German automotive expert: "European battery technology lags behind China by 20 years!"
On March 1, South Korean media "Today's Finance" published an article stating that German automotive industry expert Ferdinand Dudenhöfer pointed out that European battery technology is about 20 years behind China, making it almost impossible for Europe to gain independent competitiveness.
Dudenhöfer recently said in an interview with the German media "Auto Weekly" that there is a significant technological gap between Europe and China in the key technology of batteries for electric vehicles. He said that the European automotive industry, including Germany, will find it difficult to bridge this gap in the short term, and relying on Chinese suppliers will be inevitable.
He explained that Chinese battery companies such as CATL and Gotion High-tech have become important partners in the European electric vehicle industry. These companies not only provide support in batteries but also in all core technologies required for vehicle electrification for European manufacturers.
Dudenhöfer pointed out that in the antenna technology field, Desay SV Automotive has leading technology, and in the field of laser radar sensors, Chinese companies have leading technology and play a key role in the upgrading of the European industry. Dudenhöfer believes that cooperation is a "win-win strategy" that benefits both China and Europe.
He especially emphasized the advantage of Chinese companies' R&D speed. By using modular platforms and digital simulation technology, the new car development cycle of Chinese automakers is shortened by 50% to 60% compared to European companies. The cost of battery manufacturing is also expected to be about 30% lower than that in Europe.
Under this technological gap, cooperation between the two sides has become a reality. The battery factory jointly established by CATL and BMW in Germany has already started operation, and the batteries produced there will be used in BMW's electric vehicle models. BYD is also collaborating with Stellantis to develop low-cost iron phosphate batteries.
Market data also confirms this trend. In December 2025, the monthly sales of Chinese car brands in Europe exceeded 100,000 units for the first time, an increase of 127% year-on-year. Its market share also more than doubled, rising from 4.5% in the same period in 2024 to 9.5%.
It is expected that by 2026, China's exports of electric vehicles to Europe will grow by another 15% to 20%, and local production investment in Europe may also be promoted.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1858426042502220/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.