Donald Trump says he ‘couldn’t care less’ about rising car prices for Americans as tariff war rages on
Donald Trump, the 47th president of the United States, announced 25% tariffs on foreign-built cars. The tariffs target vehicles and parts assembled outside the US as part of his efforts to reshape America’s trade relations. However, even with analysts saying prices for American car buyers will rise, the president shows no concern.
President Donald Trump says he’s “being very generous” with 25% tariffs on foreign cars and parts, even as it hits US buyers
American car buyers are bracing for some unpleasant vehicle-buying news. 25% tariffs will raise the average costs of new cars in the United States at a time when Americans’ automotive purchasing power is already problematic. However, when asked about the move, President Donald Trump showed no concern for the rising prices.
“I couldn’t care less if they raise prices because people are going to start buying American-made cars,” Trump said in an interview. He then doubled down on his feelings. “I couldn’t care less. I hope they raise prices because if they do, people are gonna buy American-made cars. We have plenty,” the US president said of American car buyers.
Of course, in the days of globalization, an American-made anything is a bit of a tricky concept. Even the most American-made cars on the market aren’t 100% made in the United States with North American parts. For instance, the Tesla Model 3 and Honda Ridgeline AWD TrailSport tied for the top spots among the most American-made vehicles at 75% North American parts.
Donald Trump hopes the move will incentivize automakers to build and sell cars within the United States. “The message is congratulations, if you make your car in the United States, you’re going to make a lot of money,” Donald Trump told NBC News. “You’re going to have to probably come to the United States because if you make your car in the United States, there is no tariff.”
Moreover, the president hasn’t shown any indication that the tariffs are going anywhere anytime soon. “Absolutely, they’re permanent, sure,” Trump said to interviewers. “The world has been ripping off the United States for the last 40 years and more. And all we’re doing is being fair,” Trump said. “Frankly, I’m being very generous.”
