The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) in the United States (US) has renewed its backing for policies aimed at preventing Chinese vehicle manufacturers from establishing a foothold in the US, despite growing expectations that their entry may be inevitable.
Speaking at the Haig Partners Maximising Value Conference on 3 February, NADA Chief Executive Mike Stanton said an overwhelming majority of the organisation’s board supported continued resistance to Chinese original equipment manufacturers. “Ninety‑five per cent of our directors agree we should back the administration’s efforts to keep Chinese original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) out of the country,” he told delegates, adding that such a move would be harmful to the industry, the nation, and consumers.
Although President Donald Trump has previously indicated that Chinese companies would be welcome to build vehicles on US soil, many analysts anticipate that Chinese‑built models will eventually be sold across the country regardless. Stanton stressed that NADA would not prevent individual dealers from taking on Chinese franchises, but would continue lobbying to stop those brands from selling directly into the US market.
Mike echoed his remarks at the AutoTeam America Dealer/CEO/CFO Forum & Buy‑Sell Summit, noting that political sentiment remains divided. He cited a message from Senator Bernie Moreno, who reportedly vowed to oppose the arrival of Chinese manufacturers “over his dead body”.
NADA’s priorities for 2026 also include intensifying its longstanding fight against direct‑to‑consumer sales models pursued by companies such as Scout Motors, Tesla, Rivian and Lucid. Stanton said the association relies heavily on state franchise laws to challenge these approaches.
Dealers and dealer groups in Florida, California and Colorado have launched multiple lawsuits aimed at preventing manufacturers from bypassing traditional franchises. Recent legal actions have targeted Scout Motors as well as a coalition involving American Honda and Sony Honda Mobility, accused of attempting to sell the Afeela electric vehicle directly to buyers.
He emphasised NADA’s robust financial position and its willingness to “throw the kitchen sink” at protecting dealer networks. He expressed confidence that manufacturers would struggle with direct‑sales models even if they succeed in gaining access in some states, arguing they underestimate the value dealers bring to customers.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Many forward-thinking individuals propose that autonomous vehicles will improve road safety as problematic driver behaviour, which contributes to 90% plus crashes, will be eliminated. A recent incident may cause some to doubt this, however.
South Africa’s vehicle market has seen a steady influx of emerging brands, alongside continued expansion from established players.
Motorists travelling over the Easter period can expect heavy traffic across South Africa’s road network, with authorities warning that routes to Limpopo will come under particular pressure as thousands of pilgrims make their way to Moria.
