France launches third wave of electric car leasing scheme for 50,000 households

On Thursday 16 July 2026 the French government opened the third edition of its "leasing social" programme, which will provide up to 50 000 additional low‑income households with a new electric car for a monthly rental of less than €200. The state subsidises each lease up to €6 500, rising to €9 500 when the vehicle, battery and motor are produced in Europe, and the overall budget for the wave is €401 million, financed by energy‑saving certificates (CEE).

Eligibility requires applicants to be adults residing in France (including overseas territories), to have a fiscal reference income per share of ≤ €16 880, and to be “major drivers” who travel more than 10 km to work or cover at least 8 000 km per year. The lease runs for a minimum of three years, with or without a purchase option, and the vehicle must be returned in good condition at the end of the contract.

Around twenty models from roughly a dozen manufacturers are approved, with the cheapest offers ranging from €94 to €99 per month (Citroën e‑C3, Fiat Grande Panda, Opel Frontera). The scheme also aims to bolster European EV production; Antoine Trouche of the Institut Mobilités en Transition said, "It is a clear manifestation that the French state wants leasing social to support the production of electric vehicles and components within the EU."

Consumer guides note additional costs that can arise: insurance, maintenance, charging infrastructure, optional equipment and possible end‑of‑lease penalties. Nevertheless, early beneficiaries report monthly savings compared with diesel or gasoline cars, while critics warn that some models may lack sufficient battery range or be ill‑suited to the needs of the poorest households.