Overview

• The German auto industry exported 3.4 million vehicles in 2024, a 2.5% increase in volume, though export value fell by 1.3% to €135 billion.
• The U.S. was the largest market for German cars, accounting for 13.1% of exports, followed by the UK (11.3%) and France (7.4%).
• Electric vehicle exports grew by 11.9% in 2024, reaching 881,000 units and making up 25.9% of total car exports.
• President Trump has proposed raising tariffs on EU car imports to 25%, up from the current 2.5%, with a decision anticipated in early April 2025.
• Existing trade conflicts between the EU and U.S., including tariffs on steel and aluminum, highlight the vulnerability of German automakers to external pressures.