Citroën CEO: Relaxing the emissions ban marks only the beginning of advancement

Citroën Reacts to EU’s Relaxed Ban on Combustion Cars

Citroën’s CEO, Xavier Chardon, expressed only partial approval regarding the European Union’s recent decision to soften restrictions on petrol and diesel vehicle sales after 2035. Speaking with Euronews’ The Big Question, Chardon acknowledged the change but noted lingering concerns.

Under the updated policy announced in December, 90% of new cars sold from 2035 must be zero-emission, rather than the previously planned 100%.

While environmental advocates worry this adjustment could undermine the EU’s climate objectives, many automakers have welcomed the extended timeline as a relief.

Chardon commented, “I’m only half-pleased… At least our perspective was considered, and there’s recognition that improvements are possible. Still, several important issues remain unresolved.”

This episode of The Big Question features Chardon in conversation with Euronews’ Eleanor Butler, exploring how Citroën is navigating the evolving European automotive landscape.

Facing Chinese Competition: Can European Automakers Keep Up?

Chardon pointed out that Europe’s transition to electric vehicles is progressing slowly due to inadequate charging networks and high costs. He warned that a strict ban on combustion engines would further strain Europe’s already challenged car industry.

Major automotive nations like Germany and France have seen their industries struggle in recent years, facing rising production costs, intense competition from China, and uncertainty around the shift to electric vehicles.

Chardon also raised concerns about the new regulations, noting that the 10% quota for petrol, diesel, or hybrid vehicles after 2035 comes with strict requirements—such as mandatory use of biofuels or low-carbon materials.

“By mandating expensive technologies, the policy doesn’t truly support growth in the European car market,” Chardon argued.

He also addressed recent EU tariffs on Chinese imports, stating that the measures—introduced in 2024—have had limited impact, as they mainly target battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and not hybrids. As a result, Chinese manufacturers have shifted their focus to bypass these tariffs.

Citroën CEO Xavier Chardon chats to Eleanor Butler on The Big Question
- Euronews

According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, China’s global vehicle exports rose by 21% in 2025. Data from ACEA and S&P Global Mobility shows that Chinese-made cars made up 6% of EU sales in the first half of 2025, up from 5% the previous year.

Consultancy AlixPartners predicts that by 2030, Chinese automakers could double their share of the European market to around 10%.

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Is Price the Deciding Factor for Car Buyers?

For many European consumers, affordability is a key reason to consider Chinese vehicles, with brands like BYD offering lower prices than local competitors.

Chardon emphasized that while Citroën is working to make its cars more accessible, “price isn’t everything.”

“It’s important to offer competitive pricing, but vehicles must also provide unique features that set them apart,” he added.

He further highlighted that Citroën and its parent company, Stellantis, remain committed to advancing battery technology, even as the EU relaxes its emissions targets. Stellantis continues to invest in battery production across Europe, including a recent partnership with Chinese company CATL to build a facility in northeastern Spain.

The Big Question is a Euronews Business series featuring in-depth discussions with industry leaders and experts on today’s most pressing topics.

Watch the video above for the complete conversation with Citroën CEO Xavier Chardon.