Category: News

On Wednesday 12 November 2025, ECO MOTORS NEWS had the privilege of being invited to Montigny-le-Bretonneux for a press test of the new 100% electric eSprinter, in its chassis cab version, by Mercedes-Benz. A technical day devoted to discovering this new electric version of the famous German van.

The eSprinter chassis: a new stage for Mercedes

Launched in April 2025, the eSprinter is the latest addition to the Mercedes-Benz range of electric vans, which has already sold more than 40,000 vehicles since the first eVito in 2010. This chassis version opens up new possibilities for the electrification of commercial vehicle fleets. To suit different uses, this version of the 100% electric eSprinter is designed to be specifically bodied.

This versatile van from the German brand has been designed to meet the needs of professionals. The vehicle is available in two lengths (5.90 m or 6.70 m) and four GVWs (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 3.5 t, 3.95 t, 4.15 t and 4.25 t.

Two engines are also available: 136 bhp (100 kW) or 204 bhp (150 kW). Three battery capacities are available: 56 kWh (around 210 km range), 81 kWh (around 300 km) and 113 kWh for intensive use. Rapid recharging can deliver up to 115 kW in direct current.

With this chassis version, Mercedes-Benz is aiming directly at small businesses, local authorities and specialist fleets, a segment that has yet to be electrified, but which is undergoing rapid change.

A full day of testing

Accompanied by five fellow journalists, various bodybuilder representatives and, of course, several members of the Mercedes group, the day began with a technical and historical presentation of the Mercedes eVans range and the eSprinter chassis.

Once we’d learned all we needed to know about this vehicle, we were treated to a presentation of the five eSprinter bodies, each built by its respective bodybuilder: Corsin, Laloyau, Trouillet, Labbé and JPM. Tipper, flatbed or specialised configuration, each vehicle has been ingeniously designed to meet the needs of professionals.

After a question-and-answer session with the various players present on the day, we journalists divided up the different vehicles to carry out our tests.

In total, we covered around a hundred kilometres on a route covering different types of road (town, country, motorway), divided into three test slots allowing us to test three different body configurations.

A recharging workshop was also on offer: an opportunity for the Mercedes group to demonstrate its impressive linear recharging capacity, with an average power output of around 116 kW.

A full test to come

As mentioned earlier, ECO MOTORS NEWS was able to test several configurations of the eSprinter chassis during the day. Road behaviour, real autonomy, ergonomics, bodywork adaptation: all aspects were tested on the roads of the Paris region.

A full, detailed test will shortly be published in our columns, with figures, measurements and feedback on this electric van. What we can already tell you is that Mercedes-Benz has perfected the adaptation of its vans to electrified mobility.

Confirmation that the electrification of commercial vehicles is no longer an option, but a tangible industrial reality.

American EV manufacturer Rivian Automotive is going through a decisive moment. While the brand is focusing on its new compact SUV, due to be launched in the first half of 2026, it is currently facing serious financial strains.

R2: a strategic model for Rivian

Unveiled over a year ago, the Rivian R2 and its 4.71 metre length are aimed directly at the mass-market electric SUV segment, in competition with the Tesla Model Y and the Ford Mustang Mach-E. The vehicle retains the Rivian DNA: a square, robust design inspired by the R1S and an outdoor philosophy faithful to the Californian brand.

In November 2025, the brand announced that development of the R2 was well advanced: prototypes are being assembled at the Normal factory in Illinois, and a little more is known about its technical specifications. Three configurations will be offered: single-engine, twin-engine and three-engine, each corresponding to a more or less affordable range. The announced range exceeds 480 km, for a price that should reach $45,000 in the United States, a strategic price for the brand that wants to widen its audience and thus reach more profitable production volumes.

CEO RJ Scaringe has confirmed that the first commercial version will be a well-equipped but affordable twin-engine Launch Edition, to maximise take-up from launch. The European version is not expected until 2027.

A financially fragile company

Despite these advances, Rivian remains in the red. For 2025, the company is forecasting an operating loss of between 2 and 2.25 billion dollars, compared with an initial forecast of 1.7 to 1.9 billion. Sales are stagnating at around 50,000 vehicles a year, far short of the volumes needed to be profitable.

Even more worryingly, in October 2025 Rivian carried out a third wave of redundancies, cutting around 600 jobs, or 4.5% of the workforce, bringing the total annual cuts to more than 10%. These cuts come at a time when the company is having to adjust its workforce in the face of a weakened US EV market, linked in particular to the expiry of the $7,500 federal tax credit.

A controversial remuneration plan

While sales figures are nothing to write home about, on 7 November 2025 the board of directors announced, in a document sent to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a record remuneration package for CEO RJ Scaringe. According to Reuters, the sum allocated could reach an astronomical 4.6 billion dollars over ten years, a plan inspired by that of Elon Musk. The plan is conditional on ambitious objectives, namely to increase the share price to at least $40 from the current $15.22, and to meet the various financial targets set (profit, cash flow) over several years.

The announcement, which came just after the redundancies and against a backdrop of massive losses, drew criticism. While some see it as a necessary ambition to attract and retain the executive in his post, others feel that announcing this plan, which could bring in $4.6 billion for a single person, at such short notice, gives the Californian manufacturer an unfair and inconsistent image.

R2: a decisive test for Rivian

For the brand, the R2 is much more than a new model: its success will determine whether or not the brand can achieve significant volumes, reduce its losses and win over consumers in the face of fierce competition.

One thing is certain: with the announcement of the remuneration package for the CEO, RJ Scaringe will do everything in his power to ensure that Rivian Automotive remains a major player in the electromobility sector.

Lucid and NVIDIA announce a major collaboration to propel the automotive industry towards complete autonomy. The electric vehicle manufacturer intends to revolutionise the driving experience. The alliance aims to combine artificial intelligence and manufacturing excellence for its next vehicles.

Unprecedented autonomy for the vehicles of tomorrow

Lucid plans to launch one of the first Level 4 consumer autonomous vehicles incorporating NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Thor technology. This breakthrough will enable true “no look, no touch, no think” driving, ushering in a new era of motoring. The project is based on the DreamDrive Pro ADAS, introduced on the Lucid Air in 2021, which is already capable of hands-free driving and automatic lane changes.

As of today, Lucid is beginning the transition with the Lucid Gravity and its future midsize models in L2++ assisted driving, guaranteeing safety and comfort. The ultimate goal is to reach level 4, thanks to a multi-sensor system combining cameras, radar and lidar. Two NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Thor computers will unify all the automation functions and ensure smooth progress on the autonomy ladder.

Strategic partnership with NVIDIA

This collaboration is not limited to vehicles. NVIDIA is also contributing its industrial platform to optimise manufacturing and reduce costs. Lucid will be able to create intelligent factories, controlled by connected robots and digital twins to simulate and validate processes. Planning becomes faster, production lines more flexible and quality more rigorous.

For Jensen Huang, founder of NVIDIA, this alliance transforms every vehicle into a supercomputer on wheels, reinventing mobility with intelligence. For his part, Marc Winterhoff, interim CEO of Lucid, emphasises the desire to combine cutting-edge technology with engineering excellence. Together, they aim to deliver a luxurious and fully autonomous driving experience.

Towards AI-driven manufacturing

In addition to driving, Lucid uses NVIDIA’s industrial platform to optimise production. Digitalisation and artificial intelligence make it possible to simulate factories before they are built, to anticipate problems and plan effective solutions. The robots follow optimised trajectories, guaranteeing safety and speed, while reducing production costs.

This strategy paves the way for reconfigurable production lines, capable of adapting to different models and volumes. The use of digital twins also makes it possible to test complex scenarios without interrupting actual production. In this way, Lucid combines vehicle autonomy and factory intelligence to create an innovative end-to-end chain.

A transformed customer experience

For consumers, this evolution promises a future where luxury, performance and autonomy come together. Lucid vehicles will become evolving software platforms, capable of receiving continuous updates. This ensures that each car remains at the cutting edge of innovation, even after delivery.

By integrating NVIDIA DRIVE AV and its scalable architecture, Lucid ensures technological continuity, enabling the addition of new autonomous and safety features. Drivers will be able to enjoy a fluid, intelligent and safe experience, radically transforming the notion of personal driving.

Lucid and the future of electric mobility

Lucid has positioned itself as a major player in intelligent electric mobility. With factories in the United States and Saudi Arabia, the company combines performance, design and energy efficiency. The integration of AI into its vehicles and factories promises to redefine industry standards, while paving the way for mass adoption of autonomous driving.

Thanks to this strategic partnership, the car of the future is becoming a tangible reality, where artificial intelligence and technological innovation offer safe, high-performance, forward-looking vehicles.

Since yesterday, Peugeot fans and gaming enthusiasts have been able to explore Polygon City in Fortnite. A virtual island dedicated to the Polygon Concept car, before its official unveiling tomorrow. This initiative combines futuristic design, technology and an interactive universe. It offers an unprecedented level of immersion, enabling visitors to discover the vehicle from every angle. With this approach, Peugeot is not only offering a preview of the concept, but also a participative experience that combines fun and creativity.

A futuristic concept car with a sculptural design

The Polygon Concept reflects all the boldness and feline style so dear to Peugeot. The interior has been completely redesigned around the Hypersquare® steering wheel and Steer-by-Wire technology. These guarantee a fluid, intuitive and totally connected driving experience. Every detail of the vehicle has been designed to transform mobility into a genuine emotion, where technology and sensations meet. The angular, sculptural bodywork illustrates the creativity of the designers and gives the concept a strong visual identity. In this way, the Polygon Concept becomes both an objet d’art and a technological showcase, embodying Peugeot’s vision of the car of the future.

Polygon City: a virtual island to discover the concept

Polygon City has been available in Fortnite since 10 November. This island, created by Gameloft in collaboration with Peugeot designers, reproduces the shapes of the Hypersquare® steering wheel and offers total immersion. Players can fly over the city, discover the concept car and take part in a number of mini-games to earn tokens. These tokens give players the chance to customise the Polygon Concept down to the smallest detail. You can personalise the body colour, the wheels, the Hypersquare® and the light signatures. Players can create their own unique version of the vehicle, combining exploration, creativity and entertainment. This interactive experience brings Peugeot fans and gamers together around a shared vision of automotive innovation.

A digital strategy to reach new generations

Polygon City illustrates Peugeot’s desire to engage with new generations through gaming and digital worlds. Phil York, Global Marketing Director, explains that the concept offers “a multi-faceted vehicle”, making it possible to show all the possible configurations of the Polygon Concept even before its official unveiling. Jean-Baptiste Godinot, Vice President of Gameloft for Brands, points out that the island is an interactive expression of Peugeot’s core values and engages younger generations in a fun and immersive experience. This approach demonstrates how the brand is reinventing automotive communications, combining innovation, design and digital culture, while creating a strong anticipation for tomorrow’s event.

An immersive experience before the official reveal

For gamers and fans alike, Polygon City offers the chance to explore a futuristic, interactive and creative environment. The island lets you discover the Hypersquare® shape from the air, explore each district and test the vehicle’s customisation in exchange for tokens. This fun and immersive experience transforms a simple concept car into a truly participative event, combining exploration, fun and creativity. By interacting with the Polygon Concept before its official unveiling, players can make the vehicle their own and experience its unique design in an engaging virtual context.

Tomorrow, the official reveal on YouTube

On 12 November at 1pm, Peugeot will officially present the Polygon Concept during a keynote broadcast on its YouTube channel. In the meantime, the Fortnite experience allows you to discover the vehicle, experiment with its customisation and immerse yourself in a world that combines innovation, design and digital culture. Peugeot has succeeded in transforming a concept car into a participative adventure. In this way, the brand offers a vision of the mobility of the future that combines technology, creativity and immersion. This approach demonstrates that the automobile can now be experienced as an interactive event, accessible to all, where each player becomes a player in the discovery.

Thirty-seven years after his triumph at the wheel of a Lancia Delta HF 4WD, Bruno Saby returned to the Principality of Monaco. This time, the driver from Grenoble was no longer carried away by the roar of an internal combustion engine, but by the powerful silence of a 100% electric Lancia Ypsilon HF. At 76, the man who left his mark on rallying in the 1980s is proving that passion never dies out. This comeback also symbolises Lancia’s sporting renaissance, on the eve of a major worldwide comeback scheduled for 2026.

An emotional and symbolic return

When Bruno Saby took the start of the 2025 E-Rally Monte-Carlo, the scenery had changed, but not the spirit. The former winner of the classic Monte-Carlo was back on familiar roads, those of the Col de Turini and the Alpes-Maritimes, this time at the wheel of a 280hp electric compact. At his side was his faithful co-driver Christophe Marquès, who had already been a partner when he won the E-Rallye France Auvergne Rhône-Alpes a few weeks earlier.

For the driver, this return was no mere media stunt. “Returning to Monte Carlo with Lancia is a powerful symbol,” he confided before the start. His career, marked by victory in 1988 and successes in the World Championship, finds a new echo in this modern adventure. Lancia, for its part, has seized the opportunity to celebrate its glorious past while affirming its electric ambitions.

Lancia Ypsilon HF: the bridge between tradition and innovation

The Ypsilon HF is not just a tribute to history. It’s a statement of intent. Beneath its compact silhouette, it conceals a 100% electric motor delivering 280 bhp, a lowered chassis and a Torsen differential. All designed for the winding roads of Monte Carlo, where precision and traction are essential.

During the event, the Lancia stood out for its efficiency and reliability. Despite covering more than 1,000 kilometres, often at altitudes of over 2,000 metres, the Saby-Marquès team only recharged at night. A remarkable performance that underlines the progress made by Italian technology. The duo finished just off the podium, fourth in the regularity ranking and fifth in efficiency. A result that confirmed the competitiveness of the model and the relevance of Lancia’s return to modern competition.

Bruno Saby, the undiminished passion of a champion

At 76, Bruno Saby has lost none of his enthusiasm. Having excelled in world rallying, the Dakar and rallycross, he remains an active ambassador for the discipline. Committed to the association Espoir contre le cancer (Hope against Cancer), he is now putting his talent at the service of a worthy cause. “I still love driving. It’s a deep passion that you can’t let go of”, he recently declared.

This vitality has found new impetus in electric regularity rallies. Far from being a minor challenge, these competitions demand precision, strategy and energy management. For Saby, it’s a way of continuing to learn and pass on his experience. Through his example, he embodies the continuity between the golden age of rallying and the electric era, with emotion and innovation.

Lancia’s revival on the world stage

The year 2025 will be Lancia’s big comeback. After years of absence, the Italian brand is preparing its sporting resurrection with ambition. From January 2026, the new Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale will make its debut on the Rallye Monte-Carlo, in the WRC2 category. A decisive step for the most successful brand in the history of the World Rally Championship.

Under the impetus of Luca Napolitano, Managing Director of Lancia, and two-time world champion Miki Biasion, Lancia returns to world competition. The programme is based on a complete range: Ypsilon Rally4 HF, Rally HF Racing and now the Rally2 HF Integrale. A range designed for professional drivers and private teams alike, aimed at putting Lancia back at the heart of international motor sport.

A living heritage, a future on the move

The Trofeo Lancia 2025 confirmed this momentum. With an increase in participation and some outstanding victories, the brand was back in touch with its public. The Rallye Sanremo, the final round of the season, crowned Gianandrea Pisani and Nicola Biagi, symbols of the new generation of Lancia ambassadors. On the roads of Italy, passion was passed on from one era to the next, from the Delta Integrale of yesterday to the Ypsilon HF of today.

In the Lancia villages, the public was able to rediscover the legendary models – Delta, 037, Integrale – alongside the electric vehicles of the new era. A reminder that technology does not erase emotion, but rather extends it. Lancia has understood this: to return to the top, it must rely on the soul of its history.

Monte-Carlo, still the common thread

The E-Rallye, Monte-Carlo remains the point of convergence between past and future. Bruno Saby has once again written a fine page in his legend, while Lancia is preparing its world return to these same roads in January. Both demonstrate that the passion for rallying knows neither the wear and tear of time nor the limits of technology.

This joint comeback, between memory and modernity, marks more than just a race. It embodies the rebirth of a legendary brand and the loyalty of a champion to its history. In the silence of electric propulsion, the music of motor sport continues to vibrate.

The Netherlands is spearheading electromobility in Europe, and has once again confirmed its pioneering role. In October 2025, 100% electric vehicles (BEVs) broke the 40% barrier in terms of market share of new car registrations, an all-time record for the country.

An all-time record for BEV

It’s a historic figure that is good news for the electrified car industry. Holland has become the first European country to increase the market share of electric vehicles to over 40% by October 2025. The country registered 13,968 BEVs in October 2025, corresponding to a market share of 40.2% of all new cars. This is a spectacular increase on the previous year, when BEVs accounted for only around 30% of the market.

This remarkable performance puts the Netherlands well above the European average, where BEVs generally account for 15% of the market. It illustrates that electromobility has become a tangible reality here, far exceeding the trend.

Why are the Netherlands ahead of the game?

There are several reasons for this rapid adoption:

• Attractive financial incentives: the Netherlands has been offering support for the purchase of electric vehicles for a number of years, including direct subsidies, road tax exemptions and tax breaks for businesses. Unlike other countries where subsidies fluctuate or run out quickly, the Dutch system is stable and predictable, encouraging consumers to take the plunge without waiting for government assistance.
• The country has one of the most developed recharging networks in Europe, with over 150,000 public recharging points available throughout the country. This accessibility reduces fears about autonomy.
• A high level of environmental awareness: keen to use public transport, trams and bicycles, the Dutch are sensitive to climate issues and increasingly see electric vehicles as a responsible and modern choice.
• Favourable regulations: local and national measures encourage electrification and, conversely, penalise combustion-powered cars, such as access restrictions for combustion-powered vehicles in certain urban areas.

Comparison with the rest of Europe

With a 40% market share for 100% electric vehicles, the Netherlands dominates a Europe where the situation is very different in other European countries. France is also enjoying a historic month, with the market share of 100% electric vehicles reaching 24.4%, while Germany is at 19.8%. Spain’s market share has risen significantly, to 12.3%, an increase of 119% over one year. Italy, meanwhile, is lagging behind, with a 5% market share.

These differences show that the Dutch success is based on a rare alignment between financial incentives, dense infrastructure and cultural adoption. Other European countries could draw inspiration from this model to accelerate their transition to zero-emission vehicles.

A key step for European electromobility

This all-time record shows that mass adoption of electric vehicles is possible when public policy, infrastructure and consumer behaviour are aligned. For the European automotive industry, the Netherlands is now a model to follow.

At XPENG AI Day 2025, the company unveiled four major physical AI applications. These innovations include VLA 2.0, Robotaxi, Next-Gen IRON and two ARIDGE flight systems. XPENG thus confirms that physical AI is no longer a hypothetical future, but an imminent reality.

XPENG reinvents physical AI

XPENG is now positioned as the only Chinese company to master a complete physical AI system. CEO He Xiaopeng has announced the company’s transition to a global mobility explorer. The aim: to merge digital intelligence and physical applications to transform mobility.

VLA 2.0: the new benchmark for physical AI

VLA 2.0 does away with traditional visual-language translation, generating actions directly from images. This “Vision-Implicit Token-Action” approach revolutionises the way AI models interact with the physical world. It can learn on its own while understanding the laws of real interaction, for cars, robots and flying vehicles. With 2250 TOPS of computing power on the Turing AI chip, the model is ready for mass production.

Tests show that VLA 2.0 manages complex situations, recognising gestures and traffic lights. The “Narrow Road NGP” function improves driving on narrow roads, multiplying control autonomy by 13. XPENG expects full deployment in 2026, with the ecosystem opened up to global partners, led by Volkswagen.

Robotaxi: autonomous mobility reinvented

XPENG introduces China’s first fully autonomous Robotaxi, designed for personal and commercial use. Four Turing AI chips provide 3,000 TOPS, surpassing current global standards. The system is based on pure vision without lidar or high-precision maps, guaranteeing global adaptability.

Safety is enhanced by a redundant architecture, ensuring continuity even in the event of hardware failure. The vehicle interacts with its environment via an external sun screen and voice system, creating a unique human-machine link. The strategy includes shared Robotaxi and proprietary L4 models, with the intelligent “Robo” trim from 2026. The collaboration with Amap will enable global expansion, boosting the adoption of autonomous mobility.

Next-Gen IRON: the ultra-realistic humanoid

XPENG unveils an exceptionally realistic humanoid robot, combining 82 degrees of freedom with bionic muscles. Flexible skin covers the entire body, while the spine and joints reproduce human biomechanics. The Next-Gen IRON uses 3 Turing AI chips, reaching 3000 TOPS, and integrates the VLA, VLT and VLM models for conversation, walking and interaction. Energy optimisation is based on all-solid, lightweight and safe batteries, suitable for industrial and commercial scenarios.

XPENG is planning large-scale production from 2026 and is working with Baosteel for industrial applications. The robot respects confidentiality and the laws of robotics, while remaining open to developers to create a global ecosystem.

Flying Cars: ARIDGE and air mobility

XPENG ARIDGE presents the A868 tiltrotor, with a range of 500 km and a top speed of 360 km/h. The “Land Aircraft Carrier” goes into production with 7,000 controls, offering an intelligent cockpit accessible to novices. The systems incorporate full redundancy for safety, ensuring continuity in the event of failure of two rotors.

Mass production will be at a rate of one aircraft every 30 minutes, with an initial annual capacity of 5,000 to 10,000 units. In 2026, the first autonomous low-altitude tourist route will open in Dunhuang, introducing an unprecedented three-dimensional journey.

Towards an emerging technology

For over a decade, XPENG has been innovating at the intersection of AI, automotive, robotics and aerial mobility. The Science Park brings together more than 10,000 talents to create ideas and technologies with strong synergies. Physical AI becomes tangible, offering mobility, interaction and new experiences to users around the world.

XPENG demonstrates that the era of embodied intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept, but a rapidly expanding reality.

On Thursday 6 November 2025, ECO MOTORS NEWS was invited by DRIVECO to discover the results of the 2ᵉ edition of its Deep Drive Barometer on the French and electric mobility, carried out with Toluna Harris Interactive. According to this study, the electric car is no longer a promise, but a reality experienced by millions. However, the transition to action remains partial. Young people and urban dwellers are showing greater interest, while certain generations are still hesitant.

An improving image, but still mixed

According to the survey, which questioned 3,300 French people, 53% now have a positive image of the electric vehicle, a slight increase on 2024. However, the cost of purchase, range and access to charging points are still holding back adoption. Younger people and people living in the Greater Paris region are more likely to favour electric vehicles, while older people and people living outside the Paris region remain cautious.

EV owners have a record level of satisfaction, at 98%, thanks to the comfort and ease of use. What’s more, 72% use their vehicle for all kinds of journeys, including long-distance journeys and holidays. This positive experience is reflected in increased loyalty: only 13% are considering a return to conventional vehicles.

Diversification of uses

Fast charging is transforming EV use, with 54% of users now favouring these stations. As a result, electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular not only for everyday use, but also for long-distance travel, demonstrating their growing reliability.

Price remains the main obstacle for 57% of French people, followed by what they see as insufficient range and uneven network coverage. So making electric cars more affordable, accessible and visible remains essential to convince those who are reluctant.

Contrast between young and old

The 18-35 age group use their EVs regularly for leisure and travel, demonstrating a concrete commitment. What’s more, they see the electric vehicle as environmentally friendly, modern and suitable for all types of journey, well beyond urban use.

Among those aged 65 and over, only 38% have a positive image of EVs, and 65% cite price as the main obstacle. These age groups also remain wary of the real ecological impact of EVs, which calls for targeted educational efforts.

Outlook: making electric vehicles accessible to all

To make the transition a success, three levers are essential: democratising the offer, deploying a robust network of charging points, and strengthening confidence and information. Only collective action will make it possible to achieve mass, sustainable adoption.

Faced with rising prices and competition from China, Renault is proposing an ambitious strategy. The group wants to freeze European regulations on small electric vehicles for ten years. The aim of this initiative would be to create more affordable cars adapted to urban needs.

Towards a new category of electric vehicles

According to Reuters, at the Journée de la filière automobile organised by the PFA in Paris, Renault CEO François Provost presented his plan. He proposes to create electric cars less than 4.20 metres long, longer than the Renault 5 and Renault 4. Battery capacity would be limited to 50-60 kWh, in order to reduce costs and offer an affordable price.

To illustrate his point, François Provost mentioned Dacia’s Hipster prototype, inspired by Japanese kei cars. In his view, freezing regulations for 10 to 15 years would enable models to be standardised and costs to be optimised. The aim is clear: to make electric vehicles accessible to a wide public, while maintaining their status as “real cars” rather than quadricycles.

An “M1-e” category to compete effectively

The European Commission is currently working on the creation of an intermediate category between light quadricycles (L7) and conventional cars (M1). François Provost suggests calling it “M1-e” to differentiate these urban vehicles from licence-free models such as the Citroën Ami. This category would make it possible to limit the costly equipment imposed by the current rules, while guaranteeing basic safety.

At the same time, the Vice-President of the European Commission, Stéphane Séjourné, announced decisions to be taken on 10 December. These measures should make it easier to market electric vehicles priced between €15,000 and €20,000. This is an attractive price for European consumers, while providing a stable legal framework for manufacturers.

European targets deemed too restrictive

At the 4ᵉ Journée de la filière event at La Villette, several leaders warned of the proliferation of standards. Between now and 2030, 107 new regulations will come into force, some as yet undefined. François Provost pointed out that 25% of the time spent by engineers at the Technocentre is devoted to regulatory compliance. This situation is slowing down innovation and reducing competitiveness with Chinese manufacturers.

To illustrate the difficulty, he compared the situation to an athletics race: “While next to us, our competitors are sprinting for 100 metres, we are successively hurdling 110 metres”. This observation underlines the urgent need to simplify the rules to enable the rapid and effective development of electrics in Europe.

A united European industry

Since 2019, the Journées de la filière (Industry Days) have taken up the spirit of the 2009 Estates General on the Automobile. The aim of these events was to strengthen solidarity between manufacturers and equipment suppliers in the wake of the global economic crisis. Luc Chatel, former Secretary of State for Industry, reminded industry players of the importance of coming together to obtain adjustments from the European executive.

The current Chairman of the PFA praised the new-found cohesion: “In an industry often divided by competing interests, you have managed to pull together. This unity is considered essential for influencing Brussels’ decisions and preparing the market for the regulatory changes announced in December.

Affordable electric cars, but at what price?

Europe wants electric vehicles to cost between €15,000 and €20,000. However, reaching this price point means making concessions. Manufacturers will have to reduce certain features, such as passive safety and battery size. Consumers will therefore have to accept compromises in order to benefit from attractive prices.

Despite these adjustments, demand is there. The popularity of models such as the Dacia Spring shows that city dwellers are ready to adopt these vehicles. Similarly, certain cars such as the Citroën e-C3 show that affordable electric models are already possible, albeit with limited range. Safety and range will therefore remain the main levers that manufacturers will use to reduce costs.

A European reaction expected in December

On 10 December, the European Commission will present a regulatory framework tailored to small electric cars. The aim is to boost European production, increase competitiveness against Chinese imports and meet consumer expectations. These measures could mark a turning point for the European market, which has long been held back by complex standards and high costs.

The question remains: will the public accept cars with less safety or range in order to benefit from affordable prices? The European car industry hopes that the answer will be positive, in order to revive the industry while preserving innovation and jobs.

AURA AERO is taking a new step forward in its international ambitions by establishing a presence in the United States, on the Space Coast. The innovative company is also preparing to ramp up its presence in the military market with a clear dual strategy. Between industrial expansion and green innovation, the French manufacturer aims to become a global leader in aeronautics.

A strategic site in Florida

AURA AERO has inaugurated its North American headquarters and first production site in the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Research Park. This move strengthens AURA AERO’s access to the world’s leading market for pilot training. It is also part of a drive to create an industrial bridge between France and the United States. The campus will also house a delivery and customer support centre dedicated to the INTEGRAL programme. These facilities will lay the foundations for the future development of ERA, a hybrid-electric regional aircraft.

The Florida site will host the first production line for the INTEGRAL family. These two-seater aerobatic aircraft will be available with piston engines, followed by a fully electric version. The American market has around 600 approved flight schools and more than 75,000 pilots. The strong demand for modern, cost-effective aircraft therefore represents a major opportunity. Recently certified by EASA, the INTEGRAL family is now targeting FAA certification.

The first hybrid-electric regional jet

In 2028, AURA AERO plans to open a 50,000 m² factory in Daytona Beach for the ERA aircraft. This 19-seat model aims to become the world’s first mass-produced hybrid-electric regional aircraft. It will be assembled on production lines in both France and the United States. The United States already accounts for one-third of ERA’s order commitments. The company anticipates this figure will increase to around half of the global total.

ERA claims more than 650 orders, valued at over $10.5 billion. The aircraft promises a significant reduction in noise and up to 80% fewer emissions. Its hybrid configuration involves eight electric motors supported by two turbogenerators. This architecture promotes efficiency and reduced maintenance costs. The opening of the site follows a partnership with Embry-Riddle dating back to 2023. Space Florida is also supporting this project, which will create more than 1,000 jobs.

Strong political support in Florida

Local authorities welcome the choice of AURA AERO as proof of Florida’s aerospace leadership. Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly highlights a dynamic driven by innovation and talent attraction. He recalls a journey that began at the Paris Air Show and was reinforced at Farnborough the following year. The state is banking on a new generation of aerospace industry that creates specialised and sustainable jobs.

Embry-Riddle sees this move as a unique opportunity for its students. President Barry Butler welcomes a concrete partnership around sustainable aviation. He refers to an enriched research ecosystem focused on hybrid and electric technologies. For its part, Space Florida is promoting a strategy aimed at attracting players who are redefining the future of air transport. The arrival of AURA AERO illustrates this ambition in a rapidly changing sector.

A strategy to accelerate military markets

In parallel with its expansion in the United States, AURA AERO is strengthening its defence capabilities. The company has appointed Air Force General (2S) Stéphane Mille to the position of Chief Defence Officer. This decision marks a significant step forward in the management of dual civil and military programmes. The General will lead discussions with the government and European partners to support this ambition. He will also be responsible for structuring a sovereign supply chain.

Former Chief of Staff of the Air and Space Force, General Mille brings more than thirty years of experience to the role. As a fighter pilot and key player in external operations, he has a thorough understanding of the needs of modern forces. His expertise will strengthen the operational relevance of the military versions of the INTEGRAL and ERA aircraft. He will also support the ramp-up of ENBATA, a sovereign multi-mission MALE drone.

Three programmes to serve modern forces

INTEGRAL is an ideal aircraft for initial military pilot training. Its electric version promises significant reductions in operating costs and a winning ecological transition. The aircraft has already attracted interest from several foreign armed forces thanks to its versatility. Electric certification is scheduled for 2026, with deliveries starting in 2027. This aircraft could become a key component of next-generation training fleets.

ERA was designed for dual use from the outset. It can transport troops, carry out medical evacuations or perform special missions. Its ability to operate on short or unprepared runways increases its flexibility. It is a solution suited to a variety of theatres of operation. Entry into service is targeted for before 2030, supported by a solid international order book.

ENBATA, unveiled at the 2025 Paris Air Show, embodies French sovereign innovation in the field of drones. Its maximum weight is two tonnes with a payload of one tonne. Its autonomy can be up to 55 hours depending on the mission. Designed without ITAR dependency, it meets industrial sovereignty requirements. This programme is supported by major partners such as Safran, Thales, Aresia and Merio.

A breath of fresh air

With its presence in the United States and a strengthened defence strategy, AURA AERO is accelerating its global development. The company is positioning its technology to meet the ecological and strategic challenges of global aviation. Between civil and military ambitions, the French manufacturer wants to leave a lasting mark on the skies of tomorrow. Concerned with sovereignty and innovation, it is focusing on hybrid and electric solutions capable of transforming an entire sector.