EU criminal offenses on China electric cars: Consumers pay the invoice

A storm moves in the sky of the German automotive industry! The new EU criminal offenses on imported electric cars from China, which have been in force since midnight, could continue to stagger the already lame demand for battery-electric vehicles. The industry is under pressure and the risk of a trade conflict that could hit consumers hard is alarming. The Central Association of German Motor Motor Show (ZDK) beats the alarm bells!

Thomas Peckruhn, Vice President of the ZDK and voice of the manufacturers in Germany, warns: "The sufferers are particularly the customers. The electric vehicles from China are now becoming significantly more expensive. The pressure on European manufacturers to offer cheaper electric vehicles sinks noticeably." A dangerous vicious circle that not only endangered prices, but also the Innovation!

price explosion by customs and CO2 tax

But that's not all! From January 1, 2025, the CO2 prize will increase by 10 euros per ton. This measure is expected to generate around 1.5 billion euros in additional income. But where do these funds flow? The ZDK urgently demands that they are used to save the weakening automotive industry and to promote electromobility. Peckruhn emphasizes: "In view of this recent escalation, it is inevitable right now to strengthen the ride of electromobility."

the ZDK has clear suggestions to make the electric car more attractive for buyers: a reduction in the electricity price for charging and monetary incentives, such as a temporary reduction in VAT on vehicles that cost less than 50,000 euros, should be on the agenda!

call for quick action!

In the middle of this tense situation, it is completely incomprehensible why yesterday's meeting of Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) ended with business representatives and unions without concrete agreements. Time is pushing and the automotive industry is waiting for solutions! A trade conflict with China is the last thing we need while the future of electromobility is on the brink!

The situation is tense and every day counts for the best solutions in this race. Consumers in Germany now have to fight more than ever for their interests. Stay tuned - the developments are explosive!