Survey Sunday: this is how Chinese EVs will make it to America

This is a survey roundup, not a policy change, but it points to something worth watching if you care about EV prices. A Canada trade deal has started bringing Chinese-built electric cars into Canada, and the writer asked readers how (or whether) they think Chinese EVs will eventually reach US roads. Over 3,000 readers weighed in.

Most respondents think it is a matter of when, not if. The single largest camp, nearly 700 votes, expects a US automaker like GM, Ford, or Stellantis (Chrysler's parent) to import Chinese-designed EVs through a joint venture and sell them under a familiar brand name, similar to how Geo or Eagle sold rebadged Japanese cars in the 1980s. About 500 readers took the opposite view, betting that the federal government will keep blocking Chinese EV sales to protect the US auto industry, regardless of which party is in charge.

Readers also pointed out this kind of thing is already happening in smaller ways. Ford builds its Lincoln Nautilus in Hangzhou, China, and Volvo has imported Chinese-built cars since 2015. Honda has also brought a Chinese-built Fit into Canada. None of this changes what is available to buy right now, and no new US rules or rebates came out of it. But it suggests that if you are watching the EV market for future price competition, Chinese manufacturing may show up under familiar brand names rather than as standalone Chinese car brands.