Europe's carmakers turn back time to rival Chinese EVs

Citroen unveils electric version of iconic 2CV at Paris autoshow Comes after Renault's electric R5 proved a hit across Europe Retro appeal could help European brands compete with Chinese in small EVs Heritage unlikely to be enough on its own; technology also key By Gilles Guillaume and Rachel More PARIS, Oct 13 (Reuters) — As Chinese electric vehicle makers challenge Europe's auto industry with cheaper cars and increasingly sophisticated technology, established automakers are fighting back with one asset their rivals lack: history. Europe's carmakers are increasingly reviving classic models from past decades, from Renault's 5 to Citroen's 2CV, betting nostalgia can help them stand out from a growing wave of Chinese rivals and win over EV buyers. The stakes are high. Demand for EVs has surged in Europe alongside soaring fuel prices, but Chinese manufacturers including BYD and Geely already had almost 11% of the European market in the second quarter, according to Schmidt Automotive Research, with models that are often cheaper and boast more advanced technology than local brands. While European automakers race to cut costs and narrow the technology gap, heritage is emerging as one of