Welcome to the June/July edition of At the Wheel: An Automotive Roundup. We begin with highlights from our recent Automotive Legal Summit, a one-day event packed with valuable insights and dynamic discussions. Then, explore key trends shaping the automotive industry and the latest thought leadership from Dykema’s Automotive and Transportation Industry Group.

Recent Event Highlights

From dynamic discussions on EV mandates and evolving NHTSA regulations to mass litigation strategies and beyond, Dykema’s July 23 Automotive Legal Summit delivered timely insights and high-octane engagement. Attendees capped off the day with autocross and track experiences at the M1 Concourse, making this year’s summit one to remember.

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Insights

• 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. 11 (July 29, 2025)
    As of August 1, tariffs on Japanese vehicles and parts are set to drop to 15% following Japan’s $550B pledge to U.S. supply chains. Some U.S. automakers are raising concerns over higher rates for Canada and Mexico. In this one-minute snapshot, Tina offers her perspective on what the deal could mean and what to watch next.
  • Ep. 10 (July 24, 2025)
    New 30% tariffs on vehicles, EVs, and parts from the EU and Mexico are now in effect, potentially impacting U.S. auto supply chains. This quick update covers what’s at stake and how suppliers and OEMs should prepare.
  • Ep. 9 (July 16, 2025)
    New trade actions, including a 50% tariff on imported copper and tariff threats on Canadian auto parts, could shake up EV production and supply chains. This quick update explores what it means for the auto industry now and in the months ahead.
  • Ep. 8 (July 1, 2025)
    The Learning Resources v. Trump case challenges presidential tariff powers as the July 9 deadline passed with key countries like India, Japan, and Vietnam still holding out. This quick update covers what’s at stake for automotive supply chains facing potential double-digit duties.

• Can the U.S. Break Its Dependency on Chinese Rare Earth Magnets? (July 15, 2025)
  In this One Minute Matters update, Tom Moga breaks down why rare earth magnet sourcing is under the spotlight. With 90% coming from China, new export controls and U.S. incentives are reshaping the legal and strategic landscape. A quick look at why companies should act now on sourcing, compliance, and contingency planning.
• What’s Next for EVs?  (July 10, 2025)
  Tune in as Dykema’s Jay Logel joins host Jason Stein on MEMA’s Automotive Insiders podcast to break down how shifting policies are impacting suppliers on the front lines of the EV transition.
• Decision Alert: Supreme Court Calls for Judicial Deference to Agencies’ Factual Findings and Interpretation of Procedural Requirements (July 1, 2025)
  In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court ruled in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County that the D.C. Circuit failed to give proper deference to the Surface Transportation Board (STB) under NEPA. The Supreme Court clarified that agencies aren’t required to evaluate environmental impacts beyond their control, such as upstream drilling, when approving infrastructure projects. The ruling reinforces deference to agency decision-making under NEPA and the APA. Learn more about the case and its implications.
• How Much Will Tariffs Add to Your Construction Costs? (June 23, 2025)
  With 25% tariffs on steel, brick, and lumber, developers must factor trade policy into project planning. Dan Schairbaum outlines the cost impact and key contract terms to watch.
• Are Your Products PFAS-Compliant Under Minnesota’s New Proposal? (June 16, 2025)
  In this One Minute Matters segment, Grant Gilezan breaks down Minnesota’s proposed PFAS reporting rule—which could set the tone for national regulation. If passed, companies with intentionally added PFAS in their products may face broad new disclosure requirements. Learn what’s at stake and why “due diligence” fuels legal debate.

Upcoming

• MEMA 2025 Morning Grind – Save the Date
  October 7, 2025
  Southfield, Mich. ▪ 7:30 a.m.
  Details to come.