ICYMI: GM beat its Q1 earnings expectations and raised its full-year outlook ahead of expected tariff refunds. The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady, keeping pressure on used-car buyers. Bipartisan momentum is building to safeguard the American auto market from Chinese imports. Ford and Geely explore a U.S. technology collaboration. Stellantis and Volkswagen report mixed Q1 results.
Here’s a closer look at these top stories and more headlines to stay on top of this week’s automotive industry news.
GM tops Q1 expectations, raises outlook on tariff refund boost
General Motors (GM) reported stronger-than-expected first-quarter earnings Tuesday and raised its full-year outlook, supported by resilient U.S. demand and an anticipated tariff refund. The Detroit automaker posted adjusted earnings before interest and taxes of $4.3 billion, or $3.70 per share, surpassing analyst expectations of $2.62. Read More
Fed holds rates steady, squeezing used-car buyers
The Federal Reserve held its benchmark interest rate at 3.5% to 3.75%, maintaining elevated borrowing costs that continue to pressure auto buyers, particularly in the used-vehicle market. The central bank’s decision follows its last rate move on Dec. 10, 2025, when it reduced rates by a quarter-point. Read More
Bipartisan momentum builds to safeguard American auto market
More than 70 House Democrats urged President Donald Trump to maintain restrictions preventing Chinese automakers from building or selling vehicles in the United States, citing national security concerns and competitive risks to the domestic auto industry. The lawmakers warned that allowing entry could give a strategic competitor an advantage in a critical manufacturing sector. Read More
Ford and Geely explore U.S. technology collaboration as talks shift focus to Europe
Ford Motor and Geely held talks to explore whether a potential European partnership could extend into the United States, including the possibility of Ford licensing Geely technology. Those discussions have stalled in recent months, according to people familiar with the matter, as both companies shift focus to negotiating a deal centered on sharing technology and manufacturing capacity in Europe. Read More
Stellantis, Volkswagen report mixed Q1 results
Stellantis and Volkswagen reported mixed first-quarter 2026 results, as rising costs, shifting demand and ongoing EV investments weighed on profitability. Stellantis reported Q1 net revenue of €41.7 billion ($45 billion), down about 12% year over year. Separately, Volkswagen reported Q1 revenue of €75.5 billion ($81.5 billion), up about 1% year over year. Read More
Next Week: Exclusive Interviews You Can’t Miss
Gas prices spark interest in used EVs, tariff concerns drive domestic shift 
Today’s car market is a complex environment for dealers and customers alike. Rising gas prices, tariffs, and a growing list of options have customers rethinking how they shop for their next vehicle. Joining us on this episode of Inside Automotive for a closer look at what’s driving consumer behavior is Jenni Newman, Editor-in-Chief at Cars.com.
Jeff Cowan urges dealers to double down on fixed ops as uncertainty drives pullback
It’s easy to pull back and play defense when there’s a lot of uncertainty in the market. But, historically, the teams that lead in fixed ops, are the ones who come out ahead. Jeff Cowan, President of Jeff Cowan’s Pro Talks and author of The Forgotten Rules of Professional Salesman, joins us on today’s episode of Service Drive to discuss how dealers are overlooking their most stable revenue source while fixating on showroom headwinds.
