Core Viewpoint - Volvo Cars reported its first quarterly loss since going public in 2021, primarily due to high restructuring costs and U.S. tariffs, with a significant one-time non-cash impairment charge of 11.4 billion Swedish Krona [1][5] Financial Performance - In Q2, Volvo Cars recorded an operating loss of 10 billion Swedish Krona, significantly below market expectations of a profit of 2.3 billion Swedish Krona [1][4] - Revenue decreased by 8% year-on-year to 93.5 billion Swedish Krona, driven by declining retail sales in markets like Europe [4] - Excluding one-time items, the core operating profit was 2.9 billion Swedish Krona, which, while down from 8 billion Krona year-on-year, exceeded analyst expectations [5] Strategic Adjustments - In response to U.S. tariffs, Volvo plans to start local production of its best-selling XC60 SUV at its South Carolina plant by the end of 2026 to mitigate high import duties [3][6] - The company is withdrawing sedans and station wagons from its U.S. product line due to reduced market interest and tariff impacts [6] - CEO Håkan Samuelsson emphasized the need to better utilize the South Carolina facility as a strategic asset and adapt the product strategy to the current tariff environment [6] Industry Context - Volvo's performance is seen as a bellwether for the automotive industry, which is facing challenges from macroeconomic conditions, tariff uncertainties, and increasing competition [6] - The company is also dealing with internal challenges, including delays in the launch of its flagship EX90 SUV and software issues, prompting a global workforce reduction of 3,000 employees to cut costs [6]