Aston Martin is set to restart car exports to the United States next week after a three-month pause triggered by President Trump’s shock “liberation day” tariffs, with its chief executive warning that political inconsistency is wreaking havoc across the automotive industry.
Adrian Hallmark, who took over as CEO of the London-listed luxury carmaker earlier this year, confirmed the company would resume shipments to its crucial US market after the UK and US agreed a revised trade deal that locks in a 10 per cent tariff rate. While this is still four times higher than the pre-tariff level of 2.5 per cent, it provides certainty that was missing under the looming threat of 27.5 per cent duties.
“We anticipated a period of turmoil and shipped extra stock in Q1,” Hallmark told delegates at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) conference. “Now, with the deal done, we can invoice built-up inventory. Demand has remained strong.”
The temporary halt in US shipments — a market that accounts for a significant share of Aston Martin’s sales — was a calculated risk, Hallmark said, likening it to “losing a third of your salary for three months. Not catastrophic, but slightly uncomfortable.”
The trade agreement, due to take effect on Monday, eases pressure on Aston Martin after months of uncertainty. Shares in the company, which had slumped to a record low of under 60p following the tariff threats in April, have since rallied by more than a third. They closed down slightly on Tuesday at 80p.
Support authors and subscribe to content
This is premium stuff. Subscribe to read the entire article.
