France extends social electric vehicle leasing to overseas territories

The French social leasing program, which allows low-income households to rent new electric vehicles for between 140 and 200 euros per month, has entered a new phase. As of July 16, 2026, the program has been extended to include the overseas territories of Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Guyane, following its previous availability in mainland France and Réunion.

In the overseas territories, the initiative is viewed as a critical tool for social justice and economic access, as vehicle ownership is often a prerequisite for employment. In Guadeloupe, cars are the sole means of transport for 70% of the population, while in Martinique, 87% of active workers rely on them to commute.

For the 2026 cycle, the program has implemented stricter eligibility criteria. Applicants must have a tax reference income (RFR) per share of no more than 16,880 euros, a commute of more than 10 kilometers, and a commitment to drive at least 15,000 kilometers annually. Despite the high demand and subsidies ranging from 6,500 to 9,500 euros, some dealerships have reported long delivery delays and the addition of mandatory fees or options not included in the initial advertised prices.