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 Mercedes eSprinter 100% electric chassis cab, ready to be bodied for professional use. (Credit: Mercedes)
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.
The front design of the Mercedes eSprinter chassis highlights the closed grille and modern lines of the German electric van. (Credit: Mercedes)
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.
The headquarters of Rivian Automotive, an American manufacturer of electric vehicles. (Credit: Rivian)
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.
The Rivian R2 electric SUV is shown from the front, combining square design and robustness (Credit: Rivian).
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.
The Rivian R2 SUV photographed from behind, showing off its robust design and distinctive rear lights. (Credit: Rivian)
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.
China has a name for its fast-growing and competitive cars. The NEVs, or New Energy Vehicles, are what the Chinese government considers a key element in their race to dominate the global auto industry. They include not only the pure electric cars (BEV) but also the plug-in hybrid cars (PHEV), extended range (EREV), and hybrids (HEV).
The MG4, one of Europe’s top-selling Chinese New Energy Vehicles in H1 2025.
Their combined sales represented 53% of the new passenger car sales in China in H1 2025. The consumers in China bought 3.29 million BEVs, 1.49 million PHEVs, 537,000 EREVs, and 474,000 HEVs. How many of these models are available in Europe and how popular are they?
BEVs
Despite the tariffs imposed by the European Commission, the Chinese BEVs are still popular in Europe. The ranking for H1 2025 was led by the MG4 with 14,494 units, down by 56% vs H1 2024. It is one of the big casualties of the tariffs and the rise of BYD products. In fact, the second most popular Chinese BEV in Europe was the BYD Seal, up by 130% to 9,433 units. It was followed by another BYD – the Sealion 7, with 7,797 units. The top 10 was completed by the BYD Dolphin (7,701 units), BYD Atto 3 (7,033), Leapmotor T03 (5,918), Xpeng G6 (5,616), MG ZS (4,109), BYD Seal U (3,775), and MG5 (2,938 units).
PHEVs
While the Chinese BEV demand increased by 31% in H1 2025, the volumes for the Chinese PHEVs increased by 544% compared to H1 2024. This powertrain is becoming their way to offset the tariffs imposed on their BEVs. The ranking was led by the BYD Seal U with 29,223 units and Europe’s third top-selling PHEV, only behind the Volkswagen Tiguan and Volvo XC60. It was followed by the MG HS with 11,677 units, and the Jaecoo J7 with 9,938 units. The following positions were occupied by the Lynk & Co 01 (4,270 units), Omoda 9 (1,164), DFSK E5 (1,162), GWM Wey 05 (548), Ebro S700 (407), Ebro S800 (229), and GWM Wey 03 (199).
HEVs and EREVs
The offer of hybrid and extended-range Chinese cars is still very limited. However, they are also making progress here. The MG ZS on its full hybrid version registered 38,445 units between January and June, becoming the region’s 6th top-selling HEV. The MG3 followed with 21,998 units, and Europe’s third best-selling hybrid B-hatchback behind the Toyota Yaris and Renault Clio. The top 5 was completed by the MG HS (216 units), Haval Jolion (96), and the Dongfeng T5 (83 units). The Leapmotor C10 was the only EREV available in Europe with 1,059 units.
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.
The Lucid EV reveals its futuristic design, combining elegance and performance in a subtle play of shadows (Credit: Lucid)
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.
Close-up of the Lucid vehicle, with the logo subtly emerging from the shadows, a symbol of power and innovation. (Credit: Lucid)
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.
The Peugeot Polygon Concept, combining sculptural design and innovative technology, before its official unveiling. (Credit: Peugeot)
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.
Explore Polygon City in Fortnite, an interactive island inspired by the Peugeot Polygon Concept car (Credit: Stellantis)
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.
The Hypersquare® steering wheel in the Peugeot Polygon Concept, a symbol of innovation and intuitive driving. (Credit: Peugeot)
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.
The 100% electric Lancia Ypsilon HF takes to the winding roads of the Alps at the 2025 E-Rallye Monte-Carlo. (Credit: Stellantis)
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.
Rally legend Bruno Saby takes the wheel of the 100% electric Lancia Ypsilon HF at the E-Rallye Monte-Carlo (Credit: Stellantis)
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.
The Lancia Ypsilon HF, Rally4 HF and Rally2 HF Integrale come together to illustrate the heritage and future of Italian rallying. (Credit: André Ferreira / DPPI)
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.
Didier Malga is a passionate motorsport driver, specialising in electric and hydrogen vehicles. After competing in regional rallies, he discovered new energy vehicles in 2015. He quickly established himself as a leading figure in electric rallying, becoming a world champion in his first season. He is now behind the creation of the French round of the World Championship of Énergies Nouvelles rallies, which will take place in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in June 2026.
Didier Malga, world electric rally champion and organiser of the 2026 French round. (Credit: Eva Pellerin)
Can you tell us about your motorsport background? Didier Malga: II started very young with regional tarmac rallies, driven by passion. I competed for several years before pausing to focus on my professional and family life. I returned in the late 2000s, initially with historic vehicles, including 1970s sports cars, and then, by chance, entered the field of new energy vehicles in 2015.
We discovered this discipline during our participation in the E-Rallye Monte-Carlo, on the suggestion of the Automobile Club of Monaco, alongside my co-driver. At the time, the “alternative energy” category was very broad: electric, hydrogen, E85, biofuels… We competed with a 208 GTI running on E85 and finished fifth. The following year, with a Tesla, we finished third, then won in 2017. This victory allowed us to enter the World Championship, where we became champions in our very first season.
Since then, we have continued our involvement, despite seasons complicated by crew availability and the pandemic. This led us to focus on the French Championship and the creation of our French round, to provide a true driving force for electric motorsport in France.
What attracts you to electric rallying? D.M. : What appealed to me most was the novelty and the sense of discovery. Electric vehicles behave very differently, with a low centre of gravity, instant acceleration, and exceptional handling. It’s a real pleasure to drive, even managing powers from 400 to 700 horsepower.
Didier Malga’s Tesla ready for the rally, complete with official stickers and sponsors (Credit: Eva Pellerin)
In addition, organising it is much simpler: no heavy support is needed as in combustion engines, maintenance is minimal, and budgets are more accessible. This also attracts financial partners, drawn to the innovation and modern image of the discipline.
We regularly run driving experiences and electric driving coaching to show participants that these vehicles are not only environmentally friendly, but also high-performing and fun to drive.
What is the future of electric motorsport in your view? D.M.: The future is clear and irreversible. Two main drivers are pushing it forward: public health and climate. Over 40,000 deaths in France each year are linked to fine particles, making the energy transition inevitable.
Electric motorsport plays an educational role: it demonstrates performance and driving pleasure, encouraging the public to adopt electric mobility faster and in a positive way. It is a tangible catalyst for change.
The E-Rallye Auvergne Rhône-Alpes in June 2026: what is it? D.M. : After competing internationally, we positioned ourselves to create the French round of the World Championship — which didn’t exist until now. After years of administrative work and organising a first test in late September 2025 with an FIA observer, our event is finally part of the FIA calendar.
This French round, taking place from 19–21 June 2026, is designed as a true showcase for electric motorsport in France. It will bring together world championship drivers and attract new participants, who can later feed into a future French Championship.
The goal is to make the event sustainable, showcase the discipline to the public, and encourage both professionals and enthusiasts to embrace electric mobility.
The official 2026 FIA New Energies Championship calendar. (Credit: FIA)
Why did you choose Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes for the French round? D.M. : It’s our region, and the route crosses a wide variety of landscapes, from the Alps to the volcanoes of Auvergne, creating an exciting “raid” dimension for participants. Support from the regional council has been crucial, and the route highlights the geographical and tourist richness of the area.
What are your long-term goals for electric rallying in France? D.M.: To secure and develop the French round, with organisation comparable to the largest international events. We also want to energise electric motorsport across France, including rallies, circuits, and endurance racing.
Advances in batteries and range will soon allow 12- or 24-hour races on circuits, day and night. We are also considering integrating circuit stages into rallies, as is already done for combustion vehicles, to enrich the sporting experience.
Can you tell us about the association created for this round? D.M.: We created the “E-Rallye Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes” association, stemming from our teams Red Cow Racing and Green Motion, to manage organisation, communication, and finances autonomously. This ensures the event’s longevity and development, keeping its budgets and activities separate from our other operations.
The FIA and Michelin logos on Didier Malga’s competition car. (Credit: Eva Pellerin)
Is France behind Europe in electric motorsport? D.M. : Not really. France already has four world champions in various electric disciplines: Jean-Éric Vergne in Formula E, Adrien Tambay in ETCR, Sébastien Loeb in Extreme E, and myself in electric rallying. While the daily energy transition is slower, we are ahead in e-motorsport. These successes should be used to promote the discipline and electric mobility to the public.
Any final words? D.M. : Electric mobility is all about simplicity and enjoyment: less fatigue, minimal maintenance, no fuel, incredible sensations. Range is improving quickly, allowing very long distances without constraint. It’s a modern, accessible, innovative, and exciting sport, showing that the energy transition can be both high-performance and fun.
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.
A Tesla charging at the water’s edge in Amsterdam, illustrating the Dutch charging infrastructure.
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.
The “5C battery” is a type of battery that can be charged or discharged very quickly. This number indicates the maximum speed at which it can operate without being damaged. Understanding this term helps you to use it correctly and choose the right battery for your needs.
A 5C battery is capable of charging and discharging very quickly, making it ideal for intensive use. (Credit: XPENG)
What is the “5C”?
The “C” of a battery is a simple way of measuring its rate of charge or discharge in relation to its total capacity. If a battery is rated 1C, this means that it can be completely discharged in one hour with a current equivalent to its rated capacity. A battery rated 5C can be discharged or refilled in just 12 minutes, because it accepts five times as much current.
This provides a lot of energy very quickly, but increases the heat generated and wear and tear on the battery if it is used too often at this speed. Not all batteries are designed to withstand a 5C rate, so it’s essential to be familiar with its characteristics before using it. The C-rate, and in particular the 5C, not only reflects the speed, it also influences the available power, safety and lifespan of the battery, which is crucial for intensive or critical applications.
What’s it for?
A 5C battery is useful in situations where a lot of power is needed quickly. Powerful electric tools, such as professional drills or saws, often need a lot of energy in a short space of time, which justifies the use of 5C-capable batteries. Electric vehicles and some emergency systems also use these batteries to provide immediate power when needed. This prevents loss of performance or interruptions in the operation of the appliance or vehicle.
However, it is important to bear in mind that frequent use of a battery at full speed can reduce its life and increase the risk of overheating, especially if thermal management is inadequate. 5C batteries therefore offer a balance between performance and instantaneous power, but only if they are used correctly and within the limits laid down by the manufacturer.
The Xpeng G6, a high-performance electric vehicle combining range and power thanks to its advanced batteries. (Credit: XPENG)
Precautions to be taken
Even if a battery is designed for a 5C rate, it should not be used at this rate all the time. Excessive use at full speed can generate a lot of heat and accelerate the degradation of internal materials, reducing its life. It is advisable to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, check for the presence of a battery management system, known as a BMS, which limits excessive charging and discharging, and ensure that the temperature remains within safe limits.
The BMS helps to protect the battery and optimise its life by monitoring current and temperature, which is essential when using a battery with a high C-rate. Users should also understand that even a 5C battery has limits and that daily use should not always push its maximum capacity to the limit.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantage of a 5C battery is its ability to supply or receive a lot of energy in a very short time, which is crucial for professional, sports or emergency applications. It also provides greater responsiveness and can prevent downtime or loss of performance. On the other hand, the disadvantages are related to the heat generated, faster wear and tear if used incorrectly, and the need for effective protection systems. So you always need to balance power requirements with the desired life of the battery. For domestic or undemanding use, a lower rate may be preferable to preserve the battery.
To sum up, a 5C battery is one that can charge or discharge very quickly, making it ideal for intensive use or applications where immediate power is essential. It offers a major performance advantage, but requires certain precautions to be taken to avoid overheating and premature wear. Understanding the C-rate, and 5C in particular, means you can choose the right battery, anticipate its limits and use the power available in complete safety. A 5C battery is fast and powerful, but it must be used intelligently to ensure it lasts a long time and remains safe.
Italy is moving towards electrification, but progress remains slow and uneven. While hybrids largely dominate the market, 100% electric vehicles are still struggling to gain mass acceptance, despite various support schemes.
The Tesla Model Y will still be the best-selling electric car in Italy in 2025. (Credit: Tesla)
A declining car market
Overall, the Italian new car market recorded 125,826 registrations in October 2025, down 0.6% on the same month last year. For the first ten months of the year, the total stands at 1,293,366 units, down 2.7% on 2024.UNRAE forecasts that the number of registrations will close the year 2025 at around 1,520,000, down 2.5% on 2024. For 2026, projections anticipate a very slight recovery of 1.3%, but the market would still be almost 20% below the levels of six years ago.
Hybrids: the undisputed champions of the Italian market
Italy is the most ‘hybrid’ country in Europe. In October 2025, hybrid vehicles accounted for 45.5% of the market, confirming a trend that has been in place for several years. Over the first ten months of 2025, the share of hybrid vehicles stood at 44.7%. By way of comparison, over the same period in 2024, hybrids accounted for 39.9% of the market.
This dominance of hybrids can be explained by a number of factors: an electric recharging network that is still inadequate, purchase prices that are more affordable than pure electrics, and a certain cultural reluctance to completely abandon the internal combustion engine in a country where the traditional car is still deeply entrenched.
Pure electrics: modest growth
All-electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 5.0% of the market in October 2025, down slightly from 5.6% in September, but up from 4.0% in October 2024. In the first nine months of 2025, BEVs totalled 61,249 registrations, up 26.5% on 2024. Compared with the rest of the vehicle fleet, these figures give 100% electric vehicles a 5.2% share of the market in the current year.
This growth, while real, puts Italy well behind the European average. By way of comparison, the European Union’s market share for BEVs was around 15% over the same period. A survey by Istituto Piepoli for the ECO-Festival of Sustainable Mobility & Smart Cities in September 2025 shows that 59% of Italians say they are not interested in buying an EV in the coming year.
Although the data on the best-selling 100% electric models from January to October 2025 is partial, from January to April the best-selling models remain the same as last year: the Tesla Model Y dominates the market, followed by the Fiat 500e, the symbol of electric “Made in Italy”, then the Dacia Spring, the MG4 and the Renault Megane E-Tech. Combined with plug-in hybrids, electrified vehicles with external charging (BEV + PHEV) will account for 12.7% of the market in October 2025.
The Fiat 500e is the embodiment of electric ‘Made in Italy’ and remains a benchmark in its segment. (Credit: Fiat)
An unconvincing aid strategy
To encourage people to switch to electric cars, the Italian government has been offering a series of purchase subsidies since 2021. These schemes are often one-off and massive, but they are also, and above all, characterised by chronic instability.
The latest scheme is the spectacular October 2025 support programme. The first grants, launched in 2021, offered up to €8,000 for the purchase of a new electric vehicle, which could be combined with a scrappage bonus, subject to income conditions. Two years later, in 2023, the amounts were reduced and the eligibility criteria tightened.
A support scheme that failed to deliver, leading to a slowdown in sales. The year 2024 saw a drastic reduction in the funds allocated, prompting strong criticism from manufacturers and industry associations.
Faced with this setback, in 2025 the government reactivated an ambitious incentive plan, supported by European funds, culminating in the October programme. This latest aid programme saw no less than €597 million released thanks to the European recovery plan. How does it work? Up to €11,000 for households with an ISEE < €30,000, subject to strict conditions. The results are convincing: in less than 24 hours, more than 55,000 vouchers were distributed, depleting the funds.
Thanks to this plan, certain vehicles such as the Dacia Spring or the Leapmotor T03 have become accessible for less than €5,000, a record in Europe. It was a lightning success that highlighted the limitations of the Italian model: a prolonged waiting period on the part of Italians, rapid saturation of schemes and uncertainty for market players. To date, no structural reform has been announced to stabilise this aid, which continues to operate in fits and starts.
A recharging network that is still inadequate
Italy will have around 65,000 public charging points by 2025, according to a study by Motus-E, and no less than 22% of them will be fast charging points (over 50 kW). For a country of its size, with a road network of almost 500,000 km, Italy is below the European average in terms of the density of public charging points.
Regional disparities are also marked: more than 60% of the network is concentrated in the north of the country (Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto), while the south remains largely under-equipped.
To offset this, the National Recovery Plan (PNRR), partly financed by European funds, provides for the installation of 21,000 additional public charging points by 2026. However, the installation of charging points on motorways, which is crucial for a country with frequent inter-regional travel, has been slow to materialise.
The main player in the Italian recharging market is Enel X Way, a subsidiary of Italian energy giant Enel. The group alone has developed more than 16,000 charging points, and is also building charging hubs for business fleets and certified green energy charging points. An obvious choice for a country where around 40% of electricity production already comes from renewable sources (solar, hydro, wind).
The Italian recharging network is still being developed, but with significant regional disparities.
Stellantis: a major player in the Italian automotive industry
The Stellantis Group is the driving force behind the automotive industry. In October 2025, the group registered 33,721 vehicles, up 5.01% on October 2024.
Fiat, the Group’s flagship brand, continues to drive the market with the Fiat 500e, the first 100% electric model to be produced by Stellantis in Italy. It is maintaining its presence in the market, but faces increasingly aggressive Chinese competition in the affordable electric city car segment.
Italy produces locally: the Mirafiori plant in Turin, historically a symbol of the Italian car industry, has been transformed into a centre dedicated to electric vehicles and battery production. An industry that is doing well, enabling manufacturers to plan new models: the electric Fiat Panda and the Alfa Romeo Milano should see the light of day in 2026.
Structural challenges persist
Like every country involved in this transition, Italy faces a number of major obstacles:
Purchase price: despite temporary subsidies, electric vehicles are still considerably more expensive than their combustion or hybrid equivalents.
Dependence on public subsidies: when subsidies stop, sales immediately plummet.
Regional inequalities: the north, which is richer and has better infrastructure, is adopting electricity more quickly than the south.
Cultural reticence: Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati are the embodiment of thermal automotive excellence, and attachment to the traditional engine remains strong, even though these brands are developing more and more electrified vehicles.
Outlook: a slow transition
UNRAE believes that the next few months should see an increase in the market share of BEVs thanks to registrations linked to the October subsidies. But as the past has shown, this increase will be temporary, and there is a risk of a further slowdown once the effect of the subsidies has worn off.
The government’s target is to have 6 million electrified vehicles (BEV + PHEV + HEV) on the road by 2030. While hybrids will probably continue to dominate in the medium term, pure electrics are expected to grow thanks to a gradual fall in prices, improved infrastructure and European regulatory constraints.
A country in transition…
Italy is embodying the automotive transition at its own pace: hybrids dominate and have prepared the ground, pure electrics are making slow but steady progress, and infrastructure is developing unevenly. The country is not a leader in European electromobility, nor is it seeking to be. It is following a unique path, adapted to its geographical, economic and cultural constraints.
But this strategy carries a risk: that of accumulating a backlog that will be difficult to make up when European regulatory pressure increases.
