CDU Official Urges Tariffs on Chinese Hybrid Cars

Sebastian Lechner, the CDU state chairman of Lower Saxony, is urging the European Commission and the German federal government to quickly impose import tariffs on Chinese hybrid cars. In a letter and subsequent statements, Sebastian Lechner argued that hybrid vehicles are currently facing the most significant import pressure from Chinese automakers.

Lechner cited an OECD study suggesting that subsidies account for approximately 60% of the market share held by Chinese products abroad, which he characterized as a "distortion of competition." While import duties already exist for Chinese electric vehicles, he is demanding a similar policy adjustment for hybrids to protect the regional automotive industry.

The push for tariffs is particularly significant for the Volkswagen Group, which is based in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony. Lechner stated that it is "precisely these hybrids" that are under the greatest pressure, and he expects the European Commission and the German federal government to adjust trade policy toward China accordingly.