Business · Trade · 16 hrs ago
Paris auto show opens as European industry faces Chinese competition
The 2026 Paris auto show opens to the public on October 13.
European carmakers are facing pressure from Chinese electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as trade measures linked to US President Donald Trump.
Chinese manufacturers are ahead in several parts of the electric-battery supply chain, from materials to technology.
France wants more vehicles and parts to be made in Europe to help protect jobs.
President Emmanuel Macron is negotiating with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over rules to protect the European car industry.
The show is taking place as France approaches a presidential election, giving it added political importance.
The negotiations are aimed at shaping how Europe responds to competition from China.
The 2026 Paris Motor Show is due to open to the public on October 13 as European carmakers face growing competition from Chinese models.
French and German leaders are negotiating rules intended to protect Europe’s electric and hybrid vehicle industry.
France is pushing for stronger European production to protect jobs.
Christophe Aufrère, head of France’s automotive industry platform, says Chinese manufacturers are ahead across the electric-battery supply chain.
- Who
- European carmakers and Chinese manufacturers are central to the story.
- What
- The Paris Motor Show is opening amid pressure on Europe’s car industry from Chinese competition and trade tensions.
- When
- The show opens to the public on October 13, 2026.
- Where
- Paris, at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre.
- Why
- European leaders are discussing measures to protect the industry from competition in electric and hybrid vehicles and preserve jobs.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Europe must protect itself quickly from this offensive, otherwise it will be too late.
Emmanuel Macron is negotiating with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over rules intended to protect Europe’s industry from Chinese competition.
The Paris Motor Show is due to open to the public.
- Show
- 2026 Paris Motor Show
- Public opening
- October 13, 2026
- Venue
- Porte de Versailles, Paris
- French industry representative
- Christophe Aufrère, director general of the PFA
- Negotiating leaders
- Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz









