We’re excited to share what’s new this May. From spotlighting our most budget-friendly plan to previewing powerful new tools built just for you—this month is all about helping you win more deals, simplify your process, and stay ahead in a changing market. Let’s dive in.
Commercial Use Update:
Big news for New York dealers! We no longer require a surcharge for vehicles simply registered as commercial use. From now on, the “Add Commercial Use” option is reserved for:
- Snowplows
- Vehicles being used actively for business
This change reduces friction and increases flexibility in contract writing!
Plan of the Month: Express Plan
🚗 Perfect for budget-conscious customers wanting solid coverage
❓This plan is limited liability—max $3,000 per component and $9,000 total per contract
Click here to learn more.
💎 Empire Success Story: Exit5 Auto Group
Exit5 Auto has consistently surpassed the standard.
As our first-ever Diamond Dealer of the Year in 2023, and a Diamond Dealer in 2024, they’re on pace to claim the title again in 2025.
But what’s their secret? Here is what Patrick Lyga, Exit5 Auto General Manager, had to say:
“For us, the biggest thing has been Empire State Warranty’s willingness to listen to our business needs and tailor the approach to fit how we operate. They’re more of a partner than just a provider.
For selling warranties, we constantly analyze what’s working and what’s not. Like a pro sports team, we break down our wins and losses, review the tape, and push for what’s next—whether that’s implementing software or more training.
That ongoing collaboration has helped us evolve, increase our sell-through, and earn stronger buy-in from our customers.”
📰 Auto Market Watch: Current Automotive News
The market’s in motion—and so are the tariffs. Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke at Cox Automotive outlines some key shifts:
- Tariff Pressure Rising: Higher import tariffs are reshaping costs
- Mixed Consumer Signals: Sentiment is cautious, but spending holds
- Momentum Slowing: April ended slower, though YoY sales are still strong
- Price Tensions: April’s price increases may have cooled buying urgency
- Inventory Tightening: Supply constraints are re-emerging
Read the full article: Cox Auto Market Insights
Also worth noting—used vehicle pricing is stabilizing. Unlike the pandemic era spikes, Cox notes pricing changes will be far less dramatic, thanks to more stable demand and improved new car availability (CNBC Source).
Coming Soon: Dealer Dashboard
Next month we are looking to release our new personalized dealer dashboard which will include:
- Key metrics and indicators
- Current Diamond Dealer points
- Contract level insights
- Cancellation View
🚗 Tight Inventory? What COVID taught us:
- Lean into Trade-Ins: Offer incentives to boost incoming inventory
- Source Creatively: Tap into private sellers and expand to new local wholesalers
- Shifting Focus to Fixed Ops: reallocate some marketing efforts to your service lane
- Maximize Reconditioning: Invest in quality refurbishments to stretch your lot
