Electric vehicle sales drive French auto market growth

This represents a total of 149,300 new passenger cars sold in a single month.

Electric vehicles accounted for just over 40% of registrations, rising to 49% when including plug-in hybrids.

Industry professionals refer to this mix of power sources as the “energy mix” in the automotive sector.

Over the past year (October 2025 – October 2026), the market share of new electric cars has risen from 24% to 41%.

Stellantis, the Franco-Italian-American group formerly known as PSA Peugeot Citroën, encompassing brands like Citroën, Peugeot, Fiat, Opel, and Vauxhall, saw its sales increase by nearly 3%. The group is benefiting from the success of the Peugeot 208 II and the Citroën E-C3, and anticipates significant demand for its new 2CV model, slated for release in 2028.

Conversely, Renault experienced a 4% decline in sales.

Tesla, the American group, captured a significant 35% of the French market.

The rise of electric vehicle sales means that other engine types are continuing to decline, particularly as fuel prices remain high.

Gasoline cars now account for only 10% of new car sales, while diesel vehicles represent just 1% of new registrations.

This trend towards electric vehicles is being reinforced by government support, including the renewal in July of the social leasing program and the Energy Savings Certificate, which can provide up to €5,700 for low-income households.