Chinese Companies Want To Build Cars In America If Trump Will Let Them
Chinese firm Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), the world’s largest battery manufacturer, wants to set up shop in the United States.
However, its plans hinge on whether President-elect Donald Trump’s administration will ease trade restrictions on Chinese investment in the U.S. electric vehicle supply chain. It's not news that Chinese EV and battery makers, including CATL and BYD, have faced significant barriers to entry into the U.S. market due to bipartisan protectionist policies.
Restrictions include steep tariffs, exclusion from EV subsidies, and bans on Chinese-connected car technology. These measures were enacted to safeguard national security and protect U.S. companies from subsidized competition.
President-elect Donald Trump has indicated openness to Chinese automakers to establishing manufacturing plants in the U.S.
Robin Zeng, founder and chairman of CATL, sees potential for collaboration if the U.S. government allows it. Speaking with Reuters, Zeng noted, "When we wanted to invest in the U.S., the U.S. government said no. For me, I’m really open-minded." He remains hopeful that future policy changes could enable CATL to invest directly in the U.S., beyond its current licensing agreements with Ford and Tesla.
CATL’s limited U.S. footprint includes agreements with Ford and Tesla to license its battery technology. Ford plans to produce low-cost lithium-phosphate batteries for the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning at a Michigan facility— a plan not without controversy. Similarly, Tesla is expected to launch battery production in Nevada in 2025 under a CATL licensing arrangement.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the cut-throat world of IndyCar.
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