The idea of โโa โฌ25,000 electric car, once seen as an imminent reality, now seems to be fading. As the auto industry enters a crucial phase with the rise of electric vehicles, the promise of affordable models is colliding with complex economic realities.
Many manufacturers, such as Ford and the Stellantis group, are focusing on larger vehicles, sold at prices well above those expected by consumers.
Profitability difficult to achieve
Electric car manufacturers face a major dilemma: how to reconcile profitability and accessibility? According to experts, the production costs of a high-end vehicle are not that different from those of an entry-level model, but the profit margins are much higher on more expensive models. This logic pushes manufacturers to favor the sale of large electric SUVs at prices around 60,000 euros, rather than developing more accessible models.
Sales fall in Europe
The situation is further complicated by the recent decline in sales of electric cars in Europe. In July 2024, sales of these vehicles fell by 12.1% in the European Union. The reasons for this decline are multiple: the end of government aid in Germany, increased competition from Chinese manufacturers, and a lack of consumer interest in vehicles that are still perceived as too expensive.
Manufacturers slow down the pace
Faced with this situation, automakers are revising their plans. Ford, for example, has decided to shift its focus to hybrid models for its upcoming SUVs, a sign that the all-electric craze may be stabilizing. This trend is seen in both Europe and North America, where customers are increasingly reluctant to turn to all-electric cars, despite increasingly strict regulations.
An uncertain future for affordable electric cars
The future of affordable electric cars is uncertain today. While models like the Tesla Model Y have shown that it is possible to offer desirable electric vehicles at a competitive price, these examples remain the exception rather than the rule. The market seems divided between consumers looking for status vehicles and those hoping for more economical alternatives, but the latter are often disappointed by the current offering.
The evolution of this market will depend largely on consumer choices and public policies. One thing is certain: the dream of an electric car for all at an affordable price is far from being realized. Manufacturers will adapt if demand evolves, but for now, the trend seems to be moving towards more expensive vehicles, reserved for an elite ready to invest in this new technology.