Sales and supplies of new vehicles improved in the third quarter, according to the latest Quarterly Vincensus Report from Lotlinx. Sales were up 11% quarter-over-quarter on a 62-day supply, one full day higher than in Q3 2024, and new vehicles carried over at a 52% rate, 2% lower than the year-ago quarter.

Analysts say the auto market was “distorted” by a run on EVs prior to the Sept. 30 expiration of a $7,500 federal tax credit: EV sales increased by 72% from the prior quarter yet still only accounted for about 5% of total Q3 sales.

Manufacturers are likely to ramp up incentives and discounts to clear out 2025-MY units, analysts note, setting the stage for a highly competitive and price-sensitive end to the year.

“Dealers are navigating a new chapter of hyper-competition, where every VIN decision matters. Our data shows that Lotlinx-powered dealers are winning by acting faster and smarter, using VIN-specific insights to reduce aging, optimize pricing and preserve profitability, even as the market becomes more volatile,” writes Executive Chairman Len Short in a release.

Read the full report at Lotlinx