When the European Union last year imposed steep tariffs on electric cars made in China, it looked like a serious setback for BYD and other Chinese automakers. But the Chinese companies were not so easily discouraged. They pivoted to hybrids or gasoline-powered cars that were exempt from tariffs. And they concentrated on countries like Italy and Spain, where German and French carmakers are less entrenched than in Northern Europe. It was a potent demonstration of the flexibility and manufacturing prowess of BYD, Geely, Chery, SAIC and other Chinese manufacturers.

Source: The Times June 19, 2025 17:17 UTC