European and Chinese automakers have signed a cooperation agreement that will see them collaborate further in the future, including on electric cars and connected vehicles.

The agreement will bring further collaboration between Chinese and European automakers

hThe agreement has been signed by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) and the Chinese Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) and covers three areas: ‘new energy’ vehicles and the infrastructure for charging and refuelling such alternatively-powered vehicles; the widespread introduction of connected and automated driving; and emission standards and testing for both CO2 and pollutants. The associations also plan to join forces at the global level in order to drive international harmonisation of auto standards and regulations.

“ACEA’s 15 members are truly global companies, with a strong presence in China and other world regions. China is also the number two destination for EU passenger car exports,” said Erik Jonnaert, ACEA secretary general. “That is why we strongly believe in further strengthening the ties between our associations. Today’s signing of the agreement is a landmark moment in this process.”

Dong Yang, CAAM executive vice-chairman, added: “So that the Chinese auto industry can continue to flourish, we need to strengthen our policies, standards and regulations. To this end, we are seeking extensive international cooperation to align our industry more strongly with the global market. Our cooperation with ACEA is extremely important, as it will enable us to learn from Europe’s mature standards and regulation system. This partnership will be of mutual benefit to the Chinese and European automobile industries.”