BMW Teams Up With Chinese EV Makers To Challenge EU Tariffs

German carmaker BMW, along with Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers BYD, Geely, and SAIC, has formally initiated legal proceedings against the European Union's newly imposed tariffs on Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles in the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), Reuters has reported.

The EU initiated an anti-subsidy inquiry and found that several Chinese automakers were unfairly subsidized by the Chinese government, giving them an unfair advantage in the European market. As a result, the EU imposed tariffs ranging from 17% to 35.3% on these automakers. These tariffs have significantly impacted major Chinese EV manufacturers, who are now seeking fair treatment and a reevaluation of the tariffs from the EU.
BYD faces a 17% tariff, Geely 18.8%, and SAIC 35.3%. BMW, which produces the electric Mini Cooper and Mini Aceman in China, is subject to a 20.7% tariff. BMW filed a complaint at the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) on January 21, shortly before the deadline for filing objections.

The levies on Chinese-made electric Mini vehicles are negatively impacting BMW's ability to compete in the EU market. This is hindering the company's overarching plan to promote the development and adoption of electric vehicles, which forms a key part of its strategy to advance environmentally friendly transportation.
BMW and its Chinese partners will continue to push for the removal or reduction of the tariffs during the anticipated 18-month legal process, which may include appeals. During this time, they will highlight fair competition and the advantages of EVs for consumers and the environment.

There have been no reports of any European automakers building cars in China and exporting them to the UK filing legal challenges to the levies. But even Mercedes, which does not import Chinese-built EVs into Europe, has already spoken out against the levies.