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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.

Car manufacturer BYD and its premium brand Denza will be exhibiting at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in October. This announcement confirms that Europe remains at the heart of the Chinese giant’s product offensive. As such, the Dolphin G DM-i could well steal the limelight from the Renault Clio and Toyota Yaris, the queens of our cities. This plug-in hybrid city car promises a range of 1,000 km on a single tank of petrol. This is a first for a model in the B-segment, which is very popular here.

First model developed for markets outside China

The BYD Dolphin range already includes the compact electric saloon, which competes with the Renault Megane e-Tech and VW ID.3, and the Dolphin Surf, which is also 100% electric, smaller in size, and rivals the Renault R5 and Citroën e-C3. Now slotting in between these two models is the Dolphin G, a versatile 4.16-metre city car. In other words, the perfect size to take on the stars of the B-segment: the Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris and Peugeot 208. BYD is placing a great deal of faith in this car, which has been specially developed for markets outside China, where there is demand for compact, affordable, easy-to-drive and economical cars. But above all, the Dolphin G will boast a significant advantage under the bonnet: DM (dual mode) ‘Super Hybrid’ technology, which enables the zero-emission driving of a 100% electric vehicle whilst retaining the flexibility of a hybrid for long journeys.

1,000 km range 

In short, the Dolphin G is expected to feature the DM-i architecture already familiar from the range, namely a petrol engine that recharges a battery (7.8 kWh or 18 kWh), as in the Atto 2 DM-i SUV. Wheel drive is provided by a front-mounted electric motor (sometimes assisted by the combustion engine for more powerful acceleration). As a result, this plug-in hybrid technology (the car can also be plugged into a charging point) can deliver a range of up to 1,000 km on a single tank of petrol. Given the current sharp rise in fuel prices and the fact that electric city cars are still too expensive, this solution comes at just the right time.

A unique offer, a winning strategy?  

Whilst BYD has not yet released the exact technical specifications for the Dolphin G, the other DM-i models in the range can travel 40 km in all-electric mode with the smaller battery (7.8 kWh) or nearly 90 km with the larger battery (18 kWh). Compared to its rivals such as the Clio, Sandero or Yaris, which are available as standard hybrids, the Dolphin G therefore has a significant advantage in terms of fuel economy and an unbeatable range. BYD is even making a rather revolutionary new offering in this B-segment, which is highly competitive in Europe. Whereas ‘Super Hybrid’ technology was previously reserved for larger SUVs or estate cars, it is now making its debut in a compact, versatile car. This is a market with very high sales volumes – enough to whet BYD’s insatiable appetite.

Attractive price 

In contrast, the Dolphin G’s lines are very conventional and its styling is designed to be universally appealing. However, its price, which has not yet been announced, is likely to attract attention. It could start at around €25,000, which is slightly less than the Atto 2 DM-i SUV. Sales will begin this summer, with the first deliveries scheduled for the third quarter of 2026. The city car is likely to be one of the stars of the Paris Motor Show, starting on 12 October, at the BYD stand. The manufacturer is returning to Paris for the third consecutive year and is bringing its premium brand Denza, whose recent Z9 GT and ultra-fast charging system will be the must-see highlights at the show.

The news was confirmed during the presentation of Stellantis’ “FastLane 2030” plan. In 2028, Citroën will launch a revival of its famous 2CV with an electric motor, as part of the roll-out of an E-car range of small, affordable models across the entire group. This new iteration of France’s most iconic car
is already sparking the imagination of enthusiasts, but will it be enough to revive the chevron-badged brand, which has fallen somewhat behind other manufacturers within Stellantis?

The return of a folk legend

Almost 80 years after the launch of the legendary Citroën 2CV (in 1948), Citroën has finally confirmed what many had hoped for but never really believed would happen: the return of one of the most
iconic cars in history. But this will be neither an opportunistic neo-retro exercise nor a simple marketing reissue, as this future 2CV will be electric, affordable and designed as a modern response to new forms of mobility. It is a bold gamble, but one that reflects the brand’s ingenious character: “Reinventing the 2CV
of tomorrow is an immense challenge and responsibility,” says Xavier Chardon, Citroën’s CEO. “The original 2CV was never designed to become an icon. It became one because it offered people greater freedom. The new 2CV will carry on this spirit, not out of nostalgia, but by reinventing its simplicity and accessibility for today’s world. Electric. Essential. Affordable. Human. It marks the return of an optimistic vision of
progress.”

A philosophy rather than a design

Citroën therefore has no intention of replicating the round, friendly ‘face’ of the car that was originally known by the code name TPV (Toute Petite Voiture), but rather of evoking and reinterpreting ‘the spirit of the
Deuche’. From a manufacturing perspective, the cost of producing the bodywork exactly as it was would alone prevent the car from being offered at a low price. At a time when manufacturers are drawing on their heritage to revive
successful cars – such as Fiat with the 500 or Renault with the R5 – Citroën will not be able to follow this trend, despite the evocative image released alongside the announcement.

The future model will build on the core strengths that made the 2CV such a success: lightness, versatility, ease of use, affordability and a strong personality. Behind the scenes, Citroën seems to be seeking to answer a question that has become central to the automotive industry: how can we make electric cars desirable without making them unaffordable? Citroën’s CEO sums up this ambition: “True innovation is not about adding more and more, but about improving lives and focusing on what really matters.”

An electric anti-SUV?

Unlike other manufacturers at present, Citroën will therefore not be producing a trendy urban SUV that is heavy, more powerful and more expensive. The example of the recent Renault R4,
marketed as a small SUV that bears no resemblance to the versatile and practical car of the past, illustrates this point. Its sluggish sales prove that a marketing concept alone is not enough to attract the
crowds. On the other hand, the future 2CV is set to launch the ‘E-car’ category, the Stellantis group’s project for compact, lightweight and affordable electric vehicles. The specifications
thus echo those of the original TPV from the 1930s: a simple, robust and economical means of transport for the masses. This future Citroën could thus become one of the symbols of electric cars finally becoming popular and accessible to Europeans in particular.

Citroën ‘demoted’ within Stellantis

Whilst we wait to see the design of the 2028-generation 2CV, this announcement – however upbeat it may be – should not obscure the fact that Citroën has been sidelined under the ‘FastLane 2030’ plan. Within
the Stellantis group, the chevron-badged brand has effectively been ‘demoted’ to the status of a regional brand, like Opel or Alfa Romeo. In other words, Citroën products will not benefit from
the latest innovations, nor from the largest investments reserved for the four so-called ‘global’ manufacturers: Peugeot, Fiat, Jeep and RAM. The popularity of Citroëns cannot mask the fact that sales have been slumping
for several years: 350,000 units sold last year in Europe, its main market, compared with one million annual sales in the early 2000s. It is also likely that the 2CV will be produced abroad, in one of Stellantis’ Italian or Spanish factories (where the small Fiat Panda or entry-level Opel models are made), in order to reduce costs.

A strategy consistent with the ë-C3

Nevertheless, this comeback hasn’t come out of the blue. For several months now, Citroën has been rolling out a series of initiatives focused on affordable electric vehicles, notably with the Citroën ë-C3, which meets motorists’ everyday needs. It is one of the ‘star’ models of the social leasing scheme (EVs for less than €100 a month) launched in France last year.
Another model that has found a new audience is the AMI. A small, licence-free electric car with limited top speed, it is very popular with young students in suburban areas. The future 2CV is therefore expected to slot in between these two models. To appeal to buyers, its profile will need to be less status-oriented, more emotional and potentially more disruptive than current electric city cars.

The question remains: what impact will the return of the 2CV have? This is a major challenge for Citroën. Revamping the 2CV amounts to rethinking a cultural icon as much as an automotive one. With
over 5 million units produced between 1948 and 1990, the “deuche” remains associated with a very French idea of freedom, simplicity and non-conformity. In other words, the exact opposite of the arrival of
small electric city cars, imposed by European regulations.

See you at the 2026 Paris Motor Show

Citroën invites you to the Paris Motor Show in October 2026 to discover the first concrete details of the project. It will no doubt be a concept car that will be scrutinised for its design,
its nods to the past and its homage to the original 2CV. Further information on the platform, range and price will be provided. We can expect specifications in line with
those of the new electric Renault Twingo in the A-segment. An entry-level price of around €15,000, a small battery offering a range of 250 km (or more), and technical innovations and manufacturing processes sourced from China (through the Leapmotors partnership with
Stellantis) to reduce development time to under two years. If Citroën succeeds in its venture, the brand could well revive an idea that the automotive industry seemed to have forgotten: making mobility simple, accessible and appealing once again.

The launch of a new Ferrari is always a major event. The fact that it is electric makes it all the more sensational. But did fans and purists anticipate such a radical departure, both in terms of style and
technology, with the Luce (‘Light’ in Italian)? An imposing model that is aesthetically difficult to describe, remarkable in its interior design, technically in line with
current electric sports cars, and excessively expensive. Introducing a car that redefines electric luxury and must establish its own standards in the face of new rivals from Asia.

Luce: an Apple spin-off for the automotive industry?

Unveiled in Rome, the Ferrari Luce could be likened to an Apple-inspired automotive product, such is the influence of the design conceived by Marc Newsom and Sir Jony Ive—the designer behind the iPhone and Apple Watch—which is evident in its presentation. Aesthetically, this monolithic, streamlined shape may come as a shock to those accustomed to the taut lines, generous curves and elegant forms of entire generations of Ferraris. These design choices were primarily dictated by the need for aerodynamic efficiency. Like the
windscreen wipers positioned vertically on the windscreen, it is inelegant but necessary. Airflow is thus channelled from the nose to the roof and via black lacquered side vents around the wheels. The very clean lines symbolise the technological marvel beneath this
bodywork. Measuring 5.02 m in length (5 cm longer than the Purosangue SUV), 2 m wide excluding the wing mirrors and 1.54 m high, the Luce is a sort of crossover that is part saloon, part MPV and part coupé. A few details, such as the round rear lights and the yellow logos on the sides, serve as a reminder that this is indeed a Ferrari.

More innovative and inspiring on board

The Luce is the first five-seater Ferrari in history. A unique feature is that the three rear-seat passengers enter via rear-hinged doors, which makes access much easier. Thanks to its electric powertrain, the long wheelbase (2.96 m) and the absence of a central transmission tunnel provide a level of interior space unprecedented in a Ferrari. The same goes for the XXL boot size: 597 litres, a record for a Prancing Horse model.

But it is at the front that the design is radically new for a Ferrari. The approach is intended to be very high-end neo-retro. The steering wheel has a slim rim, reminiscent of 1960s racing cars. The materials used, such as recycled anodised aluminium, Corning® Gorilla® Glass and premium leather with Alcantara-lined storage compartments, contribute to this concept of transforming the car into an object of desire. The dials are digital but retain a needle; only the backgrounds change on demand.

It’s the little things that matter

In addition to the attention to detail in the finish and the perceived quality of the materials and assembly, a few ergonomic details demonstrate that Ferrari is entering a new dimension. The ignition key, a small rectangular control, slides into the centre of the centre console and turns black when the engine is started, as if to symbolise the connection between the driver and the car. The adjustable centre console (which nevertheless retains physical controls) draws its inspiration from digital interfaces, as does the rear control panel, which displays real-time driving information to passengers.

On the overhead panel, positioned much like in an aircraft cockpit, a “Launch Control” pull-cable lever is used to activate the standing start procedure. Finally, the steering wheel features both the famous “Manettino” with five driving modes (Ice, Dry, ESC off, etc.) and the new “e-manettino” with three settings (Range, Tour, Performance: power, torque curve and drive mode) to select the most appropriate use of energy.

Average electric technology

Designed and manufactured in Maranello, the Italian brand’s home base, the NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) battery comprises 210 cells. It has a capacity of 122 kWh and its 800 V high-voltage architecture enables high charging power of up to 350 kW.

The Luce can recharge 70 kWh of energy in 20 minutes, which is about average for its class but is far outpaced by the ‘Fast Charging’ speed of the Chinese Denza Z9GT (9 minutes from 10% to 97%). There are no miracles when it comes to the claimed range, which is around 530 km and will likely be significantly lower in real-world use.

Ferrari has fitted four radial-flow motors (as opposed to the axial-flow motors on the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-door). One motor per wheel delivers 310 kW of power and 355 Nm of torque at the rear, and 105 kW/140 Nm at the front. The total power output is 772 kW, or 1,050 hp.

These electric traction motors are combined with an electronically controlled active suspension (derived from the F80 supercar) and a four-wheel steering system, all of which operate in perfect synchronisation. True to its tradition, Ferrari has developed these technologies and their components in-house: from the motors to the batteries. The project involves 60 technical patents to ensure long-term quality and exclusivity.

Performance on a par with its competitors

The Luce delivers over 1,000 hp, with a maximum torque of 990 Nm. Ferrari claims performance figures that are ultimately quite similar to those of its rivals (notably the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-door). It goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 310 km/h. What about the agility of this Italian electric car? All-wheel drive is a first for Ferrari, but it allows the potential of torque vectoring to be harnessed with precision and consistent responsiveness, whilst the torque transfer system and regenerative braking ensure smooth torque delivery and engine braking worthy of a sports car. Dynamic performance should therefore be impressive despite the high weight associated with the floor-mounted batteries (2,260 kg).

Unpublished acoustic work

In Sport mode, an artificial sound is played through the 21 speakers in the cabin. This sound is a balanced blend of the powertrain’s sound and an unprecedented level of acoustic and vibration comfort derived from metal and captured in real time. A sound that is further amplified in ‘Perfo’ mode. Ferrari has therefore chosen not to reproduce the roar of a V8 or V12 engine, but instead demonstrates its commitment to recreating an atmosphere very close to natural vibrations. Inventing a new emotional language: a Ferrari signature in the electric era.

A high price to pay for exclusivity 

Ferrari never produces concept cars, and it is risky for such a prestigious brand to launch a completely new all-electric model without going through this prototype stage. This ‘pilot’ model should enable the brand to validate its choices, take into account the reactions of the fan base (which has given this launch a mixed reception) – a very significant factor at Ferrari – compare it with rival technologies, and affirm the brand’s stance on this new energy source.

Then there is the Luce’s sky-high price tag: from €550,000, excluding tax and optional extras. This is both unreasonable and baffling given that its specifications are no better than those of its competitors and even inferior to certain Chinese models. But the Prancing Horse continues to cultivate its exclusivity and its legendary status. 

Can Ferrari win people over? 

Neither a true supercar in terms of its looks and proportions, nor a long-distance GT, perhaps the Luce should be seen as a new-generation family saloon. But does it retain Ferrari’s DNA? It looks more like a blank cheque given to designers to create a desirable, fantasy version of electric mobility – the car seen as a status symbol seeking a new clientele more inclined towards technology.

Who is this car aimed at? By ditching the combustion engine, Ferrari is challenging the legend with the Luce, for which sales are expected to be low. Some experts estimate that around 1,000 units will be produced each year, representing less than 10% of annual production volumes.

In any case, it is Ferrari’s first response to the growing global trend towards electric mobility. Unlike other manufacturers who are taking a more wait-and-see approach (such as Lamborghini, Porsche and McLaren), the Maranello-based brand is forging ahead and setting out its vision in response to the standards imposed by China.

Even if it means treating this Luce as a full-scale trial run, the aim being to replace it fairly quickly to make way for new technical solutions, as the electric vehicle sector is evolving very rapidly.