(Reuters) -U.S. auto sales are expected to rise about 6% in the third quarter from a year ago, as consumers were seen pulling forward their electric vehicle purchases before the end of certain tax credits, while demand for SUVs and crossovers remained steady.
Market research firm Cox Automotive expects U.S. new vehicle sales to be about 4.14 million units for July-September, compared with 3.9 million in the same period last year.
President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill ended the $7,500 tax credits for new EV purchases on Sept. 30, leading to a temporary surge in sales during the quarter.
Trump’s tariffs have also trickled down to impact the industry with higher prices on parts and other components, although demand for new vehicles has so far held steady.
Demand for mid-size cro