COVID-19 crisis causing Alabama car sales to drop 40 percent
The Automobile Dealers Association of Alabama said car sales are down 40 percent statewide compared to last year.
2020 started out strong. But the economic fallout from COVID-19 is taking a toll.
“I think the economy is the big thing. Either people have lost their jobs or anticipating that they could lose their jobs has to be the main reason,” said Automobile Dealers Association of Alabama President Tom Dart.
COVID-19 has changed the car buying process. While dealers are still open for business, they’re maintaining social distancing guidelines, deep cleaning facilities, and making sure cars are clean.
“There are various commercial products out there now to sanitize the inside of the vehicle so you can do that every time somebody test drives one,” Dart said.
Dart said there are great deals available. Manufacturers are offering major incentives, including low-interest financing and longer-term loans.
“High supply. Low demand. Great for the consumer if you’re in a position financially to do that right now,” said Consumer Reports Autos Reporter Ben Preston.
You can even buy a car online from many dealers and they’ll deliver the car to your house. If you want to test drive the car in advance, work it out with the dealer.
“A lot of dealers right now are willing to bend over backward to accommodate potential customers,” Preston said.
What you need to know about COVID-19
