The automotive industry is experiencing an unexpected turnaround. Faced with the slower-than-expected adoption of electric vehicles, several major manufacturers are reversing course and reinvesting in the development of combustion engines. This surprising strategy could well redefine the future of the sector.
The comeback of thermal engines
The automotive industry is going through a period of profound change. While the transition to electric seemed inevitable, some manufacturers are turning around. These automotive giants are reinvesting massively in the development of next-generation gasoline and diesel engines. This surprising decision can be explained by several factors.
The slow adoption of electric vehicles, particularly in certain markets such as Spain where they represent only 6% of sales in 2023, is pushing manufacturers to review their strategy. The challenges linked to charging infrastructure, the limited autonomy and the high prices of electric models are slowing down their democratization.
Mazda: the pioneer of the return to thermal
Mazda is positioning itself at the spearhead of this movement back towards thermal engines. The Japanese manufacturer, known for its spirit of innovation, has announced a significant investment in the development of a new generation of gasoline engines.
During the last Tokyo Motor Show, Katsuhiro Moro, CEO of Mazda, made a resounding announcement: the creation of a team dedicated to the development of rotary engines from February 1st. The aim is to design a new Wankel engine capable of meeting current emissions standards, building on the experience gained with the Mazda MX-30 R-EV.
This initiative aims to create rotary engines that serve as electrical generators to power electric motors. This innovative approach paves the way for the use of synthetic fuels and other energy sources such as hydrogen. The success of the Iconic SP concept also played a role in this bold decision by Mazda.
Stellantis: the surprise return of diesel
Stellantis, an automobile giant born from the merger between PSA and FCA, recently created a surprise by announcing the return of the diesel engine to the Citroรซn Berlingo in its touring version. From March, the French brand will relaunch production of this engine, a 1.5 BlueHDI available in 100 and 130 horsepower versions.
This unexpected decision is explained by the disappointing sales of the Berlingo in the electric version. Citroรซn has therefore chosen to reintroduce the diesel engine to meet market demand, particularly in Spain where demand remains strong. Nuno Coutinho, brand director for Spain and Portugal, confirmed that this diesel offering would be specific to the Spanish market.
The challenges of the electrical transition
The return to favor of thermal engines highlights the persistent obstacles to the mass adoption of electric vehicles. Despite technological progress, several obstacles remain:
These challenges partly explain the decision of certain manufacturers to continue to invest in combustion engine technologies, while continuing to develop their electric ranges.
The impact on the automotive industry
This strategic turnaround by certain manufacturers could have significant repercussions on the entire automotive sector. In particular, it could:
The automotive industry therefore finds itself at a crucial crossroads. As regulatory pressure pushes toward electrification, market realities and consumer preferences are encouraging some manufacturers to maintain and improve their thermal vehicle offerings.
Towards a diversified automotive future
The future of the automobile seems to be taking shape around a coexistence between different engine technologies. Manufacturers will have to skillfully navigate regulatory requirements, consumer expectations and economic realities.
Investments in new generation thermal engines, which are cleaner and more efficient, could play a key role in this transition. They would reduce the environmental footprint of the existing vehicle fleet while offering an alternative to consumers not yet ready to go electric.
This partial return to thermal engines does not mean abandoning electric ambitions. Rather, it is a pragmatic approach, aimed at ensuring a more gradual transition adapted to the different realities of global markets.
The automotive landscape of the coming years therefore promises to be rich in innovations, with a technological diversity that could well redefine our relationship with mobility. Between electric, new generation thermal and hybrid technologies, consumers will be spoiled for choice to find the vehicle corresponding to their needs and their values.
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