Group 1 - The U.S. is threatening to impose a 50% tariff on copper imports, raising concerns in the automotive industry about increased costs and the potential for these costs to be passed on to consumers [1][3] - Automotive manufacturers are currently relying on inventory to avoid price increases, but the additional costs from tariffs and rising domestic prices are intensifying financial pressures on manufacturers and suppliers [3][4] - The cost of steel, aluminum, and copper accounts for approximately 5% of U.S. automotive production costs, which could rise to 9% with the new tariffs [4] Group 2 - If the 50% tariff takes effect, the price of copper in the U.S. could reach $15,000 per ton, compared to $10,000 in other regions, significantly impacting the automotive industry [4] - The average tariff cost for domestically produced vehicles in the U.S. could be at least $1,700, while imported vehicles from Canada and Mexico could incur tariffs of $3,500, and other regions could face up to $5,700 [4] - The U.S. heavily relies on imported copper, aluminum, and steel, with nearly half of its copper consumption being imported, and domestic production is insufficient for self-sufficiency [4] Group 3 - Some industry experts are skeptical about the actual implementation of the copper tariffs, citing past instances where similar threats were postponed or retracted [5] - The potential for higher inflation due to tariffs may conflict with political realities surrounding the upcoming midterm elections in November 2026, suggesting that the copper tariffs may be short-lived [5]