A possible 25 percent levy on goods from Canada and Mexico is likely to raise the prices consumers pay for new cars and trucks, and disrupt complex supply chains.
If left in place, such high import duties would make Detroit's North American-centric business structurally unprofitable, warns Barclays investment bank.
The Big Three automakers Ford (F), General Motors (GM) and Chrysler-owner Stellantis (STLA) face a huge reduction in profits from a prolonged tariff war, according to analysts at Bernstein, adding to growing fears that an escalating trade war between the U.S. and its nearest neighbours could effectively wipe out profits for the auto industry.