EU Bus Manufacturers Warn of Cybersecurity Risks in Bus Procurement

The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) is calling for urgent action from the EU on bus manufacturing and procurement. The association notes that 32% of new electric buses in the EU came from China in 2025, resulting in a trade deficit of 2.9 billion euros. ACEA is warning that the next two years are critical for EU bus manufacturers, who are struggling to compete with Chinese companies that have different industrial and cost structures. Chinese manufacturers have an advantage in terms of vertical integration, large domestic production volumes, state support, lower R&D costs, and integrated supply chains for batteries and electric drivelines. ACEA estimates that setting up a bus factory in China can be up to 60% cheaper than in Europe. The association is calling for EU regulations to be changed to prioritize European content in buses and for cybersecurity to be a key consideration in procurement. ACEA also highlights the need for extended procurement times and binding production volumes in contracts. The association notes that cybersecurity and sustainable supply chains are critical issues, not just in the EU but also in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, where Chinese bus manufacturers are also competing.