COMMENTARY: Independent dealers are poised to thrive as driving force in recovery NextGear Capital president Scott Maybee. Images courtesy of the company. Wednesday, May. 19, 2021, 11:02 AM By Scott Maybee CARMEL, Ind. - Despite tight inventory, total used-vehicle sales in April were up 69% compared to April 2020, according to my colleague, Cox Automotive chief economist Jonathan Smoke, who is forecasting full-year retail used-vehicle sales will reach 21.5 million, an increase from 19.7 million in 2020. At 60,000 strong, independent dealers are the backb...