China auto association denounces U.S. protectionism in NEV industry

The China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) on Sunday denounced the U.S.'s overcapacity concerns and national security fears surrounding China's new energy vehicle (NEV) industry, calling it a typical case of trade protectionism.

Fu Bingfeng, the CAAM's executive vice president and secretary-general, made the remarks amid reports of planned new tariffs by the U.S. on Chinese electric vehicles. He said that such protectionist and isolationist actions shouldn't be the themes of the NEV sector.

He stressed China's commitment of high-level opening up, saying it will provide greater market opportunities for global automotive companies. He said a global vision and an open mindset are needed to promote the robust development of the automotive manufacturing industry.

The CAAM recently released the first batch of vehicle data security assessment results, affirming the compliance of 76 vehicle models across six companies, namely BYD, Li Auto, Lotus, Hozon New Energy, Tesla and NIO.

Fu highlighted it as a new benchmark for the advancement of smart vehicles, noting that the CAAM has upheld the principle of equal treatment for both domestic and international players.

"Tesla, the only foreign-funded auto company in this set of assessment results, has actively participated as it recognizes the future consumer trends of autonomous driving in the vast Chinese market," Fu said.

CAAM is a self-regulatory, non-profit social organization composed of enterprises, institutions and groups that are engaged in the production and operation of complete vehicles, auto parts and related industries in China.

The Beijing-based association is a permanent council member of the International Organization of Motor Vehicles Manufacturers and has established close ties with international automotive industry organizations as well as automotive-related organizations from many countries and regions.

(With input from Xinhua)