Volkswagen is seeking higher import tariffs for Chinese plug-in hybrids after they overtook the Tiguan in European sales. The company is urging the European Union to impose higher tariffs to level the playing field, as the current regulations favor Chinese companies.
The BYD Seal U plug-in hybrid has become the best-selling plug-in hybrid in Europe, surpassing the Volkswagen Tiguan. The BYD Atto 2 and Jaecoo 7 follow closely, with the Volkswagen Tiguan now in fourth position. According to Dataforce, Chinese brands have taken 28.3% of the European PHEV market, pushing local brands down the sales list.
View Price on AmazonVolkswagen CEO Oliver Blume is arguing that the regulations on battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are working, but the same cannot be said for plug-in hybrids. The EU has already imposed higher levies on Chinese electric cars, citing unfair advantages due to heavy incentives at home. Chinese-built EVs can be subject to tariffs as high as 35% on top of the standard 10% import duty.
As stricter emissions rules are set to take effect, European automakers are relying on plug-in hybrids to meet the requirements. However, Volkswagen's CEO believes that the current playing field is not level, and the company may get its way as the EU considers additional tariffs on Chinese PHEVs.
Chinese car brands have seen significant growth in Europe, with sales doubling in a single year to nearly 686,000 deliveries, accounting for 9.5% of the region's car market. The EU's decision on tariffs will have a significant impact on the future of the automotive industry in Europe.
Source: insideevs.com
