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Episode #1106: Today we’re looking at a U.S.-EU trade deal that gives European automakers some relief, Toyota’s ambitious product roadmap with EVs and freshened favorites, and why Sam Altman says your ChatGPT chats aren’t nearly as private as you think.

Show Notes with links:

• European automakers got a breather as the U.S. and EU struck a long-awaited trade deal, dialing back tariff threats that had been weighing on the industry.
  • The U.S. will apply a 15% tariff on EU goods, easing pressure from the previously targeted 25%.
  • Stocks of German automakers like BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen initially surged on the news.
  • Barclays analysts note the 15% rate is six times higher than pre-Trump levels.
  • The EU may cut its 10% tariff on U.S. imports, benefiting BMW and Mercedes, which export U.S.-built models back to Europe.
  • BMW and VW are also hoping for additional relief tied to U.S. investments.
  • Barclays: “Logging in 15% tariffs as a run-rate will still represent a year-on-year headwind in 2026 versus 2025.”

• Toyota’s next four years will be packed with new EVs, freshened best-sellers, and a surprising push to keep sedans relevant.
  • The Highlander will go all-electric in 2025, following the new Grand Highlander.
  • A three-row electric crossover (bZ5X) will launch from Kentucky late 2025.
  • RAV4 redesign moves up to 2025 with new platform, safety, and infotainment upgrades.
  • Toyota continues investing in sedans — Corolla freshens in 2025, Camry will be redesigned in 2028.
  • A Compact Corolla-based pickup in development is set to rival Ford Maverick, expected in 2027.
  • Akio Toyoda’s GR Supra may end production in 2026, though emotions could keep it alive.

• Millions are sharing deeply personal issues with AI, but a surprising admission from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has lawyers — and plenty of everyday users — buzzing. 
  • He admitted last week that ChatGPT conversations don’t carry the same confidentiality as talks with a lawyer, doctor, or therapist, raising big questions about privacy in the AI age.
  • Altman: “We should have the same concept of privacy for your conversations with AI that we do with a therapist or whatever — and we haven’t figured that out yet.”
  • Legal experts warn that without privilege, user data could be subpoenaed if OpenAI stores it.
  • OpenAI notes that with chat history off — especially on paid plans — data isn’t saved or used for training.
  • Enterprise-level ChatGPT offers encryption and compliance, but the free and Plus versions lack those safeguards.

0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
1:43 Upcoming ASOTU Edge Webinar with CarRx
2:20 US Trade Deal With EU Is 15% Tariffs
4:30 Toyota's 4 Year Roadmap
7:42 ChatGPT Doesn't Provide Legal Confidential

Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.

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