Category: News

Having recently established itself in France, Genesis, the luxury brand of the Korean Hyundai-Kia Group, has just added a powerful electric sports SUV to its range: the GV60 Magma. It joins the three electric models already in the catalogue for the market launch. Like Lexus (a subsidiary of Toyota), Genesis hopes to compete with premium brands such as Audi, BMW and Tesla. Its involvement in the World Endurance Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans supports this ambitious manufacturer’s strategy to expand its market share.

GV60 Magma: 650 hp

It is no coincidence that Genesis is launching a high-performance SUV to coincide with its arrival in France. The premium brand of the Korean Hyundai-Kia group aims to compete with leading premium manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes and Audi. It is therefore essential to offer a car with character, dynamism and superior performance. The GV60 Magma (Magma being the manufacturer’s sports division) is therefore a 4.52-metre electric SUV based on the same platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. With two electric motors, an 84 kWh battery and 650 hp delivering 790 Nm of torque, these specifications place it firmly in the category of high-performance SUVs. Performance is impressive: 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 264 km/h. It is priced from €86,600, which is €8,000 more than its technical cousin, the Ioniq 5 N.

Standing out from premium brands 

Just as Lexus is to Toyota, Genesis aims to embody the Hyundai-Kia Group’s distinctive premium offering. The Korean strategy focuses on building a long-term brand image, unlike Chinese brands such as Denza (BYD) or Xpeng, which are seeking to expand their network and sell large volumes quickly. Genesis, for example, will initially have just two sales outlets (in Lille and Paris) and will have around 50 service centres by 2028, located near Hyundai dealerships.

Furthermore, Genesis is entering the European market with a range consisting mainly of electric cars, whereas the US market offers around ten petrol and hybrid models. Faced with strict European regulations and customs duties, and whilst Genesis aims to project a technological brand image, the range therefore comprises three fully electric vehicles: two SUVs, the GV60 and GV70, and a large, prestigious G80 saloon.  

A risky strategy

This decision is not without risk. Genesis remains largely unknown to the European public (building a brand image takes time), and there are now many specialist premium car manufacturers – particularly German ones – making the market highly competitive. Nevertheless, the Korean brand has no intention of selling its cars at a loss but is banking on the original design of its models, their level of equipment and superior technology, even though many components are already shared with Hyundai models. For example, the sporty GV60 Magma SUV features the e-ASD (electronic active sound design) system, which reproduces engine sound vibrations similar to those in the Ioniq 5 N. A premium approach that does not simply copy German benchmarks.

Investment in competition

Furthermore, Genesis is investing in motor racing to boost its popularity and brand image. It’s a strategy that appears to be off to a good start, given the results achieved in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the Genesis Magma Racing team, where the two hypercars (GMR 001) entered since the start of the season are competing with the top teams. This approach is reminiscent of Audi’s successful foray into endurance racing in the 2000s. As well as the obvious boost to brand awareness, performing well in endurance races lends credibility to a technology and secures a certain prestige in the eyes of the public.

The customer experience: Genesis’s secret weapon

Finally, the Korean brand hopes to win over customers with one key selling point: the ‘Son-nim’ concept, which literally means ‘esteemed guest’. Put simply, Genesis treats its customers as guests, welcoming them with respect and care. A personal assistant accompanies the prospective buyer before and throughout their journey; pricing is designed to be transparent (with little scope for negotiation); the showrooms resemble salons; and personalised test drives are organised with an emphasis on sensory experiences, at the customer’s own pace. This approach to business stems from the Korean culture of welcome and hospitality. These are touches that the French public may appreciate. Experience and service often take precedence in the luxury car sector. It remains to be seen whether this strategy will be enough to prevent the brand from remaining merely a niche player and to position itself as a genuine alternative to premium manufacturers.

A year after the concept car was unveiled, the e-208 GTi has been officially revealed on the sidelines of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. For Peugeot, this car embodies modern electric performance – both dynamic and agile – following in the footsteps of its illustrious predecessor, the 205 GTi. Technically, the e-208 GTi incorporates elements from its Stellantis Group cousins. Peugeot has added an interior ambience, performance and the expertise of the engineers from the team developing the 9X8 for the World Endurance Championship.

e-208 GTi, the successor to a successful sports car

Fittingly, it is at Le Mans, to mark the centenary of its first appearance in the 24 Hours, that Peugeot is unveiling the e-208 GTi. It is never an easy task for a mainstream manufacturer to revamp a car whose commercial success and history have left their mark on so many generations. With the launch of the unexpected 205 GTi in 1984, Peugeot had created one of the most fun cars to drive – light and agile, responsive and accessible – with over 330,000 units produced. Today, it has become a first-rate ‘youngtimer’, sought-after and collected. 

Subsequently, the 206 RC and 207 RC, followed by the 208 GTi, carried on this momentum without achieving the same success or popularity as the original model. To continue the GTi story in 2026, the little lioness must be electrified; it is already the best-performing electric city car on the market.

Outstanding achievements

In line with the group’s strategy, the e-208 GTi therefore features the same technical specifications as its cousins, the Lancia Ypsilon HF and the Abarth 600e. Namely, the M4+ electric motor (manufactured in Tremery, in the Moselle region) which produces 281 hp and 345 Nm of torque. Its power-to-weight ratio is stated as 5.5 kg/hp and its acceleration is the best among Stellantis’ small cars. It goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds (compared to 5.6 seconds for the Lancia), a remarkable figure. Its top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h. Is this a consequence of the recently unveiled FastLane 2030 plan? As Peugeot is one of the group’s four major brands, it seems logical to allocate the best specifications to its models.

Developed in collaboration with Peugeot Sport engineers

The development focused primarily on driving pleasure. Peugeot Sport engineers were called upon to optimise the performance of the e-208 GTi. According to Christophe Auriault, the project manager: “The work on the engine’s electronic control draws directly on the expertise gained in motorsport and is transferred from the track to the road. The skills used in developing the e-208 GTi are the same as those employed when working on the 9X8”, i.e. the Peugeot hypercar competing in the World Endurance Championship (WEC). As a result, the little lioness accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in 3.2 seconds and takes less than 6 seconds to cover 1,000 metres from a standing start.

Furthermore, experience gained from motorsport enables better thermal management of the batteries; the cooling system prevents any loss of power and delivers consistent performance even under demanding conditions. Nipping along winding mountain roads at a brisk pace is the ‘GTi spirit’ that Peugeot wanted to preserve, even in a fully electric model. It remains to be seen how it performs on the road.

Redesigned chassis 

Like the Lancia Ypsilon HF, the Abarth 600e or the Mokka GSE, the Peugeot e-208 GTi is a front-wheel drive with a limited-slip differential, and its 54 kWh battery (51 kWh net) provides a range of 352 km (WLTP) (up to 375 km with low-rolling-resistance tyres). Charging times aren’t the fastest in its class: expect 30 minutes to charge from 20% to 80%, as the maximum permitted power does not exceed 100 kW. Compared to the e-208, the chassis is lowered by 2.5 cm, the track widths are slightly wider and the rear suspension features an anti-roll bar to maintain full stability during fast cornering. Note that regenerative braking is disabled in Sport mode to deliver the driving experience expected of such a sports car.

Cockpit with a sporty feel

Inside, the e-208 GTi features an interior inspired by the legendary 205 GTi, with a sporty ambience dominated by red and black. The exclusive, supportive and comfortable seats strengthen the connection between the driver and the car. The bespoke steering wheel and optimised steering deliver a more direct and dynamic driving experience. The experience is enhanced by a digital GTi interface, customisable ambient lighting and an immersive sound system. The car combines high-end equipment, advanced connected services and practical charging solutions for sustainable everyday use, including a route planner that optimises range and charging. Finally, it features a V2L (vehicle-to-load) function to power external devices.

Starting price over €40,000

Starting price from €42,900 (excluding the eco-bonus), the e-208 GTi costs €500 more than a Lancia Ypsilon HF (which is less prestigious) and €700 more than the Alpine A290 GTS (which has less power: 220 hp). Orders are now open, yet competition in this emerging segment is only just beginning, as we must also factor in the VW ID Polo GTi, the Cupra Raval and the Mini Cooper SE.

Renowned as a technological testing ground for car manufacturers, the Le Mans 24 Hours circuit is hosting the Toyota Racing TR LH2 prototype, which runs directly on liquid hydrogen. Several demonstration laps are being held to mark the start of the famous endurance race. Toyota is thus demonstrating that a hydrogen combustion engine can deliver thrills and performance similar to those of a conventional internal combustion engine, whilst limiting CO2 emissions. Ultimately, Toyota’s strategy is to develop hydrogen technology in motor racing, but above all in industry, heavy goods vehicles and commercial vehicles.

Toyota: a pioneer in hydrogen

It is not yet a category in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), but hydrogen is set to become one of the fuels of the future in motor racing. For several years now, Toyota has established itself as a pioneer in this complex but promising technology. To mark the start of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Toyota Racing will be putting its TR LH2 prototype (an optimised version of the H2 Racing concept unveiled in 2023) through its paces in front of the public on the Circuit de la Sarthe. At the wheel on Thursday 11 June will be driver Kazuki Nakajima, a three-time winner of the race. This full-scale demonstration thus validates the strategy of the Japanese manufacturer, which is investing heavily in hydrogen as a fuel that does not emit CO2 into the atmosphere.

Ultra-low-temperature liquid hydrogen

The technology developed by Toyota is based on the same chassis as the TR010 Hybrid hypercar that competed in the Le Mans race, except that the TR LH2 Racing prototype uses liquid hydrogen (LH2) stored at very low temperatures and burned in a hydrogen-compatible internal combustion engine, which therefore replaces petrol. It does not, therefore, operate like a fuel cell (where gaseous hydrogen is used to generate electricity to power a motor), as in the Toyota Mirai.

This is therefore a rare innovation in motorsport. Unlike a few projects such as the Alpine Alpenglow, which use hydrogen in its gaseous state, Toyota has managed to inject this fuel directly into an internal combustion engine. The advantage of liquid hydrogen is its higher volumetric energy density compared to compressed gaseous hydrogen. Put simply, this fuel is more compact and can be stored more efficiently in an endurance racing car where space is limited. On the other hand, liquid hydrogen requires complex cryogenic tanks (cooling to very low temperatures) and careful management of evaporation.

In development since 2021

Toyota appears to have found a solution to these technical challenges. The TR LH2 Racing’s laps of the Le Mans circuit should showcase this technology to the public, with particular attention being paid to the engine’s sound and its performance on the track. 

Toyota began developing hydrogen-powered engines in 2021 with the Corolla GR H2 Concept, a passenger car, competing in the Japanese Super Taikyu Championship. A GR Yaris H2 then caused a sensation during demonstration runs on rally tracks. The adaptation for an endurance car dates back to 2023. Will we ever see this technology in official racing? That is certainly the hope of the ACO (Automobile Club de l’Ouest) and the Mission H24 project, which could introduce a hydrogen category to the 2028 Le Mans 24 Hours. With zero CO2 emissions during operation, the hydrogen engine is one of the future solutions for a more sustainable motorsport, and Toyota is the manufacturer furthest ahead in this field. This TR LH2 concept aims to explore low-carbon solutions for motorsport whilst maintaining the passion for the sport.

For industry and heavy goods vehicles 

On an industrial scale, the Japanese giant hopes to produce variants of direct hydrogen combustion for certain machine tools, energy infrastructure, heavy goods vehicles and commercial vehicles. Passenger cars are not yet a priority, given the lack of infrastructure and storage challenges. This will likely take its first steps in motorsport before we see the first mass-production applications in our everyday cars. Toyota is therefore proving bold and ambitious, as its investments are also focused on refuelling infrastructure: moving towards faster and less expensive stations.

The American car manufacturer Dodge, part of Stellantis, has announced the return of the Charger to European markets. As the model celebrates its 60th anniversary, the aim is to win over a new generation of loyal fans with this iconic, high-performance car. To comply with regulations, the Charger Daytona is adopting a multi-energy strategy and will be available with both internal combustion and electric powertrains. A 100% electric muscle car that looks set to boost sales.

The return of an iconic muscle car

Launched in 1966, the Dodge Charger quickly established itself as one of the most iconic symbols of the golden age of American muscle cars, following in the footsteps of the Ford Mustang. With its distinctive fastback silhouette, driver-oriented cockpit and thunderous V8 engine, the Charger has become a symbol of freedom over the years. Its rather brief run in Europe was cut short in the wake of the first oil crisis in 1973. Only a few specialist importers continued to supply customers determined to fulfil the American dream. But at a time when consumer demand is waning, with a certain wait-and-see attitude prevailing and in the face of very aggressive competition from Asia, Stellantis has therefore decided to export this iconic car once again, hoping to capitalise on its popularity and the legend it embodies.

Up to 670 hp 

But Dodge, which has a strong presence in the United States, could not reasonably return to Europe with a combustion engine, which would be burdened from the outset by the environmental penalty (of €80,000). It is therefore the 100% electric Charger that will be showcased, with its styling very much reminiscent of the muscle car with a straight-six engine. 

Measuring 5.25 m in length, nearly 2 m in width, available as a two- or four-door model, and weighing 2.6 tonnes, the Charger Daytona R/T features a 100 kWh battery (94 kWh of which is usable) and delivers 536 hp. Another version, boosted to 670 hp and dubbed the Scat Pack, is billed as the most powerful and fastest muscle car on the market. All electric Dodge Chargers come with two electric motors and all-wheel drive as standard. The Scat Pack’s performance figures promise a 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.3 seconds.

Special high-performance platform

Beyond the design cues that remain true to the Dodge Charger style, the Daytona is built on the new STLA Large modular platform that Stellantis has developed for all the group’s high-performance EVs. A 400V architecture that allows for a combination of high power, different powertrains, and modern technologies. For example, the One-Pedal system or multi-level adjustable regenerative braking. To emphasise the sporty side of this electric Charger Daytona, a ‘boost’ function provides an extra 40 hp for 10 seconds of acceleration, and a ‘drift’ (as well as ‘donut’) mode to make the car slide more easily. Or, when the four-wheel electronic control system ensures the spectacle that is synonymous with American sports cars.

It is worth noting that the R/T petrol version is fitted with an inline six-cylinder engine known as the “Sixpack”, derived from the 420 hp 3.0-litre Hurricane engine, whilst a Scat Pack “SixPack” variant will deliver up to 550 hp.

In Europe to relaunch the Charger 

If Dodge’s muscle car is returning to Europe, it is primarily to revive the model, whose sales have slowed considerably in North America. Fewer than 500 units were sold in the first quarter of 2026; last year, fewer than 8,000 Chargers were sold in the United States and Canada. These figures are far from satisfactory for a car with such a strong legacy in pop culture (films and TV series) and a history in NHRA racing (US drag racing).
Could the arrival of the electric version breathe new life into the range? Even though prices have not yet been announced (likely around €100,000), the Charger Daytona could find its place in the market. In Europe, the car that bills itself as the only American electric sports car has had no real competition since Tesla announced the end of production for the Model S. Sports cars such as the Mercedes AMG-GT, Porsche Taycan and Denza Z9 GT are positioned at higher price points and offer more premium features.

Since the legendary R8 was discontinued two years ago, there has been no true supercar in Audi’s range. This gap has now been filled by the surprise Nuvolari, a hybrid coupé with over 1,000 hp, produced in a very limited edition. The German manufacturer is thus celebrating its involvement in Formula 1 and demonstrating that electrification combined with a twin-turbo V8 engine can deliver cutting-edge performance. It is therefore the most powerful model ever produced in Audi’s history.

The Nuvolari, a technological gem 

Buoyed by its involvement in Formula 1 since the start of the season, Audi wants to share this with its customers. The Nuvolari (named after the Italian driver Tazio Nuvolari, renowned for his daring and ingenuity in the 1930s) embodies this extreme sportiness applied to a production model. It is a two-seater coupé, a technological gem that combines the boost of electric power with the speed of a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine to deliver the most powerful car ever designed in Ingolstadt: 1,001 hp.

Based on the Lamborghini Temerario

In fact, this Nuvolari is based on the technical platform of its Italian cousin, the Lamborghini Temerario, an 800 hp plug-in hybrid supercar. It features an aluminium chassis, a carbon-fibre body and a mid-rear engine combined with two axial-flow electric motors on the front axle (delivering up to 2,150 Nm of torque) and a third electric motor integrated into the gearbox. These motors are powered by a 7.3 kWh battery. To truly highlight the exclusivity of this new hybrid supercar, Audi’s engineers have nevertheless made a few tweaks that bring the total power output to 1,001 hp. The Nuvolari is quite simply the most powerful Audi ever produced in Ingolstadt. It thus outperforms the Temerario and even comes close to matching the power of the Lamborghini Revuelto and its 1,015 hp.

Track-level performance

The performance figures announced by Audi confirm this. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in 6.8 seconds (faster than the Temerario), with a top speed exceeding 350 km/h. According to Gernot Döllner, the brand’s boss: “The Nuvolari embodies a statement of intent for Audi’s future, for a new form of performance and for ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ in the age of electrification. ” In other words, Audi fully intends to harness all the benefits of electric power to deliver ultimate sportiness.

Designs inspired by the Concept C

In terms of design, this coupé heralds Audi’s new design philosophy, characterised by taut lines, flat surfaces and a rather monolithic silhouette. It is a bold choice that draws on the design language of the Concept C, unveiled last year. It features active aerodynamics derived from F1, with a ventilated front end, known as the S-duct, which improves efficiency on the front axle and generates more downforce, reducing lift at high speeds. The rear wing is adaptive and deployable. It maintains stability and directs drag across three configurations, providing up to 400 kg of downforce.

The cockpit, meanwhile, is designed to focus on the driving experience, with a sleek, streamlined and futuristic style. Audi’s executives aim to become the most desirable premium brand for customers seeking the exceptional. That is why only 499 units of the Nuvolari will be produced, with the first deliveries scheduled for early 2027.

Dynamic energy management

The Audi Nuvolari uses an energy management system inspired by Formula 1. The system continuously coordinates power delivery, energy recovery and torque distribution. Energy is recovered during almost every phase of driving thanks to regenerative braking and adaptive coasting strategies. The system can deliver up to 0.3 g of fully electric deceleration, recharging the battery whilst stabilising the vehicle. Meanwhile, the ‘Launch Control’ function utilises stored energy to deliver maximum acceleration with optimum traction.

Quattro Predictive Ride System

Renowned for its four-wheel drive system, Audi has further enhanced its quattro system with a ‘predictive ride’ function, a form of artificial intelligence that anticipates loss of traction by continuously analysing vehicle data (steering, acceleration, yaw and grip). It proactively adjusts torque distribution, braking and aerodynamics to maximise stability and traction. The more responsive front electric motors enable precise torque vectoring, improving agility in corners and stability at high speeds. A system that adjusts according to the driving mode selected by the driver.

Whether it’s in terms of raw performance, regenerative braking or maintaining a perfect, efficient line, Audi is keen to demonstrate all the benefits that electric power can bring to a supercar. And it’s a safe bet that these developments will soon appear on more accessible models in the future.

The transition to electrification in the world of luxury motoring is progressing step by step. The finest example to have gone fully electric remains the Rolls-Royce Spectre, launched in 2022. Europe’s favourite Rolls-Royce has just received several technical upgrades and a wider range of customisation options to boost its declining sales. In this market for silent, opulent and prestigious limousines, the timeless English coupé is leading the pack, as competitors are few and far between.

The best-selling Rolls-Royce in Europe

Just a few days after the much-discussed unveiling of the Ferrari Luce, the Prancing Horse’s first all-electric model, the world of luxury motoring is seeing an evolution of its most iconic representative: the Rolls-Royce Spectre. Launched in 2022, this ultra-luxury electric coupé returns as the ‘Series II’, boasting improved technical performance with increased power and a longer range. Since its launch, it has won over wealthy European owners, becoming the best-selling Rolls-Royce in the range, ahead of the brand’s combustion-engine models. A car designed to be quiet, smooth and comfortable is even more so with an electric powertrain. But 2025 saw sales drop by nearly 50%, with barely 1,000 units produced. The British manufacturer had to respond as technology in the electric sector is evolving very rapidly.

Greater range: 628 km

As Rolls-Royce is part of the BMW Group, the Spectre uses the same electric architecture as the recently restyled i7 saloon. The Spectre is therefore equipped with a 400 V high-voltage system rather than 800 V, as has become the norm for luxury electric models (such as the Porsche Taycan or Ferrari Luce). Nevertheless, Rolls-Royce engineers have managed to increase the fast-charging speed by 14%, meaning it takes less than 30 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%. Another improvement concerns the range, which has increased from 530 to 628 km (WLTP), an 18% increase, thanks to a larger battery capacity. 

The more dynamic Black Badge variant of the Series II offers greater power (an increase of 15 kW to a total of 500 kW, or 680 hp) and higher torque: 1,100 Nm in ‘Spirited’ mode (compared to 1,050 Nm previously). In this configuration, the Black Badge Spectre Series II becomes the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever created in the manufacturer’s history, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.

Interior design at the pinnacle of luxury

There are no exterior changes to the imposing 5.45-metre coupé. “Silence, fluidity and exceptional power are qualities our customers value highly,” says Chris Brownridge, Managing Director of Rolls-Royce Cars. The Spectre thus confirms that Rolls-Royce is perfectly at home with electrification, given the extraordinary reception it has received worldwide. With the Spectre Series II, we are pushing the boundaries of customisation and refinement even further. ” Co-founder Sir Henry Royce once said: “It is the small details that make perfection, but perfection is not a detail.” By developing its Bespoke programme, Rolls is introducing a new range of bespoke elements, materials and finishes. The new clock design is inspired by aviation instruments and is housed in a clock cabinet.

Duality Twill fabrics feature up to 2.6 million stitches, equivalent to 16 km of thread and 25 hours of work. Meanwhile, the perforated leather features nearly 80,000 stitches in the seats, door panels, trim, headrests and headliner, which can even be illuminated by LEDs, recreating a light source reminiscent of a starry sky. This meticulous work is carried out by dozens of craftsmen.

Competition that is still limited

The Spectre Series II is expected to be priced from €350,000 excluding tax. Admittedly a high price, but ultimately quite reasonable for anyone wishing to treat themselves to this elegant coupé with its timeless lines, whose silent powertrain transports you like a ‘flying carpet’. It is a reputation from which the Goodwood-based brand benefits, as the names of its models (Phantom, Ghost, Dawn, Spectre…) have always evoked the ethereal movement of a wandering spirit.

With this second generation of the Spectre, Rolls-Royce has the opportunity to pull ahead of its few rivals in the ultra-luxury electric market, which currently includes the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, the Mercedes EQS saloon, the American Lucid Air Sapphire and the Chinese NIO ET9. But given the pace at which technology is advancing and the advantages offered by electric vehicles, the number of options is likely to grow.

Chinese carmaker MG Motor is taking a new step forward in its European strategy and expanding its range into the premium segment. Two models, the IM5 and IM6 – already available in Norway and the UK – will be launched in France in early July. These are a large saloon and a large SUV, both fully electric, whose features, performance and charging speed are set to enable them to compete with brands such as Tesla and BYD

MG is expanding its range into the premium segment

Already well established in France with a comprehensive range of five electric models and five hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, all offered at competitive prices, MG Motor is expanding its range and is now setting its sights on the premium electric market. The Chinese group, which already sells the IM 5 saloon and the large IM 6 SUV in its home market and in several European countries (the UK, Norway and Switzerland), has just announced their launch in France, starting next July.

These vehicles must deliver performance, advanced technology and a premium user experience. This is because the IM (Intelligent Motor) range differs from the rest of MG’s range, which is renowned for offering some of the most competitive value for money. In this regard, the brand has just launched a promotional campaign for June, setting its starting price at under €18,000 for an MG 4 Urban (325 km range), representing a discount of over €7,000.

Ultra-fast charging capability

As for the new IM models, both cars share a number of technical features.  Whether it is the IM5 saloon or the IM6 SUV, they are built on an 800 V electric architecture, with ultra-fast charging capability (350 kW compatible power) that allows the battery to be recharged from 10% to 80% in just 17 minutes. This has become a key factor in buyers’ decision-making criteria.

When it comes to performance, the bar is set high. MG claims a WLTP range of up to 655 km for the IM5 100 model, which features a large battery and a 407 hp rear-wheel-drive system. In its top-spec configuration, the IM5 (or IM6) 100 Performance boasts 553 kW (751 hp), all-wheel drive, 802 Nm of torque and a 96.5 kWh battery capacity, although the range has not yet been announced. These figures rival those of Tesla in particular.

Playability and AI

In terms of driving experience, the Chinese brand promises manoeuvrability at low speeds and a degree of stability on the road thanks to a four-wheel steering system. This is a significant feature on a car measuring nearly 5 metres in length (with a wheelbase of 3 metres) such as the IM5 saloon, which has a particularly tight turning circle (9.98 metres).

Among the on-board innovations is One-Touch iAD (Intelligent Assisted Driving) technology. Using artificial intelligence, this precision driving system automates certain complex manoeuvres such as automatic parking, exiting a parking space, assisted reversing and parallel parking at the kerb. The aim is to simplify everyday journeys whilst reducing driver stress.

Premium welcome on board

Inside, MG focuses on a premium feel. The driver’s seat is ventilated, with 12-way electric adjustment and a memory function, whilst the front passenger seat is adjustable in six directions. At the centre of the dashboard, a huge 26.3-inch panoramic screen is dedicated to infotainment, sitting above a 50W wireless smartphone charger. The on-board atmosphere is further enhanced by a 20-speaker audio system designed to deliver an immersive sound experience.

Although the prices for the IM 5 and IM 6 have not yet been announced, the launch date is scheduled for early July in France. 

MG factory in Spain in 2028

It is worth noting that SAIC, the parent company of MG Motor, has also just announced plans to set up a production plant in Spain (near A Coruña) by 2028. It will be dedicated to manufacturing electric vehicles tailored for the European markets: the MG4 Urban and the future MG2 city car. This site, which will create 2,300 jobs, is set to produce up to 120,000 cars a year and will enable the manufacturer to avoid EU penalties and customs surcharges.

The registration figures for May have just been published by the French Automotive Platform (PFA). The passenger car market grew by 3.7%, with 128,484 vehicles registered. This is higher than in May 2025, which nevertheless had two additional working days (corresponding to an increase of over 15% when adjusted for the number of days). Unsurprisingly, electric vehicles are driving sales, continuing their growth and accounting for 35% of the market (EVs and plug-in hybrids), the highest level on record.

The economic climate has become very favourable for electric vehicles

Fuel prices have remained above €2 per litre for more than three months, and the impact is clearly being felt in new car registrations. Many motorists are turning away from internal combustion engines and opting instead for plug-in hybrids and, above all, electric cars. The share of these powertrains exceeded 35% in May 2026, its highest level on record. By way of comparison, these powertrains accounted for just 22% a year ago. The shift towards the transition began gradually towards the end of 2025 but has really gained momentum since March and the hostilities in the Persian Gulf. Although Chinese manufacturers are launching a massive commercial offensive in Europe, the figures show that traditional brands are able to respond thanks to their varied and increasingly affordable electric offerings.

EVs: a third of new registrations 

In detail, 128,484 passenger cars were sold in France in May 2026, including more than 37,000 electric vehicles. The share of EVs rose by 90% compared with May 2025. This brings the market share of electric vehicles to one-third of new registrations. A record. If we include plug-in hybrids, more than one in three new cars is now electrified, and almost half of these are in company fleets.

Looking at the trend over the first five months of the year, the market has remained fairly stable, down by 0.6%, with 668,379 units sold across all engine types. More than 185,700 electric cars were delivered, accounting for a 27% market share; whilst more than 340,400 hybrids (both standard and plug-in) were registered, representing 50% of the new car market. Petrol models (barely 15%) and diesel models (less than 3%) have clearly been relegated to the sidelines.

Between January and May, Stellantis recorded a market share of 29.6%, whilst the Renault Group recorded 26.7%. These figures demonstrate the strong momentum of French brands and highlight the breadth of their electric vehicle ranges.

Top 10 electric models

In the rankings of the best-selling electric cars in May 2026, the Tesla Model Y SUV tops the list with 3,874 units sold, followed by the Renault R5 (2,947 units) and then the Renault Scenic (1,624 units). The rest of the top 10 best-selling electric cars include the Tesla Model 3, the Renault Megane e-Tech, the Peugeot e-3008, the Skoda Elroq, the Citroën ë-C3 (down 20%), the Peugeot e-208 and the VW ID4.

It is worth noting the strong performance of foreign cars such as the XPeng (583 registrations) and the new BMW iX3 (over 500 units). As for the latest Twingo, which has only just been launched, it has already recorded nearly 1,000 sales in a month.

The Renault R5 has been in the lead since January 2026

Since the start of 2026, the R5 has been the market leader with 16,449 units sold (representing 2.5% of registrations), closely followed by the Tesla Model Y (16,000 registrations and 2.4% of the market) and then the Citroën ë-C3 (7,023 units, representing 1.1% of sales).

Finally, across all engine types, if we look at the breakdown of new cars sold, 53% are now SUVs and 42% are saloons, leaving only a fraction for body styles such as estate cars and convertibles. Compact and traditional two-seaters, meanwhile, have all but disappeared from the market, leaving a sense that the car fleet has become completely uniform.

Against a backdrop of ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, new car sales in the European Union have remained strong since the start of the year: up 4.2% compared with 2025, according to figures published by ACEA (the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association). This momentum is driven in particular by electric vehicles, which saw strong growth last month (over 255,000 EVs delivered in April). Whilst models with internal combustion engines continue to decline, the car market may have reached a tipping point towards the energy transition, against a backdrop of high oil prices.

One in five new cars sold is electric

The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has just published the registration figures for April. Whether they are fully electric (BEV), hybrid (HEV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV), electric cars are gaining ground. Bolstered by tax breaks and incentives in major European countries, consumers are now finding it easier to make their choice, given that fuel prices have not fallen since the start of the war in Iran.

In detail, during the first four months of the year, 746,899 electric cars (BEVs) were registered, accounting for nearly 20% of the European market, compared with 15% a year earlier. The leading countries – France, Germany and Italy – account for two-thirds of new electric vehicle registrations. In France, the number of electric vehicle registrations (148,200 units) has risen by 48.2% since January 2026.

A historic turning point in April

The figures for April alone are spectacular. Sales of electric vehicles soared by 38.3%, totalling 255,300 cars (including 36,216 in France, the EU’s third-largest market). As if echoing the international events blocking the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, the share of fully electric vehicles is booming and now accounts for 22.2% of total sales in the EU, including the UK (compared with just 17% in 2025). For the first time, EV penetration equals the share of petrol cars (22.2%). This likely marks a historic turning point in the transition.

Among other electrified models, HEVs (full hybrids) remain the dominant category, accounting for 38.2% of the market share, whilst PHEVs (plug-in hybrids) account for 9.6% of the market.

The largely electrified European market

In summary, for the first four months of 2026, in Europe (including the United Kingdom, Norway and Switzerland), the new car market breaks down as follows: 

• hybrids (HEV): 38%
• petrol: 22.4%
• battery electric vehicles (BEVs): 20.9%
• plug-in hybrids (PHEVs): 10.1%
• diesel: 6.7%

Since the start of 2026, the total number of registrations has been 3,794,280, representing a 4.2% increase compared with the same period in 2025.

Brand by brand since January 2026

Looking at how manufacturers have fared since the start of the year, the Volkswagen Group (Audi, VW, Skoda, Cupra, Seat, etc.) remains in the lead with over 1 million cars sold (+2.9%), representing a 26.7% market share. In second place, Stellantis follows with nearly 650,000 units sold (+7.8%), representing a 17% market share. The Renault Group (380,000 sales, down 7.4%), Toyota (268,000 sales, down 2.5%) and Hyundai (265,000 sales, down 3.1%) have all seen a decline over the past four months.

New entrants are making headway

It is worth noting that, among the new entrants, Chinese brands (almost all of whose models are electrified) are posting triple-digit growth rates, although they were all starting from a very low base. In the first four months of 2026, in Europe and the UK: 

• BYD sold nearly 72,000 units (+153%)
• Chery Group sold nearly 48,300 units (up 267%) 
• Leapmotor sold 28,700 units (+558%)
• SAIC Motor sold 77,000 cars (+10%)

However, apart from SAIC Motor (MG), which has been established for some time, none of these newer entrants has a market share of 1%. 

Finally, Tesla, which holds a 1.8% market share, continues to sell despite production halts for the Model X and S. Since January, 67,400 Teslas have been registered, representing a 62% increase compared with 2025.

Although the social leasing scheme will officially launch in early July, car manufacturers are already gearing up. The brands within the Stellantis group have registered 12 models, which will be available to lease from €94 per month. Orders can be placed from 1 June. This third government initiative, aimed at making electric cars more accessible, could also be extended to include used cars from next autumn.

Leasing returns in early July

The Citroën e-C3 epitomises the success of the social leasing scheme launched by the government in 2024, with the aim of enabling as many people as possible to access electric mobility at affordable rates. As a reminder, the scheme aims to offer long-term leases on new electric cars for less than €200 per month (excluding insurance) to motorists with a taxable income of less than €16,300, subject to travel conditions. It is funded by a €400 million budget derived from Energy Saving Certificates (CEE). From 1 July, the government is relaunching this social leasing scheme for a third round, and manufacturers are gearing up to attract customers to their showrooms.

The economic climate is becoming very favourable for electric vehicles

During the last scheme, which ended in late 2025, 50,000 households were able to take advantage of these heavily discounted offers, but the enthusiasm had not been as widespread as hoped. This year, with soaring fuel prices and a growing range of small electric models, the situation is very different. For many, this is an opportunity to make the switch to electric vehicles and be less affected by fluctuations in energy prices. The decree setting out the conditions and the minimum annual mileage has not yet been published.

From €94/month for the Citroën ë-C3

Ahead of the official announcements, Stellantis has already published a list of 12 cars available for pre-order from Monday 1 June. These include the Citroën ë-C3, the ë-C3 Aircross, the Peugeot e-208, e-2008 and e-308, the Opel Frontera and Corsa, as well as the Lancia Ypsilon and the Jeep Avenger. The Franco-Italian-American group has even announced a starting price: from €94 per month for the Citroën ë-C3 (the battery capacity remains to be seen: 30 or 44 kWh?). At the previous event, half of the cars leased were Stellantis models.

The Fiat 500e for €99 a month (second-hand)

Stellantis is also going a step further by extending this leasing scheme to cover some of its used cars. Recognising that those benefiting from the initial 2024 leasing scheme may not necessarily be able to renew their vehicle at the end of the lease, the group is introducing its own scheme to extend or buy out the leased cars. 

Through its Spoticar network, Stellantis is now offering used electric vehicles for lease (with a €2,000 deposit). For example, the Fiat 500e is available from €99 per month. This presents an opportunity to reduce stock levels, as the Italian model, which is very expensive when new, is struggling to find buyers on the second-hand market.

Special offers for certain professions

Recently, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to making car leasing available to professions for which a car is essential but costly to run (with fuel costs accounting for up to 20% of income). The aim is to create a fleet of 30,000 electric cars for home care workers, for example. Stellantis will be setting up partnerships with home care and support services (SAAD). Employees, home carers and personal carers will thus be offered tailored preferential deals. For example, a 17% discount has been announced on the Peugeot e-208 Allure.

50,000 new EVs and even more used ones?

Whilst we await the official announcement of the income thresholds and the government’s list of eligible vehicles, Stellantis’ announcements already give a clearer picture of this 2026 leasing scheme, which is set to cover 50,000 new vehicles but is expected to benefit even more households. This support is gradually taking the form of an incentive to persuade new motorists to switch to electric vehicles, but it is also a way for brands to clear and manage their stock.

It is worth noting that the government aims for two out of every three new cars to be electric by 2030. This target implies a threefold increase in the market share of electric vehicles, which has only just passed the 20% mark of the new car fleet.