"European Automakers Abandon Plug-In Hybrids in China Amid Shifting Market Dynamics. In a surprise move, top European premium carmakers Mercedes, BMW, and Audi have quietly phased out plug-in hybrid models in China, citing tax rule changes and increasing competition from local electric vehicle manufacturers. The decision marks a significant shift in the Chinese market, where plug-in hybrids were once a popular choice due to their lower upfront costs compared to full electric vehicles. However, with the Chinese government's recent adjustments to tax policies favoring electric vehicles, and the rise of domestic brands such as BYD and Geely, the once-competitive plug-in hybrids have become less appealing to consumers."


European premium automakers including Mercedes, BMW and Audi have eliminated plug-in hybrids from China after tax rule changes and superior local competition made their shorter-range models obsolete ...