Chinese auto sales hit record levels last year – both at home and abroad. Automakers like BYD and Geely saw exports grow 400% since the beginning of the decade, making major inroads in markets like Europe and Latin America. For now, only a handful of Chinese vehicles are sold in the U.S., the Biden administration quadrupling tariffs last year. But a new study shows many American buyers eagerly hoping to see the market open up, with younger motorists particularly interested in Chinese vehicles.
Chinese automotive exports hit an all-time record last year – even while being effectively locked out of the U.S. market. But despite incoming Pres. Donald Trump’s threat to put still more tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles, the doors may not be locked forever. And anyone who checked out the new Zeekr brand’s news conference and display at the Consumer Electronics Show is likely to understand why that worries other manufacturers.
Chinese automakers are rapidly expanding exports to key regions like Europe and Latin America after long focusing on their home market. But that’s created problems as target markets fight back with new tariffs and other trade restrictions. As a result, some Chinese manufacturers are looking to shift production abroad – and that could include factories in the U.S.
President Joe Biden raised tariffs on an assortment of Chinese-made goods, including the battery-electric vehicles manufacturers like BYD, Geely and Great Wall have been hoping to start selling in the U.S. The threat of these inexpensive EVs – some starting at barely $10,000 – has sent shivers through the American auto industry, one trade group warning their arrival poses an “extinction-level event.” Headlight.News explains why.