Trade war between US and China paves way for expansion of sodium-ion batteries production

Sodium-ion batteries, a cheaper and less combustible alternative to lithium-ion ones, are becoming more attractive in the US, thanks to growing concerns about trade war with China, reported Bloomberg. China controls the majority of the supply chain for lithium-ion batteries. With uncertainty over the supply of materials from China, and US President Donald Trump’s intentions of placing high tariffs on materials imported from China, developing sodium-ion batteries look like a far cheaper alternative.

BYD changes tactics to penetrate European market

Leading Chinese EV maker is making strategic changes to its Europe expansion policy after its initial thrust to penetrate the market wasn’t very successful, according to Reuters. Reasons include not onboarding enough auto dealers on their roster, and not hiring substantial European executives with local market knowledge. Furthermore, BYD is realigning its offering of only EVs to hybrids now, which are more attractive in Europe.

China’s leading EV maker BYD is overhauling its European operations after strategic missteps including failures to sign up enough dealers and hire executives with local-market knowledge and to offer hybrids in markets resistant to fully electric vehicles, six current and former BYD executives said.

Mercedes CEO hopes for alternatives to tariffs on Chinese EVs in EU market

Ola Källenius, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz, said the German automaker is urging the EU to find an “equitable solution” for tariffs imposed on Chinese EVs being sold in Europe, reported Reuters. He wished the EU created “a level-playing field for China-made electric vehicles in Europe”, as “a pure tariff barrier was the crudest instrument”. In October 2024, the EU increased tariffs on Chinese EVs to 45.3%. However, the EU and Chinese governments are considering the case of lifting tariffs using minimum price mechanisms for imported cars.

About The Author

Editorial Team

A team of handpicked and dedicated writers committed to fact check each climate-related statement. Go to the roots and intent of each policy implemented, internationally and at home to help you understand climate better

See author's posts