Renault Group’s top executive has called on the UK to coordinate closely with the EU on policies affecting electric vehicle imports from China. François Provost highlighted the need for an industrial partnership between the UK and EU to support local automotive manufacturing amid growing competition.
Push for a UK-EU Industrial Pact
Provost stressed that the UK should aim to join any EU ecosystem created to strengthen automotive production. Currently, the European Union is working on the Industrial Acceleration Act (IAA), a law focused on boosting manufacturing, including car production, within Europe.
This law may exclude vehicles and parts made in the UK from its advantages. Renault’s position suggests that closer cooperation or harmonization could help UK manufacturers benefit alongside their European counterparts.
Considering Import Tariffs on Chinese EVs
The Renault Group boss also mentioned the possibility of imposing tariffs on electric vehicles imported from China. This move would support domestic manufacturing by discouraging the inflow of cheaper Chinese EVs.
The EU is evaluating stricter rules to shield its local industry, and Provost believes the UK should follow suit rather than create divergent regulations that might weaken their joint automotive market.
More details on how these potential policies will develop and affect car markets in both the UK and EU are expected as discussions around the IAA continue.
Source: autocar.co.uk