The tariffs, some as high as 45 percent, are intended to protect Europe’s automotive sector, but they could escalate a trade war with China. Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, International Trade and World Market, Protectionism (Trade), Customs (Tariff), China, European Union The tariffs, some as high as 45 percent, are intended to protect Europe’s automotive sector, but they could escalate a trade war with China. NYT > Business