From 23 to 24 April, FNF Europe hosted two back-to-back events in Brussels to present and discuss its publication, produced in cooperation with the China Strategic Risks Institute (CSRI). The study, titled “Charged with Consequence,” examines the hidden costs of Chinese electric vehicles, from labour and human rights abuses in supply chains to economic dependencies and security vulnerabilities. It also outlines how Germany and Europe can respond strategically to the challenges. As Chinese electronic cars (electronic vehicle, EV) expand across European and global markets, the publication and its launch events explored what this shift means for Europe’s economic resilience and democratic values.

The Brussels program began with a public expert discussion at the FNF Europe office, followed by an internal briefing at the European Parliament for the Renew Europe Group. Hosted by MEPs Jan-Christoph Oetjen and Yvan Verougstraete, the session featured author Sam Goodman presenting the study’s key findings. The discussion drew several MEPs, parliamentary assistants, and policy advisors for an in-depth exchange on how Europe should respond to China’s growing role in the EV sector.

In June, FNF Europe continued the conversation with an EU Liberal Hour in Berlin. This interactive format provided insider insights and linked the debate to liberal political strategy in Germany. The Berlin session explored the broader implications of the EV transition: from industrial dependencies and cybersecurity vulnerabilities to the erosion of fair competition and questions of values and standards. Participants included FDP parliamentary staff, industry representatives, think tank experts, and members of the diplomatic community.