Vincent Salimon, chairman of the board of directors of BMW Group France: “It is necessary to incentivize rather than punish to reactivate the automotive sector!”
In a context of tension and instability in the automotive sector, Vincent Salimon, chairman of the board of BMW Group France, advocates for a change of focus in regulatory policies. According to him, it is crucial to incentivize rather than penalize in order to revitalize a market facing significant challenges, such as declining registrations and pressure for carbon neutrality. His vision proposes a dialogue among all stakeholders in the sector to find effective solutions that promote sustainable growth and align with the needs of the modern consumer.
Vincent Salimon, chairman of the board of BMW Group France
In a recent statement, Vincent Salimon, chairman of the board of BMW Group France, highlighted the need for a fundamental shift in automotive policy. According to him, it is crucial to incentivize consumers and the industry rather than punish with taxes and strict regulations, in order to revitalize the automotive sector facing numerous challenges.
The importance of collaboration and free trade
Salimon argued that cooperation and free trade are essential drivers of economic growth. At a time when new trade barriers are being raised, such as the U.S. government’s proposal for a fine of 25% on foreign vehicles, it is vital to find common ground. The relationship between the European Union and the United States, as the two main trading partners in the world, should not be marked by conflict.
Strategies in the face of market decline
Despite the complicated situation in the automotive market, where a 14% decline in new vehicle registrations has been announced, BMW has managed to maintain a favorable position. In 2024, BMW Group delivered 2.45 million vehicles, a slight decrease of 4% compared to the previous year, but still better than that of some competitors.
Innovation and adaptability of the offer
Salimon attributes this performance to the company’s ability to adapt to the changing needs of consumers. BMW offers a variety of technologies in the same model, allowing customers to choose not only the model but also the type of motoring. In this way, the company adapts to an uncertain regulatory context and prepares for the future.
Initiatives for a sustainable future
The president of BMW France also addressed concerns about CO2 reduction targets. BMW has invested in electrification and is proposing alternatives that do not limit to a single technology, emphasizing the importance of achieving carbon neutrality through various innovations.
A call for a change in regulation
Salimon commented on the regulatory pressure facing the automotive industry in Europe, highlighting that instability and lack of visibility in regulations are the main obstacles. Regulation in France penalizes even sustainably produced electric vehicles, which he considers absurd.
Recommendations for revitalizing the sector
To revitalize the automotive market, Salimon suggests the need for governments, startups, energy producers, and automakers to collaborate in search of effective solutions. Examples such as allowing electric vehicles access to carpooling lanes can be effective strategies as they have proven successful in other countries.
Additionally, the president of BMW advocates for a moratorium on fees affecting the market, as the lack of clarity in regulations could be causing the loss of up to 400,000 annual sales.
Challenges in the used vehicle market
With the decline in new vehicle sales, Salimon warned that there could be a shortage of used vehicles in the future, which would affect a significant part of the population that depends on this type of vehicle. It is not just a fiscal policy issue, but a significant social challenge.
In conclusion, Salimon calls on decision-makers to find a path towards renewal and growth in the automotive sector, promoting measures that incentivize rather than punish.
Revitalizing the automotive sector is essential
Vincent Salimon, chairman of the board of BMW Group France, emphasizes that instead of penalizing consumers and producers, it is crucial to incentivize policies that favor the automotive industry. In a context where new vehicle registrations have declined, the need for effective strategies becomes evident.
Salimon points out that regulatory instability and lack of visibility hinder investments. The imposition of additional burdens, such as the malus, not only obstructs the purchase of electrified vehicles but could also lead to an aging of the current vehicle fleet. This, in turn, negatively affects efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions.
The call for collaboration among the different stakeholders in the sector, as well as for measures that promote the purchase of new cars, is a proposal aimed at ensuring sustainable growth of the automotive market in France.
