**France and Germany are opening the door for Britain to rejoin EU discussions on car policy, but only if London takes a tougher position on Chinese tariffs.** The proposal could give the United Kingdom a voice in shaping Europe’s response to growing competition from Chinese electric-vehicle manufacturers.
• Paris and Berlin are prepared to include Britain in talks on the future of the European automotive industry, according to people familiar with the discussions.
• Participation would depend on the UK aligning with EU measures aimed at addressing what officials view as unfair advantages enjoyed by Chinese carmakers.
• The initiative reflects shared concerns about pressure on European manufacturers from lower-cost Chinese electric vehicles and expanding imports.
• Britain’s involvement could improve coordination between the EU and the UK, whose automotive sectors remain closely connected despite Brexit.
• Any agreement would likely require delicate negotiations, as London seeks to preserve its trade flexibility while strengthening ties with European partners.
The discussions come as governments across Europe weigh tariffs, subsidies and industrial policies intended to protect domestic production while accelerating the transition to electric vehicles.