France's electric vehicle (EV) market is surging, with plugin EVs capturing a significant **31.1% share in October!** This is a huge leap from the 23.5% recorded the previous year. But what's driving this impressive growth, and what does it mean for the future of EVs in France? Let's dive in!
In October, the full battery electric vehicles (BEVs) alone accounted for 24.4% of the market, while plugin hybrids (PHEVs) held a 6.7% share. Compared to the previous year, BEVs have seen a substantial rise, increasing by 63% in volume. This surge is partly thanks to the 'Social Leasing' program, which has provided a boost to sales.
Overall, the French auto market saw a slight increase of about 3% year-on-year, with a total of 139,514 units sold. The Renault 5 took the lead as France's best-selling BEV in October.
The 'Social Leasing' program, launched in 2025, is a key factor in this growth. But here's where it gets controversial: How long will this program's positive impact on BEV sales last? The Renault 5 saw a remarkable increase, with 4,551 units delivered in October, which is about 2,000 units higher than usual. With approximately 10,000 signed lease contracts under the program, it seems about 20% were fulfilled and delivered in October.
If we assume this rate continues, the program's effect on BEV volumes might last for about 5 to 6 months. While this is a temporary boost, it's also bringing more affordable BEVs onto the roads. This increases dealerships' and the public's familiarity with EVs, boosts production, and reduces costs – all of which will continue even after the program ends.
Thanks to the rising market share of BEVs, the combined share of combustion-only vehicles hit a record low of 23.3%. Diesel vehicles also reached a record low of 4.2%, and petrol vehicles remained at a low of 19.2%. We might see their combined share dip below 20% in December.
Best-Selling BEV Models
- Renault 5: The Social Leasing program significantly boosted its sales, with 4,551 units delivered, making it the top-selling model.
- Peugeot e-208: Another participant in the Social Leasing program, with 2,436 units sold, about three times its recent monthly average.
- Renault Scenic: Without being part of the program, it still secured third place with 1,670 units.
Other models that benefited from the program include:
- Peugeot e-2008: With 1,630 units (over four times its recent monthly volume).
- Renault Megane: With 1,166 units (about twice its recent volume).
The Citroen e-C3, however, hasn't shown a significant boost from the program, with a modest 1,391 units sold. The Renault 4 continues to gain popularity, with a personal best of 1,201 units, and the Hyundai Inster also achieved a personal best of 574 units. Most other models in the top 20 performed well, although not necessarily at record volumes.
It's important to note that due to limited public data, we can't always track the launches of new BEVs in the French market. However, it's worth noting that over half of the top 20 models are from the A and B segments.
Trailing 3-Month Sales Rankings
Despite a strong September, the Tesla Model Y fell to second place in October, with the Renault 5 taking the lead. The Renault also has a significant lead over Tesla in the year-to-date race.
The Peugeot e-208 climbed to 3rd place in October, mainly due to the Social Leasing program. Its sibling, the e-2008, also saw a big jump to 8th place. Other notable climbers include the Renault 4 (now in 6th) and the Hyundai Inster (in 13th), primarily due to their newness and increasing production.
I expect the Renault 4, a small SUV, to become almost as popular as its hatchback sibling, the Renault 5. We should see both regularly in the top 5 in the coming months, and likely for a long time.
Outlook
The 3% year-on-year growth in the auto market is largely thanks to the increase in BEV sales, driven by the Social Leasing program. This boost will continue over the next few months.
And this is the part most people miss: The broader French economy remains somewhat stagnant, with a 0.9% year-on-year GDP growth in Q3 2025, following a 0.7% growth in Q2. Headline inflation dropped to 1.0% in October from 1.2% in September. ECB interest rates remain stable at 2.15% since early June. The Manufacturing PMI saw a slight increase to 48.8 points in October from 48.0 points in September.
Macron's approval rating is currently at a historic low of just 11%, yet he is not calling for new elections.
What are your thoughts on France’s transition to EVs? Which brands and models do you expect to have the most success? Share your perspective in the comments below!
