Tesla warns tariffs hurt U.S. manufacturing competitiveness

Tesla has sent a letter to the U.S. Trade Representative, urging consideration of the negative effects of tariffs on American exporters. The company highlighted increased manufacturing costs and reduced competitiveness due to recent trade policies. The letter, dated March 11, warns of vulnerabilities to retaliatory tariffs from other countries. Tesla emphasized that past tariff actions have raised costs for its U.S.-made vehicles and made them less competitive internationally. Tesla called for future trade policies to avoid imposing burdens on U.S. manufacturers while ensuring access to essential components. The letter comes amid rising trade tensions following President Trump's recent tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico.