Electric

Electric cars seem to be having a difficult moment in North America. Below, the consumer

standpoint:

Copilot:

 What is the tariff in Canada for an imported Chinese-made electric car?

The tariff in Canada on imported Chinese-made electric cars is currently set at 100%. This surtax was introduced in October 2024 and applies to electric and certain hybrid vehicles manufactured in China.

🔍 Detailed Explanation

Tariff Rate:  

Canada imposes a 100% surtax on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs). This effectively doubles the price of these cars when imported into Canada.

Implementation Date:  

The surtax came into effect on October 1, 2024, under the China Surtax Order (2024) administered by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

Scope of Vehicles:  

The tariff applies broadly to electric passenger cars, plug-in hybrids, buses, trucks, and delivery vans manufactured in China.

Reason for Tariff:  

Canada introduced this measure to protect domestic workers and supply chains from what it considers unfair trade practices. It also aligned with similar moves by the United States, which imposed its own 100% tariff on Chinese EVs.

Current Developments:  

There are rumors and discussions that Canada may reconsider or even remove this tariff. Reports in late 2025 suggested that Prime Minister Mark Carney was exploring the possibility of lifting the surtax during trade talks with China. This would significantly change the EV market in Canada, potentially allowing cheaper Chinese EVs to enter.

🚗 What This Means for Canadian Buyers

Price Impact: A Chinese EV priced at $40,000 in China would cost about $80,000 in Canada after the tariff.

Market Effect: The tariff has largely kept Chinese EVs out of Canada, unlike in Britain where low tariffs have allowed brands like BYD and Chery to gain market share quickly.

Future Outlook: If Canada removes or reduces the tariff, Canadian consumers could see a flood of affordable Chinese EVs, reshaping the market and increasing competition with Tesla, Hyundai, and domestic players.

Would you like me to compare this Canadian tariff situation with Britain’s approach (where tariffs are much lower and Chinese EVs are booming)? That contrast is quite striking and could give you a clearer picture of how policy shapes consumer options.

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The View from Britain(NY Times):

https://archive.ph/KEa5H