France is accelerating its transition to electric mobility. The latest figures for September 2024 show a significant increase in sales of electric cars, which now represent 17.1% of new registrations over the first nine months of the year. A development which confirms the gradual decline of diesellong undisputed king of the French market.
Discarded diesel and AdBlue
Times have changed a lot since the golden age of diesel in France. The engine that was once the most popular with French motorists now represents only 10.4% of sales in Europe. This dizzying fall can of course be explained by several factors, notably the rise in diesel prices, the failures of the AdBlue system, but also ever-increasing government penalties.
Electricity is increasingly attracting the French
France is a good student in the adoption of electric vehicles in Europe. With a market share of 17.1%, the country surpasses the European average and shows constant growth. This performance is based on a favorable ecosystem with an expanding charging network, maintained government aid and an increasingly diversified vehicle offering.
A slightly more measured Europe
The French situation contrasts with that of other European countries, notably Germany, which you surely know, is the other largest automobile market on the old continent.. Our neighbor across the Rhine has seen its sales of electric vehicles drop drastically, passing from 18.1% to 13.1% market share. This drop is mainly explained by the elimination of purchasing aid, illustrating the importance of government incentives in the energy transition.
Hybrid as a transition solution?
The hybrid continues to progress and attracts more and more motorists. Sales of hybrid electric vehicles reached 32.8% market share in September 2024, compared to 27.4% the previous year. This technology appears to be an ideal transition solution for drivers who are still hesitant about going all-electric, even if it is not without problems.
Car manufacturers are adapting their strategy to this new situation. Massive investments in the development of new electric models and improving battery technologies suggest an acceleration of this transition. The gradual reduction in prices and the increase in autonomy should continue to attract new buyers.
- Diesel market share collapses to 10.4% in Europe
- Sales of electric vehicles increase in France to reach 17.1%
- The hybrid confirms its role as a transition technology with 32.8% of the market
