Young Americans are giving up on car -2-

Younger, lower-income buyers have largely exited the U.S. new-vehicle market, according to AutoForecast Solutions’ Sam Fiorani. He said the industry currently lacks meaningful options below $30,000, noting that entry-level models such as the Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze and Nissan Versa have disappeared over the past decade, narrowing pathways for first-time buyers. Fiorani argued that historic “upmarket” moves were often offset by new competitors, but protectionist rules and tariffs are limiting the entry of lower-cost cars from China. The article also cited Mobility Global’s Tom Libby, who said carmakers struggle to profit on vehicles under $30,000, even as demand persists, illustrated by the Ford Maverick’s jump from about $20,000 to $30,000.