ICYMI: Canada aligns most tariffs with the U.S., keeping over 85% of trade tariff-free. IRS lets EV buyers lock in the $7,500 credit with a contract before Sept. 30. Trump praises Detroit automakers for boosting U.S. jobs and production. Toyota posts record July sales, extending its streak to seven months. EU proposes cutting U.S. tariffs if America lowers car duties.
Here’s a closer look at these top stories and more headlines to stay on top of this week’s automotive industry news.
Canada drops several retaliatory tariffs to align with U.S. exemptions
Canada is dropping many of its retaliatory tariffs to match U.S. exemptions under the United States-Mexico-Canada trade pact (USMCA), Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Friday. The decision ensures that over 85% of Canadian trade with the U.S. remains tariff-free. The move aligns Canada with carve-outs that shield most goods from punitive duties, while maintaining tariffs on steel, aluminum, and autos as negotiations continue with Washington. Carney emphasized the strategic nature of the adjustment, framing it as a way to preserve Canada’s trade advantage and set the stage for the USMCA review in 2026. Read More
IRS gives EV buyers deadline relief on $7,500 tax credit
The clock is ticking for U.S. car shoppers hoping to claim the federal electric vehicle tax credit, but the IRS has provided some relief for last-minute buyers. While the One Big Beautiful Bill Act eliminated the credit after Sept. 30, the IRS clarified this week that as long as a shopper signs a binding purchase contract and makes a payment before the deadline, the vehicle can qualify even if it is delivered later. Read More
Trump to praise Detroit automakers for boosting U.S. jobs and production
During a White House Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, August 26, President Trump credited his economic policies, like tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts, for a resurgence in U.S. auto production. He highlighted major investments by Detroit automakers and Hyundai as evidence that manufacturing and job growth are increasing domestically. Read More
Toyota’s record sales streak reaches seventh consecutive month
Toyota extended its sales streak to a seventh consecutive month in July, driven by strong demand in the United States and China despite global trade headwinds. The automaker sold a record 963,796 vehicles worldwide, a 4% increase from a year earlier, while production rose 2.6% to 947,943 units. Read More
EU proposes removing U.S. industrial tariffs in exchange for lower car duties
The European Commission proposed Thursday eliminating tariffs on U.S. industrial goods in exchange for a reduction in American tariffs on European cars and auto parts, marking the first step in implementing the trade framework agreed to last month between President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Under the agreement, the United States will lower its tariff rate on EU-built cars to 15% from 27.5%, retroactive to Aug. 1, while the EU will remove duties on industrial goods and provide preferential treatment for certain farm and seafood products. Read More
Next Week: Exclusive Interviews You Can’t Miss
Shift Digital’s Matt VanDyke on AI-driven marketing strategies that boost online conversions
The right images don’t just show cars—they sell them, build trust, and transform the way customers engage with your dealership online. In this upcoming episode of Inside Automotive, Matt VanDyke, president of Shift Digital and former CEO of Ford Direct, unpacks how VIN-specific images, digital merchandising, AI tools, and social media are reshaping dealership marketing and the customer experience.
John Fairchild on why dealers should embrace tire sales in fixed ops
Tires often get overlooked in the service drive, but John Fairchild, President of Fairchild Automotive Solutions and fixed operations trainer, believes they could be the most powerful retention tool available to dealerships. During this upcoming episode of Inside Automotive, Fairchild urges dealers to take tire sales seriously, calling them the “gateway drug” to long-term customer relationships.
Digital Dealer returns with shorter format, new AI focus – Jaymie Nielsen
Digital Dealer is set to return to Las Vegas Oct. 14–15 at Mandalay Bay with a streamlined format, new content approach, and an expanded focus on artificial intelligence, according to Show Director Jaymie Nielsen. On this upcoming episode of Driving Solutions, Nielsen joins us to dive into what changes the dealer community can expect to see.
