First-quarter US sales results were positive for both General Motors (GM) and Ford (F), despite looming tariffs that could impact the Big Three automakers. GM reported a 17% year-over-year sales increase to 693,363 units, driven by strong performance in trucks and electric vehicles (EVs) across its four brands. The company highlighted its success in full-size pickup sales, with over 200,000 units sold, marking the best first quarter performance since 2007. GM also saw significant growth in EV sales, jumping 94% to 31,887 units.
Meanwhile, Ford experienced a slight decline in overall sales due to factors like rental fleet sales timing. However, its retail sales increased by 5% in Q1 and by 19% in March. The surge in March sales was attributed to consumers possibly rushing to buy cars before the potential tariff imposition. Ford noted improvements in sales of models like the F-Series pickup trucks and the Ford Bronco.
Both automakers are seeing success in EV sales, with Ford setting a record high of 73,623 in the first quarter. Despite the positive sales figures, concerns persist over the impact of impending tariffs on the industry. Executives from GM, Ford, and other automakers are advocating for tariff relief on key parts to prevent cost increases in domestically produced vehicles.