Is the European Car Industry Being Overrun by China?

The smarter E Podcast Episode 169 | March 14, 2024 | Language: German

Half a million new electric cars were registered in Germany in 2023. This leads to a total number of electric vehicles of currently around 1.4 million cars. Even though Chinese car brands are still barely visible, we often hear that Chinese manufacturers will soon dominate the market. Especially when it comes to affordable, low-cost vehicles. But is this really the case? And what does this mean for European manufacturers?

We talk about this with Marcus Zacher, editor-in-chief of elektroautomobil, the specialist magazine for electric mobility.

Timeline:

  • 04:20 Chinese manufacturers are pushing into the European market. A cause for concern for European manufacturers?
  • 06:38 BYD is now coming with its own freighters. Will Chinese manufacturers now flood the German market?
  • 10:45 So far there are relatively few affordable models, few small cars. When can we finally expect them?
  • 13:05 The marketing strategies of the various Chinese e-car brands are quite different. How are the Chinese positioned here?
  • 16:39 What about availability? How long should I expect after placing an order?

The smarter E podcast is all about the current trends and developments in a renewable, decentralized and digital energy industry. Our moderators Tobias Bücklein and Zackes Brustik welcome and interview personalities who shape our industry and drive developments forward. A new episode is published every Thursday.

Click on the logo to listen to the podcast on the platform of your choice.

Marcus Zacher, editor-in-chief of elektroautomobil

Marcus Zacher has been editor-in-chief of Elektroautomobil since the beginning of 2020. He previously worked in the automotive industry for many years, where he was involved in the development of high-voltage batteries for electric and hybrid vehicles. He discovered his passion for all forms of electromobility during his bachelor's degree, which is why he later completed a master's programme in this field. Today, Marcus Zacher is involved in all aspects of electromobility and tests everything that moves electrically.

Elektroautomobil is available from newsagents as a German-language magazine. A classic automotive magazine with a focus on electromobility. A magazine for a new generation characterised by individuality, an interest in innovative technology and a sustainable attitude to life.

The International Exhibition for Charging Infrastructure and E-Mobility
Learn more
Further Content
Press Release
Bidirectional Charging: Unlocking Revenue With Electric Vehicles and Reducing Grid Loads

19. June 2026

There is a clear vision: millions of electric vehicles serving as mobile storage units.

Press Release
Intersolar Europe: Votality Under Control – Solar Industry Enters Next Phase With Hybrid Power Systems

June 12, 2026

Hybrid PV systems combine solar installations and large-scale storage behind a single grid connection point, making the system more flexible.

Press Release
The Smarter E Europe Sends a Strong Message: The Energy Future is Renewable

June 17, 2026

Europe is once again facing an energy crisis, another reminder of just how vulnerable our fossil fuel-based energy system is.

Press Release
Reliable, Cost-Effective and Climate-Neutral – The smarter E Europe 2026 Has Begun and Shows That a 24/7 Renewable Energy Supply Is Possible

June 23, 2026

Today The smarter E Europe 2026 opened its doors to the fully booked halls at Messe München: Until June 25, around 2,800 international exhibitors are presenting their solutions, applications and business models for a 24/7 renewable energy supply.

Press Release
Energy Suppliers recognised with 10th Energy Transition Award by EUPD Research and The smarter E Europe

June 26, 2026

On June 25, 2026, pioneers of the energy transition from the DACH region were awarded the Energy Transition Award 2026 for their comprehensive range of products and services in the field of sustainable energy solutions at The smarter E Europe in Munich, Europe’s largest alliance of exhibitions for the energy industry.

You are using an outdated browser

The website cannot be viewed in this browser. Please open the website in an up-to-date browser such as Edge, Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.