Stefan Sigourn, head of the automotive industry sector in the European Union, stated that the continent needs to protect its industry from Chinese competition, calling for a reconsideration of the Union's goal to achieve zero emissions for new cars and trucks by 2035.
In an interview published on Friday, Sigourn clarified that the European Union must adopt a more realistic approach in its industrial policies and establish new rules to support production within Europe, noting that "the only continent still lacking strategic thinking in industrial policy is Europe itself."
He added that the European Union needs to enhance its flexibility in dealing with the goal of completely stopping internal combustion cars by 2035, emphasizing that maintaining the competitiveness of the automotive industry requires a review of environmental goals that align with industrial and economic realities.
These statements come at a time when the European Union is considering revising the zero emissions target before the end of the year, in response to demands from companies that believe a complete shift to electric vehicles is no longer possible at the current pace. The European Commission is also seeking to launch a new class of affordable small electric cars to face increasing Chinese competition.
Sigourn warned of the expansion of Chinese companies within Europe by establishing local production sites that use Chinese components and labor, describing it as "unacceptable." He added that the European Union is required to set clear conditions for foreign investment to protect its industrial interests, without resorting to tariffs that could harm the European supply chain.
In conclusion, he called for diversifying sources of rare minerals and reducing reliance on China through cooperation with countries like Brazil, Canada, and African nations, stressing the importance of enhancing self-sufficiency in the supply chains of the European automotive sector.
It is noteworthy that the European Union is moving towards redefining its industrial policies in the face of China, as the automotive industry has become a key focus in the race for technology and clean energy between the two powers, reflecting a shift in the global economic landscape towards protecting local markets without compromising sustainability goals.
