Closely Watched Data: U.S. Electric Vehicle Imports–Exports

Electric vehicle market watchers can get a sharper view of cross-border commerce in hybrids and all-electric cars, thanks to new Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) codes introduced in January. [See Change and Continuity: New Tariff Codes Debut.]

Previously swept under the all-purpose “Motor Vehicles – Other” code of HS8703.90.00, EVs are now separately designated:

  • HS870340 Hybrid (spark-ignition internal combustion + electric motor, other than those charged by plugging to external source of power)
  • HS870350 Hybrid (compression-ignition internal combustion engine + electric motor, other than those charged by plugging to external source of power)
  • HS870360 Hybrid (other vehicles, with spark-ignition + electric motor, capable of being charged by plugging to external source of power)
  • HS870370 Hybrid (other vehicles, with compression-ignition + electric motor, capable of being charged by plugging to external source of power)
  • HS870380 Only electric motors for propulsion

Here is sample of what the first-quarter U.S. Census data now reveals about U.S. electric vehicles imports-exports:

U.S. Electric Vehicles Imports-Exports

As this early data indicates, the U.S. imports 42% more EVs than it exports. While hybrid or dual-mode vehicles dominate imports, the all-electric car accounts for a healthy share (44%) of U.S. EV exports.

Top market for U.S. EV exports is China, now the world’s top market for EVs as of 2015, according to this outlook from Global Roundtables, which also reports on growth in the Dominican Republic EV market, encouraged by the D.R. government.

Top countries of origin for U.S. EV imports are, in order: Japan (41%), Mexico (27%), South Korea (27%), Canada (3%) and Germany (2%). Compare this with COOs for U.S. motor vehicle imports overall (HS 8703): Canada (26%), Japan (23%), Mexico (16%), South Korea (11%) and Germany (11%).

To see more data on EVs – or any other product in trade – just ask us. To learn more about HS Reform, download our complimentary white paper, Responding Successfully to WCO 2017 HS Reform, Enabling a Plan of Action to Streamline the Transition.

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