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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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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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