Despite the significant financial impact on General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis, amounting to over a hundred billion dollars in losses, it resulted in at least five years of labor stability. Until the Labor Day of 2028, UAW members at these companies are expected to work without major disruptions.

After the negotiations with the Detroit Big Three concluded, UAW President Rory Gamble called for more union solidarity, aiming for a larger-scale strike in the next round of negotiations scheduled for Labor Day 2028. Gamble hinted that the negotiations would involve not only the Detroit Big Three but potentially other major automakers beyond Ford, GM, and Stellantis.

Several best-selling car manufacturers in the United States have already sensed the urgency. Shortly after the major strike, Toyota was the first to announce a 9.2% wage increase for the majority of its American assembly line workers.

Following suit, Honda announced an 11% wage increase for some workers, along with additional benefits such as childcare and student loan assistance. Honda also expressed its commitment to continually seek opportunities to provide an excellent employment experience for its employees.

With Japanese automakers taking the lead, South Korean automakers are also taking action. Hyundai Motor announced a 25% wage increase for its American workers by 2028, matching the promise made by the Detroit Big Three to the UAW. The pressure has now shifted to German automakers, with Volkswagen stating on November 22 that it would increase wages by 11% for production workers at its Chattanooga plant in Tennessee, effective from December.

Tesla has no manufacturing plant in Sweden and only employs a few hundred staff for sales and after-sales service. In recent years, the Swedish union IF Metall has been trying to convince Tesla to sign a collective labor agreement, as most businesses in Sweden are part of such agreements. However, Tesla has consistently refused.

At the end of last month, due to Tesla's rejection of collective bargaining demands from 130 after-sales technicians affiliated with IF Metall, these workers initiated a strike involving seven Tesla after-sales stores in Sweden.

Musk's uncompromising stance is understandable, as opening the door in Sweden could lead to demands from German workers and potential follow-ups from workers in other European countries. If Europe opens up, can the United Auto Workers in the United States let Tesla off the hook? Considering Tesla's plans to build factories in Mexico, India, and more, this presents a significant challenge.