christian garcia
May 23, 2023
Neither Chinese nor models of other European brands with production outside the Old Continent, such as the Cupra Tavascán; Financial aid from the French Government for the purchase of a zero emissions car can only be enjoyed from 2024 if a car made in Europe is chosen.
Carlos Tavares is one of the main players in the automotive industry who has spoken the most times about the need to protect the European manufacture of vehicles. In fact, the CEO of Stellantis even went so far as to ask for tariffs for Chinese cars that are sold in our market. However, to this day, Chinese brands continue to roam freely with prices that are generally much more competitive, thanks, among other things, to lower-cost production. Well, this red carpet could be about to disappear if more countries decide to follow policies like the one France has just launched for 2024: government aid for the purchase of electric cars. They will only be intended for those who opt for models made in Europe.
Carlos Tavares sees it impossible for cheap electric cars to be manufactured in Europe
Macron hides behind the interesting argument of the carbon footprint in production of the vehicle itself and its battery. What is the use of buying an electric car to avoid polluting if its manufacture implies a huge load of emissions? In this way, it is ensured that public money is used exclusively to promote the acquisition of cars whose assembly process complies with European standards and whose distribution involves the shortest possible journey to reach the customer.
Spain benefits
Undoubtedly, this is something that benefits the Franco-Italian consortium led by Tavares, but it is also a good news for the industry of our country. Let us remember that Spain is the second largest vehicle producer in Europe and here they give life to the Peugeot e-2008, Opel Corsa-e, Citroën ë-C4, Mercedes e-Vito and EQV, etc. Therefore, it will be necessary to be aware of whether any other European government follows the trend started by Macron. Currently, France offers up to 5,000 euros in aid for the purchase of an electric car for models that do not exceed 47,000 euros and 2,400 kg.
«The ecological bonus for the purchase of an electric car will be reformed to take into account the carbon footprint of its production and thus favor vehicles manufactured in Europe. It is about supporting batteries and electric vehicles that are produced in Europe because its carbon footprint is good“, says the French president.
