The US automotive industry faced significant setbacks in Q2 2024, exacerbated by a critical cyberattack and economic factors. The cyber incident targeted CDK Global, a major provider of IT infrastructure to car dealerships. The attack disrupted operations for over 15,000 dealerships across the nation, drastically impacting sales and customer service.

Notable automakers Ford and General Motors (GM) reported slower sales growth due to the breach. The attack led to system outages that hindered inventory management, sales processing, and customer relations, highlighting the industry’s vulnerability to cyber threats.

Compounding the issue, economic factors such as inflation and rising interest rates have weighed heavily on consumer purchasing power. According to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, consumer spending on automobiles declined by 3% during the quarter. This downturn underscores the significant impact of both cyber and economic disruptions on the sector’s performance.

These challenges signal a need for the auto industry to strengthen cybersecurity measures and adapt to shifting economic conditions. As technology integration deepens within automotive operations, robust security protocols become ever more critical.