科技日报：保护主义无助于提升欧盟汽车产业竞争力

Core Viewpoint - The European Commission plans to introduce the "Industrial Accelerator Act," which mandates that automotive companies must ensure at least 70% of their vehicle components are sourced from within the EU to qualify for subsidies and public contracts, aiming to protect the EU automotive industry from intense competition from China [1]. Group 1: Impact on the Automotive Industry - Chinese automotive companies, particularly in the electric vehicle sector, have gained significant popularity in the European market, with sales projected to exceed 810,000 vehicles in 2025, a 99% increase from 2024, and a market penetration rate nearing 10% as of December last year [1]. - Despite a 35% tariff imposed by the EU on Chinese electric vehicles, Chinese automakers have still managed to achieve an 80% year-on-year sales increase in Europe, indicating their growing market presence [1]. - The EU's requirement for local production of components aims to prevent Chinese companies from benefiting from EU subsidies while further reducing their price advantage, thereby promoting local sourcing and development of the EU automotive supply chain [1]. Group 2: Trade and Economic Implications - The EU's move is seen as a violation of international trade rules, specifically the WTO's regulations against local content requirements, which could be classified as blatant trade protectionism [2]. - The average price of electric vehicles produced by European manufacturers is around €50,000, while some Chinese models start as low as €20,000 to €34,000, highlighting the cost advantage of Chinese vehicles [2]. - The push for local sourcing may limit supplier options and increase costs, potentially leading to higher manufacturing expenses for European automakers, which could weaken their global competitiveness [2]. Group 3: Recommendations for EU Policy - Experts suggest that the EU should avoid local content requirements and instead focus on maintaining an open attitude towards international cooperation, considering global comparative advantages in production [3]. - The emphasis should be on technological innovation and policy optimization rather than erecting barriers against Chinese automotive products, as protectionism is unlikely to enhance the competitiveness of the EU automotive industry [3].