Tariffs Dominate NY Auto Show, US-Made RAV4s?, Police E-Motorcycles

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Episode #1023:  From tariff talk taking over the New York Auto Show to Toyota rethinking RAV4 production, and LiveWire’s electric leap into law enforcement—we've got you covered.

Show Notes with links:

• Automakers came to New York looking to celebrate new vehicles, but found themselves answering the same old questions—about tariffs. Despite flashy debuts and high-octane reveals, the weight of trade policy loomed over every conversation.
  • Subaru U.S. chief Jeff Walters debuted the all-new Outback, only to field immediate questions about tariffs instead of the vehicle.
  • Nissan embraced the tension with a tongue-in-cheek window decal reading “FREE from new tariffs” on its U.S.-built models.
  • They also revealed plans to build 80% of U.S. inventory domestically, up from 50%, citing flexibility amid tariff volatility.
  • Tariffs dominated nearly every conference panel, with one moderator finally pausing and saying, “Ladies and gentlemen, the bar is open.” It was 10 a.m.
  • Our friend John Bozzella of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation called for more time and flexibility, warning that rushed tariff policy could mean “increased prices and a slowing of sales.” “The key is time for adjustment,” Bozzella said. “This is a massive industry.”

• Toyota is reevaluating its production strategy for the next-gen RAV4, exploring a shift to U.S. manufacturing as a hedge against 25% import tariffs and currency swings.
  • Toyota sold over 475,000 RAV4s in the U.S. last year—its most popular model, making up 20% of its U.S. volume.
  • Originally planned for export from Japan and Canada, U.S. production in Kentucky is now under serious consideration.
  • The shift would help meet expected demand and mitigate tariff-related costs, with potential U.S. output beginning in 2027.
  • While plans aren’t final, Toyota noted it “continually studied ways to improve its manufacturing” but declined to confirm speculation.

• LiveWire, the electric spin-off from Harley-Davidson, is getting into the public service game with a new line of police-spec electric motorcycles.
  • The new fleet includes emergency lighting, sirens, and reinforced mounts, tailored for urban patrol, motorcades, and event security.
  • Benefits include low maintenance, silent operation, and instant torque—ideal for quick maneuvering through tight city traffic.
  • Custom ride modes, regenerative braking, and one-handed operation aim to reduce officer fatigue and improve shift efficiency.
  • Police departments can choose from a suite of configurations, reinforcing the model’s flexibility in law enforcement roles.
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