AI, China, ‘dark factories’ and the future of the US auto industry

Economist Mary Lovely warns that US tariffs on auto imports may lead to more domestic plants but fewer jobs due to automation and 'dark factories', dismissing claims that increased production proves tariffs work.

AI, China, ‘dark factories’ and the future of the US auto industry NewsFeed /video/newsfeed/ AI, China, ‘dark factories’ and the future of the US auto industry Economist Mary Lovely dismisses claims that getting automakers to produce more cars in America is proof that tariffs work. She warns the US could end up building more auto plants, but because of automation, employ even fewer workers. Published On 23 Jul 2026