Presidential 2027: at the World Car Championship, how the car is becoming a political object

The 2027 French presidential campaign has taken an unexpected turn at the Paris Motor Show, where candidates have used the event to highlight automotive issues central to their platforms. Edouard Philippe, leader of the Horizon party and a presidential candidate, attended the exhibition at Porte de Versailles, emphasizing the car's role in employment, climate change, and national sovereignty. The show, concluding Sunday, October 18, 2026, attracted half a million visitors and became a key stage for political discourse, reflecting the sector’s economic importance and vulnerability. Philippe’s presence underscored how the automotive industry, a cornerstone of the French economy, is shaping the election race. Candidates have increasingly focused on the sector, recognizing its influence over jobs, environmental policy, and technological innovation. The show served as both a public spectacle and a strategic platform for politicians to address concerns ranging from electric vehicle adoption to industrial competitiveness. The Paris Motor Show has long been a major event, drawing attention beyond mere consumer interest. It offers a glimpse into the future of mobility and serves as a backdrop for political messaging. This year, however, the convergence of politics and automobiles has been particularly pronounced, with candidates using the occasion to outline their visions for the country’s automotive landscape. Industry leaders and policymakers have also participated, highlighting the need for government support amid global shifts toward sustainable transportation. Discussions around electric vehicles, battery technology, and international competition were frequent, indicating the sector’s centrality to broader economic and environmental strategies. As the presidential race intensifies, the automotive industry will likely remain a focal point, influencing debates on jobs, climate action, and France’s position in the global market. The Paris Motor Show has thus become more than just an exhibition, it is a battleground for ideas shaping the nation’s future.