Auto tariffs—Trump dismisses pricing concerns, German brands in the crosshairs, Hyundai prepares with plant opening

Hey everyone. Today’s the day. 1pm EST.

Auto tariff talk with the nation's top dealers and insiders.

We’ll be breaking down what’s coming. What it means. What it could trigger.

Panelists include: Brett Morgan (Morgan Auto Group), Jeremy Robb (Cox Automotive), Brian Benstock (Paragon Honda/Acura), Cliff Banks (The Banks Report),

…and many, many more.

Live streamed on X (audio-only). Don’t miss it.

RSVP here — (Backup link just in case)

See you there ✌️ CDG

1. Trump holds the line on tariffs despite industry warnings

President Trump remains steadfast on his 25% auto tariffs—even with growing concerns about higher car prices.

In a recent NBC interview, Trump noted that he “couldn’t care less” if foreign automakers raise prices. And that the tariffs are permanent.

Yes, but…a Fox News poll shows 69% of Americans believe the tariffs will raise prices, while 53% think they’ll hurt the U.S. economy.

The takeaway? President Trump’s hardline tariff stance signals a steadfast bet on U.S. manufacturing—regardless of the price tag.

(Go deeper: 3 min. read)

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2. Tariffs threaten to reshape German carmakers’ profits and production

Some foreign automakers are at risk of losing their grip in the U.S. market as President Trump’s 25% tariffs near.

The details:

Almost every 2025 model contains at least 20% foreign content—and that number soars to about 90% for some luxury (Mercedes-Benz and BMW) imports.

Porsche is also at high-risk of losing edge in the U.S. market, with zero manufacturing plants in the U.S. or Mexico.

Bottom line: Brands heavily reliant on global supply chains will feel the pain first—with some (Mercedes-Benz and Porsche) facing up to 25% profit losses by 2026…

(Go deeper: 3 min. read)

3. Hyundai’s new Georgia Megaplant opens as U.S. tariffs loom

Hyundai is charging ahead with massive U.S. manufacturing expansions—beating the clock on looming auto tariffs one step at a time.

By the numbers: Hyundai is planning to boost production at its Georgia EV facility from 300,000 units to 500,000 vehicles annually—and plans to hire more workers.

And this move is part of the automaker’s broader $21 billion investment plan.

What we know: Hyundai’s decision to prioritize local production wasn’t made overnight—but the timing offers a critical edge in an uncertain market.

(Go deeper: 3 min. read)

Our news stories today make one thing clear—the pressure is on for dealers, but don’t expect them to roll over…

• Stellantis is reopening a U.S. car factory. It will take two years

• Michigan auto supplier: Work is ‘dead in the water’ amid tariff uncertainty

• Here’s what to expect from Nissan’s mysterious new electric SUV

• Volvo Cars brings back veteran CEO to tackle tariffs, mounting industry challenges

• Car shoppers outracing Trump tariffs poised to lift auto sales

Thanks for reading everyone.

— CDG

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