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American companies struggle to sell cars in Japan, due to big preference for compact cars (which they almost don't make anymore), different culture of buying (n
by shmerl 8y ago
American companies struggle to sell cars in Japan, due to big preference for compact cars (which they almost don't make anymore), different culture of buying (not sure how that is an issue really), and existing stereotypes of American cars being inefficient and low quality.
- drivingmenuts 8y agoI agree with the “necessary evil” comment on the American car buying experience. Every time I go to the dealer, I feel like I’m going to be ripped off somehow. There is a perceived air of desperation that someone is going to get the chop if they don’t sell me a vehicle or service at some ridiculous markup. The post-purchase experience varies between a desperate cry to please help us help you and the occasional “do you exist, oh here’s a car deal that’s almost like the one you bought two months ago”. Sounds like the Japanese have it figured out.
- shmerl 8y agoThe reason for horrible American dealerships is known. Many states passed protectionist laws, which basically ban direct sales. Dealerships became mandatory middlemen, and they exploit this position by offering a horrible service - everyone has to come to them anyway. The fix is simple - just repeal all those obsolete laws, and it will naturally boost competition and increase the quality of service in result. Tesla had to deal this kind of stuff in many states, in order to be able to sell directly to their users.