France has reopened applications for its social leasing program, allowing low-income households to lease electric vehicles (EVs) with state subsidies, though the funding pool and individual support levels are lower than last year.
The scheme, first introduced in early 2024, enabled about 50,000 drivers to obtain EVs under favorable lease conditions before funding was exhausted within six weeks.
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The new round, announced in July and launched on Monday, provides €370 million in funding compared to €650 million in the first phase. The government still aims to support at least 50,000 EV leases this year.
Each vehicle will receive up to €7,000 in subsidies, down from €13,000 previously, with monthly leasing costs capped at under €200. About 30 models are available, ranging from entry-level cars such as the Citroën ë-C3 and Fiat Panda, priced below €100 per month, to higher-cost options including the Volkswagen ID.4 at €169 and the Renault Megane E-Tech at €195.
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Leasing contracts last three years with a minimum annual mileage of 12,000 km. Applicants must have a reference income below €16,300, be employed, and either commute at least 15 km by car to work or drive 8,000 km annually for work-related purposes. The program excludes unemployed individuals and retirees.
Germany is considering introducing a similar EV subsidy program in 2027, highlighting growing interest among European governments in combining social policy with the transition to zero-emission transport.
Source: automobile-magazine.fr, avere-france.org, ecologie.gouv.fr