ICYMI: Canada threatens to increase tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum. The U.S. and Mexico are working on a steel tariff deal. The new-vehicle market slowed in June, but Q2 still finished strong YoY. NHTSA is investigating Tesla’s new robotaxi service. U.S. light-vehicle imports to China dropped 68% in May.
Here’s a closer look at these top stories and more headlines to stay on top of this week’s automotive industry news.
Canada warns of new tariffs on U.S. steel, aluminum
Canada may increase tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum imports if the two countries fail to reach a trade agreement over the Trump administration’s trade policies within the next month. The new tariffs are scheduled to take effect on July 21, shortly after President Donald Trump’s 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs expires. Read More
Automakers may get relief in U.S.-Mexico steel tariff deal
The United States and Mexico are nearing a potential trade agreement that would establish a quota system for steel imports, potentially reducing tariffs on a designated volume of Mexican steel. According to a report from Bloomberg, the deal is aimed at easing the steep duties that continue to affect American manufacturers reliant on foreign steel. Read More
New-vehicle market cools in June but Q2 finishes strong year-over-year
Cox Automotive forecasts that new-vehicle sales in June will reach a seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR) of 15.3 million units. That marks a decline from May’s 15.6 million pace and a significant drop from the average of 17.5 million in March and April. While June’s sales pace is slightly higher than the 15.0 million level recorded a year ago, total sales volume is expected to fall 6.3% year-over-year and 15.2% month-over-month. Read More
Tesla faces safety questions after Austin robotaxi rollout
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is in contact with Tesla following the emergence of online videos showing potentially unsafe behavior by its new robotaxi vehicles. The safety agency is seeking further information after footage surfaced showing one of Tesla’s driverless vehicles using the wrong lane and another reportedly speeding. Read More
U.S. car exports to China plummeted in May
U.S. vehicle exports to China declined dramatically in May as U.S.-China trade relations remain fragile. The volatile relationship between the world’s two largest economies has prompted automakers to reduce shipments in hopes of a resolution. According to the China Automobile Dealers Association, light-vehicle imports to China from the U.S. fell 68% to just 3,130 units in May. Read More
Next Week: Exclusive Interviews You Can’t Miss
Dealership valuations hold firm despite inventory, tariff pressure — Erin Kerrigan | Kerrigan Advisors
With valuations holding steady and consolidation accelerating, dealers are entering the second half of the year with cautious optimism. In today’s episode of Inside Automotive, Erin Kerrigan, managing director of Kerrigan Advisors, joins host Jim Fitzpatrick to discuss the trends driving the current buy-sell market.
How tailored customer experiences drive loyalty and sales in 2025
In today’s fiercely competitive auto market, personalized customer interactions aren’t just a nice-to-have; they’re essential. On the latest episode of Loyalty-Based Sales Strategies, Jen Suzuki, President of eDealer Solutions, reveals how dealerships can harness detailed CRM notes and creative communication tools to connect meaningfully with customers, boost loyalty, and ultimately drive sales.
