Volkswagen Group's chief executive has called for the immediate introduction of import tariffs on Chinese plug-in hybrid vehicles, warning that the European automotive industry faces an urgent threat from Beijing's export push.
The automaker's leadership argues that without swift protective measures, European manufacturers risk losing market share to subsidized Chinese competitors who are aggressively expanding their footprint in Europe.
The CEO emphasized that the window for action is closing, stating that there is 'no time to waste' in addressing the competitive imbalance.
The intervention by Volkswagen's top executive marks a significant escalation in the lobbying efforts by European carmakers to secure trade barriers against Chinese imports.
While previous discussions have largely focused on battery-electric vehicles, the push to include plug-in hybrids signals a broadening of the protectionist stance.
The CEO emphasized that the window for action is closing, stating that there is 'no time to waste' in addressing the competitive imbalance.
This demand comes as the European Union prepares for a potential escalation in trade disputes.