From Paris to Brussels: New EVs on the horizon and the rule that could leave UK-built cars behind
Welcome to Issue 4 of EV Fleet World 2026. The Paris Motor Show this month served as a vivid illustration of just how rapidly the electric vehicle sector continues to expand. A wave of new EV debuts arrived, while Stellantis unveiled a run of brand concepts that are set to inform future production models. In our show feature, looking at some of the new vehicles on the horizon, we highlight the cars and concepts fleets ought to be watching closely.
Yet the vehicles are only part of the picture. In our news analysis, we examine a growing risk in the background: a rigidly applied ‘Made in Europe’ policy, effectively an EU-first stance, which could put UK-built vehicles — in a sector of industry already feeling intense pressure — at a disadvantage. The car industry is lobbying the Government intensely on this, and it’s a key priority for the Andy Burnham administration. Could tariffs on Chinese imports be the price for UK inclusion?
There is more in this edition too. BVRLA chief executive Toby Poston shares the leasing sector’s perspective in his column, claiming electrification in the UK is on track, while Venson’s Simon Staton highlights how sustainability was a core part of good fleet management long before electrification.
October is Tyre Safety Month, and Joe Brammer, Michelin CES manager for car, vans and 4x4 sets out why tyres on electric vehicles deserve greater scrutiny. We have also tested tyres ourselves: I assessed Michelin’s latest EV-focused Michelin Primacy 5 Energy, and John Kendall put new compound technology from Bridgestone through its paces.
Behind the wheel, we have driven the new flagship Polestar 5 – which has Porsche, Audi and other high-end grand tourers in its sights – along with the Aion UT, Vauxhall Corsa GSE, Mercedes-Benz CLA and Mercedes-Benz GLB.
Van EV Fleet World editor John Kendall reviews the Kia PV5 and Farizon V7E, and brings together our interviews from September’s IAA Hanover.
I hope you enjoy the issue.
