Automotive stakeholders are curious how U.S. auto sales will fare through the coronavirus pandemic.  At Cross-Sell, we took a look at unique markets where the most cases of COVID-19 were reported to see what impact it had on new and used sales. 

The below results reflect seller data in the Detroit market. 

Overall, we see a 27.8% drop in March 2020 over March 2019, yet remaining stable compared to February 2020. This is a steep drop, but good news came Thursday from the Governor of Michigan, declaring dealership employees are now considered critical workers and vehicle sales can be done remotely and electronically. 

Dealer Spotlight: Bill Brown Ford

A consistent Top 10 seller in the Detroit Market, Bill Brown Ford remained pretty steady YoY and pulled off an increase in sales this past month over February. This helped them claim the highest market share in New sales (1.9%) in this market for the month of March. 

The dealership has truly made the best of the pandemic, by engaging their community on social media and keeping their website updated with information. They are hosting live local bands on their Facebook page, promoting local businesses, and keeping their content fresh with Ford-branded images. Staying connected is a great way to get in front of your buyers! Check out Bill Brown Ford’s results: 

Bill Brown Ford is doing pretty well considering the state of Michigan dropped 27% overall in auto sales, and another Ford dealership in the Detroit market is down about 50% YoY. 

Here’s to hoping for a more positive month in April!