Detroit Automakers Seek White House Protection From New Trump Tariffs
Detroit’s major automakers – General Motors (GM), Ford, and Stellantis – are urging the White House to shield them from new tariffs proposed by former President Donald Trump following a recent Supreme Court ruling. The automakers fear billions of dollars in added costs if the tariffs are applied to imported vehicles, and parts.
Supreme Court Ruling and Trump’s Response
The Supreme Court recently struck down most of Trump’s global duties, prompting the former president to vow new tariffs. On Friday, Trump announced plans to impose a flat 10% levy on all foreign goods as reported by Fortune. However, a fact sheet released by the White House indicated that passenger vehicles and certain trucks, along with their auto parts, would be exempt from this duty according to Bloomberg Tax.
Automakers’ Concerns and Request
The American Automotive Policy Council (AAPC), representing GM, Ford, and Stellantis, sent a letter to Trump’s trade team on Friday, February 20, 2026, seeking to maintain a framework that prevents multiple import taxes from being applied to vehicles and parts as detailed in Fortune. The AAPC previously issued statements supporting the Trump administration’s efforts to promote U.S. Vehicle exports as noted by the American Automakers organization and voiced concerns over previous tariff announcements as stated in a March 3, 2025, press release.
Existing Tariff Landscape
Automakers are already facing significant financial burdens due to existing tariffs on imported autos, car parts, steel, and aluminum. These tariffs were originally implemented under a national security law granting the president authority to impose import taxes as reported by Fortune. Last April, Trump signed directives to alleviate some of the impact on the automotive industry by preventing the stacking of multiple levies.
White House Response
As of February 21, 2026, the White House has not yet responded to the AAPC’s letter according to a source familiar with the matter reported by Fortune.