The bosses of Renault and Stellantis are definitely getting along like cats and dogs

When Luca de Meo says white, Carlos Tavares answers black. And, even if the boss of the Renault group were to change his mind to side with black, the boss of Stellantis would then be in the white clan. This strange tango in which these two bosses have engaged is never without spice. But we must still question the truth and falsehood behind these thunderous declarations.

Their diametrically opposed positions currently concern the 2025 deadline for the application of the CAFE regulation. The subject has already been addressed in several of my previous newsletters, but I remind you of the context: new, more drastic CO2 emission floors must apply from next year. However, some manufacturers are not yet in line to escape particularly heavy financial sanctions (several billion euros). Luca de Meo, with his hat as president of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), asked Europe for a little flexibility, without success.

No mercy for bad students

While Luca de Meo wanted to negotiate an additional period so that all manufacturers would comply, despite the unfavourable market context, Carlos Tavares opposed this idea. It would be surreal to change the rules now “, the Stellantis boss told AFP on September 15. He clarified: ” The rules have been known for a long time, everyone has had time to prepare, and now the race is on. »

Last May, Carlos Tavares announced on the France 2 set that only 5 automobile groups should survive within 10 years. Needless to say, the business leader is not here to indulge in sentiment. If the CAFE regulation and its heavy fines can quickly rid him of competitors such as Volkswagen and Renault, that would probably work in his favor.

Carlos Tavares is not wrong to want to meet the long-planned deadlines. He has put pressure on his group to be ready on time, but he must be careful not to put the cart before the horse. Moreover, it remains surprising that it is Carlos Tavares who is making this speech.

Carlos Tavares’ 180° turn

The head of the Stellantis group is well known for his stance against Europe and the electric car. He was the first to vilify the timetable imposed by the EU and the choice of technology, while other manufacturers set to work to catch up with China.

As an article in Les Echos points out, he now says to anyone who will listen: ” If you drive one of our electric vehicles, you will agree with me: they are better cars, in terms of dynamics, silence, in short, in every way. “That’s quite a turnaround in a few years. So much the better, electric car enthusiasts will say, at least he’s stopped putting spokes in the wheels of EVs. If you ask me, it’s still too early to include him in the camp of allies to the cause. It’s always wise to be wary of those who change their position depending on which way the wind is blowing.

Each side has its own: teamwork or solo work

While Luca de Meo, with his dual role as head of the Renault group and president of ACEA, tried to play as a team and rely on solidarity between manufacturers, Carlos Tavares chose to go it alone. Even if it meant finding himself alone against everyone. I am not sure that the strategy of turning all competitors against you is the most sustainable. Even Chinese manufacturers know how to bury the hatchet when the group’s interest takes precedence over individual success. We should not come complaining later.

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