DETROIT, Michigan: For some U.S. consumers, the search for an affordable electric vehicle is leading to a frustrating conclusion: the most appealing options are out of reach.

Sooren Moosavy, a 28-year-old from Baltimore, wants an electric car for environmental reasons and a smoother driving experience. But the models he prefers are made by Chinese automakers and are not available in the United States.

"I would love the opportunity to be able ‌to get one in or even test-drive one," said Moosavy, who has narrowed his wish list to three models from BYD, Geely, and Zeekr, attracted to their compactness, plush interiors, and above all, the price.

Moosavy's dilemma reflects a broader sentiment among U.S. car buyers. As the average price of a new car nears US$50,000, interest in more affordable Chinese-made EVs is growing, even as political and industry opposition keep them out of the market. While these vehicles are sold widely across Europe, Latin America, and Canada, U.S. tariffs exceeding 100 percent have effectively blocked their entry, citing concerns over data security and domestic jobs.

In other regions, some Chinese EVs are priced below $30,000 and offer features such as advanced driver assistance, built-in mini fridges, and even karaoke systems.

"The technology they offer for those lower price tags was astounding," said Clint Simone, senior features editor for car-shopping website Edmunds, who drove several Chinese vehicles while at the CES trade show earlier this year.

China has overtaken Japan as the world's largest vehicle exporter, with shipments expanding rapidly across global markets. Canada recently agreed to lower tariffs on a limited number of Chinese EV imports, while exports to Mexico are already significant.

In the United States, policymakers remain cautious. President Donald Trump has said he would consider allowing Chinese automakers to set up factories in the U.S. if they create American jobs. However, industry groups have urged the government to maintain restrictions, citing competitiveness concerns. Republican Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio said in January at an event at a Ford Motor plant that "as ⁠long as I have air in my body, there will not be Chinese vehicles sold in the United States of America."

China's embassy in Washington has pushed back against criticism, saying the cars' popularity stems from their quality and innovation.

Among U.S. consumers, attitudes are mixed. Surveys by The Harris Poll and Cox Automotive show concerns about data security and the protection of the domestic industry, as well as a strong interest in value.

Dealers are similarly divided. Just 15 percent support allowing Chinese brands into the U.S., and only 26 percent trust they would meet safety standards, according to a Cox survey.

Still, curiosity remains high. Nearly half of surveyed consumers rated Chinese vehicles as offering very good or excellent value, and 40 percent said they support their entry into the U.S. market.

Rich Benoit, a car enthusiast who reviews Chinese EVs on YouTube, said price is the main draw. "That's what a lot of people are looking for: efficient, quiet, and low cost," he said. "They want to get to work – not everyone is a car enthusiast."

He is even considering buying one in Mexico and bringing it across the border. "That's the only way to get one," Benoit said. "They've been selling in Mexico for years... I want to own a Chinese EV in America."