More Tariffs Incoming?, Hyundai and Kia US-Made EV Batteries, BYD Customers Push Back

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Happy Wednesday! Today, we’re looking at President Trump’s proposed 25% auto tariffs and the effects it could have. Plus, we’re covering how Hyundai and Kia are ramping up US battery and EV production, making those models eligible for the $7500 tax credit. Then, we’ll cover how Chinese customers are not happy with BYD. 

Show Notes with links:

• President Donald Trump has announced that 25% auto tariffs are coming soon—with more details expected April 2. The move aims to reshape global trade, but it could drive up vehicle prices and shake the industry.
  • His cabinet is set to deliver reports on trade options by April 1, outlining tariffs on autos, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors.
  • Europe currently charges a 10% tariff on U.S. vehicle imports, while the U.S. only charges 2.5% on foreign cars—except for pickups, which already face a 25% duty.
  • Trump also set a March 12 start date for 25% tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, which could raise costs for automakers.
  • He has previously announced and delayed tariffs on Mexican and non-energy Canadian imports, keeping trade relationships tense.
  • From a Steve Greenfield LinkedIn Post: “[These tariffs] puts a $240 billion trade route in the crosshairs, with some of the biggest brands in Germany and South Korea most exposed.”

• After months of uncertainty, Hyundai and Kia EVs are back on track to qualify for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. With a new U.S.-based battery supply chain, the automakers are positioning themselves for a big year in 2025 as they ramp up production of new models like the 2025 IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9.
  • Hyundai’s Georgia EV plant will start mass-producing the 2025 IONIQ 5 next month.
  • SK Battery America (SKBA) will supply batteries made in the U.S., meeting the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) requirements.
  • The new Bartow County battery plant will produce enough batteries for 200,000 EVs annually and cut shipping times to the EV plant.
  • Until full tax credit eligibility is restored, Hyundai is still passing the $7,500 credit through leasing, making the 2025 IONIQ 5 cheaper than a Toyota RAV4.

• Chinese automaker BYD is facing a wave of consumer complaints after offering free smart driving features across most of its lineup. Many existing customers feel cheated, believing they overpaid for their vehicles before the upgrades.
  • Over 4,700 complaints were filed on 12365auto.com between Feb. 11-17, up from 150 the week before and 500 in January.
  • BYD’s Ocean and Dynasty series dominated the platform’s top 10 most complained-about cars.
  • Some buyers claim salesp

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