Europe is accelerating its shift to electric mobility, with ambitious targets like the EU's 2035 ban on new internal combustion engine vehicle sales. EV sales in the region are projected to reach 6.92 million units in 2030 and over 10.01 million by 2035, creating a lucrative opportunity for exporters. 

Chinese EV makers see Europe as a "premium segment" with high demand for affordable, tech-forward EVs, yet this growth is unfolding within a tightening regulatory framework - where compliance with evolving EU safety, cybersecurity, and sustainability rules is non-negotiable for market access. For Chinese EV makers, navigating this "regulatory labyrinth" has become a critical success factor, often requiring early partnerships with third-party experts to future-proof designs and ensure seamless global expansion.

"As we observe, Chinese EV makers take compliance very seriously and track regulatory developments closely," said Thomas Quernheim, Global Senior Vice President, Engineering & Type Approval, TÜV Rheinland Mobility. "But the complexity is rising fast. The real risk lies in not being aware of the next regulatory evolution, which can render a design no longer future-proof." TÜV Rheinland, an independent third-party testing and certification organization, helps automakers avoid that scenario.

Speaking at the recent TÜV Rheinland Automotive Global Market Access & Intelligent Driving Regulations Forum, Quernheim addressed what are troubling Chinese EV exporters on how to navigate through the jungle of regulations in different parts of the world.

"As an enabler of a better mobility, we empower clients by leveraging our expertise to navigate complex regulatory landscapes. Our experienced experts excel at interpreting regulations and anticipating forthcoming changes. We provide comprehensive analyses that compare current rules with potential regulatory shifts, preparing clients effectively. Our support extends beyond compliance to homologation, ensuring seamless alignment with standards across multiple regions."

Europe has been chosen by many Chinese EV makers as a foothold for global expansion. With strong support on technological development and infrastructure investment by the government, Chinese brands stand at the forefront of intelligent driving technology, which is also a unique selling point to consumers in Europe.

Quernheim noted that Europe also leads rule-making. "The General Safety Regulation is already in force, mandating emergency-braking system and intelligent-speed assistance (ISA) and boosting pedestrian safety. Crucially, cybersecurity and software-update are now compulsory. There is no workaround; compliance is the key to market entry."

Intelligent driving is now reshaping people's perception of being behind the wheel. While some OEMs in other countries still run pilot programs, Chinese EV makers are ready for the next leap. Quernheim identified the biggest hurdle: "Synchronizing technological evolution with regulatory development. OEMs must monitor not only European statutes but every target market's emerging regulations. At the same time, they must familiarize themselves with new testing methods - scenario-based simulation, software-defined-vehicle testing - to ensure safety."

The EU Battery Regulation adds another layer. Chinese car and battery makers are already building Battery Passports that will accompany every pack sold in Europe. "This is core to Europe's Green Deal," Quernheim stressed. "It is a circular-economy measure phased in several years. Parts rely on self-assessment, while others require third-party verification. It starts with hazardous-substance reporting, moves to carbon-footprint calculation across the value chain, and ends with a digital Battery Passport declaring full compliance. Companies must install data systems today that can deliver evidence tomorrow."

As Chinese EV makers aggressively stride into overseas markets, they also grow a strong awareness of navigating the complexities of global markets by strictly adhering to host markets' regulations with the professional assistance of local partners and third-party service providers.