Editor's letter

Out top story looks at Donald Trump’s return to the White House, which, coupled with Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s advisory role, marks a pivotal moment for the global EV industry. Together, they represent a powerful duo capable of redefining US policy — and their agenda could send shockwaves across Europe’s auto sector. 

Trump’s campaign rhetoric, pledging to dismantle green energy subsidies and slash EV incentives, aligns uneasily with Musk’s role as both a Tesla CEO and government adviser. Musk’s support for reducing subsidies may bolster Tesla’s competitive edge, but at the expense of rivals who depend on tax credits. For Europe, the implications are profound. US trade tariffs on Chinese EV components — many of which fuel European production — could drive up costs. Meanwhile, Chinese automakers, blocked in the US, may shift their focus to Europe, intensifying competition. 

Also in this edition: we provide an overview of the Irish motor finance market in 2024 and examine the implications of the UK Court of Appeal’s landmark ruling that car dealers must disclose commission arrangements with lenders to customers, plus much more!

Alejandro Gonzalez, editor