Summary
- Plugin EVs had a 22.5% share in France’s auto market in February, with BEVs and PHEVs contributing to the share.
- The Citroen e-C3 was the best-selling BEV in France for February.
- The overall auto market in France was roughly flat year-on-year at 141,568 units.
- Policy influences, including an eco-bonus deadline, are shaping the plugin market in France.
- Diesel-only and petrol-only vehicles are seeing declining volumes and market share in France.
Article
The French auto market in February saw plugin EVs accounting for a 22.5% share, a slight decrease from the previous year. Full battery electric vehicles (BEVs) held a share of 17.9%, while plugin hybrids (PHEVs) were at 4.6%. The overall auto volume remained stable year-on-year at 141,568 units. The Citroen e-C3 emerged as the best-selling BEV in February, surpassing other popular models like the Renault 5 and Tesla Model Y.
The plugin market in France is currently influenced by various policy factors such as the mid-February delivery deadline to qualify for the 2024 eco-bonus. This has led to fluctuations in the market, with PHEVs experiencing a decline due to a new weight tax imposed on the class. The arrival of the new Tesla Model Y and the ramp-up of more affordable BEVs like the R5, e-C3, Inster, and Panda are expected to impact the market in the coming months.
Diesel-only vehicles saw a significant drop in volume and share, while petrol-only vehicles also experienced a decline. Both categories are likely to see continued decreases in market share in the future. The shift towards more environmentally friendly options like electric and hybrid vehicles is evident, with combustion-only powertrains on the decline in France.
The best-selling BEV models in February included the Citroen e-C3, Renault 5, and Tesla Model Y. The strong performance of these models is attributed to the eco-bonus incentive, which has driven consumer interest in more affordable electric vehicles. The Renault 5 has been consistently performing well in recent months, overtaking the Tesla Model Y in monthly averages for 2024.
The outlook for the French EV market remains uncertain due to the impact of various policy changes and external factors. With the EU region expected to see an increase in BEV share, France may benefit from ongoing incentives that support the adoption of electric vehicles. Legacy manufacturers are gradually transitioning to producing more electric models, driven by regulatory requirements and market demand for cleaner alternatives.
In conclusion, the French EV market is experiencing gradual growth, with a stable auto market and a shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles. The popularity of more affordable BEV models like the Citroen e-C3 and Renault 5 indicates a growing interest in sustainable transportation options. As policy changes and new vehicle models enter the market, the French EV landscape is expected to evolve, with a potential for increased adoption of electric vehicles in the coming years.
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