The European Commission has denied reports suggesting it is preparing to impose tariffs on hybrid vehicles imported from China. At a Brussels press briefing, EU trade spokesman Olof Gill confirmed that “there is no ongoing investigation into exports of hybrid vehicles from China to the European Union.” He noted that while individual commissioners can raise concerns about any topic, the only formal probe launched to date focuses exclusively on fully battery-electric vehicles (BEVs).
Under World Trade Organization rules, any potential tariff action must be preceded by an investigation. Gill explained that the initial inquiry, opened on October 4, 2023, examined Chinese electric-battery vehicle imports amid worries that subsidized foreign products could undercut European manufacturers. That anti-subsidy investigation concluded in October 2024 and led to additional duties—ranging up to 35.3%—on Chinese BEVs for a five-year period. To mitigate those charges, China and the EU reached an agreement in January 2025 under which Chinese exporters may avoid penalties by adhering to minimum price commitments.
Last week, the news outlet Euractiv reported that discussions had begun on applying similar measures to plug-in hybrid vehicles, citing pressure from one of the commission’s vice-presidents. According to sources, the official asked why hybrids, manufactured under similar conditions as BEVs, are not protected by equivalent tariff policies and whether domestic producers deserve the same level playing field. That inquiry follows a significant surge in Chinese hybrid exports—up 155% year-on-year—compared with a 12% rise in BEV shipments over the same period.
Despite these market developments, Gill reiterated that no formal procedure has been initiated against hybrid models. “On behalf of the European Commission, I can confirm there is no investigation into Chinese hybrid vehicle exports,” he stated, underscoring that any future trade action would adhere strictly to established WTO requirements.
Source: CnEVPost
