Nielsen takes the wheel as chair at NJ CAR

Eric Nielsen, chairman of the New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers - NJ CAR

Matthew Fazelpoor//January 8, 2024//

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The New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers (NJ CAR) announced longtime industry veteran and dealerships owner Eric Nielsen recently assumed the chairmanship of the nonprofit group, which has served Garden State car and truck retailers since 1918.

Marking his third time leading NJ CAR, Nielsen succeeds last year’s chairman, Jim Curley III (Jim Curley Buick GMC).

He has worked in the business since the late 1970s – advancing from a part-time lot employee to the owner of multiple dealerships, including Dover Dodge Chrysler Jeep, Franklin Sussex Auto Mall, Franklin Sussex Hyundai, Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, Nielsen Ford and others.

In addition to his robust professional resume, Nielsen is involved with many charities, such as the March of Dimes, American Cancer Society, St. Clare’s Foundation as well as various pet rescue and adoption services. In 2021, he was named Sussex County’s “Man of the Year.” He has also served on Chrysler’s National Dealer Council and on the NJ CAR executive committee in a number of roles.

“I love the car business, particularly the relationships I continue to build with my employees and my customers,” said Nielsen in a press release. “I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished during my career. I’ve been fortunate to find success and it’s given me the opportunity to give back to my community and support those who haven’t been as fortunate as I have. I am proud to, again, serve as Chairman of NJ CAR, representing this critical $40 billion industry in New Jersey.”

James Appleton, president of NJ CAR, described Nielsen as one of the most dedicated and loyal people he has had the fortune to know.

Car controversy

Click here to read what James Appleton, president of NJ CAR, said about the recent filing of the Advanced Clean Cars II rule.

“He has lived and breathed the auto retail industry for nearly 50 years and, even as his success has grown, he has never lost sight of the importance of supporting his employees, his customers, and the communities in which his dealerships operate,” said Appleton. “This is the third time Eric has stepped up to lead NJ CAR as Chairman, and the Coalition couldn’t be in better hands under his guidance.”