European Automakers are Beginning to Pause US Shipments, Will MINI Be Next?

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Last week we broke down MINI’s initial response to the new U.S. tariffs and what that could mean for pricing going forward. Now, as the smoke starts to clear (or at least swirl a little less chaotically), other European automakers are showing their hands. From paused shipments to strategic price cuts—and even talk of layoffs—the ripple effects are starting to look more like waves.

As of April 6, 2025, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is the primary European automaker that has officially paused shipments to the United States in response to the newly imposed 25% tariff on imported vehicles by the U.S. administration. JLR announced a temporary suspension of U.S. shipments for April as it evaluates strategies to mitigate the tariff’s impact. 

Other European manufacturers are actively assessing the situation. For instance, Volkswagen Group has temporarily halted shipments from Mexico and Europe to the U.S. to evaluate the implications of the tariffs.  Similarly, Audi is holding vehicles at ports and labeling those imported before April 3 with “No Added Import Fee” to distinguish them from tariff-affected models. 

Mercedes-Benz has also made some moves. According to The Verge, Mercedes isn’t suspending shipments entirely, but it’s slashing its EV prices in an attempt to stay competitive despite the tariff. In a more troubling sign, it’s also considering workforce reductions and delaying U.S. factory expansion plans, particularly those linked to its Alabama plant. It’s a layered response—lower sticker prices on one hand, cost-cutting on the other—all in an effort to buffer the tariff’s blow without losing ground in a key market.

While most companies have not officially paused shipments, their actions indicate a cautious approach as they navigate the new trade environment. The automotive industry is closely monitoring developments, and further responses from other manufacturers may emerge as the situation evolves. 

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