Toyota Rav4

Search documents
Ford said it expects Trump's tariffs to set it back $2 billion and hand Japanese automakers a 'meaningful' edge
Business Insiderยท 2025-07-31 04:44
Core Insights - Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, stated that the Trump administration's tariff policy will impose a $2 billion cost on the automaker, which is an increase from the previously projected $1.5 billion [1][10] - Farley anticipates a shift in the automotive industry towards a regional business model due to tariffs, the rise of electric vehicles, and new carbon regulations [2] - The reduction of tariffs on Japan from 25% to 15% will provide Japanese automakers with a significant cost advantage over Ford [3] Group 1: Tariff Impact - The total tariff burden on Ford is now estimated at $2 billion, which is a net figure [1] - The company is facing competitive pricing challenges, with examples showing that a Kentucky-built Ford Escape could be $5,000 more expensive than a Japanese-made Toyota Rav4, and a Michigan-made Ford Bronco could be undercut by $10,000 by a Toyota 4Runner [8] - Farley indicated that the current tariff situation is a "windfall for South Korean and Japanese companies" [10] Group 2: Strategic Shifts - Farley expressed that automakers will likely adopt a regional approach, with Europe, North America, and Asia operating as distinct markets [2] - The company is working with the Trump administration to reduce tariff expenses to enhance competitiveness [9] - Ford's strategy is not to compete in commodity segments, focusing instead on other areas [9] Group 3: Market Reaction - Following the announcement, Ford's shares fell by nearly 1.6% in after-hours trading, although they are up 9.8% year to date [11]