European consumers can now acquire Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) with a new direct-to-doorstep delivery service launching in 2025. China EV Marketplace is spearheading this initiative, aiming to simplify the purchasing process by handling customs procedures and delivering vehicles directly to customers' homes. This move comes as Chinese manufacturers significantly increase their presence in the European automotive market.
Jakub Geršl, COO of China EV Marketplace, stated that this service is a groundbreaking first, allowing European buyers to order homologated Chinese EVs for direct doorstep delivery. This simplifies the entire buying journey, which previously required customers to manage complex customs procedures and collect vehicles from ports. The company reported a 66% year-on-year global sales increase in the first half of 2025, selling 7,000 cars. Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models are a key driver of this growth, as they are not subject to the European Union's substantial import duties of up to 35% that apply to battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs), popular in China, have encountered difficulties entering the EU market due to their classification alongside BEVs, making their export economically unfeasible because of these tariffs. Recent data from Jato Dynamics shows a dramatic increase in Chinese manufacturers' sales in Europe, with a 111% rise in May 2025, capturing 5.9% of the European market, up from 2.9% a year prior. This expansion continues despite the EU imposing provisional countervailing duties on Chinese EVs, with rates varying by manufacturer, such as 17.4% for BYD and 37.6% for SAIC, in addition to the standard 10% import tariff. These provisional duties were set to become definitive by October 31, 2024.
The cost advantage of Chinese EVs remains a significant factor, with prices in China often being approximately half of those in Europe. This disparity is attributed to import duties, structural market advantages in China, and lower production costs, including government incentives and economies of scale. For example, the BYD Seagull, priced at around $10,200 net in China, is offered in Europe for approximately €22,990. Similarly, the Leapmotor C10 BEV is available for about $17,030 in China, compared to over €36,000 through regular European distribution channels.
Chinese automakers are strategically shifting towards PHEVs to navigate EU tariffs. Brands like MG have seen a decrease in BEV registrations while increasing hybrid sales, a trend also observed with BYD. This strategic pivot highlights the dynamic interplay between market demand, trade policies, and manufacturer adaptation. The new direct home delivery service is expected to further stimulate European buyer interest, signaling a continued increase in China's automotive market presence in Europe, regardless of ongoing trade discussions.