In the News

Merx Communications CEO spoke on the importance of clear, creative and compelling storytelling for advancing innovation in industry during a panel on at the United Nations Headquarters before the United Nations General Assembly meetings in September 2025.

 As governments around the world navigate a rapidly changing digital landscape, the way they communicate with citizens is evolving too. From AI-driven sentiment tracking to interactive social media strategies, technology is becoming a powerful tool in building public trust.  At the 14th International Government Communication Forum in Sharjah, UAE, global leaders are gathering to explore how innovation can drive more transparent, responsive, and connected governance. Our producer, Sandile Hlangan

Katie Merx, Public Diplomacy Strategist, stressed the role of storytelling in public messaging. She said effective government communication relies on “stories that connect us and show how challenges are met,” adding that people often engage more with narratives than with statistics. She also underlined the importance of planning in crisis communication, noting that “reacting quickly and truthfully, even with limited details, builds trust.” 

The panel on human stories included Dr Saeed Musabah Al Kaabi from the University of Dhaid; Katie Merx from Merx Communications; and Amaj Rahimi-Midani from Poseidon-AI. They explored how narratives can inspire communities and improve quality of life through practical tools.

 Katie Merx stressed that human-centred narratives based on success stories are vital for many groups. She noted that understanding audience interests is crucial when publishing stories to ensure clarity in messaging.  ...

By Bill Koenig

American consumers are open to buying cheaper electric vehicles from Chinese automakers, according to a new report by a group that advises U.S. auto dealer groups.

The semi-annual report from Dave Cantin Group says American consumers and dealers expect Chinese companies will made advances into the U.S. market – because such vehicles are more affordable.

The report, published in a partnership between DCG with Kaiser Associates, was posted publicly on Wednesday. ...

By Bill Koenig

American consumers are open to buying cheaper electric vehicles from Chinese automakers, according to a new report by a group that advises U.S. auto dealer groups.

The semi-annual report from Dave Cantin Group says American consumers and dealers expect Chinese companies will made advances into the U.S. market – because such vehicles are more affordable.

The report, published in a partnership between DCG with Kaiser Associates, was posted publicly on Wednesday. ...

By Anna del Villar

Driving the news: 40% of American consumers would consider buying a Chinese-made vehicle, while 75% of dealers expect Chinese brands to hit the U.S. market within a year, according to a new report from the Dave Cantin Group.

The reason: Affordability. 

• Chinese automakers can produce EVs for around $30,000 compared to much higher U.S. prices.
• Chinese companies can also develop new models in 14-18 months versus 36-48 months for traditional automakers.

The Dave Cantin Group, an auto dealer M&A firm, has a new market outlook this week (available here) that concludes that “affordability concerns are rewriting the rules of the road” in the U.S. vehicle market.

Why does that matter to the EV business? The Cantin Group says this:

“Forty percent of U.S. consumers say they would consider a Chinese-made vehicle, and 75% of dealers expect Chinese brands in the market within a year. This openness is rooted in price sensitivity, with buyers motivated by e

Curbee on Thursday announced the appointment of Matt Carpenter to its board of directors. 

The mobile service technology provider helping dealerships described Carpenter as a seasoned automotive executive with deep expertise in finance, retail operations and mobility innovation. ...

 By Tim Healey

On this week's podcast, we find out how a company called Curbee is working with dealerships to provide mobile repairs.

We discuss this with Curbee CEO Amit Chandarana. We also talk to TTAC contributor Matthew Guy about floor jacks and Denny Hamlin closing in on 60 NASCAR Cup Series wins.

By Bill Koenig

 People have shown they’re amenable to have meals, books and clothing delivered to their homes. Increasingly routine services for cars and trucks at a consumer’s home is occurring.

“It’s becoming much more of a thing,” Amit Chandarana, CEO of Curbee, said in an interview.

Curbee provides mobile service technology for auto dealers. Last year, the company moved to take its technology national. . .

Ann Arbor-based Peptinovo Biopharma, Inc. closed a $1.4 million Series A financing round, the biopharma company announced Thursday.  ...