Ford Warns of Price Hikes as Trump Tariff Uncertainty Lingers

Core Viewpoint - Ford Motor Company is preparing to increase vehicle prices starting with models produced in May 2025 if President Trump does not implement the suggested tariff relief for automakers [1][2]. Pricing Adjustments - Ford anticipates needing to adjust vehicle pricing unless there is a significant change in Trump's tariff policy, with changes applying to vehicles built in May, which will reach U.S. dealerships in late June or early July [2][3]. - Vehicles already in inventory will not see any price changes [2]. Tariff Implications - This warning indicates that automakers may pass on increased costs due to Trump's 25% tariffs on imported vehicles, especially as Trump considers a temporary break from these tariffs [3][4]. - Ford is still assessing the full impact of Trump's trade policies but expects some tariffs to remain in place for the foreseeable future [4]. Production and Cost Structure - Ford manufactures 80% of its vehicles sold in the U.S. at domestic plants, but many budget-friendly models are produced in Mexico [5]. - The company has faced significant losses in its EV business, with losses of $4.7 billion in 2023 and widening to$5.07 billion in 2024, expecting segmental losses of $5-$5.5 billion in 2025 [6]. Financial Performance - Ford's full-year adjusted EBIT is forecasted between $7 billion and$8.5 billion, down from $10.2 billion in 2024 [6]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Ford's 2025 sales and earnings indicates a year-over-year decline of 5.12% and 27.17%, respectively [11]. Stock Performance - Ford shares have lost 22.1% in the past year, underperforming the Zacks Auto, Tires and Trucks sector's decline of 4.3% and the Zacks Automotive - Domestic industry's growth of 14.1% [10]. - The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank 5 (Strong Sell) [13].