As many of you probably already know, the Ferrari 458 Italia is available for purchase on both the primary and secondary markets of the exotic car industry. So in an attempt to stay up to date with what's available on these cars, I've spent many hours playing with the car's options online; researching about each one and its uniqueness.
One that I found most interesting was the HELE feature, available on a few of the Ferrari models. HELE, short for High Emotion Low Emissions, is an attempt to keep Ferrari's "Green" client smiling. The feature uses an advanced system, unveiled originally on a Ferrari California in France, to reduce the environmental impact these cars can produce. No worries though, there is another upside for those who are less "worrisome" about the future of our planet. HELE can actual boost the performance of the car it has been ordered on. In short, the system cuts weights, increases aerodynamics, and yes; actually increases torque! So the HELE system can in fact keep the smile on everyone's face!
However, this does take some getting used to. Ferrari isn't the only superpower attempting to reduce emissions. I was able to experience first hand what Porsche has developed for many of their Cayenne model SUV's. It does take some getting used to, in fact, we actually ran the Cayenne Turbo down to Parktown Porsche to have it inspected. (We thought there was something wrong.) Turns out, the SUV actually turns it's gasoline powered motor off when coming to a complete halt, in order to save fuel and reduce emissions. Personally, I found it a bit odd. Alien-like, if you will. Porsche's 'planet-saving' function, can however be turned off manually if the driver may prefer. (And in my case, this is how I chose to drive.)
Nonetheless, it's good to see that many car companies are indeed making an attempt to lower emissions caused by their high-powered machines, but further, actually producing innovations that help not only the environment, but performance as well!
Monday, April 2, 2012
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
2011 GMC 2500 HD Denali: King of the Road...and Dirt!
Finally, after a build time of two months and almost $25,000.00 later. Our 2011 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Denali is finished! This truck brand new and has an MSRP of $59,650! In addition to being loaded from the factory and having a 6.6L V8 Duramax Turbo Diesel (which, may I remind everyone, cranks out 765 lbs of torque!), we installed only the best upgrades to make this rig not only bespoke, but also top-of-the-line. Aftermarket upgrades include a 10" Full Throttle Lift Kit, 37" Nitto Trail Grappler Tires, 22"x10" American Force, one-piece, forged aluminum wheels, and all windows have been tinted! This truck was finished extremely professionally and properly. Asking price $74,888.00!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
The Ultimate Front Engine Ferrari - New Arrival
2008 Ferrari 599 GTB: Nero Daytona on Nero
14,580 Miles, Deep Silver Wheels, Yellow Stitching, Window Tint, Smoked Tail Lights & Lenses, Yellow Calipers
This V-12 monster just arrived a few days ago, and I must say that I am incredibly impressed. Extremely clean car. Would be a great investment for a buyer who really plans on driving their Ferrari! I love the way the dark grey wheels contrast with the metallic black paint! (Kudos to Danny) Let me know if anyone would care for more information on this unit!
14,580 Miles, Deep Silver Wheels, Yellow Stitching, Window Tint, Smoked Tail Lights & Lenses, Yellow Calipers
This V-12 monster just arrived a few days ago, and I must say that I am incredibly impressed. Extremely clean car. Would be a great investment for a buyer who really plans on driving their Ferrari! I love the way the dark grey wheels contrast with the metallic black paint! (Kudos to Danny) Let me know if anyone would care for more information on this unit!
Friday, December 16, 2011
New Toy: 2008 Ferrari 430 Scuderia
New unit for the week.
2008 Ferrari Scuderia: 9,014 Miles
Metallic Black over Black Alcantara w/ Light Silver Stitching
Grey Stripes and Wheels
2008 Ferrari Scuderia: 9,014 Miles
Metallic Black over Black Alcantara w/ Light Silver Stitching
Grey Stripes and Wheels
Thursday, December 15, 2011
An Overview: What it takes to be successful in the exotic car industry
How do you define success in business? The need to succeed, the desire to be number 1, the industry leader, best of class…..it’s all dependent on exceeding customers’ expectations---in any industry. Sales are the drivers for success, and how they are achieved matters, because the bottom line is that they cannot happen without building relationships and closing deals. Early in my career, I learned that versatility and how I deal with different individuals, makes or breaks the sale. I have been involved in the sales role for a variety of enterprises – direct sales, commercial real-estate brokerage, and men’s custom clothing (one of my favorite ventures by the way – learning how to dress for success is one of the most important lessons a gentleman can learn). I have become familiar with the myriad of sales tactics, from the scripted direct-sales pitch to cold calling to door knocking and more. Since my first job at 14 pushing a food cart at the St. Louis Zoo, to rolling Ferraris into the showroom at Exotic Motors Midwest, each opportunity has presented an exciting new road of opportunity for me. I have enjoyed most of them, each for a different reason. However, none can possibly compare to the unique and intriguing market of exotic cars.
From my experience, not to mention from what everyone tells me, to be successful in the exotic car industry, there are a few key tricks-to-the-trade that one must deploy. The most obvious and foremost goal is, of course, buy low – sell high. Secondly, know your product, inside and out. Product knowledge plays a major role in selling successfully. Most importantly however, KNOW YOUR CLIENT. You can’t match the hottest car with a buyer without knowing what motivates your clients. The exotic car industry caters to the most interesting and diverse group of buyers I have encountered so far and my coverage on relationships spans the country.
For me personally, staying on top of trends in the exotic car market is challenging, yet strangely addicting. I think this is one of the most difficult aspects of any motorcar industry. Exotics take the level of difficultly one step further. There are certain types of exotic owners; enthusiasts, collectors & trend buyers, and then finally those who just simply have always had the dream of owning one.
Enthusiasts typically want raw performance. From braking, to acceleration, and power; this is what turns true enthusiasts on. In fact, many barely care to think twice about extras such as power seats, navigation, and leather upholstery. If it doesn’t save weight or create power, then what’s the point? For this class of owner there are ‘focused model’ cars, for example, let’s use Ferrari. There’s the 430 Scuderia, or its predecessor the 360 Challenge Stradale. Both were developed to be street-legal, but utilize full performance specs with a race-track mentality. (The Scud doesn’t even have carpets!) As a dealer, carrying these cars as inventory can sometimes prove to be risky. It takes an expert, with not only confidence but balls, to establish when to purchase these race-inspired cars.
A trend buyer is a specific type of client who always wants the newest model available. In my opinion, he is to be considered a collector, although he may only own one exotic at a time. The trend for this market is fairly straight forward. Again we’ll use Ferrari as an example. When the 458 Italia became available, trend buyers were attracted to it because it was the latest and greatest thing to come from the brains’ of Ferrari. Therefore, when the 458 Spider arrives next year, it’s safe to say this client will jump at the opportunity of owning one. (Not bad client to have for repeat business.) Collectors in general, look for ‘clean and unique’ cars. Units that are single-owner, are loaded with options, have the right colors, and of course, haven’t been driven often are what attract such a collector. Being able to locate and purchase these exotics is the key to earning success with the collector and trend factions.
Then there is the market for the gentleman that has finally convinced himself that he deserves an exotic. His choice is based purely off his specific needs or wants. Typically this form of consumer has thought long and hard about color, options, and what he is willing to pay. There is no exact formula, as a dealer, to inventory every gentleman’s dream car. However, you can certainly influence the odds in your favor. We will again use Ferrari, and in this case the 430, for my example. The most popular color on a F430 is Rosso Corsa complimented by a Beige interior. It has become the standard color combination of day-dreamers who envision themselves tearing through the windy roads of a distant countryside. To make my point, having multiple Rosso Corsa 430’s with decent and desirable options increases the chance of success with the first-time or even repeat buyer.
To wrap up my first blog, there are some tactics of the exotic car industry that can be found set in stone. Then again, there are other strategies that a dealer can’t expect to be so ‘black and white’. It’s all part of the business, and in my opinion, what makes the exotic car industry so intriguing. It is one of the last of the dying industries where the client, truly, means everything
Feel free to help me with some ideas for my next blog! Thanks for reading!
TD
From my experience, not to mention from what everyone tells me, to be successful in the exotic car industry, there are a few key tricks-to-the-trade that one must deploy. The most obvious and foremost goal is, of course, buy low – sell high. Secondly, know your product, inside and out. Product knowledge plays a major role in selling successfully. Most importantly however, KNOW YOUR CLIENT. You can’t match the hottest car with a buyer without knowing what motivates your clients. The exotic car industry caters to the most interesting and diverse group of buyers I have encountered so far and my coverage on relationships spans the country.
For me personally, staying on top of trends in the exotic car market is challenging, yet strangely addicting. I think this is one of the most difficult aspects of any motorcar industry. Exotics take the level of difficultly one step further. There are certain types of exotic owners; enthusiasts, collectors & trend buyers, and then finally those who just simply have always had the dream of owning one.
Enthusiasts typically want raw performance. From braking, to acceleration, and power; this is what turns true enthusiasts on. In fact, many barely care to think twice about extras such as power seats, navigation, and leather upholstery. If it doesn’t save weight or create power, then what’s the point? For this class of owner there are ‘focused model’ cars, for example, let’s use Ferrari. There’s the 430 Scuderia, or its predecessor the 360 Challenge Stradale. Both were developed to be street-legal, but utilize full performance specs with a race-track mentality. (The Scud doesn’t even have carpets!) As a dealer, carrying these cars as inventory can sometimes prove to be risky. It takes an expert, with not only confidence but balls, to establish when to purchase these race-inspired cars.
A trend buyer is a specific type of client who always wants the newest model available. In my opinion, he is to be considered a collector, although he may only own one exotic at a time. The trend for this market is fairly straight forward. Again we’ll use Ferrari as an example. When the 458 Italia became available, trend buyers were attracted to it because it was the latest and greatest thing to come from the brains’ of Ferrari. Therefore, when the 458 Spider arrives next year, it’s safe to say this client will jump at the opportunity of owning one. (Not bad client to have for repeat business.) Collectors in general, look for ‘clean and unique’ cars. Units that are single-owner, are loaded with options, have the right colors, and of course, haven’t been driven often are what attract such a collector. Being able to locate and purchase these exotics is the key to earning success with the collector and trend factions.
Then there is the market for the gentleman that has finally convinced himself that he deserves an exotic. His choice is based purely off his specific needs or wants. Typically this form of consumer has thought long and hard about color, options, and what he is willing to pay. There is no exact formula, as a dealer, to inventory every gentleman’s dream car. However, you can certainly influence the odds in your favor. We will again use Ferrari, and in this case the 430, for my example. The most popular color on a F430 is Rosso Corsa complimented by a Beige interior. It has become the standard color combination of day-dreamers who envision themselves tearing through the windy roads of a distant countryside. To make my point, having multiple Rosso Corsa 430’s with decent and desirable options increases the chance of success with the first-time or even repeat buyer.
To wrap up my first blog, there are some tactics of the exotic car industry that can be found set in stone. Then again, there are other strategies that a dealer can’t expect to be so ‘black and white’. It’s all part of the business, and in my opinion, what makes the exotic car industry so intriguing. It is one of the last of the dying industries where the client, truly, means everything
Feel free to help me with some ideas for my next blog! Thanks for reading!
TD
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