Welcome to the May edition of At the Wheel: An Automotive Roundup, where we showcase the latest insights and thought leadership from Dykema’s Automotive and Transportation Industry Group. Get a closer look at the issues and trends driving change across the automotive industry, along with a preview of upcoming webinars and events you won’t want to miss.

  • This Week in Tariffs: A weekly guide with Dykema’s Tina Toma highlighting the latest developments in tariff policy and how they could impact the automotive industry.
    • Ep. 2 (April 30, 2025)
      The White House just unveiled two major policy shifts aimed at softening the impact of automotive tariffs. What do they mean for OEMs and suppliers? Learn more about cumulative tariffs, the new tariff credit available for U.S.-assembled vehicles, and more.
    • Ep. 3 (May 7, 2025)
      25% tariffs on auto parts are now in effect, so what should legal and sourcing teams be doing right now? Tina explains how the latest changes to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule are affecting classification strategies, supply chain planning, and internal compliance systems—and why customs scrutiny may be just beginning.
    • Ep. 4 (May 14, 2025)
      Another 90-day tariff pause. A turning point or déjà vu? Recently, the U.S. and China agreed to temporarily lower tariffs and continue trade talks. But if history is any guide, this window may close fast. Tina explains why past pauses haven’t stuck—and what businesses should be doing now to manage the uncertainty.
    • Ep. 5 (May 21, 2025)
      What happens when a customs mistake becomes an FCA liability? The DOJ is using the False Claims Act to target importers for customs fraud, and the penalties go far beyond CBP fines. Treble damages, whistleblower actions, and criminal exposure are all on the table. Dykema’s Jennifer Beidel joins Tina as they break down what’s triggering enforcement and how to protect your company.
  • Dykema Drives Auto Webinars: Our attorneys take the wheel and share their insights about the pressing legal challenges and trends facing the automotive industry this year and potentially for years to come. Recent sessions include:
    • Session #3 The Third Quake: Tariffs and International Trade Regulation in 2025 (May 15, 2025)
      Speakers Tim McCarthy, Tina Toma, and Darren Chen discussed tariff rules and processes, compliance considerations, recent developments, procurement strategies, and export controls, specifically on AI Chip, and sanctions in particular countries.
  • Importers Beware: DOJ Escalates Customs Fraud Enforcement Under FCA (May 8, 2025)
    The DOJ is increasingly using the False Claims Act to pursue customs fraud, recently bringing high-profile actions and settlements against companies accused of underpaying duties through misclassification, undervaluation, and false declarations. These cases signal growing enforcement risks for importers and highlight the serious consequences of failing to ensure accurate customs reporting.  Learn the key takeaways and connect with Dykema’s team of experienced attorneys!

Upcoming

  • Dykema Drives Auto Webinar, Session #4 – If Not China, Where? The State of IP in Asia’s Alternatives on June 19, 2025. Register here.

    As automotive companies reevaluate their global strategies, many are looking beyond China for R&D, manufacturing, and market expansion. While China has long offered low costs and a skilled workforce, rising expenses, limited market access, and ongoing IP enforcement challenges are prompting a shift. Tom Moga will explore alternative destinations in Southeast Asia and share how lessons learned in China can help automotive businesses make more informed decisions abroad.
  • Registration is Open! Dykema Drives: Automotive Legal Summit 2025 | Wednesday, July 23, 2025 | M1 Concourse | Pontiac, Mich.

    Dykema’s Automotive Legal Summit is back, bringing together legal and business leaders across the auto industry. Join us for a one-day summit featuring legal insights, dynamic panels, and networking with peers. We’ll explore what’s reshaping the automotive industry and cut through the noise on risks and real strategies. Then, shift gears and feel the thrill of M1’s exclusive driving attractions. Learn more and register today!

    Preview of sessions:
    • Built to Comply: Emissions, EV Mandates, and the New Regulatory Engine
      Grant Gilezan and Andrea Cascarilla unpack key environmental regulations impacting the auto industry plus PFAS updates.
    • Immigration Under the Hood: Legal Shifts Affecting Auto Talent
      James Prappas and Jim Aldrich cover the latest developments in immigration law affecting automotive hiring and workforce strategy.
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Photo of Laura C. Baucus Laura C. Baucus

Laura Baucus is a results-oriented litigator and business attorney with experience delivering consistent results to clients in the automotive, aerospace, manufacturing and financial services industries. Ms. Baucus has worked both as outside counsel and as seconded in-house counsel. She is the Director of…

Laura Baucus is a results-oriented litigator and business attorney with experience delivering consistent results to clients in the automotive, aerospace, manufacturing and financial services industries. Ms. Baucus has worked both as outside counsel and as seconded in-house counsel. She is the Director of Dykema’s 140+ attorney Automotive Industry Group, the immediate past Leader of the firm’s Financial Services Litigation Practice, a Leader in Dykema’s COVID-19 Task-Force, the originator of the firm’s Supply Chain Group, the Manager of a firm OEM client-service team, and the immediate past Manager of the firm’s largest Michigan office.

Ms. Baucus regularly counsels clients on force majeure and related contract performance options. Her litigation practice focuses on procurement and supply chain, recalls, warranty and cost recovery, contract termination, tooling recovery, Uniform Commercial Code issues, and financial services.  Her contract practice includes negotiating and drafting supply contracts and other commercial agreements for automotive and other manufacturing companies, including terms and conditions. Ms. Baucus also manages national portfolios of lawsuits for some of the nation’s largest residential mortgage servicers.

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Photo of Michael R. Carey Michael R. Carey

Michael Carey is trial lawyer with experience in complex commercial litigation and products liability defense. With his creative and authentic approach to jury presentation, Mr. Carey has taken numerous cases to successful verdict in state and federal courts across the country. In addition…

Michael Carey is trial lawyer with experience in complex commercial litigation and products liability defense. With his creative and authentic approach to jury presentation, Mr. Carey has taken numerous cases to successful verdict in state and federal courts across the country. In addition to his trial work, Mr. Carey has defended and prosecuted appeals before the Minnesota Appellate Courts and the Eighth and Ninth Circuits.

In addition to his trial and appellate practice, Mr. Carey serves as co-leader of the Firm’s Mobility and Advanced Transportation Team. He counsels mobility industry clients on proactive risk mitigation strategies relating to Automated Driving Systems (ADS) and other advanced automotive safety technologies. He is also frequently called on to publish and present on legal issues and advances in this emerging field.

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