LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Joining Forces to Create an Impact Greetings CATA Members, We’ve certainly had a busy and successful year at the CATA. And, as with any year full of growth, there have been both highlights and challenges. I’d like to reflect on some of the accomplishments of which we’re exceptionally proud. Introduced “Drive for the Troops” — Expanding Barbecue for the Troops This past summer, dealers across the area expanded their fundraising efforts to support the USO — celebrating the program’s 12th anniversary — beyond just barbecues. Dealers came together to host bicycling events, community festivals with DJs and bounce houses, classic car shows and test drives. In all, the fundraiser has raised more than $1.2 million. This is a reflection and powerful reminder of the incredible impact our dealer network has in bringing communities together for a worthy cause. Chicago Drives Electric Our team successfully wrapped our fourth annual Chicago Drives Electric EV ride-and-drive and educational event in October. The event featured more than 40 different EVs, hybrids and plug-in hybrids spanning 16 different brands — the largest manufacturer participation yet. Thousands of local residents came out to experience the latest electrified vehicles. Previous research shows that 90% of attendees reported that this event improved their opinion of EV ownership, a strong signal of the impact we’re having on consumer EV awareness and education. EV Momentum Continues Inside the Chicago Auto Show In February, the Chicago Drives Electric EV hub inside the Auto Show nearly doubled its number of participating brands to a dozen manufacturers, spanning 25 different models. Our data shows that 60% of attendees who experienced an EV at the show were more likely to consider purchasing one. The 2025 Chicago Auto Show — Another Standout Year The 2025 Chicago Auto Show welcomed more than 217,000 attendees to McCormick Place last February. From engaging experiential drives to 8
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