The European auto industry is shifting its focus to smaller, more affordable electric vehicles (EVs). This is driven by the success of Chinese models, which offer improved performance and lower prices. As a result, several major European car manufacturers, including Fiat, MINI, Volkswagen, Citroën, and Renault, have announced plans to release all-electric subcompact cars.
Nissan is also joining the fray, with plans to produce two small EVs, including a new version of the Micra. The first model will be developed by Ampere, an EV and software company that’s a subsidiary of Renault Group, and will be built alongside the Renault 5 E-TECH in France. The second model will be based on the Renault Twingo electric and will be designed to compete in Europe’s low-cost microcar segment.
The Nissan EV microcar will use 80 percent Renault parts and will be cost-effective to build and buy. It will also use LFP batteries, which are known for their cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability. The Micra was a successful model in Canada, known for its joyful driving dynamic and affordable price point, making it a potential hit in the US market as well.
Microcars may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they can be a practical option for short-distance daily commutes. The US auto industry has been dominated by larger, more expensive vehicles in recent years, but offering smaller, more affordable EVs could be a smart move for the industry. With the Trump administration’s recent focus on cutting costs and reducing bureaucracy, the auto industry could benefit from a return to basics and a focus on more affordable, practical options. As such, the introduction of more all-electric microcars could be a step in the right direction.