Automakers and VDA call for renegotiation of “Brexit” trade agreement over rules of origin changes

London. After the Opel parent company Stellantis, other car manufacturers and the German manufacturers’ association VDA called for a renegotiation of the “Brexit” trade agreement between Great Britain and the EU on Thursday. The forthcoming changes in the so-called rules of origin should lead to significantly higher prices, it was said to be the justification. This means a significant competitive disadvantage compared to Asian manufacturers. It has been agreed that from 2024 at least 45 percent of the value of electric cars must come from the United Kingdom or the EU so that the vehicles can continue to be exported duty-free to the EU. Stellantis, which produces cars for Opel’s sister brand Vauxhall in the UK, had announced it would close its Ellesmore Port plant unless the current rule is extended until at least 2027. Ford and Jaguar Land Rover joined the call. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said Thursday his government was holding talks with the EU. However, Brussels does not seem ready to renegotiate the »Brexit« treaty. (dpa/jW)