Pub. 3 2021 issue 1

5 ALY_NY-1953_AllyAccelerationAd_SinglePage_7.5x4.625_r2.indd 9-14-2020 10:23 PM Olivia Konys / Olivia Konys 1 Saved at None from UNRNYC0751-OKonys by Printed At ©2020 Ally Financial Inc. ALY_NY-1953_AllyAccelerationAd_SinglePage_7.5x4.625_r2.indd 1 9/15/20 5:50 PM To those who question dealers’ abilities and motivations, the better question is, how soon will these vehicles become available? When will charging stations be widely available? The dealers I speak to are always excited about selling the latest offerings, and they relish being able to introduce something unique and different to their customers. EVs are no different. Over the last year, we have seen dealers across the country adapt to unimaginable circumstances while operating during a global pandemic. Not only have they survived, but they have also thrived! They have adapted, and they have also created; new processes and procedures, new ways to sell and service customers, and new ways to leverage technology. So, to the “interrupters” who argue that the franchise system is archaic and not the best way to move this new technology, I say there is no evidence to support that. If you want to sell vehicles, look no further than local dealerships, which stand ready to sell and provide service to their customers in ways only they can. In addition to the excitement about EVs, we’ve seen the close of another active, successful legislative session. It ended March 5, 2021. We met with legislators in person and via Zoom, and there were also countless calls and emails. Thank you to everyone who reached out to their local representatives —we couldn’t have done it without you. We often asked for phone calls and emails from you this last session, and every time, you answered that request loudly and boldly. Your voices were heard; your voices helped make a difference! Two other bills would have affected the entire business community. Efforts to raise the state’s minimum wage came to nothing, as did efforts to ratify the Equal Rights Amendments. These bills are likely to return. Whether you are for or against them, be sure to get involved through NCDU and let us know what direction you want to take. Engaging with NCDU is something everyone will benefit from. This industry succeeds because of the collective success of the dealers and their voices, vision and wisdom. To conclude, I am always available for our dealers. I am here as a resource and look forward to working with and serving the needs of NCDU for many years. Thank you! 3 I am here as a resource and look forward to working with and serving the needs of NCDU for many years.