An investigation by the European Commission has concluded that electric vehicle manufacturers in China are benefitting unfairly from subsidisation.
It believes European manufacturers are being put at a disadvantage as a result of this and now hopes to resolve the issue with Chinese authorities.
However, it says that if discussions are not successful it will impose new tariffs on EVs imported from China from 4 July, including 17.4% on BYD models, 20% on cars produced by Geely, and 38.1% on SAIC-manufactured vehicles.
Average tariffs of 21% will be imposed on other Chinese manufacturers who have co-operated with the investigation and 38.1% on those who have not.
ACEA Director General, Sigrid de Vries said, “What the European automotive sector needs above all else to be globally competitive is a robust industrial strategy for electromobility,” stated. This means ensuring access to critical materials and affordable energy, a coherent regulatory framework, sufficient charging and hydrogen refilling infrastructure, market incentives, and so much more.”
The investigation, which began late last year, will continue over the summer before the Commission decides whether to propose permanent anti-subsidy measures.
