In the context of the year when European Union elections are at stake, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has launched its manifesto with electromobility as the main thematic axis.
These statements, published on January 31, conduct an analysis at both the regional and global levels.
“Europe has long sought to be a champion of sustainability, establishing ambitious rules. This has had some success, with a series of international regulations based on the local model,” the statement says.
However, it continues, “A European region with more than thirty different regulations governing the transportation of people, goods, and services is incomprehensible today. It needs much more if it wants to retain its place as a leader in sustainability.”
In this regard, the article mentions China and the United States as the most advanced blocs in the sustainable mobility sector, along with Europe.
The document details, “It’s time for Europe to change tactics. We are under serious pressure as other players like the United States and China up their game.”
“We must do everything possible to combat climate change, and electric vehicles are part of the solution, but where is Europe’s industrial strategy to support this ambition?” warns ACEA in its manifesto.
Both the North American country and the Asian giant have been indisputable global powers for decades. And in the realm of zero-emission car sales, the situation is no different.
These nations are the birthplaces of the two best-selling brands in the world last year, namely BYD and Tesla.
The American company led the annual market with a record 1.8 million units sold.
The Chinese brand, on the other hand, delivered around 1.6 million electric cars worldwide during 2023. Also, the firm marked a milestone in Q4, as it registered a record of 526,000 electric vehicle sales.
Even, recently, BYD and Arval BNP Paribas Group have joined forces in a global strategic collaboration to optimize opportunities in European markets.
Additionally, in December 2023, the Chinese company’s Ro-Ro vessel, Explorer 1, completed its first seven-day sea trial in Yantai, Shandong.
This boat can carry around 7,700 cars and the company is estimated to have ordered eight units, each costing five billion yuan.
As a fundamental point, ACEA proposes a collective roadmap and action plan to organize the future of sustainable mobility.
Furthermore, it highlights the social responsibility that the industry has, as well as its impact on the lives of citizens and the local economy.
The ACEA’s document states, “The automotive industry also drives economic activity, ensuring employment, and at the same time, boosting Europe’s trade surplus.”
“This is a reality that may have been taken for granted by us, but not by China and the United States, which have understood the strategic importance of their national automotive industries and act accordingly,” it highlights.
