The EU plans to impose additional tariffs on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) from China
From Kazakh International News Agency: According to Germany's Handelsblatt, the European Union is studying the imposition of extra tariffs on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) manufactured in China, in response to the continuous growth of Chinese automotive exports to the European market.
Previously, the EU had already implemented higher tariffs on purely electric vehicles produced in China. With these measures now taking effect, Chinese automakers have intensified their export efforts of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles to Europe.
Under current policies, the tariffs imposed by the EU on Chinese electric vehicles vary depending on whether manufacturers received government subsidies. For instance, Tesla vehicles produced in Shanghai are subject to a 17.8% tariff; BYD and Geely vehicles face tariffs ranging from 27% to 29%; while the comprehensive tariff rate for models from SAIC, a state-owned Chinese automaker, reaches as high as 45%.
Data shows that sales of Chinese-made PHEVs in the European market are growing rapidly. According to statistics from the Fraunhofer Institute in Germany, approximately 25,000 Chinese-made PHEVs were sold in Europe in 2024, increasing to 160,000 units by 2025.
Currently, the BYD Seal U has become one of the most popular plug-in hybrid models in the European market, with sales surpassing those of some traditional market-leading models.
As Chinese automotive brands continue to expand their market share in Europe, concerns among European car manufacturers are intensifying. Reports indicate that the European Commission is advancing work on imposing new tariffs on Chinese PHEVs. The proposed new tariff scheme is expected to be formally determined within the coming months following a vote by EU member states.
In response to escalating trade barriers in Europe, Chinese automakers are accelerating local production strategies. BYD’s factory construction in Hungary is nearing completion; Chery and SAIC are advancing vehicle assembly projects in Spain. Additionally, some Chinese companies are evaluating the possibility of acquiring dormant automobile factories in Europe.
Meanwhile, Kazakhstan’s new energy vehicle market continues to grow rapidly. Data from the Kazakh Automobile Alliance shows that from January to February 2026, authorized dealers across the country sold a total of 708 new energy vehicles, representing a 4.2-fold year-on-year increase.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1868822590670860/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author