EARNINGS REV UP: AutoNation Inc., the nation’s largest auto dealership chain, said that its second-quarter net income rose 9.3 percent to $78.6 million, or 64 cents per share, as it sold more new and used vehicles. Its adjusted earnings of 66 cents per share beating Wall Street estimates of 59 cents per share. Revenue increased 17 percent to $3.9 billion.

Recommended Stories

How a $15 minimum wage will regionally affect a diverse and unequal Virginia

Steak ’n Shake’s first MAHA officer is trying to bring healthier ingredients to fast food

Immigration groups that want mass deportations blame Big Business for delay

VEHICLE SALES: AutoNation, which owns 260 new-vehicle franchises in 15 states, said new-vehicle sales increased 29 percent in the quarter. Total U.S. industry sales increased 15 percent. AutoNation’s used-vehicle revenue rose 8 percent.

SALES DRIVERS: CEO Mike Jackson said that the strong new vehicle sales environment is supported by demand from customers who want to replace their aging cars that they held onto during the recession and a healthy credit environment.