An electric car for less than 15,000 euros: a deal that could attract millions of Europeans — what about you?

A new electric car, manufactured in Europe and sold for less than 15,000 €... The idea seems ambitious. Yet a study by the Foundation for Nature and Man and the Institute for Transition Mobility estimates that such a model could attract up to three million customers annually in the European Union.

In 2026, price remains one of the main obstacles to purchasing a new electric vehicle. What if manufacturers returned to a simpler approach, rather than constantly seeking greater range and more features? This is the idea explored by the Foundation for Nature and Man (FNH) and the Institute for Transition Mobility (IMT), along with consulting firm C-Ways. According to them, there is a real market for an European electric car priced under 15,000 euros.

A deliberately limited electric car

Naturally, at this price point, one shouldn’t expect an electric Renault 5 with just a few fewer options. The study focuses on a car with a maximum length of 3.60 meters, four seats, and a curb weight of less than 800 kg. Its battery would have only a capacity of 15 to 22 kWh, providing a real range of 140 to 200 kilometers. All without the possibility of fast charging.

The performance would also be tailored for everyday driving, with a maximum speed limited to 110 km/h. This is a radical proposal in the current market, but it would still be suitable for the types of trips taken by a large proportion of drivers. In France, the authors estimate that 54% of cars currently on the road have usage patterns compatible with a range of 140 km and four seats.

Up to three million units sold per year?

And contrary to what one might think, this small electric vehicle wouldn’t be doomed to remain a niche product. The potential is 2.5 million units sold annually in the EU between 2030 and 2035, rising to three million once the market reaches maturity. This refers to market potential, not sales forecasts. Of course, manufacturers first need to be able to actually produce this car.

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The upcoming European M1E category does provide a specific framework for small electric vehicles, but the current proposal mainly sets a maximum length of 4.20 meters. FNH and IMT therefore suggest going further, either by adapting this category or by creating a new intermediate class temporarily named M0, between heavy quadricycles and traditional cars.

This would revive an idea that has become almost exotic in the automotive industry: designing a car around everyday needs... It seems almost crazy in 2026, but it is precisely what the market needs.