European Mobility Week takes place from 16 to 22 September 2025. Its aim is to encourage citizens, associations, businesses and local authorities to adopt more sustainable modes of transport. This year’s focus is on “Mobility for All”, a theme that addresses accessibility, safety, cost and inclusion for every user.
European Mobility Week 2025: a pedestrian and cycle sign illustrating sustainable transport accessible to all.
Since its creation in 2002, the campaign has organised concrete actions in several European countries. It includes Car Free Day and numerous local initiatives to encourage public transport, walking, cycling and car sharing.
One theme: Mobility for all
This year, the focus is on inclusion and accessibility. The aim is to make transport safer, more affordable and better adapted to the elderly and disabled, and to improve digital services. For example, Transdev is improving accessibility for the visually impaired in France with its mobility assistance tools.
A variety of local initiatives
Across France, a range of actions are planned: reduced or free public transport, streets closed to traffic, cycle rides, exhibitions and visits to transport-related sites. At Seine Grand Orly, teams are visiting several stations to inform the public and give behind-the-scenes tours of the T9 tramway.
Why this week counts
Firstly, it raises awareness of the environmental impact of mobility and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Secondly, it provides a laboratory for experimentation. We can test solutions, observe what works, and amplify those that show real benefits for society. Finally, it promotes urban living: less noise, less pollution, greater safety, greater comfort for all.
How can you take part?
Any person or organisation can propose a project: a car-free day, a workshop, a mobility challenge, an ongoing initiative already underway. Registering a project allows you to benefit from visibility, resources and support to help change habits.The national mobility awards encourage exemplary projects.
European Mobility Week remains a key opportunity to rethink the way we travel. In particular, it’s an opportunity to get public policies moving, and to encourage everyone to adopt a more sustainable approach to their daily lives.
The XPeng P7+ saloon, the Chinese rival of the Tesla Model 3, is facing a massive recall. More than 47,000 units are affected in China. The problem: a fault in the power steering system that represents a safety risk.
The XPeng P7+ reveals its elegant lines on the road, rivalling the Tesla Model 3 (Credit: Xpeng).
Power steering problem threatens P7+
Chinese manufacturer XPeng has announced that the recall concerns exactly 47,490 P7+ vehicles produced between August 2024 and April 2025. According to the Chinese market regulator, faulty wiring in the steering system can trigger a warning light and cause a malfunction. As a result, this fault could pose a danger to drivers and passengers.
XPeng has specified that the steering systems at risk will be replaced free of charge on all the vehicles concerned. This measure comes ahead of the European launch of the P7+, scheduled for France and Germany next year. Despite this recall, the brand is trying to reassure future customers.
A high-performance hatchback in spite of everything
Despite this setback, the P7+ remains competitive thanks to its advanced technology. It offers intelligent AI-assisted driving and two LFP batteries, with capacities of 60.7 and 76.3 kWh. Its rear engine develops between 245 and 320 bhp. Range varies between 540 and 630 km according to the WLTP cycle, while the 800-volt architecture enables ultra-fast recharging from 10 to 80% in just 12 minutes.
Designed with the family in mind, the P7+ boasts a boot capacity of 725 litres, expandable to 2,221 litres with the seats folded down. These features position it as a serious rival to the Tesla Model 3, while offering space comparable to that of the Model S. Prices in China start at 186,900 yuan, or around €22,400, and are expected to rise to around €47,000 in Europe.
The XPeng P7+ offers a spacious boot and a modern design, ideal for family use. (Credit: XPeng)
A serious warning for XPeng
This recall comes at a crucial time for the brand, which is seeking to establish itself on the European market. It highlights the challenges faced by Chinese manufacturers in marketing advanced electric vehicles. Nevertheless, XPeng’s responsiveness demonstrates its seriousness and ability to take on large-scale recalls, which is a sign of confidence for European customers.
The sixth generation of the Nissan Micra arrives on the market with a 100% electric powertrain. Available from €28,000, it promises a range of up to 416 km according to the WLTP cycle. With its distinctive design, connected technologies and fast recharging, it aims to stand out from the Renault 5 and the Peugeot e-208.
The new Nissan Micra Electric 2025 boasts compact, assertive styling designed to appeal to urban drivers (Credit: Nissan).
A city car designed for urban agility
The new Micra is based on the AmpR Small platform, developed in partnership with Renault and Ampere. Its 2.54-metre wheelbase and low weight make it easy to manoeuvre and fuel efficient. Thanks to its low centre of gravity and multi-link suspension, it offers a stable, precise ride, whether in the city or on the open road.
Two batteries, two powers
Nissan is offering two versions to suit different uses. The first combines a 40 kWh battery with a 120 hp engine, providing a range of up to 317 km. The second, more powerful version combines a 52 kWh battery with a 150 hp engine, giving a range of 416 km WLTP. Both models can be fast-charged up to 100 kW, recovering 65% of the battery in around 30 minutes.
The interior of the electric Micra 2025 combines elegance and technology, with two 10.1-inch screens and a customisable ambience. (Credit: Nissan)
A sober but assertive design
Visually, the Micra adopts a modern, compact style, a far cry from the retro look of the Renault 5. Fluid lines, pronounced wheel arches and 18-inch wheels give it a dynamic look. Its bodywork has been reworked to optimise aerodynamics and improve range.
A connected, customisable cabin
On board, sobriety goes hand in hand with technology. Two 10.1-inch screens group together most of the information, while physical controls remain for ventilation. Ambient lighting is available in 48 colours, and native integration of Google Maps and Google Assistant simplifies everyday use. The NissanConnect application can also be used to control the charge and cabin temperature remotely.
Competitive prices and a wealth of equipment
The range starts with the Engage trim level at €28,000 for the 40 kWh version. The Advance is available from €30,000 or €33,500 with the large battery, while the Evolve tops the range at €36,000. From the very start of the range, the Micra includes a heat pump, rapid recharging and driving aids. A number of options are available to personalise the city car, including two-tone paintwork and sports wheels.
With its flowing lines and 18-inch wheels, the electric Nissan Micra 2025 asserts its character while optimising its range. (Credit: Nissan)
An electrical offensive underway
With this new generation, Nissan is relaunching the Micra in the highly competitive electric city car segment. With a three-year warranty and eight years on the battery, the Japanese carmaker is banking on its attractive price, competitive range and comprehensive equipment to win over urban Europeans.
Linktour Automotive is entering the European market with its L6e and L7e electric models. The launch event at IAA Mobility 2025 marked a new era in urban driving. The brand is banking on avant-garde design, unique personalisation and intelligent technologies to win over city dwellers.
The Linktour L6e “Urban Sprite” and L7e “Urban Elite” models mark the brand’s arrival in Europe (Credit: Linktour).
A strategic arrival in Europe
Linktour aims to transform the urban experience with its compact, agile vehicles. The L6e and L7e models combine performance, comfort and futuristic styling to meet the expectations of modern drivers. By incorporating strict European production standards, the brand ensures quality, safety and durability.
Four pillars of innovation
Design is at the heart of the Linktour philosophy. Futuristic silhouettes, frameless doors and a panoramic roof create a unique visual experience. Customisation is taken to a whole new level with the ‘Art Window’, transforming each car into a space for creative or commercial expression. Smart features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 5-inch control panel. The Linktour mobile application lets you control the vehicle remotely, manage the air conditioning and monitor battery charging. Finally, the Urban Pioneer approach ensures manoeuvrability, safety and comfort thanks to an aluminium chassis and Cell to Body technology.
The interior of the Linktour L offers a modern design with a 10.25-inch touch screen and connected controls. (Credit: Linktour)
Two models for two experiences
The Alumi L6e “Urban Sprite” is compact and manoeuvrable, perfect for narrow streets and traffic jams. It appeals to young drivers and families looking for a second urban vehicle. The interior features eco-friendly materials and sporty seats with four-way adjustment. The Alumi Elite L7e ‘Urban Elite’, on the other hand, offers sporty driving with a 23 kW electric motor and acceleration from zero to 50 km/h in 5.5 seconds. Its 180 km range and D and S driving modes guarantee an experience to suit every need.
A global strategy with local support
Linktour is planning a gradual expansion of its international sales and service network. The aim is to provide easy access to spare parts, maintenance and batteries. According to Dr. Tang, CEO of Linktour, mobility must go beyond mere transport and become an extension of lifestyle. The brand doesn’t just launch vehicles: it offers a platform that inspires individual expression.
A problem with an incorrectly positioned sensor has forced Renault and its subsidiary Dacia to recall several recent models. Hybrid and electric vehicles are particularly affected, including the Mégane E-Tech and Scénic E-Tech. The authorities are warning of an increased risk of accidents.
The Renault Mégane E-Tech is one of the models recalled for a parking brake problem. (Credit: Renault)
Poorly positioned sensor to blame
The fault is caused by a sensor on the parking brake actuator being at the wrong angle. This fault sometimes prevents the locking pin from locking properly in “P lock” mode. In practice, the brake may lock or fail to activate, especially when the driver turns off the engine, unbuckles the seatbelt or opens the door. If the assisted parking brake (APB) continues to hold the vehicle, the risk of accidents and injuries is considered real by the authorities.
New, electrified models in the sights
The alert, published at the beginning of September on the government platform Rappel Conso, affects a large number of Renault models produced between April 2024 and January 2025. These include vehicles emblematic of the brand’s electric and hybrid strategy: Mégane E-Tech, Scénic E-Tech, Austral and Espace VI. The Rafale, a top-of-the-range SUV, is also included. At Dacia, the Duster Pays Grand Froid, manufactured until the end of October 2025, is also on the list.
Quick steps for homeowners
Renault recommends that affected motorists contact their dealer to check whether their vehicle is part of the campaign. The intervention, which is free of charge, will enable the sensor to be corrected and ensure safety. The authorities specify that it is not necessary to immobilise the vehicle, but call for immediate action to avoid any dangerous situation.
Increased vigilance around electric models
This massive recall is a reminder that the transition to electric vehicles also brings technical challenges. The Mégane and Scénic E-Tech, the spearheads of Renault’s electric range, are directly affected. However, the manufacturer says that corrections will be made quickly, in order to maintain customer confidence in its electrified models.
Chinese manufacturer XPeng is taking a decisive step in its expansion strategy. Thanks to an unprecedented agreement, its electric SUVs will soon be assembled in Europe by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria. This marks a turning point for the brand, and reflects a wider trend towards localising Chinese production to avoid heavy taxes in the European Union.
The XPeng G9 electric SUV will be manufactured at the Magna Steyr plant in Austria.
A strategic partnership in Austria
Magna, a Canadian subsidiary with over 300 production sites worldwide, has been chosen to manufacture the G6 and G9. These models, already sold on the continent, will now come directly from the Austrian factory. According to XPeng, this decision represents a first step towards a sustainable commitment in Europe, while accelerating its conquest of the market.
Getting around European surcharges
The European Union imposes high taxes on vehicles imported from China, reaching 31% for XPeng. By localising its production, the company is considerably reducing these costs, while at the same time gaining greater responsiveness to local demand. This strategy is part of a wider movement: several Chinese manufacturers, including BYD, Chery and Leapmotor, have already announced similar projects on European soil.
The Magna Steyr plant in Graz is now assembling the XPeng G9 electric SUV for the European market.
GAC and other players are following suit
XPeng is not the only company to benefit from Magna’s expertise. Chinese manufacturer GAC, with its Aion brand, has also entrusted the assembly of its electric models to the Graz plant. Recently presented in Munich, this brand plans to start sales in Poland, Portugal and Finland, before expanding across the continent by 2028.
A new lease of life for Magna Steyr
For Magna Steyr, this contract comes at just the right time. The Austrian plant had lost several major programmes, notably with BMW and Jaguar. The arrival of XPeng and GAC has given a significant boost to this historic site, already renowned for its production of the Mercedes G-Class. This momentum illustrates the determination of Chinese carmakers to integrate rapidly and sustainably into the European automotive landscape.
Interview with Jean-Luc Coupez and Daniel Kovacs, founders of E-Mobility Expert
Created in 2021, E-Mobility Expert is a consultancy dedicated to electromobility. Its ambition is to guide companies through the transition, from CSR analysis to the practical deployment of charging stations and sustainable mobility solutions. Meet its two passionate directors: Jean-Luc Coupez, founder, and Daniel Kovacs, associate general manager.
Credit: Eva Pellerin
Can you introduce yourself in a few words? Jean-Luc Coupez: I’m the founder of E-Mobility Expert, a consultancy specialising in the world of electric mobility. After more than 15 years in the electric mobility sector, I wanted to continue to contribute by embarking on this new adventure after my retirement.
Daniel Kovacs: I’m a consultant in electromobility and recharging infrastructures. One year later, I joined Jean-Luc with the desire to bring a global and agile vision.
How did the E-Mobility Expert adventure come about? Jean-Luc Coupez: I launched the company in 2021, with the idea of broadening the technical approach to include a CSR and sustainable development dimension. The partnership with the Auddicé group enabled us to bring in this expertise.
Daniel Kovacs: For me, it was an opportunity to move from a large group to a more flexible structure, while retaining a real sense of rigour. Three years on, the gamble has paid off: we have the responsiveness of a small team and the solidity of a group.
What sets you apart in the market? JL.C: Experience. I took part in the first interministerial working groups that led to the European Type 2 standard, and then to the Combo CCS for fast recharging.
Our expertise covers both the technical side – developing, installing and upgrading bollards – and the regulatory side – helping foreign manufacturers to comply with French regulations.
Why did you join the Auddicé group? JL.C: Because it allows us to offer comprehensive support. With Auddicé, we carry out carbon audits, travel plans, analysis of usage… right through to implementation and training. We are currently the only company in France that can follow a company from A to Z.
Credit: Eva Pellerin
The demonstrator: all recharging solutions combined
You’ve installed a demonstrator on your site. What does it involve? D.K: We’ve transformed our car park (30 spaces) into a showcase for recharging solutions:
Slow charging points for daily charging
Normal terminals (7 to 22 kW) for half a day
Fast charging points (25 kW) for recharging in two hours
In all, 14 terminals – more than enough to showcase the full range of technologies. It’s unique in France.
JL.C.: We’ve also worked on education: explanatory panels, QR codes, fun training courses like our “charging stations aperitif”, which raises awareness of good usage practices.
How do your customers react to this demonstrator? D.K: With surprise and curiosity. Few have seen so many solutions grouped together in one place. It triggers discussions, ideas and often projects. As for our staff, they have taken to the tool perfectly.
Did you also think about cycling? D.K : Absolutely. Low-carbon mobility starts with walking and cycling. We have created a garage equipped for electric bikes, with recharging points and a repair workshop, as well as an inflation station, open to all employees.
“Electric vehicles will undoubtedly be a bridge to other technologies such as hydrogen or new generations of batteries.“
Showcasing electric mobility for all uses
What user profiles are you targeting? D.K: Company employees, visitors and customers, but also staff from other agencies. The idea is to show a variety of uses, with several makes of kiosk and several real-life scenarios.
What do you see as the main obstacles to the electrification of fleets? D.K: The first is range. Employees are worried:“Will I make it through the day?” The answer depends on the right choice of vehicle and battery. Then there are the issues of recharging: on site, when out and about, and at home.
JL.C : On the business side, the challenge is also to correctly size the infrastructure: number of terminals, power, possible integration of photovoltaics or storage, software control… All this needs to be optimised.
How do you see electric mobility evolving in the future? D.K.: We’re at a turning point. Batteries will become faster to recharge, rather than more autonomous. Induction will develop, as it has for telephones. And electric vehicles will serve as a bridge to other technologies such as hydrogen.
JL.C : Our role will be to help companies make the right choices, because once a solution is adopted, it’s a long-term commitment. We help them compare costs, take advantage of subsidies and build tailor-made solutions.
Plug-in hybrids, long touted as the ideal gateway to electric mobility, are once again under fire. A recent study by the NGO Transport & Environment (T&E) claims that they emit on average five times more CO2 than official tests claim. All the more reason to reopen an already lively debate about these vehicles, which are so popular with company fleets.
Plug-in hybrids are at the centre of criticism over its real CO2 emissions.
Some disturbing figures
According to T&E, analysis of 127,000 vehicles registered in 2023 reveals actual emissions of 139 g/km, compared with just 28 g/km on paper. The discrepancy stems from the calculation of the WLTP standard, which assumes that PHEVs are driven 80% of the time in electric mode. In practice, this figure drops to 26%. As a result, the combustion engine is used much more often than expected.
Criticism but also nuances
The NGO denounces a greenwashing strategy and calls on Brussels to correct the rules from 2025. The car industry, on the other hand, is defending PHEVs as an essential transitional solution. For Christophe Périllat, head of Valeo, these models remain useful until the electric market is fully mature. In his view, increasing the electric range of hybrids to 100 km would already cover most everyday journeys.
A political battle ahead
It’s not just a technical issue. Carmakers want to make the targets for 2035, the date set for the end of combustion engines, more flexible. Brussels will have to make a decision at the strategic dialogue on 12 September. Discussions between NGOs, manufacturers and the European Commission are likely to be tense.
Towards other alternatives?
At the same time, a number of players are exploring the use of range extenders, which are already popular in China. This technology, which recharges the battery via a small internal combustion engine, could represent a compromise. However, there are still too many risks associated with the use of combustion engines.
The controversy surrounding PHEVs illustrates the challenges of the transition. While their limitations are now clear, pure electrics remain the most credible option in the long term.
After a career with PSA and Stellantis, Stéphane Le Guével has taken over as head of Polestar France, a 100% electric Swedish brand that has made performance, design and technological innovation its cornerstones.
ECO MOTORS NEWS had the chance to attend the presentation of the brand’s new spearhead, a saloon named Polestar 5, at the IAA Mobility show in Munich. The editorial team had the opportunity to ask Stéphane Le Guével, Polestar‘s Managing Director, to share with us his vision of the market, the manufacturer’s ambitions, and what drives him personally in this new era of the automobile.
The Polestar 5, just presented at the Munich Motor Show. Credit: Polestar
Who are you, Stéphane Le Guével? Stéphane Le Guével: I’ve been an automotive professional for almost 35 years. I spent most of my career with PSA and then Stellantis, managing brands in various countries. Today, I’m at the head of Polestar France, which we’ve just officially launched after several years of legal wrangling.
Credit: Polestar
What motivated you to join Polestar? Stéphane Le Guével: I wanted to turn over a new leaf. Polestar is a young brand, but it’s in line with all the major changes in the automotive industry: electrification, digitalisation, online sales and a new customer relationship. It brings together everything that makes up the future of the industry. It’s an exciting field for someone who wants to contribute to these transformations from the inside.
Polestar has just arrived in France. Why now? Stéphane Le Guével: There was a legal dispute surrounding the logo, which prevented us from launching the brand earlier. As soon as this constraint was lifted, we decided to launch in France. The market is mature, the demand is there, and it’s my country, so I know the issues very well. It was a bit of a no-brainer for me to embark on this adventure.
Credit: Polestar
Polestar stands out for its positioning. How is it different? Stéphane Le Guével: There are three pillars that set us apart. Firstly, performance: Polestar comes from the racing world, like AMG for Mercedes or M for BMW. It’s in our DNA. Then there’s the design: sleek, Scandinavian, with a real eye for aesthetics. Lastly, technology: we were the first to integrate Google Automotive Services, and we are constantly innovating, as on the Polestar 4, which abandons the rear window in favour of a high-definition camera.
“Polestar is a 100% electric global brand.”
How has the brand been received by the French public? SLG: Excellent. Unlike other new entrants, Polestar is already well known throughout Europe. The brand was already well known. In France, there was an expectation. All that was needed was for customers to finally be able to order their cars.
Is Polestar an environmentally committed brand? SLG: Absolutely. Our objective is ambitious: a climate-neutral car by 2030, and a climate-neutral company by 2040. It’s a total commitment, across the entire value chain: recycled materials, production using renewable energy, and annual publication of our progress. Transparency is a core value for us. And we invite our competitors to do the same.
Is 100% online distribution enough? SLG: When we started out, we relied heavily on online sales. But customers want to see, touch and try things out. Today, we combine direct sales with a physical network of agents. Customers are invoiced by Polestar, but they can discover the cars in our ‘Spaces’, our showrooms, and have their cars serviced in the Volvo network. This is a real strength.
Credit: Polestar
Is France ready for electric cars? SLG: It’s making progress, but it’s not Norway yet. There’s a lot of confusion among consumers, particularly about range and cost. The real uses are not well known. People need education and clarity. That’s where the specialist media have an important role to play.
“Polestar 4 is certainly the safest vehicle on the market.”
How would you define Polestar’s mission? SLG: To speed up the transition to environmentally-friendly mobility without sacrificing driving pleasure. Performance is part of our identity. And thanks to Volvo’s heritage, our cars are among the safest on the market. You can enjoy clean driving.
How do you personally feel at the wheel of a Polestar? SLG: I like the simplicity. It’s a bit like switching to the latest smartphone: sleek, fluid, with no unnecessary buttons. And behind all that simplicity, there’s 520 horsepower. It’s rare to find such a balance between design, comfort, safety and driving pleasure.
Porsche is preparing for the arrival of its 100% electric Cayenne, expected in dealerships in early 2026. But before the official unveiling, scheduled for the end of 2025, the German marque is taking advantage of the Munich Motor Show to unveil an innovation that could change the habits of its customers: induction charging.
The electric Porsche Cayenne is unveiled under camouflage at the Munich Motor Show and announces its induction charging. (Credit: Porsche)
Notably, presented under animated camouflage, the prototype conceals a technology that is still rare in the automotive industry. In practical terms, it will be possible to recharge an SUV simply by parking it on top of a slab installed on the ground, without the need for cables or plugs.
A device designed for domestic use
The system is based on a plate measuring 117 cm by 78 cm, 6 cm thick, which can be installed in a garage, under a carport or even outdoors. The vehicle carries a second plate placed between its front wheels. Alignment is carried out using 360° cameras, and the car then lowers itself automatically to optimise energy transfer. The system delivers 11 kW of alternating current, equivalent to that of a domestic wall-mounted charging point.
Porsche emphasises the efficiency of the process, with a claimed efficiency of 90%. The aim is clear: to simplify home recharging. According to the manufacturer, 75% of owners of electric models already fill up at home.
Induction charging on the Porsche Cayenne relies on a plate on the floor that supplies power to the battery without plugging it in. (Credit: Porsche)
Useful innovation or simple comfort?
Induction charging is not a technical revolution, as it already exists for smartphones. Nevertheless, its application to a production vehicle is a first. There remains the question of cost, estimated at several thousand euros as an option. Some will see it as a gadget, while others will appreciate the convenience, especially in a premium segment where the customer experience counts as much as performance.
Moreover, at the same time, the future Cayenne will retain DC fast charging, taking advantage of its 800 V architecture to exceed 350 kW. A perfect combination of everyday practicality and long-distance travel.
