National & North American Highlights
1. Honda to Procure Batteries from Toyota’s U.S. Plant
In a strategic move to mitigate tariff risks, Honda Motor Co. plans to source batteries for its hybrid vehicles from Toyota’s U.S.-based plant. Starting in the fiscal year 2025, this collaboration is expected to supply batteries for approximately 400,000 vehicles annually, covering all hybrid models sold by Honda in the United States. Kyodo News+
2. U.S. Adjusts Tariffs on Canada and Mexico to Support Automotive Industry
On March 6, 2025, President Donald Trump announced adjustments to tariffs imposed on imports from Canada and Mexico. These changes aim to minimize disruptions to the automotive industry by recognizing the integrated nature of the supply chain and encouraging production within the United States. The White House
3. Intel’s New CEO Plans Overhaul of Manufacturing and AI Operations
Lip-Bu Tan, Intel’s incoming CEO, is considering significant changes to the company’s chip manufacturing methods and artificial intelligence strategies. This initiative seeks to revitalize Intel’s position in the technology sector and address current operational challenges. Reuters
Regional Highlights
Central Region (Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana, and surrounding states)
4. Ohio State University Receives $1 Million to Strengthen Metal Manufacturing Workforce
The Ohio State University’s Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence (CDME) has been awarded $1 million for a metal casting workforce development and upskilling program. This initiative aims to enhance the skills of the local workforce and support the region’s manufacturing sector. CDME
5. Ohio Mayor Joins U.S.-Canada Coalition Opposing Tariffs
Lorain Mayor Jack Bradley has joined a coalition of 30 U.S. and Canadian mayors, known as the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, calling on President Trump to cancel proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods. The coalition emphasizes the potential negative impact of these tariffs on local economies and cross-border relations. Bay News 9+1Reuters+1
6. First Quality Tissue Plans Nearly $1 Billion Investment in Northwest Ohio
First Quality Tissue has announced plans to invest nearly $1 billion in a new production plant in northwest Ohio. This represents the largest investment in the region’s manufacturing sector and is expected to create numerous job opportunities. CoStar
Southern Region (Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia)
7. Alabama Community College System and AAMA Offer Scholarships for Automotive Manufacturing
The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association (AAMA) are offering $4,000 scholarships to students enrolled in eligible programs at Alabama community colleges. These scholarships aim to support individuals pursuing careers in the state’s automotive manufacturing industry. Alabama Auto Manufacturers+4Alabama Political Reporter+4Gadsden State Community College+4
8. Tasus Named Small Manufacturer of the Year by AAMA
The Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association has named Tasus as the Small Manufacturer of the Year for 2024. This recognition highlights Tasus’s contributions to the state’s manufacturing sector and its commitment to excellence. Business Alabama Magazine
Carolina Region (North Carolina, South Carolina)
No specific updates for this region were identified for this week.
Canada and Mexico
9. U.S. Implements Tariffs on Canadian and Mexican Imports
Effective March 4, 2025, the United States imposed 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, with Canadian energy products subject to a 10% tariff. These measures have prompted discussions on potential retaliatory actions and are expected to impact cross-border trade dynamics. AP News