Why It Matters

The American Automotive Policy Council is fighting to protect domestic automakers against converging existential threats: aggressive tariffs disrupting supply chains, Chinese EV competitors undercutting U.S. prices, and regulatory uncertainty around emerging vehicle technologies. At stake is whether Ford, GM, and Stellantis can maintain manufacturing scale and profitability through a rapid industry transition.

The AAPC’s core challenge is securing favorable terms under the USMCA’s 2026 Joint Review, mitigating Section 232 tariffs that complicate cross-border supply chains, and shaping global autonomous vehicle standards before competitors lock in advantage. The strategy leverages political consensus against Chinese competition and bipartisan interest in supporting domestic manufacturing—positioning tariff relief as national security imperatives rather than industry self-interest.

By the Numbers

The American Automotive Policy Council Inc. spent $95,000 on in-house lobbying in the third quarter. Since 2010, the organization has filed 84 disclosures and spent $6.4 million—with $5.66 million through its in-house operation.

The filing relies entirely on Nicholas J. Coutsos, the AAPC’s sole in-house lobbyist since April 2015. Coutsos is associated with 43 lobbying disclosures totaling $4,427,700. His expertise centers on automotive trade policy rather than congressional staff experience.

Previously, AAPC supplemented with external firms including Williams & Jensen PLLC ($200K in 2017) and Covington & Burling LLP ($160K in 2015-2016). No external firms are listed for this quarter.

The Agenda

The AAPC is lobbying on interconnected automotive policy priorities, focusing on trade and tariff issues—particularly mitigating Section 232 tariffs while preparing for the USMCA’s 2026 Joint Review. The organization is engaging USTR on EU trade agreements and working to secure international market access.

On technology standards, AAPC is advancing U.S. autonomous vehicle standards at global forums like the UNECE while engaging on international EV standards. Historically, the AAPC has lobbied on trade reciprocity, currency manipulation, and market barriers in key markets, plus energy policy and supply chain issues.

Broader Context

Congress is actively debating tariff policy with direct implications for automakers. The White House escalated Section 232 tariffs to 25%, while the U.S. and EU reached an agreement reducing automotive tariffs to 15%.

The USMCA faces its first comprehensive review in 2026, with congressional hearings highlighting enforcement challenges. Chinese EV competition poses existential threats, generating bipartisan alarm. Rep. Haley Stevens introduced the "No Chinese Cars Act", while Senator Josh Hawley urged DOJ investigation into Chinese auto companies.

On autonomous vehicles, NHTSA is launching three rulemakings to modernize safety standards, while S. 1798 aims to remove regulatory barriers.

Between The Lines

Congressional activity aligns directly with AAPC priorities. The Senate Finance Committee’s hearing on trade agenda highlighted tariffs as leverage for "reciprocal" trade, while House Ways and Means raised USMCA enforcement concerns—directly relevant to the 2026 Joint Review.

H.R. 735, the United States Reciprocal Trade Act, specifically mentions "European protectionism in automotive markets." S. 1798, the Autonomous Vehicle Acceleration Act, aims to remove barriers by updating safety standards—supporting AAPC’s international standards work.

Competitive Landscape

The AAPC operates within a crowded landscape. Foreign automakers Kia Corp. and Hyundai Motor America lobby on trade and tariffs where interests may diverge, particularly on USMCA rules of origin. Parts supplier Robert Bosch LLC engages on nearly identical issues, with priorities often aligning with AAPC members.

AAPC member General Motors conducts separate lobbying on EV tax credits, while Rivian Automotive focuses on EV incentives and battery manufacturing credits.

The Bottom Line

The American Automotive Policy Council spent $95,000 in the third quarter lobbying on trade, tariffs, and vehicle standards. Representing Ford, GM, and Stellantis, the Council focuses on USMCA enforcement, Section 232 tariff mitigation, and advancing autonomous vehicle standards globally. Congress is actively debating reciprocal trade policy and autonomous vehicle regulation, creating a receptive environment amid broader congressional concern about Chinese EV competition.

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