Driving the news: Volkswagen slashed its full-year guidance after U.S. tariffs cost the German automaker $1.5 billion in the first half of 2025.

For context: Europe's biggest carmaker posted operating profit of 3.83 billion euros versus 5.4 billion euros last year, missing analyst expectations of 3.94 billion euros.

  • The company cut its 2025 operating return forecast to 4-5% from a previous 5.5-6.5% range.

  • Restructuring costs added another 700 million euros during the six-month period.

Why it matters: Volkswagen's results show how President Trump's 25% tariffs are hammering European automakers already struggling with Chinese competition and EV transition costs.

What we're watching: Trump's threat to raise EU auto tariffs to 30% starting August 1, which could make Volkswagen's situation even more difficult.

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