possible merger and approach the topic with skepticism. Some feel both automakers have similar weaknesses and believe the merger would likely result in heavy job cuts. Others are voicing their opposition to the idea of the US government providing a loan to fund the merger.
The other key merger/takeover news making headlines in the automotive blogosphere is Porsche’s increasing its stake in VW. It generates only a fraction of the discussion that Chrysler merger rumors do, and consumer sentiment toward this business move by Porsche is more positive.
If you are interested in a copy of this Monthly Automotive Industry Overview, please contact Larry Black at 562.947.2360 or larry.black@nielsen.com for a copy. We will continue to provide monthly blog updates with news about the latest automotive hot topics. If you have suggestions for topics we should explore in the November overview, these are welcome via blog comments.
Tags: auto, chrysler, GM, porsche, vw
We have a perfect storm at the moment with historically high gas prices (though on their way down), a plunging stock market, tight credit, and a growing demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles, but a lack of fuel-efficient vehicles on dealers’ lots.
How will the “Big 3″ that we know today fare in the future, given this environment? Online, consumers discuss how GM, Chrysler and Ford rely heavily on trucks and SUVs, and how they themselves are struggling with how to off-load their current vehicles in order to purchase smaller, more fuel-efficient ones. The recent $25 billion government auto loan has spurred a heated online debate with most hypothesizing how Detroit would look if a potential merger were to occur between GM & Chrysler and what vehicles would survive.
GM has a lot riding on their much-anticipated electric car, the Volt, which Bob Lutz has promised will be available in 2010. The Volt is only one of many topics swirling around GM lately, while mergers, government loans, plant closures, the UAW, GMAC, and their 100th anniversary also drive buzz.
What are your thoughts on a GM & Chrysler merger?
Tags: chrysler, detroit, gas prices, GM, volt
The majority of consumers are feeling the pinch at the pump with gas prices rising above $4 a gallon. Auto manufacturers and dealers are scrambling to offer incentives that address the sharp increase in gas prices while enticing shoppers to purchase a new vehicle.
Suzuki began offering a free summer gas incentive on May 1, 2008. Online discussion for this campaign is garnering minimal buzz online, but those that are talking feel that this campaign is a “gimmick” that could backfire on the auto manufacturer. On May 7, 2008, Chrysler followed suit with a similar gas incentive called “Let’s Refuel America.” Conversation online is rather robust for this program, but unfortunately most consumers view this as a “gimmick,” as well, and a way to off-load a current line-up of vehicles that aren’t fuel efficient.
In consumers’ eyes, the $2.99 gas incentive is a good deal when considering a diesel from Chrysler since the cost of diesel is higher than regular gas. However, others suggest that simply buying a vehicle that is slightly more fuel efficient would more than make up the gas savings versus this offer.
On Tuesday, June 24th, at 2:00 p.m. EST, we will uncover how consumers are reacting to high gas prices relative to their driving habits and automotive purchase considerations. If you are interested in joining this free online Webinar, please click here to register.
Tags: chrysler, gas prices, incentive
