It is the Chinese billionaire and founder Wang Chuanfu that said Western automakers are afraid of Chinese, reports Fortune.
– There are many examples of politicians in other countries who are concerned about electric cars in China, Wang said during a speech in the city of Hongqing.
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A receipt of fear
The European Union is expected to impose tariffs on Chinese cars in the coming weeks, which will hurt imports of Chinese electric cars.
China has hinted that it will counter with 25 percent tariffs and the mood continues to deteriorate.
58-year-old Wang Chuanfu believes that the action is proof of the strength of the Chinese car industry.
– If you are not strong enough, they are not afraid of you, he said in his speech.
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A small proportion
Chinese cars in the style of MG and BYD account for less than 9 percent of total electric car sales in Europe last year.
It is said that this figure will increase to 20 percent by 2027. That said, some players have already pulled out of Europe, including GWM with the Ora model.
Chinese electric cars continue to be plagued with serious quality problems and a driving experience that leaves much to be desired.
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Another price war
Wang encourages competition, especially if electrification is to proceed.
In recent months, BYD has taken the lead in a price war aimed at undercutting the prices of electric cars as well as plug-in hybrids.
The Chinese company has set its sights on more established manufacturers such as Volkswagen with the slogan “electricity is cheaper than oil”.
The Chinese CEO also believes that electric cars and hybrids are overtaking more conventional powertrains.
This is despite many car manufacturers scaling back their investments related to electrification.
For example, Volkswagen recently announced that they will invest an additional SEK 680 billion in conventional fossil engines.
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