German automakers at most risk from Trump tariffs

The U.S. Commerce Department sent a report on Sunday to President Donald Trump that could unleash steep tariffs on imported cars and auto parts. Profits at German automakers are seen most at risk from tariffs on cars they export to the U.S. from Europe. U.S. government officials have not given any insights into the findings of the report by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross on whether vehicles built abroad pose a national security risk. Automakers and parts suppliers are anticipating its recommendation options will include broad tariffs of up to 20 percent to 25 percent on assembled cars and parts, or narrower tariffs targeting components and technologies related to new energy cars, autonomous, internet-connected and shared vehicles. The Commerce Department alluded to a focus on emerging vehicle technologies when it opened the investigation.