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Episode #1040: Today we’re diving into a transatlantic tariff feud shaking up the luxury auto sector, a multistate lawsuit over EV charging funds, and why VW’s nostalgic ID. Buzz just got benched. 

• A new U.S.–U.K. trade deal that dramatically lowers tariffs on British auto exports is saving jobs at Jaguar Land Rover—but not without blowback. American automakers say the agreement favors British imports over North American-made vehicles, threatening jobs and supply chains at home.
  • British auto exports to the U.S. will now face a 10% tariff—down from 27.5%—for up to 100,000 vehicles annually.
  • Jaguar Land Rover, with 32% of its global sales in the U.S., has resumed exports and praised the deal for bringing certainty to the sector.
  • The American Automotive Policy Council, representing GM, Ford, and Stellantis, condemned the deal, saying it undercuts USMCA-compliant vehicles made in Mexico or Canada.
  • “This hurts American automakers, suppliers, and auto workers,” the Council said, warning the U.K. terms could set a damaging precedent for future trade deals.
  • U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the deal at a JLR plant, calling the tariff cut “hugely important to me,” while JLR CEO Adrian Mardell “warmly welcomed” the agreement.
• California and 16 other states are taking the Trump administration to court aiming to reinstate $5 billion intended for EV charger expansion across the U.S. The states say the funding is critical for innovation, climate goals, and job growth.
  • The lawsuit challenges the Trump administration’s February directive to halt $5 billion in EV charger construction authorized by the 2021 Infrastructure Act.
  • States argue the move undermines efforts to reduce emissions and meet rising demand for clean transportation.
  • California Governor Gavin Newsom slammed the decision as “another Trump gift to China,” saying it kills U.S. jobs and innovation.
• Volkswagen’s nostalgia-fueled ID. Buzz is hitting a bump in the road. A pair of recalls—including one over a missing seatbelt in the back row—has sidelined sales of the electric van that was meant to channel the spirit of the 1960s.
  • VW is recalling about 5,600 ID. Buzz EVs because U.S. regulators say its third-row bench is wide enough for three passengers—but has only two seatbelts.
  • The fix? VW will install unpadded trim to reduce the perceived seat width and stay within safety rules.
  • A second recall involves the emergency brake warning light, which shows amber instead of the federally required red.
  • Dealers have been ordered not to sell any affected ID. Buzz units until the repairs are made.
  • “It really took the wind out of my bre

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