Last month it became obvious that the Tesla Model 3, Volkswagen ID.3 and Renault ZOE are the most important electric cars in Europe. They are setting the standards in their segments.
Let’s look at sales figures.
December sales in Europe
The D-segment is led by Tesla Model 3 that is now available with a starting price of 39.990 euros in Germany, thanks to cheaper production in China and cobalt-free LFP batteries made by CATL.
The C-segment is led by the Volkswagen ID.3 that is now available in its entry-level trim (Pure) for 31.495 euros in Germany.
The B-segment is led by Renault ZOE, but the Hyundai Kona Electric is a serious contender, it just needs a price cut and better availability.
These are the electric cars that are setting the standards in their segments, just like the Nissan LEAF did in the old days.
However, the Tesla Model 3 is the only electric car on the list that is currently taking advantage of cobalt-free batteries. This means that all the other electric cars still have margin for major cost reduction.
As for the A-segment, it’s a mess, unfortunately European automakers deserted. There are no great electric cars available in this important segment for the European market.
Last month the Dacia Spring Electric registered the first 1.721 units in France that will be used for car-sharing services. Without any real contenders, later this year when it becomes available to private buyers, this underwhelming electric car should lead this segment with a price around 15.000 euros.
Without great electric cars in the A-segment, European automakers are leaving a door open for Chinese automakers to arrive and gain traction. Imagine a Changan Benben E-Star arriving to Europe with a similar price to the Dacia Spring Electric, it would be by far a better option.
Changan Benben E-Star
Anyway, while it’s a shame that the A-segment is being undermined by European automakers, the D, C and B segments are led by great electric cars that can already compete without problems with their gas counterparts.
