February witnessed an impressive growth in plugin electric vehicles (EVs) with a 26.3% share in France, up from 23.8% year-on-year. Full electric vehicle volume increased by 32% year-on-year, while plugin hybrid volume increased by 12%. The total auto volume in February was 142,598 units, a 13% increase year-on-year, although still below the 2017–2019 averages of approximately 190,000 units. The Peugeot e-208 retained its position as the best-selling full electric vehicle.
In February, the combined plugin EVs accounted for 26.3% share in France, comprising 18.1% full battery electrics (BEVs) and 8.2% plugin hybrids (PHEVs). These figures represent an increase from the previous year’s 23.8% combined share, with 15.5% BEV and 8.3% PHEV. Despite this growth, PHEVs have remained relatively stable at around 9% of the market over the past three years, while BEVs have shown consistent growth. The gradual increase in BEV share over the years indicates a positive trend towards electrification.
Continued growth in BEV market share is essential to meet long-term goals of transitioning to electric vehicles. However, the high prices of BEVs remain a significant barrier for many consumers. Despite the expected cost reductions in BEV technologies, prices have not decreased as much as anticipated. The pricing disparity between BEVs and traditional combustion vehicles is a key factor limiting the wider adoption of electric vehicles.
As the transition to electric vehicles progresses, it is imperative for manufacturers to address the pricing issue and make BEVs more affordable and competitive in the market. The current pricing discrepancies suggest a need for more transparency and fair competition among automakers to accelerate the shift towards sustainable transportation.