Automakers Face Continued Inventory Challenges as New-Vehicle Stocks Remain Low. Despite a slight increase to 2.89 million units in May, new-vehicle inventories have failed to rebound significantly, keeping them near historic lows. According to data firm Catalyst IQ, the industry has struggled to build and maintain adequate stock levels, a trend that persists even as demand for new vehicles remains strong. As a result, dealerships may continue to face inventory shortages, potentially impacting sales and pricing in the months ahead.
New-vehicle inventories ticked up only slightly last month to start June at 2.89 million, data firm Catalyst IQ reported, continuing a long-term trend to keep industry stocks near or below 3 million.