社评：“中国品牌”不应成为德方保护主义借口

Core Viewpoint - The recent political debates in Germany regarding Chinese electric vehicles reflect an anxiety that contrasts with the country's traditional values of precision, rationality, and openness [1] Group 1: Domestic Industry Patriotism - German Finance Minister Lindner expressed dissatisfaction with Deutsche Bahn's procurement of buses from BYD, advocating for a "healthy domestic industry patriotism" that favors local or European manufacturers [1] - The procurement order from Deutsche Bahn exceeds 3,000 vehicles, with BYD winning only about 200 units, which are produced in Hungary and thus qualify as "European manufacturing" [1] Group 2: Subsidy Policy Concerns - The German government's decision to reinstate electric vehicle purchase subsidies has raised concerns among Deloitte's automotive experts about the potential flow of subsidy funds to Chinese companies [2] - The anxiety surrounding subsidies reflects a zero-sum mentality, overlooking the interconnected nature of modern industrial chains [2] Group 3: Global Economic Integration - The sale of an electric vehicle does not solely result in capital outflow but stimulates local economic activities such as logistics, sales, after-sales services, and charging infrastructure [2] - Cutting off this economic chain could lead to higher transition costs for European consumers and a loss of competitive vitality for local companies [2] Group 4: Challenges in the Automotive Industry - The challenges faced by the German automotive industry stem from the transition from internal combustion engines to electric and digital technologies, rather than being a result of competition from other countries [3] - Political measures to protect outdated capacities may provide temporary comfort but can lead to a loss of vitality for the protected industries [3] Group 5: Future of the Automotive Industry - The future of the German automotive industry depends on its ability to embrace self-criticism and innovation rather than on excluding competitors [3] - The growth of the Chinese electric vehicle industry is not aimed at undermining European industry but is part of a global response to climate change [3] Group 6: Cooperation Potential - According to the International Energy Agency, there will be a global shortfall of 27 million electric vehicles by 2030, indicating strong complementarity between China and Germany in the electric vehicle sector [4] - Both countries can share the development dividends along the production and supply chain in a healthy atmosphere of open cooperation [4]