John Howard is Experian’s Product Management Director for Automotive. In this role, he conducts industry and automotive data consulting as well as oversees customer success programs around the business’s market intelligence platform, VelocitySM, which serves as a reporting tool for new and used vehicle registration statistics, vehicles in operation, vehicle owner loyalty data, and automotive financial reporting products. Additionally, Howard performs a number of industry analyses designed to help clients improve profitability and uncover growth opportunities by providing a better understanding of the automotive landscape. The majority of Howard’s career has been served within the automotive industry. Prior to joining Experian in February 2014, Howard spent 17 years in a variety of product leadership roles at ADP Dealer Services (now known as CDK Global). His past positions with ADP Dealer Services have allowed him to become familiar with the data and analytics needs of the retail, manufacturing and lending sides of the automotive business. Howard holds a Master of Science in business administration and a Bachelor of Science in business management from Roosevelt University in Illinois.

-- John Howard

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Electric vehicles (EVs) are the topic of conversation in the automotive industry, but we’re continuing to see another fuel type pick up speed. With consumer demand shifting and drivers exploring more fuel-efficient options, the automotive market is leaning back into hybrids. In fact, new retail hybrid registrations grew to 11.5% through Q3 2024, from 9.5% through Q3 2023, according to Experian’s Automotive Market Trends Report: Q3 2024. Meanwhile, EVs increased from 7.7% to 8.2% year-over-year and gasoline vehicles declined to 70.4% this year, from 72.7% last year. Despite EVs gaining notable attention over recent years, some consumers may be factoring in the benefits of opting for a hybrid, such as the convenience of driving a longer distance without facing challenges as charging stations remain limited. As more manufacturers adapt to consumer needs and roll out additional vehicles, data shows 9.1% of 2024 model year vehicles in operation were attributed to hybrids, while 6.2% of 2024 model years were EVs through Q3 2024. Having more models enter the market has shifted the hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) market share, with the Toyota Camry making up 12.5% of the market share this quarter, a notable increase from 2.4% last year. On the other hand, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe went from having 4.5% of market share last year to 2.4% through Q3 2024. With many consumers continuing to have some concerns around EVs such as range anxiety and charging times, they’re seeking a more practical solution for their daily driving needs. The balance of fuel options provides more convenience—making hybrids an appealing choice for those wanting an EV alternative. It’s important for manufacturers to stay ahead of the competitive market as it’s constantly evolving. Leveraging the most current data can provide solutions that address both feasibility and consumer preference. To learn more about vehicle market trends, view the full Automotive Market Trends Report: Q3 2024 presentation on demand.

Published: January 10, 2025 by John Howard

According to Experian’s Automotive Market Trends Report: Q1 2024, hybrids accounted for 11.8% of new vehicle registrations, an increase from 8.8% last year.

Published: June 27, 2024 by John Howard

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