Europe faces a Chinese EV onslaught: 10% of new car sales are Chinese-made, with additional tariffs rendered ineffective

Chinese-made EVs have rapidly gained ground in the EU, reaching 9.3% of new car sales.

The EU imposed additional tariffs of up to 45.3% in 2024, but brands led by BYD kept expanding.

Chinese automakers are also pushing local production in Europe and launching more premium EV models.

The trend is raising competition concerns for Europe’s auto industry and shaping trade and industrial policy.