Germany's Social Democrats are calling for the EU to extend its existing tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles to cover plug-in hybrid vehicles, a move that would close a growing loophole exploited by Chinese automakers seeking to undercut European rivals. The push marks a notable hardening of Berlin's trade posture, as the SPD — a historically centrist party — argues that Chinese manufacturers are simply swapping batteries for smaller ones to skirt the duties imposed in 2024. The proposal reflects mounting frustration among European policymakers and auto industry stakeholders over what they see as a deliberate circumvention strategy by Chinese firms, and it signals that the EU's trade response to Chinese overcapacity may be expanding well beyond the initial EV-focused measures.
Germany's Social Democrats are pushing for EU tariffs on Chinese hybrid vehicles, marking a shift in Berlin's stance as the party seeks to close a loophole in existing EV duties.
