A question about new car introductions

For several years now, OEMs basically release vehicles as they become available. There's still some truth to early fall launces, new model or face-lift introductions, but not much.  I remember in July of 2007, I purchased a 2008.  I believe 2025 Dodge Rams are available now.

Traditionally, nearly everyone introduces new cars in early September. Popular TV shows would have 10-15 minute segments showing new models from one maker or another. It was a huge event with local dealerships covering cars, soaping windows, and having special events on the new-car introduction day. In early 1963, Ford introduced its new "1963 1/2 Ford Galaxie XL500." That seemed to touch a nerve, and we began seeing more "half-year" models. Prior to that, most manufacturers offered "Spring Packages" with new colors, packages, and options available halfway through the year. 

These days, all bets are off on new model introductions. 

Yes, I remember those TV program "new car introductions", particularly some Chevrolet one's with Dinah Shore or the stars of Bonanza". The Chrysler "Spring-Styles" were pretty cool, too.

I was looking at some Chevy ads and they had 2025 SUVs listed.

Years ago, back in the '50's and '60's, September was the magic time for us car fanatics. The dealerships put coverings on the inside of the glass as they got the new models in. No one could see them. Then, with our noses pressed against the windows, we waited for the curtain to drop so we could see the new changes in the various models. Today that standard is totally inconsistent by brand.

In my opinion, the industry lost an important marketing tool by everyone going their own way. Along with the excitement that no longer exists, neither does the motivation for a potential buyer to go out to the dealers to see what's new.

Posted by: @jkuvakas

Traditionally, nearly everyone introduces new cars in early September. Popular TV shows would have 10-15 minute segments showing new models from one maker or another. It was a huge event with local dealerships covering cars, soaping windows, and having special events on the new-car introduction day. In early 1963, Ford introduced its new "1963 1/2 Ford Galaxie XL500." That seemed to touch a nerve, and we began seeing more "half-year" models. Prior to that, most manufacturers offered "Spring Packages" with new colors, packages, and options available halfway through the year. 

These days, all bets are off on new model introductions. 

I remember how very excited I was when the 3rd week of September approached each year and I recall the details JK mentions.  Me and my friends would make the dealership rounds and drool over the offerings.  A wonderful memory indelibly stamped in my brain.  The most impressed/awed I ever was doing this annually was in 1963 (age 11) seeing the newly styled Corvette.  I was gobsmacked by its beauty....and still am.  Lol.

@jack-dodds Jack, I think of all of us who are gear heads today, have the same wonderful memories you mention.

Posted by: @bob-jackman

the industry lost an important marketing tool by everyone going their own way. Along with the excitement that no longer exists,

I agree completely, this new reality is a manifestation of the global environment. Much of the rest of the world  never really experienced what we (the West ) once cherished. Also, OEMs had to remain relevant & competitive, that is, once one manufacture begin early-season-launches, others had to follow.