France electric vehicle market share hits record 42% in September

Electric vehicles (EVs) reached a record 42% market share for new passenger car registrations in France in September 2026. This represents a significant increase from 22% in September 2025. During the same period, diesel's market share plummeted to just 2%, down from a dominant position in previous years.

Across the European Union, the transition is also accelerating. Between January and August 2026, 1.64 million EVs were sold, accounting for a record 22% of the EU market. This 45% year-on-year increase is supported by a growing variety of models, with nearly 40 new electric models launched in the first half of 2026.

In France, the rapid shift is being driven by both corporate fleets and a growing availability of more affordable models. However, tensions have emerged between the French government and manufacturers like Renault and Stellantis regarding the ‘social leasing’ program, as companies manage margins amidst changing market demands and fuel price fluctuations.