Canada just made a bold move that’s shaking up the North American EV scene. Prime Minister Mark Carney has greenlit a new trade deal with China, slashing tariffs on electric vehicles.
The plan? Let in up to 49,000 Chinese-made EVs under a 6.1% import tax. The trade-off: China will ease duties on Canadian canola. No firm date yet, but the policy shift is locked in.
It’s the first real sign that the North American blockade on Chinese EVs might be softening.
Trump Opens the Door (Sort of)
Meanwhile, in Detroit, Donald Trump threw a curveball.
At a recent event, the former president said he’s open to Chinese carmakers selling in the U.S.—if they build factories on U.S. soil and hire American workers.
It’s a big shift in tone, especially during a trade war. But don’t expect a green light just yet. Massive tariffs, regulatory firewalls, and bans on Chinese auto software are still very much in place.
Why Chinese EVs Are a Threat—and a Temptation
China is the world’s EV powerhouse. From sleek sedans to budget-friendly urban commuters, brands like BYD and Neta are pumping out electric cars faster—and cheaper—than anyone else.
The country’s automakers are locked in a brutal price war at home, and exports are the escape valve. Mexico already welcomes Chinese EVs. Now Canada is joining the list.
The U.S.? Still watching…
Musk, Farley, and the Fear Factor
Elon Musk warned Chinese EV makers would “demolish” American rivals. Ford’s Jim Farley didn’t disagree.
The worry? These aren’t just cheap cars—they’re packed with tech and designed to impress. And now, they’re starring in influencer videos across YouTube and TikTok, giving Americans a sneak peek at what they can’t buy (yet).
So, What Happens Next?
Canada has cracked the door open. China’s knocking. And Trump just might hand them a key.
As EV buzz builds online and factories get scouted in Mexico, one thing’s clear: Chinese EVs aren’t just coming—they’re circling.
