California has been struggling with wildfires so intense it has prompted dealership closures, according to the National Automobile Dealers Association.
The issue has been highlighted in the media for days as wildfires continue to spread and reach more populated areas. In its update, the NADA said some Los Angeles area dealers paused their operations out of concern for the many wildfires blazing across the region.
They said a dealership group in the Los Angeles area called LAcarGUY closed seven Santa Monica locations, along with one store in Hollywood, on January 9 due to the situation.
Last Thursday, ABC News said Los Angeles County officials announced the Eaton Fire near Pasadena that started Tuesday night has “burned more than 5,000 structures, a term that includes homes, apartment buildings, businesses, outbuildings and vehicles.” To the west in Pacific Palisades, they said “the largest of the fires burning in the LA area has destroyed over 5,300 structures.”
The damage has since increased over the weekend.
Hyundai Motor America released a press release in response to the wildfires affecting Southern California; Hyundai and Genesis launched a wildfire relief program to provide humanitarian aid and financial assistance to people impacted by the situation. They also donated $100,000 to the American Red Cross and $100,000 to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.
“Southern California is more than just our home — it’s the heart of our North American operations, including our headquarters, design studios, and many Group partners. During this challenging time, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our team members, retailers, and community partners in the affected areas,” said Randy Parker, CEO of Hyundai and Genesis Motor North America, in a statement.
Other OEMs have also announced efforts to help.
