Overview

• More than 700 exhibitors are featured in Munich, with 14 Chinese automakers compared with 10 European brands.
• BYD reports a 250% rise in first‑half European sales and is showing an electric city car starting at €20,000.
• The European Commission last year added surtaxes of up to 35% on some Chinese imports on top of the existing 10% tariff.
• Industry experts say Chinese models now rival competitors on technology and quality at lower prices, though dealer and service networks remain limited.
• European manufacturers are leaning on brand heritage and adopting lower‑cost tech such as LFP batteries and new digital features, with Volkswagen targeting about €25,000 for the ID.Polo in 2026.