Chinese electric vehicles are increasingly penetrating the European market, prompting local authorities to respond with higher customs duties and investments in domestic manufacturing. Stereotypes about the inferiority of these cars are fading, especially as independent safety assessments from EuroNCAP reveal high ratings. Models like the Deepal S07, Maxus eTerron 9, and Leapmotor C10 have all achieved impressive safety scores, underscoring the growing competitiveness and reliability of Chinese electric cars in Europe.
The Rise of Chinese Electric Cars in Europe
Chinese electric vehicles are making significant inroads into the European market, a trend that has not gone unnoticed by Brussels. In response, European authorities have introduced measures such as increased customs duties and plans to invest billions into bolstering local manufacturing.
Breaking Stereotypes: The Safety of Chinese Electric Cars
Despite lingering stereotypes, the perception that Chinese cars are inferior to their European counterparts is rapidly becoming outdated. Concerns about safety are often raised, but independent assessments from organizations like EuroNCAP have consistently shown that these vehicles meet high safety standards.
In their latest round of crash tests, EuroNCAP revealed some surprising results. Chinese models, including the Deepal S07, Maxus eTerron 9 pickup, Leapmotor C10, and Volvo EX30, all achieved the impressive five-star rating. The Volvo EX30, which is currently manufactured in China but is set to transition production to Belgium, showcased excellent safety features, scoring 88% for adult occupant protection and 85% for child safety. Designed on the platforms of the Zeekr 001 and Smart #3, it also recorded a commendable 79% for protecting vulnerable road users.
The Maxus eTerron 9 stood out even more, achieving an impressive 83% in driving assistance features and scoring 91% for adult protection, 85% for child safety, and 84% for the safety of vulnerable road users. This makes it the top performer among Chinese vehicles tested.
Another noteworthy model, the Deepal S07, showcases the collaboration between Changan, CATL, and Huawei. As it gradually enters the European market, its high safety ratings—95% for adult protection and 87% for child occupant safety—are likely to dispel doubts among skeptics. While its score for vulnerable road users is 74%, it performs well with a driving assistance score of 77%.
Similarly, the Leapmotor C10 also achieved commendable safety ratings, with scores of 89% for adult protection and 85% for child safety. Although its protection for pedestrians and cyclists is slightly lower at 77%, it maintains a respectable driving assistance score of 76%.
Overall, the recent crash test results highlight the growing competitiveness and safety of Chinese electric vehicles, making them a formidable presence in the European automotive landscape.