Daily EV news · France · 14 October 2026
Electric Vehicles
Paris Motor Show 2026 sees Chinese brands take a third of floor space as major European and Japanese makers skip event
At the Mondial de l'Auto 2026 in Paris, Chinese brands occupied roughly a third of the exhibition space, while BMW, Porsche, Mini, Maserati, Jaguar, Land Rover, Toyota, Nissan, Suzuki, Mazda and Mitsubishi did not attend. Hyundai and Kia had a larger presence than all Japanese manufacturers combined, focusing on new hybrids, while Tesla displayed a Cybercab and Lucid announced its European entry. European legacy automakers emphasised retro styling and brand heritage, contrasting with newer Chinese entrants.
Why it matters
The shift in exhibitor mix at a major European motor show signals changing competitive dynamics in the EV and automotive market, with implications for charging infrastructure planning as Chinese brands expand their European footprint. The absence of major legacy brands and focus on heritage over innovation may affect future vehicle electrification rates and charging demand patterns across Europe.
Stellantis halts three French factories in October 2026, two sites stopped by battery shortage for long range EVs
Stellantis will pause production at three French plants in October 2026. Sochaux (Peugeot e-3008 and e-5008) stops from 23 to 30 October, and Rennes (Citroën C5 Aircross electric) from 22 to 30 October, both due to insufficient supply of batteries for Long Range variants that are in high demand. Mulhouse faces a separate issue. The battery constraint affects the group's ability to meet customer orders for higher capacity models.
Why it matters
Battery supply bottlenecks, not weak demand, are limiting EV production at major European plants, signalling upstream supply chain pressure that could affect charging infrastructure rollout timelines if vehicle delivery schedules slip. Strong appetite for long range models underscores the need for faster, higher power charging networks to support these vehicles.
Electric MOKE Mk2 launches at Paris Motor Show with 170 km range and €35,000 price
MOKE International unveiled the all-electric MOKE Mk2 at the Paris Motor Show, featuring a larger battery delivering 170 km range and a 33 kW electric motor. The British-designed open-air leisure vehicle is priced at €35,000 and is available to test drive, rent or purchase across several European markets. The model targets drivers seeking a compact electric vehicle for coastal trips and short leisure journeys rather than conventional everyday transportation.
Why it matters
The MOKE Mk2's modest range and leisure positioning indicate a niche market segment that may require dedicated charging infrastructure at coastal resorts, beach clubs and tourism destinations. Its availability for rental fleets could drive demand for destination charging installations in European leisure markets.