Full Throttle, a Presidio Podcast

Episode 55: Vince Sheehy, President of Sheehy Auto Stores

Jason Stein Episode 55

From a five-year Subaru project to cutting-edge AI in auto retail — Vince Sheehy is steering Sheehy Auto Stores into the future.

In this episode of Full Throttle, host Jason Stein sits down with Vince Sheehy, President of Sheehy Auto Stores, one of the largest privately held dealership groups in the Mid-Atlantic. Vince shares an insider’s look at what it takes to expand a 30-rooftop business while navigating affordability challenges, soaring vehicle prices, and rapidly evolving technology.

You’ll hear about:
🚗 The five-year journey to launch a state-of-the-art Subaru dealership in Springfield, Virginia
🔧 Why fixed operations (service & parts) are the biggest growth opportunity in automotive retail
🤖 How Sheehy is using artificial intelligence to streamline operations, improve communication, and strengthen customer experience
💡 Lessons from Amazon’s frictionless model — and where human interaction still matters most
📈 The future of used-car acquisition, M&A strategy, and staying competitive with disruptors like Carvana & CarMax
⚡ The challenges and opportunities ahead as inflation and affordability reshape the industry

0:00 – Intro
2:20 – A five-year journey to open a new Subaru dealership in Springfield, VA
3:53 – Fixed operations as the biggest growth opportunity in auto retail
6:01 – The state of the auto industry: affordability, inventory, and used car trends
8:31 – How Sheehy Auto Stores is leveraging AI to transform dealership operations
14:31 – Technology & training: balancing innovation with human touch
18:07 – Expansion strategy, M&A outlook, and preparing for industry headwinds

If you’re passionate about auto retail, dealership growth, or emerging technology, this episode delivers valuable insights straight from one of the industry’s most experienced leaders.