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The Truth of the Matter

Auto Tariffs Threaten to Drive Up Prices

Apr 15, 2025
Monica Gorman, Special Assistant to President Biden for Manufacturing and the former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Manufacturing, discusses the potential upheaval in the auto industry caused by new tariffs. She highlights how these tariffs could lead to increased car prices and reduced choices for consumers, while also suggesting long-term benefits for U.S. manufacturing if managed correctly. Gorman also addresses the changing competitive landscape with electric vehicles and the broader implications of trade policies on business investments and supply chains.
23:26

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Tariffs on vehicles are expected to significantly increase prices for consumers, particularly affecting smaller and lower-priced cars, reducing market choices.
  • The uncertainty surrounding these tariffs poses challenges for the auto industry but may also lead to renewed investment and growth in U.S. manufacturing.

Deep dives

The Financial Impact of Tariffs on the Auto Industry

The tariffs imposed on vehicles have the potential to significantly increase costs for consumers, particularly affecting smaller and lower-priced vehicles. For instance, estimates indicate that smaller cars could see price hikes ranging from $2,500 to $4,500, while larger vehicles might rise by $10,000 to $12,000. This economic burden will potentially lead to fewer options for consumers, as some manufacturers may pause shipments to the U.S. market, worsening the existing uncertainty in the auto industry. Consequently, as demand for new vehicles decreases, the used car market may also experience rising prices due to shifting consumer behavior.

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