The European automotive industry in peril
In France, since the 80s, the progressive disappearance of major industrial sectors has been repeating itself. Opening the European market to uncontrolled technologies has weakened the hexagonal sector. Environmental standards, which are too ambitious, have generated significant costs and weakened industrial competitiveness.
The transition to electric vehicles, carried out in a rushed manner, has resulted in job destruction. It has also led to an increased dependence on foreign batteries, due to a lack of investment in a European sector. Purchasing support policies have benefited external players, to the detriment of local industry.
Political choices will worsen the situation, resulting in significant job losses and the impoverishment of the population.
Producers located outside Europe continue their development without undergoing environmental constraints. This accentuates the fragility of the European industrial sector. The Chancellor of Allemagne went to Bruxelles to ask for the abandonment of the 2035 deadline for internal combustion engines. He now defends this technology against the rise of electric vehicles.
Chinese competition and German challenges
The decline in sales of German cars is worrying. Chinese brands dominate the electric market, putting Western manufacturers in the background. The internal combustion segment remains highly popular with an older clientele. Chine competes with Allemagne on its own territory and in Chine.
American customs duties affect German exports, leading to significant financial losses. The German automotive sector, the country's leading private employer, is weakened. Several equipment suppliers and manufacturers are announcing massive job cuts.
The uncertain future of the sector
According to a report, 50,000 jobs were lost last year and the situation could worsen in 2025. L'Union européenne has set the 2035 deadline for "zero emission" vehicles. Although France supports this deadline, it pleads for a flexible application. The objective is to preserve the competitiveness of the automotive sector.
France reaffirms its ambition to become a leading nation in electric vehicles. But at what cost to jobs?
Bernard Bertucco Van Damme