U.S car industry would lose $5.5 billion if workers strike, report says. So far, negotiations have been rife with ‘theatrics and personal insults’

The president of the United Auto Workers union Shawn Fain. (Credit: Bill Pugliano—Getty Images)

A United Auto Workers strike could cost the industry billions of dollars, according to a report released Thursday, highlighting the huge stakes involved in an upcoming union vote on whether to authorize a walkout.  

If the UAW were to strike for just 10 days it could lead to economic losses of $5.5 billion across the entire industry, forecasts consulting firm Anderson Economic Group. The estimate takes a comprehensive view, factoring in losses to workers and manufacturers, alongside the ripple effects a strike could have on car dealers and parts suppliers.