Us presidential election

When Canadian Auto Meets U.S. Politics: A Love Story?

Find out how the U.S. presidential election is revving up Canada’s auto industry and what it all means for your ride!

As the polls close on the Day of the U.S. presidential election, the implications of voting extend far beyond the borders of the United States, especially for an industry that plays a vital role in both nations. The automotive sector in Canada finds itself essentially 'on the ballot' today, as American policies and election outcomes can drastically affect production lines, jobs, and even the price tags on vehicles north of the border. But how did we get to this nail-biting intersection of politics and transportation, you might ask? Hold onto your steering wheels, Canada!

For decades, Canada has been a powerhouse in automotive manufacturing, with many major car manufacturers setting up shop in provinces like Ontario. Ties between Canadian and U.S. automotive industries are so strong that trade deals such as NAFTA (now USMCA) have been central to the survival and success of car plants in the Great White North. Depending on who sits in the Oval Office, policies affecting tariffs, regulations, and environmental standards can shift significantly, sending ripples across borders and impacting job security for thousands of Canadian workers. Like watching a game of political musical chairs—with vehicles instead of seats!

The 2020 presidential election put energy and electric vehicle policies at the forefront, with candidates proposing various changes that could either bolster or hurt the Canadian automotive sector. Should the U.S. decide to push for more stringent regulations on emissions, Canadian manufacturers may have no choice but to follow suit, potentially creating a turbulent ride for businesses trying to adapt. Conversely, a pro-manufacturing administration might pave the way for increased investment in Canadian automakers, leading to an explosive boom in production. In a wild twist of fate, the automotive future of Canada has turned into an unexpected spectator sport during U.S. voting season.

So, as Canada's auto industry stays tuned to election night results, it’s essential to recognize that what happens in the U.S. has real-life consequences across the border. In fact, almost 80% of the vehicles manufactured in Canada are exported to the United States. And here's a fun tidbit: did you know that Canada's automotive industry directly employs about 500,000 workers? The stakes couldn’t be higher! Can't find your keys? Hopefully, they don’t get lost in the crossfire of the next big election scandal!