Volkswagen, Stellantis and Renault press EU for stricter “Made in Europe” auto rules

The three largest European automakers—Volkswagen, Stellantis and Renault—representing roughly 60 % of the continent’s car output, have jointly submitted a proposal to EU institutions calling for a clear “Made in Europe” criterion. The groups want at least 70 % of a vehicle’s value, including design, research, development, component production and assembly, to be generated within the EU or the European Economic Area, with a similar threshold for batteries.

The firms argue the rule is needed to offset the cost advantage of low‑priced Chinese electric cars and to address higher energy and labour costs in Europe. They also seek expanded “Super Credits” that would reward broader value‑adding steps in the EU, stronger incentives for local battery production, and more flexible regulations for small electric models.

In the broader debate, Morocco was cited as an extra‑EU production platform, highlighting the challenge of defining the geographic scope of European‑origin components. The manufacturers stress that the measures are intended to protect jobs, preserve industrial investment and maintain the competitiveness of the European auto sector amid the transition to electric mobility.