IT Home, October 12 — According to the Financial Times today, Oliver Blume, CEO of Volkswagen Group, said on Sunday (October 11) in Paris, ahead of the Paris Motor Show, that France and Germany should strengthen cooperation to jointly address the challenges posed by China's automotive industry.
Bloom stated that France and Germany should strengthen cooperation to enhance the competitiveness of Europe's automotive industry. It is not too late to act in the face of pressure from Chinese competitors.
Bloom expressed support for the EU's proposals aimed at strengthening European industries, emphasizing that "Made in Europe" rules should reward genuine value created in Europe.
Bloom noted that Chinese brands are growing rapidly in Europe, with Volkswagen being one of the companies most affected. He mentioned that the company plans to cut up to 100,000 jobs, calling it the largest transformation in its history.
Bloom emphasized that Europe needs to confront significant competitive pressures due to low demand caused by high energy costs and high inflation.
He also emphasized that companies investing and developing in Europe should receive clear benefits. "Companies selling here should compete fairly in Europe and create jobs and value," Bloom said.
IT Home noted that at Europe’s largest automotive exhibition, the 2026 Paris Motor Show, 100 exhibitors have set up booths, approximately 60 of which are automobile manufacturers, with Chinese automotive brands reaching a record 20, accounting for exactly one-third.
In comparison, only 10 Chinese brands participated in the previous auto show in 2024, a figure that has doubled in just two years. The influence of Chinese automobiles on the European automotive industry continues to grow, with a remarkably rapid pace.
The number of Chinese brands at this year’s Paris Motor Show has doubled compared to 2024, with new participants including Aiways, Avatr, Li Auto, GAC Aion, and 212, alongside BYD and Chery.