French electric cars: local expertise and sustainable mobility

18.2% of new cars sold in France are electric. A number that keeps rising! And guess what? More and more French drivers are choosing homegrown models. Why? Because our manufacturers have found the winning formula: affordable prices, high-performing vehicles, and jobs that stay local.

Torn between the buzzworthy new Renault 5 E-Tech and the Peugeot e-3008 SUV promising up to 700 km of range? We break it all down. How our cars stand up to Tesla, why buying French is a smart move, and what the future holds. Follow the guide!

Why choose a French electric car in 2025?

A market in full transformation

The automotive market is going through a paradoxical shift in 2025. EV sales volume dropped in Q1 2025 (-6.6%), but electric cars now make up 18.2% of new vehicle sales—proof of a structural trend, according to ACEA.

Why? The sector is maturing, with better local offerings and buyers increasingly convinced by the attractive pricing and range of French models. French automakers are leading the charge. Renault, Peugeot, and Citroën are among the top sellers with standout models: the new Renault 5 E-Tech, a registration star; the Citroën ë-C3, available from €18,947 after eco bonuses and incentives; and the ever-popular Peugeot e-208.

These French electric cars combine competitive pricing, impressive WLTP range, and high-performance batteries all made locally with next-gen electric motors.

The ecological bonus: a real boost

The 2025 ecological bonus clearly favors French electric cars. With an environmental score that rewards local production, models assembled in Douai, Flins, or Mulhouse enjoy significant advantages.

What does that mean? Up to €4,000 in bonuses for a French EV, versus €3,000 for long-distance imports. Take the Renault Mégane E-Tech made in Douai: combine the eco bonus and conversion incentive, and you save thousands.

French manufacturers have adapted their strategy: European batteries, short supply chains, local assembly. Example: up to €4,000 in bonuses for an EV with a good environmental score—a competitive edge for French models.

A local and sustainable industrial commitment

Buying a French electric car supports an entire industrial ecosystem. Renault’s factories in Douai and Flins, Stellantis sites in Trémery-Metz and Mulhouse—these employ thousands. And that’s just the beginning: battery gigafactories are being built in northern France.

This relocalization makes sense: less transport, less pollution, more responsiveness. Short supply chains between suppliers, assemblers, and dealers ensure better agility. Technological sovereignty over motors and batteries is becoming a reality.

Buying French means investing in a local industrial and energy transition—plus, you benefit from nearby after-sales service.

Overview of French brands electrifying the market

Renault, the historic pioneer

Renault remains the undisputed leader in French electric mobility. The Zoe paved the way in 2012, but now it’s time for the next generation!

The Mégane E-Tech offers up to 470 km WLTP range, and the Scénic E-Tech goes up to 625 km. Impressive, right? But the real star is the new Renault 5 E-Tech. This neo-retro city car is a hit: 400 km WLTP range, 52 kWh battery, 120 to 150 hp depending on the version, and a starting price of €27,990 after bonuses.

It even includes V2G technology to send energy back to your home. The specs are impressive: fast charging, efficient motorization. Renault aims to sell 500,000 units in Europe by the end of 2025.

Peugeot, electric for everyday life

Peugeot is methodically modernizing its lineup. The e-208 remains a benchmark with its sleek design and 433 km WLTP range (54 kWh battery). The e-308, available as a hatchback and wagon, meets family needs with 416 km.

But the real masterstroke? The e-3008 SUV with 701 km WLTP range in its high-capacity version (98 kWh battery)!

Prices remain accessible: e-208 from €22,650 (€180/month), e-308 from €34,800, e-3008 from €38,650 (€300/month). The e-3008, made in France, qualifies for the maximum bonus. Bonus perk: up to 8 years of PEUGEOT CARE warranty and a charging card included. Solid stuff!

Citroën, French practicality

Citroën makes a strong statement with the ë-C3: €18,947 after all incentives! It’s simply the cheapest electric car on the French market. With 320 km WLTP range and a 44 kWh battery, it’s more than enough for daily use.

The ë-C4 steps it up with 360 km for families. The ë-Berlingo electrifies the leisure van segment: 280 km range and full cargo space. Citroën focuses on accessibility and simplicity—no unnecessary frills. And it’s working: +45% electric sales in 2024!

DS Automobiles, French-made luxury

DS Automobiles brings French luxury to the electric world. The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense blends refinement and tech: 404 km WLTP range, haute couture finishes, premium materials. Even ChatGPT is integrated via the DS IRIS SYSTEM!

Prices reflect the premium positioning: €290/month lease after incentives. For that, you get 156 hp, 80% fast charge in 30 minutes, and all the DS prestige. Perfect for those who want electric with a touch of French exclusivity.

Comparison with foreign electric cars

Direct competitors: Tesla, Volkswagen, BYD…

French automakers face stiff international competition. Tesla impresses with its Model 3 and Model Y (up to 600 km WLTP). Volkswagen is pushing with its ID.3 and ID.4. BYD is entering the market with aggressive pricing.

Don’t forget Hyundai, Kia, BMW, Mercedes, and Audi—all offering zero-emission alternatives. But there are limits! Tesla’s after-sales service is still limited in France. Asian brands face long delivery times. And the carbon footprint of shipping from China hurts their score.

French brands, on the other hand, rely on 15,000 sales and service points. Tesla? Just a few dozen. Proximity matters.

Why choosing a French model is strategic

Opting for a French electric car means peace of mind. Your usual dealer handles maintenance. Spare parts arrive quickly. Mechanics know these models inside out.

Charging is easier too. Public stations follow European standards used by our manufacturers. Mobile apps naturally integrate our electric models.

Electra, with 500 charging points planned by the end of 2025, ensures perfect compatibility with European vehicles. Our ultra-fast stations deliver optimal battery charging. When you stay local, everything runs smoothly!

The future of French electric cars

Upcoming models and innovations

The French auto industry isn’t slowing down. Renault is reviving the iconic 4L as an electric model (Renault 4) for 2025—a new city car with promising specs. Stellantis is developing new STLA platforms for all segments of future EVs.

Battery gigafactories in Douai and Douvrin will launch in 2026, boosting French production. On the innovation front, get ready: solid-state batteries promising 1,000 km range, ultra-fast 10-minute charging, onboard AI.

Investments are massive: €10 billion at Renault, €30 billion at Stellantis by 2030. France is determined to stay in the race!

The role of the charging network in supporting growth

100,000 public charging stations in France—2025’s goal reached two years early! At Electra, we’re going even further: ultra-fast stations up to 400 kW.

What does that mean? 400 km of range recovered in just 20 minutes. Our stations are ideally located: highways, shopping areas—where you need them most.

The Electra app makes everything easy: find charging points, pay in two clicks. Rates from €0.29/kWh with reliable European equipment. Electra stations are accessible and European-made, ensuring quality and durability for your charging needs.

We’re here to support your transition!

How to choose the right French electric car?

Key criteria: range, usage, budget, comfort

The right choice depends on your real needs. Urban use? The Citroën ë-C3 with its 320 km is more than enough. Big family? The Scénic E-Tech SUV with 625 km WLTP will take you on vacation stress-free. Professional? Peugeot and Citroën vans are up to the task with powerful motors.

Budget-wise: expect €23,300 for a ë-C3 and over €50,000 for a high-end electric SUV. Performance ranges from 280 to 700 km depending on model and battery size. Motor power? From 100 to 300 hp.

Our advice: test drive several vehicles! Dealers offer extended trials. Take time to compare specs, WLTP range, and prices.

Leasing, buying, incentives: available options

Several options make EVs accessible. Long-term leasing starts at €150/month. Social leasing? €100/month for low-income households.

For purchases, incentives add up: up to €4,000 eco bonus, up to €6,000 conversion bonus. Are you a business? You get perks: VAT deduction, accelerated depreciation, no company car tax. Some regions offer extra aid. Some automakers even include a home charging station.

Honestly, now’s the time!

Conclusion

French zero-emission cars have it all: competitive prices, reassuring performance, and reliable local service. From the pioneering Renault Zoe to the latest Peugeot e-3008 SUV, the French lineup covers all needs and budgets.

Citroën, Renault, Peugeot, and DS offer impressive technical specs. Choosing French means supporting local jobs, reducing your carbon footprint, and enjoying the best incentives.

With Electra and its ultra-fast charging network across France, electric mobility has never been easier. The future looks exciting with new models and constant innovation.

Ready to join the French electric revolution?Want to go electric, made in France? Check out our transparent pricing and explore our station map. Download the Electra app on the App Store or Google Play for stress-free mobility!

Written by Nicolas – Mobility Expert at Electra