Earlier this week: Trump signaled possible tariff relief for the auto industry amid supply chain disruptions. The U.S. launches national security probe into semiconductor imports. GM to idle its Canadian BrightDrop plant and cut 500 jobs amid slumping EV van demand. Stellantis reports 1.2M global shipments in Q1 2025. Nissan plans to maximize production in response to tariffs. Volkswagen to maintain prices on new models through May. Hyundai Hope on Wheels commits $27M to pediatric cancer research, expands globally.
Here’s a closer look at these top stories and more headlines to stay on top of this week’s automotive industry news.
1. Trump signals possible tariff relief for auto industry amid supply chain disruptions
President Donald Trump said Monday that his administration is considering easing tariffs on imported auto parts, citing the need to give automakers time to transition supply chains and expand domestic production. The move comes as North American auto production faces mounting disruptions and industry leaders warn of rising costs and economic fallout. Read More
2. U.S. launches national security probe into semiconductor imports
The U.S. Commerce Department has launched a Section 232 investigation into semiconductor imports. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick will lead the probe and assess national security risks related to importing semiconductors, manufacturing equipment, and derivative products. Read More
3. GM to idle Canadian BrightDrop plant, cut 500 jobs amid slumping EV van demand
General Motors (GM) will idle its BrightDrop electric delivery van plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, for roughly five months starting in May and eliminate 500 jobs as it reduces output to match slowing demand, the company confirmed Friday, April 11. Read More
4. Stellantis reports 1.2M global shipments in Q1 2025
Stellantis has released its preliminary global shipment figures for the first quarter of 2025, estimating 1.2 million vehicles delivered worldwide—a 9% year-over-year decline. The dip primarily reflects production disruptions in North America and Europe tied to extended downtime and ongoing model transitions. Read More
5. Nissan plans to maximize production in response to tariffs
Nissan Motor is ramping up efforts to maximize vehicle output at its Smyrna, Tennessee, plant in response to President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on imported vehicles. The company is shifting its strategy to localize more production as part of a broader plan to revitalize its U.S. operations. Read More
Sign up for CBT News’ daily newsletter and get the latest industry stories delivered straight to your inbox.
6. Volkswagen to maintain prices on new models through May
Volkswagen Group of America will hold prices steady on new VW-brand vehicles through the end of May as uncertainty surrounding new U.S. import tariffs raises questions for car buyers and dealers. The company confirmed the decision during an April 16 roundtable at the New York Auto Show, aiming to provide short-term clarity while monitoring the evolving trade landscape. Read More
7. Hyundai Hope on Wheels commits $27M to pediatric cancer research, expands globally
Hyundai Hope on Wheels®, one of the nation’s largest pediatric cancer charities, will distribute $27 million in grants this year to medical institutions across the U.S. as it expands its reach into Canada and Mexico. The organization, backed by Hyundai Motor America and over 850 U.S. dealers, is now extending its efforts globally to advance childhood cancer research and care. Read More
8. Presidio Group’s George Karolis believes dealers show resilience amid Trump’s tariff shift
With President Donald Trump’s new 25% tariff on imported vehicles and auto parts sparking widespread debate, many are questioning the potential fallout for the auto retail sector. On today’s episode of Inside Automotive, George Karolis, President of The Presidio Group, offers key insights into how dealers are reacting and what this could mean for mergers, acquisitions, and overall market momentum. Watch the full segment here.
9. Dealership buy-sell market remains robust as smaller stores see increased interest – Andy Gill | Gill Automotive Group
The dealership buy-sell market is experiencing a surge in activity, with smaller and mid-sized stores drawing significant interest from regional buyers. Andy Gill, founder and CEO of Gill Automotive Group, joins on the latest episode of Driving Solutions to share insights on market trends, recent transactions, and what dealers should consider as the industry evolves. Watch the full segment here.
10. Sen. Bernie Moreno discusses tariffs at the 2025 NY Automotive Forum
You’re watching CBT News’ exclusive coverage of the 2025 New York Automotive Forum, hosted by NADA, J.D. Power, and the New York International Auto Show. Among the keynote speakers was Senator Bernie Moreno, who energized the audience with an optimistic and unapologetically pro-dealer message. Speaking directly to retailers, OEMs, and vendors, Moreno outlined his vision for a thriving future in the American automotive industry, supported by strong policies, reduced regulations, and renewed confidence in the free market. Watch the full segment here.
