(WWJ) — Carmakers are expecting a healthy year in 2025, but there’s one worrisome word you hear over and over again — affordability.
That’s top of mind for many carmakers as we approach a transition in administration, with President-Elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20.
One possible change that’s been discussed at great length over the last year-plus is Trump’s plan to impose tariffs. American Honda sales chief Lance Woelfer told WWJ AutoBeat Reporter Jeff Gilbert the company hopes a long-term tariff battle can be avoided.
“When you look at tariffs overall, the brunt of that is sometimes paid by the customer and right now we’re in a market where I think affordability is key,” Woelfer said.
Woelfer said while it’s too early to speculate on what actual changes may be coming with the new administration, Honda is prepared to react. He’s just concerned about anything that could push car prices up.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Wednesday paid a visit to the Detroit Auto Show at Huntington Place, where she spoke against the idea of tariffs
“We don’t care what you drive — ICE (internal combustion engine), hybrid or EV — We just care that it’s made right here in Michigan by Michigan workers,” Whitmer said.
Another change that could be coming down the pipeline is the elimination of electric vehicle tax credits, something Gilbert says would have a major impact on the industry.
“Affordability is something that is key and that impact is something we’ll have to address as it comes forward,” Woelfer said.
Woelfer and other leaders are still anticipating a strong 2025, with more than 16 million cars sold in the industry.
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