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Sterling Heights Assembly plant, Michigan. Photo: FCA on Flickr

Stellantis has paused production at two assembly plants in Canada and Mexico in response to tariffs, leaving thousands of Americans and Canadians out of their jobs while the company figures out what to do next. The idled plants produce both the Dodge Charger Daytona EV and Jeep Wagoneer S EV, among other vehicles.

In the aftermath of yesterday’s Inflation Day announcements by Mr. Trump, the fallout has been swift – and perhaps swifter than expected.

To set the stage for this article: tariffs do not work. There are some potential benefits or situations that they can be used in, but when they are decided on haphazardly, not targeted towards any particular industry or country, not accompanied by onshoring incentives, and not done in concert with allies to produce a desired effect, they tend to just be bad for the country imposing them.

Instead, what they do – particularly when implemented in the idiotic way that these have been announced – is push ally countries away, encourage countries to find other global consumers for their exports, induce retaliation, and cause inflation for the country imposing them.

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That last inflation point is especially direct and easy to understand, so lets explain how it works.

Imagine that you are one of two companies making a product, which you can sell profitably for $11, but your overseas competitor can sell for $10. Then, your country adds a 50% tariff to your competitor in order to make your product more competitive. Now, your competitor sells their product for $15 – but you’re a business, and your interest is in making money, and you now know that nobody can compete with your $11 price… or $12, $13, or even $14 for that matter.

So you set your price to $14.50, still undercutting your competition, making yourself more profit, and causing 45% inflation for everyone who had previously bought your competitor’s $10 product.

In this way, tariffs are a direct shock to prices for consumers. And when those tariffs are broad across all industries, they mean that consumers will pay more for everything.

This is just an extremely simplified example of only one way in which tariffs negatively affect consumers in the country implementing them, but it is widely held by anyone who studies economics that tariffs are generally harmful.

It is possible for tariffs to reduce offshoring of jobs, or at least, those who believe in their use tend to consider this as their primary purpose. This is why labor unions generally support protectionist policy, as they generally consider that free trade agreements have resulted in offshoring of jobs from advanced economies, and therefore a lowering of overall global labor standards as companies flee countries with higher wage or labor standards.

But we’ve seen attempts at protectionist tariffs in the auto industry fail before when we tried to implement tariffs on Japanese steel and autos in the 1970s, and all it did was give 50 years of global export dominance to the Japanese (as I went over in this article, or you can read about in this union publication).

More proximately, the last round of tariffs implemented by the exact same person who has somehow been allowed to wander into the White House for a second time (despite there being a clear Constitutional remedy for this crisis) were shown to harm the US economy. Mr. Trump’s tariffs didn’t lead to an increase in American jobs in targeted industries, and retaliatory tariffs led to great harm for American industry, especially farmers, due to targeted retaliatory tariffs by China.

But now, not content to just harm the US economy and instead apparently wanting to destroy it wholesale, Mr. Trump’s new tariff announcement yesterday is much broader than his comparatively small-scale tariffs of yesteryear. The previous salvo just managed to shatter the US soybean industry, whereas this one stands to harm all US industries and consumers.

And today we’re already seeing the first effect: job losses in American manufacturing, the very sector that Mr. Trump’s lies claim he’s trying to save.

Stellantis announced today that it will idle some plants in Canada and Mexico, leading to job losses for Americans. It directly implicated the tariffs as its reason for these plant idlings.

Those job losses total 4,500 for our erstwhile Canadian allies, and 900 for workers in the US in associated plants. A Mexican plant will be idled, but due to the strength of the Mexican workers’ contract, Mexican auto workers will still report to work and be paid while the plant is idle.

The plants chosen for idling produce several vehicles, including the Dodge Charger Daytona EV and Jeep Wagoneer S EV, but also the Chrysler Pacifica and Jeep Compass. They are supported by US plants that provide parts for those vehicles.

US workers at stamping plants in Michigan and transmission and casting plants in Indiana will be the ones to lose their jobs during the pause.

Stellantis said that it is still figuring out what the long-term effects of the tariffs will be, but that these immediate actions are a direct response to the tariffs while they figure things out. It will continue to determine if further action is necessary.

An email sent by North American COO Antonio FIlosa said “We understand the current environment creates uncertainty. Be assured that we are very engaged with all of our key stakeholders, including top government leaders, unions, suppliers and dealers in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, as we work to manage and adapt to these changes.”

Uncertainty is something that all businesses, but especially the auto business, abhors. Automotive manufacturing is a complex process requiring coordination of suppliers across thousands of parts produced across many countries.

Cars are planned and produced on long timelines, with lead times of some ~7 years on average from concept to production. As a result, tariff policy that changes day by day can make it difficult for any complex manufacturing, especially automotive, to plan around.

In those situations, sometimes a manufacturer will just throw their hands up and say “we give up, we’ll find someone else to sell to instead.”

And it looks like today’s move by Stellantis is just the first company to do that. Expect more.

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ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0 e-bike at exclusive new $750 low, Anker eufy S220 solar cam $65, Linkind smart solar spotlights from $23, more

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July 31, 2025

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ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0 e-bike at exclusive new 0 low, Anker eufy S220 solar cam , Linkind smart solar spotlights from , more

Leading today’s pack of Green Deals is an exclusive 50% discount for our readers on the ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0 Folding e-bike at a new $749.50 low. Right behind it we have Anker’s eufy SoloCam S220 Solar Security Camera starting at $65, with some multi-pack discounts also available, as well as multi-packs of Linkind’s Smart Solar Spotlights starting from $23. From there we have a 3-in-1 tool bundle with replacement parts from Worx, a 60V 610 CFM cordless leaf blower from Greenworks, and more waiting for you below. Plus, all the hangover savings at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s ECOVACS Goat RTK robot lawn mower low price, Rad Power’s RadWagon 4 cargo e-bike discount, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

Commute up to 68 miles with exclusive 50% savings on ENGWE’s Engine Pro 2.0 folding e-bike at a new $749.50 low

We’ve secured an exclusive and budget-friendly deal from Wellbots for our readers on the ENGWE Engine PRO 2.0 Folding e-bike at $749.50 shipped, after using the exclusive promo code 9TO5ENGWE50 at checkout for 50% off. This model would normally run you $1,499 here, which we’ve seen discounted as low as $1,149 from the brand over the last year. That price is getting strong-armed out of the way with this exclusive deal that gives you a 50% markdown, putting nearly $750 back into your pocket at the best new price we have tracked.

A great alternative option for riders who want a reliable means to get through their commutes without shelling out $1,000 or more on other brands, the ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0 e-bike is a folding model that saves on space while also providing some significant travel support. The 750W rear hub motor peaks at 1,200W and comes paired with a removable 16Ah battery for up to 68 miles of pedal-assisted travel (five levels supported by a torque sensor) at up to 20 to 28 MPH top speeds, depending on what your local laws allow. Of course, you’ll have the option for pure electric travel via the throttle, though keep in mind this reduces the mileage to around 30 miles on one full charge.

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For the low price you’re getting on ENGWE’s Engine Pro 2.0, you’ll be scoring some solid features, including hydraulic disc brakes for greater stopping power, puncture-resistant all-terrain fat tires so you don’t have to fear what you may ride over, and an 8-speed Shimano derailleur for versatile pedaling options. That’s not all, as you’ll also be getting a rear cargo rack, a full suspension system, and a smart LCD screen for performance data and setting adjustments – plus, the whole thing weighs in at 70 pounds, so it’s manageable regardless of your rural/suburban/urban environment.

rain falling onto Anker eufy SoloCam S220 solar security camera

Upgrade your home security with Anker’s solar-powered eufy SoloCam S220 camera at $65

Anker is offering its eufy SoloCam S220 Solar Security Camera at $64.99 shipped, after using the on-page promo code at checkout for $35 off the price, which is beating out Amazon’s pricing by $5. Coming down off its $100 full price tag while the savings last, this model has been regularly seen dropping to $70 and more recently going lower to $65 over the last handful of months, only beaten out by the $62 low we first saw appearing during Prime Day at the top of the month. You’re looking at 35% markdown while the savings last, giving you the second-best price we have tracked if you missed out on the one-time Prime Day low. You’ll also find the camera’s multi-pack options starting from $129.99 shipped here.

If you want to learn more about this solar-powered security device, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

Daytime and Nighttime differences with Linkind's smart solar spotlights lining walkway

Save up to 34% on multi-packs of Linkind’s Smart Solar Spotlights starting from $23

By way of its official Amazon storefront, Linkind is offering its Smart Solar Spotlights starting at $22.99 shipped for a 2-pack. The price is coming down from its $35 tag, with them having spent a significant portion of recent months at $24, with some falls to $23 (including during Prime Day) and one earlier drop to the $21 low back in April. You’re looking at a 34% markdown here that cuts $12 off the tag for the second-best price we have tracked, landing just $2 above the all-time low. You’ll also find its larger bundles benefitting from discounts, with the 4-pack down at its second-best price of $48.99 shipped, after clipping the on-page 30% off coupon, while its 8-pack is down at a $90.98 low.

If you want to learn more about this outdoor lighting device, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

man trimming around tree trunk with Worx GT revolution 3-in-1 string trimmer/edger/mini-mower

Pick up the Worx GT Revolution 20V 12-inch string trimmer/edger/mini-mower with spare parts at $83 (2025 low)

Amazon is offering the Worx GT Revolution 20V 12-inch String Trimmer/Edger/Mini-Mower kit that comes with a 2.0Ah battery, 2A charger, three replacement spools, a spool holder, and replacement edger wheels for $82.99 shipped. The combination of the tool and battery alone goes for $130 at full price directly from the brand’s website, where it’s currently priced, but we’ve been seeing this larger bundle package keep down to $100 for much of the time since late March. While we have seen it drop lower in the past, the additional $17 savings from its recent going rate is the best price we have tracked over the last 12 months, even beating out its Prime Day pricing by $2.

If you want to learn more about this 3-in-1 tool, be sure to check out our original coverage of the deal here.

man clearing large pile of leaves in yard with greenworks 60V 610 CFM cordless leaf blower

Clear out your yard with up to 610 CFM air flow through this 60V Greenworks cordless leaf blower at $142

Amazon is offering the Greenworks 60V 610 CFM Cordless Leaf Blower at $142.49 shipped. Normally fetching $200 directly from the brand’s website, where this model is priced $8 higher, we’ve been seeing it keep to $180 in full at Amazon since March, with discounts dropping costs lower between $160 and $140 on average. The lowest we’ve seen this model fall was to a $135 rate on the last of Prime Day’s 4-day event, with the deal today matching the event’s first three days of pricing. You’re looking at the third-lowest price we have tracked, saving you $58 off the MSRP and landing just $7 above the all-time low.

If you want to learn more about this 60V blower, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

Best Summer EV deals!

Best new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.

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BYD cuts Yuan Up EV prices to just $10,500 with a new ‘Pilot’ model

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1 hour ago

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July 31, 2025

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BYD cuts Yuan Up EV prices to just ,500 with a new 'Pilot' model

BYD-Yuan-Up-prices

To celebrate 1.5 million in sales, BYD launched a new Yuan Up “Pilot” EV edition on Thursday with prices now starting at under $10,500.

BYD launches new Yuan Up Pilot with lower prices

The new base model is priced at 74,800 yuan ($11,500), which is about 25% cheaper than the current Yuan Up lineup. Previously, Yuan Up prices ranged from 99,800 yuan ($14,000) to 119,800 yuan ($16,700).

Powered by a 32 kWh BYD Blade battery pack, the new Yuan Up Pilot edition has a CLTC driving range of up to 301 km (187 miles). The other three trims have a range of 401 km (249 miles) from a 45.12 kWh battery.

Given the lower prices, BYD had to cut back somewhere. And it’s not just in range. The lower-priced Yuan Up does not include BYD’s “God’s Eye” smart driving system.

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Earlier this year, BYD upgraded most of its vehicles with the smart driving tech at no extra charge. The other three trims include the “C” version, or the lowest level of autonomy.

BYD-Yuan-Up-prices
BYD launches new lower-priced Yuan Up Pilot edition (Source: BYD)

More expensive vehicles, like those in the BYD Denza and Yangwang series, are equipped with more advanced “A” and “B” systems.

Inside, the cabin appears similar to other models, featuring a 10.1″ floating central infotainment screen and an 8.8″ driver display screen. It still features BYD’s DiLink 50 smart cockpit system, which includes voice control and connectivity support.

BYD-Yuan-Up-interior
BYD Yuan Up EV interior (Source: BYD)

Measuring 4,310 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,675 mm in height, the Pilot edition is the same size as other BYD Yuan Up models. That’s about the size of a Hyundai Kona.

BYD-Yuan-Up-prices
BYD launches new lower-priced Yuan Up Pilot edition (Source: BYD)

According to data from CnEVPost, sales of BYD’s Yuan series fell 21% in May (31,711 units) and 29% in June (25,727 units) compared to the same period last year.

Given BYD’s aggressive push for smart tech, the new base Yuan Up could hint that a change in the Chinese automaker’s playbook is in the works. In overseas markets, the Yuan Up is sold as the Atto 2.

Last week, BYD launched its “high-energy super SUV,” the Sealion 06 EV, priced from 139,800 yuan ($21,000).

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Tesla’s new Model Y Performance spotted testing

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3 hours ago

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July 31, 2025

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Tesla's new Model Y Performance spotted testing

Tesla Model Y Performance Juniper prototype hero

A Tesla Model Y Performance prototype was spotted testing in California ahead of its launch in the US, which is expected soon.

Tesla launched the refreshed Model Y, often referred to as ‘Juniper’, in January 2025.

However, as it often does with design refreshes, Tesla didn’t launch the performance version of the best-selling electric SUV with the broader refresh.

The automaker stopped taking orders for Model Y Performance, but we have been expecting the variant to make a comeback under the Juniper design by the end of the year.

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While cycling near Tesla’s Palo Alto engineering headquarters, an Electrek reader spotted a Tesla Model Y prototype in camouflage, which we quickly identified as a Model Y Performance with the Juniper design refresh:

What makes us think this is a Model Y Performance? The wheels look like Plaid 20″ wheels, which are generally reserved for performance versions.

If we zoom in, we can also see that the Model Y appears to feature bigger red brake calipers – another feature that Tesla only offers on performance versions of its vehicles.

Before the refresh, the Model Y Performance achieved an EPA-estimated range of 277–285 miles (446-459 km), depending on the wheel configuration.

It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds.

The new Model Y Performance with the Juniper refresh is expected to slightly improve on those metrics while also bringing some of the other changes introduced in the design refresh, such as a light bar, ambient interior lighting, a rear screen, and more.

Tesla previously sold the Model Y Performance for a base price of $51,500 in the US.

The new version of the vehicle is expected to launch in the coming months.

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