Democrats scored a lopsided victory in the midterm elections. What they do now could have a major impact on the economy – and the auto industry, in particular. Here’s what to watch for.
Government
Audi Lifts BMW Playbook With $4 Billion Georgia Plant
When Audi launches production at its planned $4 billion assembly plant in Georgia it will create 4,500 jobs – and follow the same playbook as BMW has used so successfully with its own factory in Spartanburg, South Carolina. More from Headlight.News.
The Auto Finance Crash Isn’t Coming — It’s Happened
Vehicle repossessions are going to hit 3 million units this year, continuing the trend of substantial increases during the past three years. They’re on the rise due to mounting costs, much of that tied to Trump administration policies and actions. Find out more, including a possible silver lining at Headlight.News.
As Gas Prices Approach All-Time High, Trump Administration Slashes Federal Mileage Standard
The Trump administration has slashed federal fuel economy targets for 2031 by more than 30%. The White House says the move could save over $60 billion. But the move comes at a time when fuel prices are approaching all-time highs and are already threatening to boost the average motorist’s fuel bills by $1,000 or so annually. More from Headlight.News.
Screwed: The Fed Rate Hike Adds to the Mounting Misery of Automakers and Auto Buyers Alike
Screwed: The Fed Rate Hike Adds to the Mounting Misery of Automakers and Auto Buyers Alike
Trump May Open U.S. Market to Chinese Automakers
With a summit meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping fast approaching, Pres. Donald Trump suggested he could reverse course and open the American market up to Chinese automakers – if they set up U.S. plants. More from Headlight.News.
Ford Under Fire as White House Expresses “Profound Concern” Over China Ties
U.S. Transportation Sec. Duffy expressed “profound concern” over Ford’s ties to China. The automaker fired back at the “wrongheaded” criticism it saw as simply aimed at grabbing headlines. More from Headlight.News.
Trump Puts Auto Industry in Crosshairs With Petulant Trade Negotiation Tactics
It’s fair to say that the author of “The Art of the Deal” is working in finger paint when it comes to the current round of talks with our neighbors — mostly — to the north, Canada. Find out what that will mean for automakers, dealers and consumers at Headlight.News.
Diesel Moves America – And, as Prices Approach a New Record, That’s a Big Problem
Diesels are essential to the U.S. economy. But, with the price for diesel about to hit a record high that will fuel another surge in the cost of everything from burgers to construction materials.
If New Vehicle Quality is Better Than Ever Why Are We Seeing Record Recall Numbers?
Stellantis is recalling nearly 1 million vehicles due to a backup camera problem. But it’s nowhere near the largest recall in a year that could set new records for safety-related issues. How can that happen at the same time research shows automotive quality reaching new highs?
Polestar, It Was Nice Knowing You
The Polestar 4, the latest performance EV from the Swedish brand is an impressive ride, but sadly, it will also be the last to come to the U.S. Perry Stern, our newest contributor, says goodbye to Polestar and explains why the brand is leaving America.
The Era of Automotive Globalization is Dead
Stagnating demand in Western markets, the end of the ‘global car,’ and the cost of electrification present automakers and suppliers with a triple conundrum, says AlixPartners’ annual report on the state of the auto industry.