Volkswagen CEO Urges EU Protection Against Chinese EV Competition

Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume called for a shared responsibility between the business community and European policymakers to ensure the success of the automaker's largest transformation program in its history. Speaking at the For Europe event ahead of the Paris motor show, Blume urged Brussels to establish framework conditions that protect the European industry from low-cost Chinese competitors.

Blume specifically backed Made in Europe rules to incentivize local manufacturing and welcomed a deal to reduce Chinese plug-in hybrid imports. This appeal comes as Volkswagen faces an electric vehicle price war and falling domestic sales, leading to the potential closure of up to four plants in Germany.

To counter Chinese expansion, Volkswagen is debuting a suite of affordable electric vehicles and the new ID. Tiguan electric SUV. The CEO emphasized that those selling in the European market should compete under comparable conditions and contribute to local job creation and value.