Samuelsson made this appeal during an interview following Volvo's second-quarter earnings report on July 17, 2025, highlighting that while Volvo is taking measures within its control, the company can only express opinions regarding tariffs.

U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated a potential increase in tariffs on European auto imports to 30% starting August 1, intensifying pressure on the EU to negotiate a trade agreement.

This threat to raise tariffs has heightened the urgency for the EU and the auto industry to engage in negotiations to lower the U.S.'s 27.5% tariff on European car imports.

Hakan Samuelsson, CEO of Volvo Cars, has called for the European Union to significantly reduce its 10% tariff on American-made cars, arguing that European automakers do not need protection from U.S. competitors and emphasizing that Europe should lead in free trade by lowering tariffs first.

Currently, Volvo's South Carolina plant manufactures the Polestar 3 and the EX90 electric vehicle, which has not gained substantial market traction in the U.S.

Historically, the U.S. imposed a 2.5% tariff on European cars before Trump's administration, contrasting with the EU's 10% tariff on U.S. vehicles, a disparity Samuelsson considers unfair.

To counteract the impact of tariffs, Volvo announced plans to begin U.S. production of its hybrid XC60 model in late 2026, as most of its vehicles sold in the U.S. are imported from Europe.

The call for tariff reduction comes amid ongoing discussions between Brussels, auto industry representatives, and Washington to address the high tariffs affecting transatlantic trade.