Table of Contents
8.9 million cars sold. The favorites are hybrids. Electric down 4.9%
Journalist
November 21, 2024 (change at 10:00) – MILAN
The new car market in the European Union returns to have a positive sign with a growth of 1.1% in October 2024 compared to the same month of 2023. Electric sales are also with a plus sign, i.e. with a increase of 2.4%.
the first 10 months
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However, of the data released by the European manufacturers’ association Acea, those concerning the first 10 months of 2024 compared to the same period of 2023 are much more significant. And here the photograph is in chiaroscuro. In general, the new car market in the 27 EU countries grew by 0.7%, reaching 8.9 million new license plates, thanks above all to the increase in Spain (+4.9%) and, much more modest, to the Italy (+0.9%) which however has a larger volume. However, domestic demand in France (-2.7%) and Germany (-0.4%) is decreasing. Outside the EU, the United Kingdom grows by 3.3% and has a volume of 1.65 million cars, second only to that of Germany. As regards the specific case of 100% electric cars, the decrease in sales in Europe from January to October was 4.9%. In this case, the collapse in Germany of 26.6% affected by the end of the incentives weighs the most.
chosen foods
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Looking at the type of fuel chosen by European drivers in the first 10 months of 2024, 33.3% of the market is represented by hybrid cars, both mild (light electrification) and full. This is followed by petrol at 30.8%, electric at 14.4%, diesel at 10.9% and plug-in hybrids (rechargeable with the plug) at 7.7%. It should be underlined that the petrol and diesel market shares are decreasing.
what car groups do
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Among car manufacturers, again between January and October, the Volkswagen group remains first in terms of volumes with 2.36 million cars sold and growth of 2.9%. Second Stellantis with 1.5 million new license plates and a decrease of 6.9%; third is the Renault group, 952 thousand cars and substantial stability with -0.3%. Followed by Toyota (+16.5%) and Hyundai (-5.8%). Among the other automotive groups, Volvo and Mitsubishi grew in percentage terms by 34% and 53.8% respectively, while Ford and Jaguar Land Rover fell by 14.5% and 10.1%.
## Interview Questions Based on the Article
This article provides several interesting data points and trends about the European car market. Here’s a framework for an interview, broken into thematic sections, using open-ended questions that encourage critical thinking and varied perspectives.
**I. The Overall Market Picture:**
1. **Growth vs. Uncertainty:** The article highlights a small overall growth in the European new car market for October 2024. However, the year-to-date figures paint a more complex picture. How do you interpret this mixed bag of data? What factors might be contributing to this uncertainty in the market?
2. **Strong and Weak Performers:** Spain showed strong growth, while Germany and France experienced decline. What are the possible reasons behind these contrasting performances? Are these trends likely to continue, or are there factors that could change the trajectory?
3. **Impact of External Factors:**
* The article mentions the UK’s performance outside the EU. How do you see Brexit and the UK’s separate trajectory influencing the broader European automotive landscape?
* Rising interest rates and inflation are affecting many sectors globally. To what extent are these macroeconomic factors impacting car sales in Europe?
**II. The Electric Vehicle Transition:**
1. **Slowdown in Electric Sales:** The article notes a decrease in electric vehicle sales. What are your thoughts on this trend, especially considering the EU’s ambitious electrification goals? Are there potential roadblocks to the transition to electric mobility?
2. **Germany’s Case:** Germany, a traditionally strong market for electric vehicles, experienced a significant drop. What factors might be contributing to this decline, particularly the end of government incentives?
3. **The Future of Electrification:**
* Despite the slowdown, are you optimistic about the long-term prospects of electric vehicles in Europe? Why or why not?
* What needs to happen – from a policy, technological, or consumer perspective – to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles?
**III. Fuel Type Preferences & Car Manufacturer Performance:**
1. **Shifting Preferences:** Hybrid vehicles continue to dominate the market share, while petrol and diesel are slowly declining. What are your thoughts on this evolving landscape of fuel preference?
2. **Volkswagen Group vs. Stellantis:** While Volkswagen maintains its lead, Stellantis experienced a notable decline. What are the key challenges and opportunities for these large car manufacturers in the current market?
3. **Emerging Players:**
* What does the strong growth of brands like Volvo and Mitsubishi signify for the European car market?
* How are smaller, more agile car manufacturers successfully navigating the industry’s challenges and opportunities?
**IV. Looking Ahead:**
1. **Predictions and Challenges:** What are your predictions for the European car market in the next year or two? What are the biggest challenges and opportunities that the industry will face?
2. **Sustainability and Innovation:**
* How do you see sustainability concerns shaping the future of the automotive industry in Europe?
* What innovations and technological advancements are most likely to have a significant impact on the car market?
