We have already informed you that Europe wants to introduce a radical change in urban mobility regulations, aiming to give local carmakers a breath of fresh air. Now, in an attempt to counter increasing Chinese competition and slowing demand, the European Commission is planning the creation of a new class of all-electric vehicles “Made in Europe“. These compact machines will enjoy a number of privileges, including reserved parking spaces, priority access to charging infrastructure and a significantly more liberal regulatory regime.
The new category, unofficially called “Séjournais“ in Brussels (after the European Commissioner for Industry, Stephane Séjournais), is inspired by the Japanese Kei-car phenomenon. The main idea is to reduce production costs through a 10-year exemption from upcoming strict standards for safety and emissions Euro 7. The weight of these cars is expected to be limited to 1.5 tons - a limit that is currently the subject of intense negotiations. In this way, models such as the future Renault Twingo, Citroën ë-C3 and even electric versions of the Volkswagen Golf could be produced more cost-effectively on European soil.
The move comes at a critical time for the industry. Small cars are the segment in which European concerns such as Stellantis and Renault still hold a technological and market advantage over Chinese brands, which have so far focused mainly on larger and more expensive SUV models. The introduction of preferential parking conditions and subsidies is seen as a vital tool to maintain the competitiveness of European production.
In parallel with the new class of cars, Brussels is also conducting a fundamental review of the ban on internal combustion engines from 2035. Under pressure from the industry and the changing political climate, regulators are discussing options for easing the schedule. Among the options discussed are extending the life of plug-in hybrids by another five years, as well as, most importantly, the possibility of using biofuels and carbon-neutral synthetic fuels (e-fuels).
Despite the ambitious plans, there is still no full consensus within the Commission. Some officials are concerned that including hybrids in the preferential lists could prove to be a “double-edged sword”, as Chinese manufacturers already have extremely advanced technologies in this area. Final decisions are expected in mid-December, when it will become clear whether Europe will manage to find the balance between its climate goals and the survival of its most important industry.