Auto Trader on EU Tariffs: ” We hope the UK isn’t tempted to take similar action.”

13.06.2024

Ian Plummer, commercial director of Auto Trader, commented on the confirmation of tariffs:

“The European Union’s decision to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles is disappointing, and we hope the UK isn’t tempted to take similar action.

“UK drivers already face a lack of affordable choices when it comes to electric cars, so it doesn’t make sense for us to limit those options even further for consumers. We need to bring more buyers into the market by cutting down the “green premium” which means EVs are usually 35% more expensive than diesel or petrol cars. We’ll only do that with open competition to foster innovation, not by reducing choice for consumers.”

“Chinese entrants are already partnering with UK retailers to deliver a quality, affordable product and they will have an important role to play in the UK’s ongoing transition to electric vehicles.”