In July, the French market continued its momentum, and rose 20% compared to the same period last year. However Stellantis suffered by losing 7% of its volumes, due to the sharp declines of Peugeot, Citroën and Fiat. On the other hand Renault Group progressed by 30% to more than 32,400 units, getting very close to its Franco-Italian competitor. All foreigners are in the green, VW in the lead with 6,400 more sales. The Renault Clio is ahead of the Peugeot 208, and the Dacia Sandero completes the top 3.
Prologium, a Taiwanese battery manufacturer, is to set up in the Dunkirk region. The manufacturer will benefit from 1.5 billion euros in public subsidies. The aid will notably finance the research and development of the cell manufacturer, one of the conditions for obtaining it. 3,000 jobs will be created on the future site in Dunkirk. The construction of the plant will begin in 2024, with the start of production scheduled for 2026.
Aiways, the Chinese manufacturer of electric cars present in France, is reviewing its strategy. Hugo Zhu becomes the new General Manager. His main mission will be to strengthen the expansion abroad. The board will be lightened, to give more agility in decision-making. This should allow more flexibility and responsiveness to employees. It remains to be seen now how this will translate to the offer.
Alpine is shaking up part of its organization chart, in terms of management and sports activities. Philippe Krief takes the place of Laurent Rossi. The latter, also in charge of Motorsport activities, was dismissed from this function by Renault management and Bruno Famin replaced him at the head of sports activities. Otmar Szafnauer leaves the management of the team. The lack of progression in F1 probably drove these changes.
Don’t miss the trial of the week. We got behind the wheel of the brand new Honda E:NY. Behind this computer name hides a 100% electric SUV.
Finally the novelties of the week. Toyota introduces an all-new Land Cruiser. Pininfarina unveils a brand new SUV concept, called Pura Vision. Discover a reinterpretation of the De Tomaso Panther by Ares, the Panther Evo.
