At the start of September, Chinese automaker BYD announced a partnership with the French energy company EDF to offer a CEE bonus on its entire range of electric vehicles. This initiative, which provides financial incentives based on energy savings certificates, sparked debate beyond the automotive sector, drawing reactions from French parliamentarians. The CEE bonus, or ecological bonus, is a government-backed program that encourages energy-saving measures, such as purchasing electric vehicles, improving home insulation, or upgrading heating systems. The amount varies depending on the project, with EDF offering 365 euros for individuals and 555 euros for professionals for BYD vehicles, while other bonuses can reach up to 8,000 euros. However, BYD's vehicles, which are manufactured in China, are not eligible for the most generous CEE bonuses because they do not meet the eco-score criteria, a rating system used to assess the environmental impact of vehicles. Despite receiving a smaller CEE bonus, the partnership has ignited a political debate. Industry Minister Sébastien Martin reportedly urged EDF to end its collaboration with BYD by year's end, emphasizing that public funds should prioritize supporting European industries and jobs. This move reflects broader concerns about the influence of foreign manufacturers on the French market and the need to protect domestic producers. Several French politicians have criticized the partnership, arguing that it undermines local industry. Deputy Sacha Houlié from Place publique accused the government of favoring a foreign manufacturer over domestic ones, calling the situation a scandal. EDF, a state-owned company, has adjusted its policies to limit support for Chinese-made vehicles, introducing an import surcharge on electric cars from China. Senator Marie-Claire Carrère-Gée also condemned the partnership, stating that EDF's funding of BYD cars ultimately comes from French electricity consumers, even though the company also supports other foreign brands like Volkswagen and Audi, which are produced in Europe and meet eco-score requirements. While the association between EDF and BYD has raised concerns, it is not unique. Other state-linked energy companies, such as Engie and La Poste, also fund foreign automakers like Kia and Hyundai. However, these companies are not viewed with the same level of suspicion as BYD, which is believed to receive support from the Chinese government. Despite these complexities, European automakers and political leaders are increasingly wary of the growing influence of BYD, which offers competitively priced, well-equipped vehicles and is expected to introduce ultra-fast charging technology soon. As BYD prepares to produce vehicles in Hungary, it may need to seek new partners for future CEE bonuses, as its products will then qualify for the updated "Coup de pouce CEE" program.