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The Clairmont Automotive Report
Wednesday, November 4, 2026
Issue calendar
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In this issue
Each item is a short take. Open a story for the full summary, sources and any chart.
Honda posted its best October in six years, Mercedes delayed U.S. GLC production, Ally expanded its nonprime mix, and CPO shoppers still needed clearer explanations.
Auto industry
Honda has its best October in six years
Honda posted its best October since 2020, with record light-truck and hybrid sales. Toyota also reported higher U.S. sales.
Read the full summary →OPENLANE volumes jump in Q3
OPENLANE posted more dealer and commercial wholesale activity in Q3 and raised its buyback authorization.
Read the full summary →Mercedes pushes U.S. GLC production to 2030
Mercedes delayed Alabama GLC production until May 2030. U.S. supply will keep coming from Europe under the existing import tariff.
Read the full summary →Automakers press Congress on Chinese-vehicle ban
Automakers asked Congress for a permanent Chinese connected-vehicle ban. The legislation still needs to pass.
Read the full summary →Honda weighs return to European production
Honda is considering a return to European production depending on proposed EU rules. There is no confirmed plant or start date.
Read the full summary →F&I
Ally leans further into nonprime and Carvana
Ally's originations included more lower-score borrowers and more Carvana loans, while its consumer auto charge-off rate held steady.
Read the full summary →Assurant's auto business grows on better claims
Assurant's auto earnings benefited from better loss experience, service contracts and partner growth. It also raised its full-year outlook.
Read the full summary →CPO appeal holds as shoppers stay confused
Many shoppers will consider CPO but do not understand the difference from ordinary used vehicles. Clear explanations may matter before the price discussion.
Read the full summary →VW skips year-end Sign Then Drive lease event
Volkswagen will skip its usual year-end zero-due-at-signing lease event, removing a familiar payment offer for stores.
Read the full summary →