Tariffs Bite Ford Harder Than Expected

Summary of Key Points Core Viewpoint - The automotive industry, particularly Ford, is facing significant financial impacts due to tariffs, with expectations of continued high costs in the coming years. Group 1: Tariff Costs - Ford paid $2 billion in tariffs in 2025 and anticipates similar expenses in 2026 [1] - General Motors reported $3.1 billion in tariff costs for 2025 [6] - Stellantis incurred 1.2 billion euros (approximately $1.4 billion) in tariffs in 2025 and expects to pay 1.6 billion euros (about $1.9 billion) in 2026 [6] Group 2: Impact of Tariffs - The automotive industry is projected to face a combined $7 billion tariff-related hit to earnings in 2025, affecting both automakers and their suppliers [8] - The imposition of tariffs has led to production suspensions, such as Stellantis halting certain models in Canada, and Ford launching an employee discount initiative to mitigate consumer costs [7] - AutoNation reported a 10% decline in same-store new vehicle sales and a 5% decline in used vehicle sales, attributed to consumers purchasing vehicles earlier in anticipation of tariffs [9] Group 3: Expectations and Adjustments - Ford's tariff relief program was expected to be retroactive to May but was later confirmed to only apply from November, resulting in an additional $900 million in tariff costs [2] - The automotive industry is experiencing supply chain disruptions and increased product prices due to the tariffs, impacting cash flow for thousands of suppliers [8]