European, Chinese automakers launch product blitz at Paris car show in fight for market share

PARIS, October 12 - European and Chinese automakers are set to unveil up to 60 new models at the Paris car show, as the competition for buyers intensifies. This year's event takes place just days after the European Union reached a deal with China that may reduce Chinese imports of hybrid vehicles to the bloc by more than half, though the specifics of the agreement have not been disclosed.

Around 20 Chinese brands, including BYD and Chery, are participating this year, marking a significant increase from last year's show where China had a smaller presence. In 2026, Chinese brands had already gained substantial market share in Europe, with the European Union-China deal potentially impacting BYD, Chery, and MG the most, as they accounted for 90% of Chinese brand hybrid sales in the EU during the first eight months of that year.

Volkswagen's CEO, Oliver Blume, expressed his support for EU-China trade talks and emphasized the need for a level playing field in European markets. Stellantis, the world's No. 4 automaker, plans to launch six new models across its European brands at the show, in addition to unveiling nine concept cars, signaling a significant effort to regain market share in Europe.

Meanwhile, US car shows have seen a resurgence in recent years due to the involvement of Chinese automakers like BYD and Chery, who are battling it out in Europe amid falling domestic sales. The EU has imposed tariffs on Chinese-made fully electric vehicles since October 2024 and is considering legislation to mandate local content in EVs to gain access to the EU market.

Chinese automakers are exploring European production options to comply with upcoming 'Made in Europe' regulations, with Geely Auto, for instance, planning to manufacture electric SUVs at a Ford factory in Spain. Geely Auto's CEO, Alex Nan, highlighted the company's partnership with Renault and its commitment to Europe. With car sales in China falling by 20% in the first half of 2026, Chinese automakers are increasingly focused on expanding their presence in Europe, as it remains the top priority market outside the US.