Automotive News

Automotive News
source
Type	Trade magazine
Format	Broadsheet, Digital media
Foundation	0 1925
Owners	Crain Communications
Headquarters	Detroit, Michigan, United States
ISSN	0005-1551

Automotive News. It is a leading trade magazine and digital information source serving the global automotive industry, published by the Crain Communications media empire. Founded in Detroit during the industry's formative years, it provides critical news, data, and analysis on vehicle manufacturing, retail, supply chain, and technology sectors. Its reporting is considered essential reading for executives, dealers, suppliers, and analysts worldwide, shaping discourse and decision-making across the automotive landscape.

History

The publication was established in 1925 by Slocum Publishing Company, capturing the rapid expansion of American auto manufacturing led by companies like Ford Motor Company and General Motors. In 1971, it was acquired by Crain Communications, a move that significantly expanded its editorial resources and global reach under the leadership of Keith Crain. Key moments in its history include chronicling the 1973 oil crisis, the rise of Japanese automakers such as Toyota and Honda, the near-collapse of Chrysler and subsequent Lee Iacocca-led revival, and the 2008–10 automotive industry crisis that resulted in the Chapter 11 bankruptcy of General Motors and Chrysler restructurings. Its consistent presence in Detroit has made it a primary chronicler of the Detroit Three and the evolution of the North American International Auto Show.

Content and coverage

Its core coverage spans breaking news on automotive design, engineering, manufacturing, sales, and marketing. Regular features include in-depth reports on OEM strategies, automotive retail and dealership operations, supplier contracts, and regulatory issues from bodies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency. It publishes influential data resources such as the Automotive News Data Center, which tracks production figures, sales results, and market share. The editorial team provides analysis on major industry shifts, including the transition to electric vehicles championed by Tesla and Rivian, advancements in autonomous driving technology, and the growing influence of mobility as a service models.

Digital presence and platforms

The publication maintains a robust digital ecosystem anchored by its primary website, which features real-time news updates, multimedia content, and exclusive online reports. It produces several targeted email newsletters, including daily briefings and specialized reports on sectors like fixed operations and automotive marketing. Multimedia efforts include the Daily Drive podcast, video interviews from major industry events like the Consumer Electronics Show and the Geneva International Motor Show, and extensive use of social media platforms for audience engagement. Its digital platforms often feature interactive data visualizations and live coverage from pivotal events such as Automotive News World Congress.

Industry impact and influence

It is regarded as an agenda-setting authority, with its reporting frequently cited by major financial outlets like The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg News, and Reuters. The publication's data and market analysis are used by investment banks, consulting firms such as McKinsey & Company, and industry associations like the Alliance for Automotive Innovation to inform strategic decisions. Its events, notably the Automotive News Europe Congress and various summits, convene high-level industry leaders for discussion on critical challenges. Editorials and investigations from its staff have influenced corporate governance debates, mergers and acquisitions like the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group merger to form Stellantis, and public policy discussions on trade and emissions standards.

Notable journalists and contributors

Over its long history, the publication has been home to many influential industry journalists. Keith Crain served as longtime publisher and editorial director, shaping its voice for decades. Peter Brown, as executive editor, was instrumental in expanding its data journalism and global perspective. Award-winning reporter Lindsay Chappell covered the Southern automotive manufacturing boom, while Mary Beth Vander Schaaf led impactful investigations. Jason Stein gained recognition for his leadership of the Automotive News radio network and podcast initiatives. Other significant contributors include David Sedgwick, known for supplier industry coverage, and Hannah Lutz, who specializes in regulatory and environmental reporting.

Awards and recognition

The publication and its staff have received numerous accolades from prestigious journalism organizations. It has been honored multiple times with Jesse H. Neal Awards, often called the "Pulitzer Prizes of the business-to-business press," for investigative reporting and best website. Reporters have won awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors for features, news analysis, and digital media. The team's coverage of the Great Recession's impact on the auto industry, the Volkswagen emissions scandal, and the global microchip shortage has been recognized for its depth and clarity. Its data center and market analysis are consistently cited as industry benchmarks for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Category:Trade magazines published in the United States Category:Automotive industry publications Category:Publications established in 1925 Category:Crain Communications