Episode #1142: Stellantis and GM double down on Canadian production with third-shift revivals. U.S.–South Korea trade tensions threaten key EV investments after a Hyundai-linked ICE raid. Plus, Kyle and Steve share takeaways from the NCM Digital Success Workshop.
Show Notes with links:
- It’s a good day for Canadian auto workers as both Stellantis and General Motors announce plans to extend or reinstate third shifts at major plants, signaling stronger-than-expected demand and effective union pressure.
- Stellantis' Windsor Assembly Plant will return to a three-shift schedule in Q1 2026.
- The move follows a commitment made in 2023 Unifor negotiations, aiming to meet increased demand for Chrysler minivans and Dodge Chargers.
- Unifor Local 444 President James Stewart calls it an “encouraging step” for members and the community.
- Meanwhile, GM’s Oshawa plant will retain its third shift until January 30, 2026, delaying previously announced layoffs.
- A spokesperson said the move was in response to short-term ”production needs" for light-duty pickups.
- Unifor President Lana Payne sees the shift extensions as “a sign of life for a critical industry” under threat from U.S. tariffs: “Fighting back matters.”
- A $350B investment deal between the U.S. and South Korea is under pressure following a high-profile ICE raid and growing concerns about how the fund will be structured—potentially jeopardizing future incentives for Korean automakers.
- The ICE raid at a Hyundai-linked battery plant in Georgia sparked outrage in South Korea, prompting emergency diplomatic talks.
- The $350B fund, originally pitched to mirror a U.S.-Japan deal, is now in dispute over whether it includes direct investments or just loan guarantees.
- South Korea insists it needs different terms due to the greater impact such capital would have on its economy.
- A key auto trade component—lower tariffs on Korean-made vehicles—is still pending, and may be delayed if talks break down.
- Kim Yong-beom, South Korea’s director of national policy said that while the auto tariffs are important, they're not worth rushing the fund to completion, either.
0:00 Intro with Kyle Mountsier and Steve Greenfield
0:50 Announcements
1:35 Stellantis, GM Increase Canada Shifts
3:33 South Korea Trade Deal In Jeopardy
5:47 NCM Client and Friends Digital Success Workshop Recap
Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.
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