Europe's carmakers turn back time to rival Chinese EVs

European automakers are leaning on automotive nostalgia as Chinese EV makers gain ground with cheaper models and fast-improving technology. The playbook is to revive classic nameplates: Renault is back with an electric version of the Renault 5, first launched in 1972, which has become Europe’s best-selling mid-sized EV so far this year and helped lift Renault’s first-half revenue 9%. Stellantis unveiled an electric Citroën 2CV at the Paris Autoshow, while Volkswagen’s electric Polo takes styling cues from the 1980s Golf era. Analysts note retro appeal is most useful in the small, price-pressured segments where Chinese competition is strongest.