The auto industry served up quite the week. Between tariff troubles, massive recalls, and robotaxis earning their papers, there was enough news to keep any car enthusiast busy. Let's break down what happened.

Mazda Counts the Tariff Cost

President Donald Trump's tariffs continue squeezing Mazda Motor Corp (MZDAY), and the numbers tell an uncomfortable story. The Japanese automaker reported billions in potential headwinds in its latest quarterly results. Here's the problem: North America is Mazda's biggest market by volume, which means the company is particularly exposed when trade policy gets messy. For a manufacturer focused on passenger cars, trucks, and mini-vehicles, that vulnerability matters.

Tesla's Rental Dreams Get Bigger

Tesla Inc. (TSLA) is quietly expanding its rental program across multiple U.S. cities. The evidence? A batch of job listings on the company's careers page seeking "Rental Readiness Specialist" positions in Boston, Austin, Fort Worth, Phoenix, Houston, and Nashville. The rental offering looks pretty compelling: unlimited miles, free Supercharging, and rentals lasting up to seven days. It's an interesting play that puts Tesla vehicles directly into potential buyers' hands without the dealership middleman.

Ford's Recall Machine Keeps Rolling

Ford Motor Co. (F) issued fresh recalls this week, and the numbers are substantial. The company called back 229,609 units of its 2025-2026 Bronco and Bronco Sport vehicles due to instrument panel problems. Then there's the battery issue: over 20,558 Ford Escape models (2020-2024) and Lincoln Corsair PHEVs (2021-2024) are being recalled over battery short circuit concerns. These new recalls push Ford's 2025 total closer to 140, which is starting to look like a pattern.

WeRide Breaks Through in Switzerland

WeRide Inc. (WRD) shares traded higher after landing a significant regulatory win. Switzerland's Federal Roads Office granted WeRide's Robotaxi a driverless permit, allowing fully autonomous operation on public roads in the Furttal region. This marks Switzerland's first-ever driverless robotaxi permit for passenger service. It's another data point in the slow but steady march toward autonomous vehicles becoming part of everyday transportation infrastructure.

BYD Eyes Europe

BYD Co. Ltd. (BYDDY) might bring its compact Racco car to European markets. BYD Vice President Stella Li said the automaker could introduce the Racco to the region "if there's some space," noting the company was "very interested to follow the EU regulation." Translation: if the regulatory environment allows it, BYD wants in. For a Chinese EV giant looking to expand beyond its home market, Europe represents a massive opportunity despite the regulatory complexities.