Chinese Automakers Shift Focus in European Market
In a surprising twist, Chinese automakers are increasingly turning to hybrid and combustion engine vehicles in Europe, despite their previous emphasis on electric vehicles (EVs). This strategic pivot comes after the European Union imposed higher tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, aiming to level the playing field for local manufacturers. As a result, sales of hybrids and conventional cars have surged, marking a new chapter in China's automotive presence in Europe.
A Strategic Turnaround Amid Tariff Challenges
During the first three months of this year, registrations of Chinese-brand cars in Europe reached an unprecedented high, surpassing 150,000 units, according to Dataforce, a company specializing in tracking auto sales. Notably, March saw the highest monthly total ever recorded. Interestingly, EVs accounted for only 30% of these registrations, the smallest proportion since early 2020.
Previously, Chinese carmakers had concentrated on promoting EVs in Europe, driven by the region’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions. However, the imposition of higher tariffs on Chinese EVs last year altered this strategy. In response, companies like BYD Co. and SAIC Motor Corp. began aggressively marketing plug-in hybrids and traditional combustion engine vehicles. For instance, SAIC’s MG brand sold nearly 47,000 hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and combustion engine-powered cars in EU countries during the first quarter, more than doubling its earlier tally while EV sales halved.
This shift is partly due to increased import duties on EVs, which climbed as high as 45% for state-owned entities like SAIC. Additionally, demand for hybrids has risen as EV adoption slows. Benjamin Kibies, a senior automotive analyst at Dataforce, noted that Chinese manufacturers have intensified efforts to introduce alternative fuel types, with tariffs playing a significant role in this decision.
The trend began gaining momentum in the second half of last year when the EU started implementing higher duties on all Chinese-made EVs. While these measures hindered Chinese brands from dominating the EV market, they also pose a risk to the bloc’s environmental goals, as higher prices have slowed the adoption of electric cars.
Manufacturers such as Volkswagen AG and Stellantis NV now face heightened competition across their model ranges. In March, Chinese automakers claimed 5.2% of all European auto sales, surpassing the 5% threshold for the first time. MG’s sales of combustion engine and hybrid cars skyrocketed in Spain and rose significantly in France and Italy.
BYD regional chief Maria Grazia Davino highlighted the growing demand for hybrid models in Europe, indicating that the company will focus on both electric and hybrid technologies moving forward. Despite stalled market share gains for EVs, BYD and other Chinese automakers continue to boost sales of battery-electric models. BYD expanded its dealer network and established factories in Hungary and Turkey to produce hybrids and EVs exempt from tariffs, considering a third plant in Europe.
From a journalist's perspective, this development underscores the adaptability of Chinese automakers in navigating complex global markets. The shift towards hybrids and combustion engines not only demonstrates their strategic foresight but also highlights the broader implications of trade policies on environmental goals. By diversifying their product offerings, these companies are effectively balancing regulatory challenges with consumer preferences, ensuring sustained growth in one of the world's most competitive automotive regions.