The 90th Paris Motor Show opened its doors on Monday with a diverse array of automobile brands from all around the world on display, with Chinese manufacturers also having a significant presence at one of Europe's premier motor shows.
The week-long exhibition, which runs through to Oct. 20, is showcasing the latest innovations in the automotive industry and marks the first major automotive exhibition to be held following the European Union's approval of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles earlier this month.
Despite these recent developments, many Chinese participants remain eager to expand their footprint in the European market, as evidenced by their extensive line-up of electric vehicles dominating the exhibition floor.
Among the exhibitors is the Nanjing-based electric vehicle brand Skyworth, who are introducing their latest models in the fast-growing new energy sector.
Mathieu Guillotin, the company's director in France, noted that Skyworth is exploring the possibility of producing electric vehicles on the European continent in order to circumvent the newly-imposed tariffs.
He said that contingency plans have been in place as the tariffs have long been expected and indicated that other Chinese automakers are also considering local production options.
"We've been waiting a year for this decision to happen. Discussions and talks have been ongoing for a year. It's only going to speed up the process of setting up our factories in Europe. This was not planned before, but the plant will be built. Europe will have wanted it," he said.
Chinese automakers still take center stage at Paris Motor Show despite EU tariffs
