Nissan’s abrupt suspension of Mexican-built Infiniti orders has sent US dealerships into crisis mode, with immediate operational and financial consequences:
Dealer Challenges:
- Inventory Crunch: Average 45-day supply now projected
- Staffing Issues: Sales teams being reassigned
- Financial Pressures: Floorplan costs rising on aging stock
- Customer Conflicts: Canceled custom orders
Compensation Strategies:
- Pushing certified pre-owned inventory
- Aggressive lease pull-ahead programs
- Increased focus on QX80 (US-built)
“We went from 90-day pipeline to zero overnight,” said Northeast Dealer Council rep Greg Miller. “This will cost our region $18M in Q3 revenue.”
Nissan’s Response:
- $5,000 dealer bonus on remaining QX50s
- Expedited delivery of Japan-built QX55s
- Enhanced marketing funds through August
