(This is what happens when you drag your feet car makers.)
BYD, Xpeng, and Leapmotor showcased new vehicles at the Paris Motor Show, even as the European Union prepares to impose punishing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
BYD unveiled the Sealion 7, a stylish electric SUV that the company says can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes. The company plans to launch the EV in Europe later this year.
The automaker, which aims to become Europe’s largest electric carmaker by 2030, showed off seven vehicles at its booth in Paris.
Crowds quickly formed around the high-tech Yangwang U8, an imposing hybrid SUV that BYD says is capable of floating on water for up to 30 minutes and turning on the spot like a tank.
The U8, which was making its European debut but is currently only sold in China, also comes with a drone that allows passengers to scout the road ahead.
The Chinese focus on technologically advanced features and smart cars was also apparent elsewhere at the motor show. The booth of Chinese EV firm Xpeng was dominated by the company’s flying car prototype, which hung from the ceiling.
It is not like we don’t subsidize our cars. We bailed out the car companies when they were failing. We offer federal and state refunds on cars made here and yet we still can’t complete.