President Donald Trump imposed trade voltages with a new guideline with a tariff of 25% on all imported cars, trucks and important car components that are valid on April 2. The step that is intended to increase the production of domestic production is already sending shock waves through the global automotive industry and sends Swift reactions from car manufacturers such as BMW. “This is permanent. 100%,” said Trump during a press conference. “If you want to sell it here, build it up here.”
The tariffs apply to all imported passenger vehicles, including limousines, SUVs, crossovers and light trucks as well as essential parts such as engines, transmissions and electrical components. While the United States had previously postponed similar measures for trading partners such as Canada and Mexico, the scope is widespread – and the clock ticks.
Immediate response from BMW: Price protection – but only for Mexico
BMW, which includes portfolio in Germany and Mexico, took a preventive step two weeks ago to protect customers from direct financial effects – at least in part. In a statement, BMW announced that it would be produced current MSRPs for vehicles that were produced in his work in San Luis Potosí, Mexico system,-in one of the BMW 3 Series, the 2 Series Coupé and the high-performance M2 to May 1, 2025.
After this date, BMW will increase the prices for the 2 Series Coupé and M2 by 4%, which reflects the first attempt to compensate for the costs of the new tariffs. No price increases have yet been announced for the 3 series built by Mexico, but BMW has made it clear that further adjustments are possible, depending on how the trading situation develops.
The uncertainty surrounds BMWS from Germany
While BMW has outlined a strategy for its Mexican models, he was silent about German-produced vehicles. B. certain 3-series equipment, the i4, IX and other models that were exported directly from Germany. Since no public obligation to protect the price for these vehicles, US customers could soon record significant price increases.
This uncertainty is alarming for a brand that sent vehicles worth billion dollars to the United States in 2024 and the German-based exports make up a significant part of the US turnover. Oliver Zipse, CEO of BMW, recently told Bloomberg that escalating trade conflicts could cost the company over 1 billion US dollars this year, and added that “there are no winners in this game”.
A blow to the broader auto industry
According to S&P Global Mobility, around half of the 16 million vehicles sold in the USA in 2024 were imported. The list of affected brands is long, including Asian and German brands. The move could further damage relationships with the European Union, which the United States is considered the largest automotive market. German car manufacturers in particular are susceptible: one of six BMWs and one of three Porsches are sold in America.
If you consider a new BMW – in particular a 3 series, 2 series or M2 – you may want to act before May 1st. The next phase of this commercial struggle could be associated with a high price.
