GM may go the China route: concern weighs EV assembly in Canada
wulingcars.com
General Motors is reportedly weighing a scenario in which models tied to its Chinese joint ventures, SAIC-GM or SAIC-GM-Wuling, could be assembled in Canada to dodge tariffs and origin rules.
General Motors faces a tough call in North America: how to roll out more affordable electric vehicles while sidestepping the pressure of tariffs and origin rules. One scenario being floated would theoretically see models linked to GM’s Chinese joint ventures, SAIC-GM or SAIC-GM-Wuling, built in Canada.
The logic is straightforward. GM already has years of experience with Chinese partners who know how to develop affordable electric cars quickly and at low cost. SAIC-GM in China is currently betting on new Buick and Cadillac EV models, ramping up exports and recovering its position at home. According to 32CARS.RU, the other joint venture, SAIC-GM-Wuling, has been in advanced talks about vehicle production in Mexico.
Canada looks attractive in this scenario for two reasons — its place in the North American trade zone and GM’s existing industrial footprint. The carmaker already operates Canadian sites including Oshawa Assembly and St. Catharines Propulsion, both of which recently received major investment for pickup production and new V8 engines. Meanwhile, the CAMI plant in Ingersoll has been left without its main project after BrightDrop electric van production was wound down.
The main caveat — this is still just a hypothesis. Chinese-origin platforms, components or brands could trigger political and regulatory headaches, especially against the backdrop of tariffs and USMCA requirements.
