Electric vehicle preferences in France

Three out of four French people prioritize the price of electric vehicles over whether they are "made in Europe," according to a study by OpinionWay for PrimesEnergie.fr. Despite growing interest in switching to electric cars, economic factors heavily influence their decisions.

Rising fuel prices drive EV interest

The rising cost of gasoline is accelerating the shift to electric vehicles, with current sales reaching record levels in France. Over a quarter of French citizens (28%) are seriously considering purchasing an electric car within two years, according to the survey.

Per-kilometer tax could deter buyers

The potential introduction of a per-kilometer tax on electric vehicles, already used in some neighboring countries, could deter 75% of potential buyers. This measure, aimed at compensating for declining fuel tax revenue, would discourage many from making the switch to electric vehicles.

European manufacturing is valued but not prioritized

While 67% of surveyed individuals believe financial aid should be reserved for European brand vehicles, this preference does not translate into action. When faced with actual purchasing decisions, more than three-quarters (76%) prioritize the best price-quality ratio, even if it means choosing non-European brands.

Chinese brands face skepticism

Despite the growing presence of Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers in France, 58% of the French population still have doubts about the quality of these models. However, their competitive pricing is attracting attention, especially as European subsidies for locally made vehicles can reach up to 7,800 euros.

Subsidies remain underutilized

Many French households are unaware of the available subsidies for electric vehicles, which can significantly reduce the purchase price. The number of grant requests on PrimesEnergie.fr has increased more than threefold in September, indicating growing awareness of these financial incentives.

Balancing local production and affordability

While European authorities are pushing for local content requirements to protect domestic manufacturers, the financial reality for households remains clear: without substantial public subsidies, the cost of electric vehicles will continue to be a decisive factor. This could also encourage Chinese manufacturers to establish production plants in Europe.