At the 2026 Paris Motor Show, contrasting strategies by European and Chinese automakers drew attention. While European companies focused on retro designs that reinterpreted once-popular models and on deregulation, Chinese companies moved to target the market with advanced technologies such as electrification and AI.

Cleantechnica reported on Oct. 14 that Chinese companies accounted for about one-third of the brands participating in this year's Paris Motor Show. About 20 Chinese brands took part, more than double the number at the 2024 event. Some European brands, including BMW, Porsche, Mini, Jaguar and Land Rover, did not participate. Major Japanese automakers such as Toyota, Nissan and Mazda also did not appear.

European automakers focused on designs that draw on brand traditions. Citroen reinterpreted the classic small car 2CV as an electric concept car. The Renault 4 and 5 and the Volkswagen ID. Polo also carried over designs from past popular models.

Differences also emerged in policy responses. European companies called at the Paris Automotive Summit for easing emissions regulations, protecting the industry through trade policy, and adjusting safety standards for small cars.

Chinese companies, by contrast, highlighted technological competitiveness. Xpeng unveiled its new electric sport utility vehicle (SUV), the G9L, and held test-drive events for an AI-based intelligent driving system. Xpeng and Tesla took part in driving demonstrations using central Paris.

BYD applied ultra-fast flash charging technology to its electric SUV Atto 8. The company explained that using dedicated charging equipment allows the battery to be charged from about 10 percent to 97 percent in about 9 minutes. Li Auto unveiled a new model ahead of its planned entry into Europe in 2027, while brands affiliated with Geely Automobile and Leapmotor also highlighted technological capabilities and price competitiveness.

The outlet said the event "showed Europe's defensive strategy and China's technology-centered growth strategy in contrast."

European companies are also continuing development of electric vehicles and launching new models. The key to competition ahead is expected to be not only design and price but also charging performance, intelligent driving technology and competitiveness in local production.