Xin Hua She·2025-09-25 12:06Group 1 - The U.S. government has officially implemented a 15% tariff on automobiles and auto parts imported from the EU, effective from August 1, which is significantly higher than the previous 2.5% rate [1] - The new tariff policy is expected to severely impact the European automotive industry, which is a crucial pillar of the European economy, directly or indirectly linked to millions of jobs [1] - European car manufacturers may face increased costs that could either reduce profit margins or be passed on to consumers, potentially leading to a loss of market share [1] Group 2 - Since April, the U.S. has imposed a 25% tariff on imported cars, resulting in EU exports facing tariffs as high as 27.5% [2] - By the first half of 2025, major European automotive companies are projected to see profits decline or turn to losses due to the impact of U.S. tariffs [2] - Volkswagen reported a net profit of €4.005 billion for the first half of 2025, a 37% decrease, with additional costs from U.S. tariffs amounting to €1.3 billion [2] - BMW's net profit for the same period was €4.015 billion, down 29% year-on-year [2] - Stellantis Group shifted from a profit of €5.6 billion in the previous year to a loss of €2.256 billion due to delays in the development and sales strategy of its U.S. brand vehicles [2]