ICYMI: FTC warns 97 auto groups that advertised prices must include all mandatory fees. Ford launches share buyback plan to offset stock dilution from employee compensation. GM and LG Energy Solution will repurpose the Tennessee EV battery plant for energy storage. Federal Reserve keeps interest rates steady amid inflation, war, and labor uncertainty. Michigan joins 24 states in lawsuit challenging repeal of auto emissions rules.
Here’s a closer look at these top stories and more headlines to stay on top of this week’s automotive industry news.
FTC warns 97 auto groups that advertised prices must include all mandatory fees
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has sent letters to 97 auto dealership groups nationwide, warning that vehicle prices advertised to consumers must include all mandatory fees, the agency announced March 13. Read More
Ford launches share buyback plan to offset stock dilution from employee compensation
Ford announced plans to repurchase up to 31.7 million common shares, marking the company’s first buyback initiative since 2024. The Dearborn automaker said the program is primarily designed as an anti-dilutive measure to offset the impact of stock-based compensation granted to executives and employees. Read More
GM, LG Energy Solution to repurpose Tennessee EV battery plant for energy storage
General Motors and battery partner LG Energy Solution are transforming a Tennessee electric-vehicle battery plant to produce batteries for energy storage systems, the companies announced Tuesday. Through their joint venture, Ultium Cells, GM and LG will recall 700 laid-off workers to resume production in the second quarter of 2026. Read More
Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady amid inflation, war, and labor uncertainty
The Federal Reserve voted Wednesday to keep its key interest rate unchanged in a widely expected 11-1 decision, leaving the benchmark federal funds rate at 3.5%-3.75% as policymakers weigh elevated inflation, mixed labor market signals, and uncertainty from the war in Iran. The decision was widely expected and approved 11-1 by the Federal Open Market Committee. Read More
Michigan joins 24 states in lawsuit challenging repeal of auto emissions rules
Michigan has joined a coalition of 24 states in suing the Trump administration over its decision to revoke the legal foundation of major U.S. climate regulations, including greenhouse gas rules governing the auto industry. The lawsuit, filed Thursday in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, also includes 10 cities and counties, none of which are based in Michigan. Read More
Next Week: Exclusive Interviews You Can’t Miss
Toyota leans into affordability and electrification while supporting U.S. dealers – David Christ | Toyota North America
Toyota continues to set the pace in a market defined by shifting demand, rising interest rates, and electrification. David Christ, Group Vice President and General Manager of the Toyota Division at Toyota Motor North America, joins us on the latest episode of Inside Automotive to detail how the automaker maintains affordability, supports dealers, and invests in electrification to meet consumer needs.
Cox Automotive Jermey Robb outlines 5 key forces shaping auto industry in 2026
As tax refund season begins, auto dealers are closely watching consumer spending trends. At the 2026 NADA Show, Jeremy Robb, Chief Economist at Cox Automotive, identified five major forces shaping the industry this year, including refund-driven demand, affordability pressures, off-lease EV supply, interest rate shifts, and AI adoption. In the latest episode of Inside Automotive, Robb indicates that average tax refunds are up about 10% year over year, reaching roughly $3,800.
