Some auto dealers worry that spiking coronavirus cases in states like Florida, Texas, Arizona and California could spell fresh trouble for new vehicle sales. Major automakers posted lower U.S. monthly or quarterly new vehicle sales on Wednesday due in large part to weak fleet orders but said consumer demand remained robust despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. “This quarter demonstrated the resilience of the U.S. consumer,” said Jeff Kommor, head of U.S. sales at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (FCA) , as the automaker reported a 39% slump in sales for the second quarter. “Retail sales have been rebounding since April as the reopening of the economy, steady gas prices, and access to low interest loans spur people to buy.” But some auto dealers worry that spiking coronavirus cases in states like Florida, Texas, Arizona and California could spell fresh trouble for new vehicle sales.
