17:16 13-05-2026

Fiat and Citroen to Revive Affordable Small Electric Cars in Europe

Stellantis CEO reveals plans for low-cost EVs from Fiat and Citroen under €15,000, targeting a 2028 launch. Could this revive the stagnant European auto market?

Fiat and Citroen could be part of a new wave of small, more affordable electric vehicles for Europe. According to a report from Auto Express, citing a speech by Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa at the Financial Times Future of the Car 2026 summit, the group sees these cars as one way to revive a stagnant auto market.

Filosa said one reason for the decline in European auto manufacturing is the loss of affordability. He noted that cars under €15,000 have virtually disappeared from the market. Stellantis believes a low-cost e-car project is possible, but it would require a separate regulatory framework: support for the European supply chain, especially batteries, and additional credits under corporate CO2 regulations.

The article says Citroen is preparing a new EV inspired by the classic 2CV, and Fiat will also play a major role in the project. The Italian brand has its own history of small cars, from the Topolino of the 1930s to modern urban models. Rules for affordable European EVs are expected to be finalized toward the end of the year, with launches possibly starting in 2028.

If European brands start making simple, inexpensive EVs again, it would increase pressure on Chinese manufacturers and could shift the balance in the compact car segment. For now, the main question isn't about the design of a Fiat or Citroen — it's whether automakers and regulators can actually bring an affordable new car back to buyers.