Streamlining the Showroom Supply
A report from GM Authority states that General Motors is currently testing a new dealer ordering program called CoreBuild. The beta program streamlines the ordering process for dealerships by focusing on the most popular vehicle configurations, helping align supply more closely with demand.
While the program is exclusive to GM dealers, it could also offer benefits to car buyers. For instance, increased availability of popular configurations may result in more in-demand vehicles on dealer lots, helping reduce wait times. Although not guaranteed, improved inventory flow could also lessen the likelihood of extreme markups typically seen during tight supply cycles, potentially allowing buyers to access more consistent pricing and incentives if the program performs as intended.
Chevrolet
Popularity Comes First
On the downside, certain niche options could gradually receive less focus. The report notes that the combustion-powered Chevrolet Equinox — currently the only model included in CoreBuild — is offered through 26 predefined configurations under the program, representing roughly 80 percent of the compact crossover’s most popular builds. While all trims and options remain available, higher-demand configurations are given priority.
In addition to the combustion-powered model, the Equinox is also offered in an all-electric variant, which competes with models such as the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Buyers can still use Chevrolet’s online configurator to build their preferred specifications. Based on Chevy’s customer-facing website, the gas-powered Equinox is listed from $30,795 including destination charges, and shoppers can select a range of options — from in-car technology packages to subscription services such as OnStar. While online configurators are sometimes viewed as disruptive to the traditional dealership model, they can help streamline the purchasing process by reducing transaction time at the showroom.
Chevrolet
A Volume Multiplier?
The report does not mention a full-scale rollout of CoreBuild, though it notes that the program stems from dealer feedback, with retailers requesting a system capable of delivering high-volume nameplates more efficiently. If the program succeeds in getting popular models to dealer lots more quickly, it could theoretically have a positive impact on GM’s overall sales performance by reducing the likelihood of customers shopping elsewhere.
GM operates four core brands in the U.S.: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC. Last year, the Michigan-based automaker delivered 2.85 million vehicles, up six percent year over year. Each brand posted solid results, with full-size SUVs such as the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon recording their best full-year sales since 2007.
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