As the coronavirus continues to impact businesses, many automotive associations are urging dealerships and repair shops to consider the importance of motor vehicle supply and repair facilities.

The actions began with John Bozzella, president and chief executive officer of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation and National Automobile Dealers Association president and chief executive officer Peter Welch sending a joint letter to President Trump.

“As our nation continues to confront the coronavirus’s challenges, we want to underscore the importance of ensuring that consumers have access to a safe and well-functioning motor vehicle fleet,” Bozzella and Welch wrote in their letter. The federal government includes manufacturing as a critical infrastructure when it comes to economic continuity of the United States. Safe transportation remains an important aspect, and vehicles must remain properly maintained.

Cody Lusk, president and chief executive officer of the American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA) shared a similar message. In a separate statement, Lusk emphasized that dealerships and their service shops are essential to the communities they serve.

“These are uncharted waters for all of us. As Americans determine the best way to move forward and protect each other, AIADA asks that lawmakers keep in mind the tremendous value dealerships offer their cities and towns, and the many important services they perform — from brake repairs to addressing critical recalls to providing vehicles to essential workers who can no longer rely on public transportation,” Lusk said.

Many dealers are working overtime to ensure compliance with CDC guidelines and to further establish safe conditions for both employees and customers. Six other trade associations representing the transportation industry have called on local governments to take preventative action.

In addition to the Auto Care Association, the letter was signed by the U.S. Tire Manufacturers, American Trucking Association, Motor Equipment Manufacturers Association, Tire Industry Association and Automotive Oil Change Association.