The debate over whether Chinese automakers should gain greater access to the U.S. market is moving quickly, and dealers are increasingly finding themselves in the middle of the conversation. Cody Lusk, President and CEO of the American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA), joins us on today’s CBT Live segment to discuss the legislative push to restrict Chinese connected vehicles, what dealers can do to support the effort and why he remains optimistic about the auto market heading into the final months of 2026.
AIADA’s latest campaign, viewed during the segment, is designed to give dealers, lawmakers and consumers a broader view of what could happen if Chinese automakers gain widespread access to the U.S. market. He pointed to the rapid growth of Chinese vehicle exports and the country’s manufacturing capacity as reasons for the industry to act before that capacity actually reaches the auto market.
Simultaneously, Lusk acknowledged that affordability remains a major concern for consumers. He argues that while automakers continue to find ways to offer vehicles at prices consumers can afford, allowing Chinese manufacturers into the market is not the answer. For dealers, the issue extends beyond vehicle pricing to the long-term competitiveness and stability of the U.S. auto industry.
Lusk also urged dealers to become more involved in the legislative process. Since the Connected Vehicle Security Act cleared the Senate Commerce Committee with bipartisan support, Lusk said the legislative clock remains one of the biggest challenges. Therefore, he encouraged dealers to contact their members of Congress and use AIADA’s NoChinaAutos.com campaign to make their voices heard. The association also wants lawmakers to visit dealerships to better understand the technology, jobs and economic activity tied to modern automotive retail. According to Lusk, building that “momentum” will be important as Congress looks for opportunities to move the legislation forward before the midterm election cycle.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding tariffs, affordability and the broader economy, Lusk said dealers remain optimistic about the remainder of 2026. He said that although the market has experienced its share of challenges, sales continue to move forward and dealers are still finding ways to navigate the environment. Lusk also expressed hope that the U.S. and Canada can resolve their tariff dispute before the higher auto tariffs take effect in January. For dealers, his message heading into the final months of the year was relatively simple, stating, “We expect to finish strong. And I think as we turn the corner here for the next few months, I think there’s still a lot of optimism out there.”
