TYSONS, VA. (Jan. 8, 2024)— NADA President and CEO Mike Stanton issued the following statement in response to Sony Honda Mobility’s announcement of plans to attempt direct sales for its vehicles:

“We are unfortunately not surprised but are still very disappointed with Sony Honda Mobility’s stated plans to sell its vehicles directly to consumers and compete with its Honda and Acura dealer network. Honda should understand that any misguided attempt to bypass or undercut its U.S. dealers will be challenged in statehouses and courthouses across the country – with NADA’s full support.

“As we have communicated to Honda on numerous occasions – and as the recent Oliver Wyman study on the cost and value of new-car distribution validates – the franchise system is the best, most consumer-friendly, and most cost-effective way to sell and service new vehicles and deliver the customer experience that today’s marketplace demands.

“NADA would welcome the opportunity to meet with the leadership of Sony Honda Mobility to discuss how they could use the proven success of the dealer franchise system to their benefit and avoid unnecessary and protracted state-by-state legal challenges.”