Car inventory has seen a slight uptick this summer as companies release new models. Demand for vehicles, however, remains stagnant, according to the latest State of the Dealer report from ZeroSum, an industry leader in software, marketing and data science.

The automotive retail agency said its latest findings show new vehicle inventory has reached nearly 3 million on a month-to-month basis, while the market for used and certified vehicles remains unchanged.

“Even though inventory growth is slowing, it is still ticking up; couple that with the flat movement and turn-rate picture, and there will be a bit more pressure on dealers,” said Jeff Englishmen, vice president of dealer success at ZeroSum. “The increasing market adjustment figures point to the need for a dealer's pricing and inventory visibility to remain competitive to increase the likelihood of a sale.”

Market prices for new vehicles continue to rebound from a winter decline averaging $50,571. This is a $1,000 increase in manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) in the past year, according to ZeroSum.

The company added that the marketed prices for used vehicles continue to be “in the tight span” since early 2024, sitting well below the $30,000 mark that was seen a year ago.

Marketed pricing for certified vehicles rose for the fourth straight month, coinciding with a recent rebound in new vehicle pricing. ZeroSum noted that the underlying efficiency-oriented dynamics of the market have plateaued, noting car turn rates are settling in the high 30s and days-to-move in the low 60s.

“The stable scenario in the used market helps dealers plan their sales strategies,” Englishmen said. “Dynamics in this sector remain competitive, indicating that pricing and marketing should continue to be a prominent focus to attract consumers and close deals.”



Source: State of the Dealer Report from ZeroSum