“Chinese manufacturers are delivering vehicles that are better, more affordable, and more innovative across all market segments,” said John Neill, former SMMT President and ex-CEO of Unipart.
“If they’re going to sell here, we need to encourage them to build here, too.”
So far, the UK government has not faced strong pressure to follow in the footsteps of the EU, United States, or Canada, all of which have imposed significant tariffs on Chinese EV imports — up to 45% in the EU and 100% in Canada.
Currently, the EU and China are negotiating a shift from tariffs to a minimum pricing system, while some Chinese manufacturers are already building plants in EU countries, enabling them to export tariff-free throughout Europe, including to the UK.
This expansion marks a bold move by Chinese automakers, especially amid ongoing global trade tensions.
Meanwhile, the SMMT reports that one in four new car buyers in the UK now chooses an electric vehicle.
Yet, CEO Mike Hawes cautions that the current transition is being fueled by heavy manufacturer discounts — a practice he calls “unsustainable.”
“As seen in other countries, strong government incentives can dramatically accelerate the market transition,” Hawes added.***
