In this edition of the Managerial Excellence Masterclasses, we had the pleasure of welcoming Jean-Pierre Corniou, author of the book “Liberty, Equality, Mobility” and an emblematic figure in the automotive industry. Together, we explored the profound transformations of this key sector, its environmental and technological challenges, as well as the social issues it raises!
The electric beginnings and the rise of combustion engines
Did you know that the first car to exceed 100 km/h, the famous Jamais Contente, was electric? This happened in 1899, in the Yvelines. This anecdote illustrates that electromobility is not a recent revolution, but a return to old roots. At the time, three options dominated: electric motors, steam, and gasoline engines. So why did combustion engines prevail? Jean-Pierre Corniou explained to us that it was the energy capacity of oil, coupled with its accessibility and the rapid growth of distribution networks, that tipped the industry. However, this decision shaped an economic and social model that is now being questioned by climate challenges.
A strategic turning point for Europe
In 2023, the European Commission made a historic decision: to ban the sale of combustion vehicles from 2035. An act that Jean-Pierre describes as the “first technological choice imposed by governments”. But this transition is not without resistance. Some manufacturers, particularly German ones, are advocating for alternatives such as synthetic fuels, a costly and complex solution. Despite these tensions, electromobility is gaining ground. Volkswagen, for example, is investing heavily in this field, while maintaining a strategic position on several technologies. Meanwhile, Tesla, the global leader, demonstrates that mastering customer data and software technologies is crucial in this transition.
Europe facing global competition
The global automotive market is now dominated by China, which has capitalized on a strategy of leadership in electromobility. Brands like BYD or Geely now rival Western manufacturers. For Jean-Pierre, Europeans must catch up. The rise of locally produced batteries, coupled with a reorganization of distribution networks, could strengthen their position. The Tesla model, selling vehicles directly online and mastering the entire ecosystem, is already inspiring some manufacturers.
Towards socially just mobility
In his book, Jean-Pierre Corniou advocates for socially just mobility. But how can we make it accessible to all?
Reduce costs
Electric cars, often perceived as luxury products, must become more affordable. Models like the Dacia Spring, the second best-selling electric vehicle in France, are leading the way.
Develop the used car market
With the increase in the electric vehicle fleet, a secondary market will emerge, making these vehicles accessible to a wider population.
Improve charging infrastructure
The development of fast and reliable charging stations remains a major challenge to alleviate consumer concerns.
Management and innovation lessons
In addition to his expertise on the automotive industry, Jean-Pierre Corniou shared valuable lessons on innovation and leadership, drawn from his career as Chief Information Officer at Renault and other large companies. He emphasized the importance of team buy-in for change and the key role of management in overcoming internal resistance. According to him, successful innovation is based on two criteria: it must create value and be pleasant to use. A striking lesson he illustrated with the success of the iPhone, which transformed our habits thanks to an open application ecosystem.
Conclusion: an electric and collaborative future
The car of tomorrow will be electric, connected and more environmentally friendly, but this transformation can only succeed if it is driven by a collective vision and a real consideration of social issues. To learn more, we invite you to discover the book Liberté, Égalité, Mobilité by Jean-Pierre Corniou, a true saga of the automobile and its contemporary challenges.
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