Earlier this week: GM and Ford brace for the impact of Trump’s 25% import tariffs. Gov. Newsom and Trump go toe-to-toe over EV policy. Tesla and Rivian are close to settling a lawsuit over alleged trade secret theft. Kia and Hyundai recall over 200,000 U.S. EVs. Trump’s new energy plan will prioritize fossil fuels. November vehicle sales surge as consumer confidence hits new heights. The Feds uphold their AEB mandate despite pushback from automakers.
Here’s a closer look at these top stories and more headlines to stay on top of this week’s automotive industry news.
1. GM and Ford brace for impact of Trump’s 25% import tariffs
Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports spark alarm in the U.S. auto industry, threatening to raise vehicle costs, disrupt EV production, and strain chains. Read More
2. Newsom and Trump clash over EV policy, Tesla left in the crossfire
CA Gov. Gavin Newsom vows to replace a potential repeal of federal EV subsidies with a state tax credit, igniting tensions with Tesla and Trump. Read More
3. Tesla, Rivian near settlement in lawsuit over alleged trade secret theft
Tesla and Rivian near settlement of a four-year lawsuit over alleged theft of Tesla’s battery technology via employee poaching. Read More
4. Kia and Hyundai recalls over 200,000 U.S. EVs due to power issues
NHTSA recalls over 208,000 Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis EVs due to potential power loss from damaged charging units, while also recalling 42,000 Hyundai models for faulty transmission mechanisms. Read More
5. Trump’s energy agenda puts fossil fuels back at the center
Trump plans an aggressive energy package to expand U.S. oil and gas production, repeal EV tax credits, and reverse key Biden-era climate policies, signaling a shift toward fossil fuel dominance. Read More
6. Vehicle sales surge as consumer confidence hits new heights
U.S. auto sales maintain a strong pace in November, boosted by increased inventory, higher sales incentives, and rising consumer confidence, while EV sales are expected to surge before federal tax credits decrease. Read More
7. Feds back AEB mandate despite pushback from automakers
NHTSA upholds its mandate requiring automatic emergency braking in all new passenger vehicles by 2029, despite automaker pushback. Read More
8. Willie Beck on current M&A trends and dealer outlook
In this episode of Inside Automotive, Wille Beck, Co-Managing Partner of Bel Air Partners, joins us to provide more insight into the merger and acquisition (M&A) market and industry trends. Watch the full segment here.
9. Navigating Nissan’s challenges and thriving in the used car market
In a market where Nissan is struggling to maintain its momentum, Jake Sodikoff, dealer principal at Steven Nissan and owner of HoneyCar, shares his insights on the brand’s ongoing challenges. Watch the full segment here.
10. 40 under 40 Honoree: Nathanael Greklek | Mohawk Auto Group
Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Nathanael Greklek, the chief of branding for Mohawk Auto Group, one of this year’s 40 Under 40 recipients. Watch the full segment here.Â
