The very young Cupra brand quickly established itself in the landscape. Formula E season 9, which ended this summer, was an opportunity for us to meet its manager. We spoke with Wayne Griffiths about the future of the brand, his plans. We also discussed its place vis-à-vis Seat and the synergies it benefits from within the Volkswagen group. He also explains the contours of this electric future.
Ferrari’s clientele is very much younger. 30% of new owners are now under 40. Despite these young buyers, the manufacturer continues to cultivate exclusivity with nearly 7,000 copies sold in the first half. Volumes are increasing, but should not exceed 15,000 units this year. Ferrari’s margin reaches 90,000 euros per car. This differs from Porsche policy. The German is also targeting families, with SUVs and sedans to boost its profitability, in addition to sports enthusiasts.
The domestic auto industry’s trade deficit is widening. It reached 17 billion euros over the last 12 months, compared to 12 in 2019. The share of exported volumes fell from 74% to 68%. This drop is mainly due to the import of electric vehicles, even if they wear national badges. Only the Mégane E-Tech is completely assembled in France. The figures should improve when the Electric Valley in the North of France is operational.
The government is seeking to finance the ecological transition of transport. Its doctrine, taxing the most carbon-intensive trips. The reflection focuses on higher taxation of the profits of motorway operators, but also on the bonus-malus. The threshold for triggering the surcharge will start in 2024 from 118 grams, against 123 today. The weight one will also drop, perhaps to 1,600 kg. Today, the customer pays 10 euros per kilo above 1,800. The discounts and exemptions for large families, PHEVs and electric vehicles will a priori be maintained.
Don’t miss our test drive of the 292 horsepower Mercedes EQS SUV next week.
Many manufacturers take advantage of the Peeble Beach festival to present their novelties this week. The opportunity to discover, for example, the new Mercedes-AMG GT. Ferrari lifts the veil on two models from its Tailor made department, with an 812 Sketch and a tricolor Roma. The Aston Martin DB12 tops it off with a Volante version.
