Low-priced, well-built Chinese EV ‘Seagull’ poses a major threat to the US auto industry. AND LIVONIA, Mich. (AP) – A small, low-cost electric car called the ‘Seagull’ has stymied American automakers and politicians.
While the car, launched last year by Chinese automaker BYD, costs about $12,000 in China, its drive performance is excellent, and it is so efficiently engineered that it is three times more expensive than electric vehicles made in the US. Low-range versions cost about $10,000 less. And the ‘Seagull’ probably won’t be launched in the US right away due to tariffs on imported Chinese vehicles, and its imported price will be more than $12,000.
However, the rapid emergence of low-cost EVs from China could shake up the global auto industry in a way not seen since the emergence of Japanese manufacturers during the 1970s oil crisis. BYD, which stands for ‘Build Your Dreams’, could be a nightmare for the American auto industry.
“Any car company that’s not paying attention to them as a competitor is going to lose out when they get into their market,” said Sam Fiorani, vice president of AutoForecast Solutions near Philadelphia. “BYD’s entry into the US market is not an if. It’s a when.
US politicians and manufacturers already see Chinese EVs as a serious threat. On Tuesday, the Biden administration is expected to announce 100% tariffs on electric vehicles imported from China, saying they threaten American jobs and national security.
