Europe's car firms are developing a wave of affordable small EVs to take on aggressive Chinese rivals – and a number of these pivotal newcomers will be unveiled at the Paris motor show, which opens its doors tomorrow.
European motor shows struggled after the Covid-19 pandemic, with the long-running Geneva event axed, the German show moving from Frankfurt to Munich and the Paris show suffering from low attendance.
But there has been a resurgence in recent years as European and Chinese firms vie to showcase their offerings. Last year's Munich show featured a number of crucial debutants and this year's Paris show is looking stronger than it has in years.
While some high-end models will be showcased at Paris, the event's focus is shaping up to be small cars, including EVs that will follow the likes of the Renault Twingo in being priced at well under £20,000.
Leading makers including Audi, Citroën, Dacia, Fiat and Peugeot are all set to stage debuts for important entry-level electric models.
Sure to dominate headlines is the unveiling of the revived Citroën 2CV, plans for which Autocar first revealed early last year.
But other stars include the new Smart #2 city car, the reborn Audi A2, Dacia's new Spring supermini and key concepts from big brands, such as the Renault E-Space and Fiat Multiplay.
Autocar will have a full team in Paris to bring all the stories from the show, and in the build-up you can follow the latest news and updates here.
This is everything to keep an eye out at the 2026 Paris motor show...
Aion GS7
Chinese newcomer Aion will unwrap the GS7, a modified version of sibling brand Trumpchi's S7. A big plug-in hybrid SUV, it's due in the UK next year. It will be joined on the Paris stand by a second new model, the nature of which the brand has yet to confirm.
Everything you need to know about the Aion GS7
Alfa Romeo Cuorerosso
Described as a manifesto for Alfa's future, the Cuorerosso – 'red heart' – is set to bring a dramatic shake-up for the look of the brand's future models. Little has been revealed in the run up to the show, but the above picture of its brake lights reminds us of the Lancia Stratos. That can only be a good thing.
Alpine A110
We'll have to wait a little longer to see the next-generation A110 in full, but this sculpture provides our best hint yet at its new styling. Note it sleeker, more aerodynamic shape, as well as its hexagonal front lights.
Everything you need to know about the Alpine A110 sculpture
Alpine 'PS1'
Codenamed 'Projet Spécial 1', this new model will sit outside Alpine's current line-up – its 'everyday' cars, the A290 and A390, as well as its flagship sports car, the A110.
Everything you need to know about the Alpine 'PS1'
Audi A2 E-tron
