Selling in a Downturn: How to Optimize Economic Returns in a Fickle Market?

How can we predict whether the economy and fluctuating fuel prices will continue the popularity of hybrids and small electrically powered vehicles in the future? Will today's headlines continue and more importantly affect inventory and manufacturing trends?

Time for a reality check. Hybrids and small electric cars are a very good answer to the urbanization trend. They are ideal for people living in cities and for small households with few transportation needs. In short, they are a big leap into future mobility. Today, however, they may not (yet) be the right choice for everyone.

If you regularly travel longer distances outside the city or if you have increased transportation needs, a vehicle from the inventory-filled sales lots may still be a good choice. The challenge is selling performance a vehicle today also includes how to sell how the vehicle is consumed.

How do we close the gap between what has already been manufactured based on past demand and preserve whatever is left of a diminishing profit margin? What sustainability actions should OEM leaders take now to gain a competitive edge? Is it a given that we cannot predict how fluctuating fuel prices will drive the consumer? This panel will address how a strategic management focus can help to optimize economic returns.