Industry: Chinese cars soon to be made in Europe

Most manufacturers from the Middle Kingdom are now considering setting up their own factories in Europe in order to avoid the threat of defensive measures from the EU. Although sales of cars from China are still manageable, the EU Commission is planning punitive tariffs on Chinese cars or, as already ordered in France, is excluding them from state subsidies for electric vehicles. The whole thing is reminiscent of the 1970s, when Europe tried to prevent the import of Japanese cars.

Many manufacturers are still waiting

The Chinese companies were able to circumvent these measures by establishing their own production capacities. The first European factory was built in Szeged, Hungary, after Prime Minister Victor Orban personally promoted Hungary as a location during a visit to the People's Republic.

Nio is also considering European production if sales reach 100,000 vehicles. However, the brand is currently still a long way from this. At Chery and Great Wall with the Ora and Wey brands, approvals will also determine plans for local production. However, battery manufacturer S-Volt, an offshoot of Great Wall, is planning to set up battery production in Europe in the near future. Xpeng is still holding back on its intentions. So far, the capacity of the three plants in the People's Republic is sufficient to meet demand in Europe.

MG is in the lead in Europe

The most successful Chinese brand in Germany and Europe is currently MG, which belongs to the state-owned SAIC Group and could sell more than 230,000 cars across Europe in 2023. The once British brand is therefore considering setting up a European production facility and has visited the Dutch Nedcar plant alongside other candidates. However, the construction of a completely new factory should also be possible.

Source: auto-medienportal.net