STORY: With Chinese automakers pushing into Europe, Stellantis and Renault have joined forces to lobby the EU.
They want a less-regulated category of small cars with fewer safety features, making them cheaper to build.
:: Renault
Over the last two months, Stellantis Chairman John Elkann and Renault's Luca de Meo have engaged in a rare public campaign.
Their aim is to revive a small car segment largely abandoned by Europe's automakers as models were unprofitable.
They blame that on safety regulations that make the vehicles larger, heavier and more expensive.
Lobbyists argue there's no need for certain safety requirements when it comes to small cars designed for city drivers.
A European Commission spokesperson said it's looking into the matter.
Elkann last week said Europe needs its own version of Japan's small, urban vehicles with size and engine restrictions that enjoy lower tax and insurance costs.
He suggested that be called the "e-car".
The Dolphin Surf from China's BYD hit the market one month ago, priced from $23,124.
By comparison, the Renault 5, which is similar though can carry one more passenger, costs almost $5,700 more when similarly equipped.
Analysts say the small car segment could rebound with more launches.
:: Stellantis
And S&P Global estimates sales could reach 600,000 by 2030, up about 20% from last year.
