As you’ve seen in recent years, the automotive industry is turning massively to all-electric, but is this enough to achieve a carbon-free automotive industry? According to La Plateforme automobile (PFA), which represents manufacturers and equipment manufacturers, the answer is no, in any case, unless at the same time there is a change of use, in particular reduction in the use of private cars.

The PFA recalls that the 37 million private vehicles and 6 million light commercial vehicles in circulation are responsible for 21% of total CO emissions.₂ In France.

Continue with aids?

According to the PFA’s decarbonisation roadmap submitted to the government, sales of electric vehicles are expected to increase dramatically by the time new cars with internal combustion engines are banned in the European Union in 2035. Electric and hybrid vehicles are expected to account for 50% and 20% of passenger car sales by 2030, respectively, and 14% and 7% of the fleet. It would cause reduction of CO emissions by approximately 23%.₂ on this horizon.

However, the PFA notes that this trajectory will depend on several factors. The companies that buy half of the new cars should play electrification. The government should continue to support the purchase of these vehicles, particularly by low-income households, and there should be sufficient charging stations available. Today, according to the latest rumours, we are moving more towards increased aid for 2024.

Reduce the use of self-driving

Despite this progress, 23% of projected revenues will fall short of the 40% required under the national low-carbon strategy. The PFA therefore proposes to act with other levers, in particular by reducing the kilometers traveled by carpooling, carpooling and promoting soft and collective mobility such as cycling and public transport.

The short-term obstacle lies in this as well “Electric cars emit twice as much CO on average₂ during production in comparison with diesel locomotives », recognized by the PFA. Therefore, he recommends relocating production, in particular of batteries.

This also applies to heavy vehicles

As for heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks and intercity buses, their electrification mainly concerns light-duty short-haul vehicles. However, electric buses have experienced a major breakthrough, accounting for 37% of new registrations in 2022.

Natural gas powered trucks (NGVs), possibly made from biomethane, are already widespread and suitable for many immediate purposes. On the other hand, hydrogen, promising for long-distance transportation, still suffers from very high vehicle prices.

The report proposes public financial support for the transition from diesel cars to alternatives such as CNG and hydrogen, worth 200-300 million euros per year. gradual growth over the next five years.

This was promised by Minister of Transport Clément Bonet “The state will support the sector of electric vehicles and carbon-free heavy vehicles”indicating that “Transport accounts for 30% of emissions, but it is also the leading sector for solutions for the transition to greener mobility. »