Tariffs, AI and the Future of Auto Retail: A Conversation with Automotive News

How are unpredictable tariffs, the evolution of AI and evolving consumer expectations reshaping the future of automotive retail?In this special episode of The Auto Market Brief, recorded live at Automotive News Congress 2026, Erin Keating is joined by Automotive News' Dan Shine, Larry Vellequette, and Molly Boigon for a wide-ranging conversation on the forces transforming the automotive industry. Drawing on expertise across retail, OEMs and technology, the conversation covers everything from market uncertainty and consumer behavior to emerging technology and the future of vehicle sales.Tariffs, Trade Policy and Industry Uncertainty Tariffs remain one of the biggest question marks for the industry, and manufacturers are still trying to determine what comes next. The group discusses how policy uncertainty is influencing product planning, pricing decisions and long-term investment strategies, while also creating new challenges around affordability and consumer demand.AI's Growing Influence Across Automotive Few topics generated more discussion than artificial intelligence. The conversation explores where AI is already showing promise, where companies are still searching for practical use cases and how leaders are thinking about everything from governance and security to measuring real business impact.The Evolution of Auto Retail and the Customer Experience Consumer expectations continue to reshape the way vehicles are bought and sold. From digital retailing and frictionless shopping experiences to Carvana's influence on the market and the ongoing debate over who owns the customer relationship, the group examines how retail is evolving and what it means for dealers, automakers and consumers alike.The episode also covers affordability, vehicle technology, software-driven features, warranty expectations, service retention, competitive pressures, changing consumer preferences and the trends these industry experts will be watching in the months ahead.The Auto Market Brief delivers timely data, clear context, and practical insight to help industry leaders make smarter decisions—what's happening now, and what's coming next. The Auto Market Brief is powered by Cox Automotive. For more industry insights and expert perspectives, visit our Insights Hub at Cox Automotive Insights.