EU Tariffs on Chinese Hybrids and Bontu’s Mini‑Electric Cars Arrive in Europe

The European Commission is preparing new tariffs on plug‑in hybrid electric vehicles imported from China, targeting manufacturers such as BYD, Chery and SAIC. The proposal aims to close a trade loophole that allowed Chinese hybrids to avoid the duties applied to battery‑electric cars, with rates to be set after approval by EU member states.

Chinese micro‑vehicle maker Bontu unveiled three electric quadricycles – the BTE05, BT09 and BTE03 – homologated under the L6e and L7e categories. The models can be driven from age 14 in several European countries and offer ranges of up to 222 km. Bontu, founded in Shandong province, seeks to expand its presence in the European market for licence‑exempt cars and light utility vehicles.

Both developments reflect the growing footprint of Chinese automotive manufacturers in Europe and the bloc’s efforts to safeguard its domestic industry.