Tesla has filed a legal challenge against the European Union over tariffs imposed on imports of electric vehicles (EVs) from China, escalating tensions between the US-based carmaker and Brussels. The European Court of Justice (ECJ) listed the case on its website on Monday morning, marking the latest high-profile dispute involving Tesla’s billionaire CEO, Elon Musk.
In October, the EU introduced anti-subsidy tariffs of 7.8% on Tesla and up to 35.3% on other automakers importing EVs from China. These tariffs are in addition to a standard 10% import duty. The EU’s measures are aimed at addressing concerns over subsidized EVs from China undermining European carmakers by flooding the market with cheaper alternatives.
Tesla joins other companies, including Germany’s BMW and several Chinese automakers, in legally contesting these tariffs. The European Commission has already stated it will defend the claims in court.
The legal challenge is the latest episode in a series of confrontations between Musk and the EU. Musk, who has been an adviser to former US President Donald Trump, has frequently clashed with European regulators over technology regulations and has publicly supported Germany’s far-right political factions during recent election campaigns, further straining relations with Brussels.
The EU’s decision to impose tariffs comes amid broader concerns over competition from Chinese manufacturers in the EV sector. China, which is home to many of the world’s largest EV manufacturers, has been accused of providing significant state subsidies to its domestic carmakers, giving them a competitive edge in global markets.
