Putin Says European Car Industry in 'Deep Crisis,' Predicts Rise of Chinese Vehicles

Russian President Vladimir Putin said the European automotive industry is in a "deep crisis," according to a report by Kommersant, and predicted that Chinese-made vehicles will soon be the cars most people drive.

Putin's remarks pointed to difficulties facing European carmakers, though the report did not detail specific companies or figures behind his assessment. His comments reflect a broader narrative promoted by Russian officials in recent years that frames Western industry, particularly in Europe, as weakening relative to rising manufacturers in China and elsewhere.

China's Growing Auto Exports

Chinese automakers have expanded exports significantly in recent years, becoming major suppliers of electric and conventional vehicles to markets in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. European manufacturers have separately faced pressure from higher energy costs, competition in electric vehicles, and shifting consumer demand.

Kommersant's report did not include a response from European industry groups or governments to Putin's comments. The remarks add to a series of public statements from the Kremlin commenting on the state of Western economies amid continued sanctions linked to the war in Ukraine.