Consumer demand for affordable electric vehicles is likely to force open the US market to Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brands within the next few years, even though they currently face trade barriers, according to analysts. US carmakers are expecting the same, with Ford CEO Jim Farley recently predicting the entry of Chinese EVs as early as five years. “[US carmakers] would face complaints from consumers who are supposed to enjoy affordable smart EVs [made by Chinese companies],” Zhang said. The Ford company logo is seen over a row of F-150 pickup trucks at a Ford dealership in Denver. Photo: APThe pressure would likely mount after consumers in the two neighbouring markets of Mexico and Canada adopted EVs that offered good performance and value for money, Zhang added.