Science & Tech · Gadgets & EVs · 11 hrs ago
More French drivers are switching to electric cars despite lingering concerns
More drivers in France are choosing electric cars, and several who once had doubts say they are happy with the switch.
Electric cars made up 42% of new-car sales in September 2026, but just 3.5% of vehicles on French roads were electric on January 1.
Drivers have worried about long-distance range, charging stops and how easy it is to pay at charging stations.
The charging network has grown from just over 30,000 points in 2020 to nearly 200,000 today, according to the French environment ministry.
Some drivers say current cars and charging access have eased their concerns, while purchase prices and battery life remain obstacles.
France has launched a plan to speed up the shift, including a new social leasing offer for electric cars.
The change also fits the focus on clean electrification at COP31 in Turkey, which runs from November 9 to 20.
More French drivers are choosing electric cars, with the models accounting for 42% of new vehicle sales in September 2026.
Drivers interviewed by franceinfo said earlier concerns about charging, range and long journeys had eased for some of them.
Electric vehicles still made up only 3.5% of vehicles in circulation in France on 1 January 2026.
The article cites purchase price and battery life as continuing barriers.
The French government has launched an electrification plan that includes a new social leasing offer for electric cars.
- Who
- French drivers, including several interviewed by franceinfo.
- What
- More drivers are switching to electric cars, though concerns about cost, batteries and range remain.
- When
- The article was published on 8 November 2026. It cites sales figures for September 2026.
- Where
- France.
- Why
- Some drivers are attracted by savings and a more relaxed driving experience; the article also links the trend to rising fuel prices.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
France had just over 30,000 public charging points, according to the Ministry for the Ecological Transition.
Some early electric cars had low charging power, and drivers faced a less extensive charging network.
Christine and her husband bought an electric car.
Electric vehicles accounted for 3.5% of vehicles in circulation in France.
Electric models accounted for 42% of new vehicle sales.
- Electric vehicles in circulation
- 3.5% in France on 1 January 2026
- Electric share of new vehicle sales
- 42% in September 2026
- Public charging points
- Just over 30,000 in 2020; nearly 200,000 today, according to the article
- Christine’s car
- Renault 5 E-Tech
- French government measure
- A new social leasing offer for electric cars
What people are saying
Trying it means adopting it!
We have never waited at charging stations, and there is no longer a charging problem, even in little villages in the middle of nowhere.
It had only 90 kilometres of range, and just 70 in winter: you had to stay alert!
The van did not have much range: I had to stop after an hour and a half. It took me a day and a half to make the round trip.