Bruno Le Maire once again defended French ambition in the electric vehicle sector, taking a swipe at Marine Le Pen’s proposals for the European elections.
As the European elections approach, the topic of electric cars is gaining more attention. The European Union plans to ban the sale of new thermal vehicles by 2035, a contentious issue that several French candidates are addressing. One of them is from the National Rally party.
The candidate from RN, Jordan Bardella, recently expressed concerns on BFMTV that “this measure worries millions of French who can no longer afford to heat their homes, get medical treatment, or find housing,” as they may need to purchase “an electric vehicle that is much more expensive.” This statement prompted a response from Bruno Le Maire, the Minister of the Economy.
During a Senate hearing on electricity prices, Le Maire argued that changing course would be a political and economic mistake. He emphasized that giving up on electric vehicles would mean giving up on France’s automotive ambition. If France does not develop electric vehicle production, he warned that the country could be left out of the 21st-century automotive industry, becoming consumers of Chinese or American electric vehicles.
Le Maire strongly criticized the National Rally party’s program, stating that “Marine Le Pen’s proposal would result in France driving primarily Tesla or BYD vehicles in ten years.”
In addition to supporting the French electric vehicle sector, Le Maire discussed the gradual phase-out of thermal vehicles, noting that it would not suddenly stop. He reassured the French that they have time until 2035 and that a whole generation can still buy and drive thermal vehicles, especially through the purchase of used vehicles. Le Maire pointed out that with an average vehicle lifespan of 15 years, purchasing a thermal vehicle in 2033-2034 still allows for at least 26 more years of use.
In conclusion, Bruno Le Maire’s comments highlight the importance of continuing French efforts in the electric vehicle industry while addressing the transition from thermal to electric vehicles in a gradual and realistic manner.