Cox expects Hyundai Motor Group to outsell Ford in third-quarter U.S. auto sales, citing Ford’s limited hybrid lineup, production problems and a rental-volume pullback. Asian automakers are forecast to surpass 50% of U.S. sales for a second straight quarter.
Cox linked Asian automakers’ gains to their broader hybrid lineups, which attract buyers seeking to reduce fuel use. U.S. hybrid market share rose from 13% to 16% in three months, about one in six new-vehicle sales. Detroit Three brands were forecast to hold just over 36% of the market, a record low.
Cox raised its full-year U.S. new-vehicle sales forecast from 15.8 million to 16.8 million, citing a strong August, more available credit and sustained demand. August’s seasonally adjusted annual sales rate was 16.8 million. Cox analyst Stephanie Valdez Streaty said EV demand was finding a natural level and pointed to more affordable models from Toyota, Subaru and Rivian.
