CEE grant boosts used electric car sales

Since September 2026, a new CEE grant for used electric cars has transformed the automotive market in France. Between the surge in sales and expensive fuel prices, the issue has become crucial for buyers. Fuel prices at more than 2 euros per liter, increasing penalties, and a slowing used car market. For many motorists, October 2026 resembles a new complicated turning point. The used car market continues to decline, with 448,986 transactions, a 7.2% drop in one year. However, amid this overall decline, one segment is doing exactly the opposite. Used electric cars are selling faster than ever. In October 2026, their sales jumped by 42.8%. They reached 27,961 transactions, or 6.23% of the used car market. This surge contrasts with the decline in diesel and gasoline vehicles. It is also largely due to a new financial boost. However, it is important to know who can benefit from it and under what conditions.

Used electric cars see 42.8% sales increase

On a declining overall used car market, the progress of zero-emission models is spectacular. Diesel transactions have fallen by 16.9% and gasoline transactions by 8.7%. At the same time, used electric cars have increased by 42.8% in one year. In total, 27,961 used electric cars changed hands in October 2026, out of 448,986 transactions across all engine types. Zero-emission models also increased by 43.0%, while other environmental labeling categories declined. This shift is not limited to the used car market.

Market transformation highlights electric vehicle growth

October 2026 confirms once again the profound transformation of the automotive energy mix: in one year, the market share of new electric cars has increased from 24% to 41%, illustrating the acceleration of the transition to electric vehicles. Despite the arrival of new competitive and experienced entrants, as illustrated by the Paris Motor Show, traditional manufacturers retain their appeal thanks to models that meet buyer expectations, explains Marie-Laure Nivot, Head of automotive market analysis at AAA DATA.

Used electric car sales split between professionals and individuals

In detail, the sales of used electric cars between professionals and individuals reached 19,530 units. They represent 69.85% of the total used electric cars. Transactions between individuals also increased strongly, with a 66.8% increase. This appetite is partly explained by the surge in diesel prices, around 2.30 euros per liter. SP95-E10 also costs around 2.12 euros in October 2026. Stricter taxes on new gasoline and diesel cars also play a role. The CO2 penalty applies from 108 g/km, and the weight penalty applies above 1,500 kg. However, since September 1, 2026, a new element has tipped the balance. It is a specific CEE grant for the purchase or lease of a used electric car.

CEE grant details and eligibility criteria

This aid is based on the energy savings certificate system, with a dedicated form called TRA-EQ-133. It is open to both individuals and companies, without income conditions. It targets the purchase or long-term lease of a used private electric car. To be eligible, the vehicle must meet several key criteria: be 100% electric and belong to the category of private cars; have been first registered in France between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2023; be purchased or leased from an automobile professional, with a contract of at least 36 months and a vehicle retention period of three years; present a battery in good condition, with a health status of at least 80% or a residual range of at least 200 km; not have already received a CEE grant for the same vehicle, with a limit of five vehicles per individual; hybrids, thermal vehicles, and light commercial vehicles are not eligible for this grant.

CEE grant value and temporary bonus

Each eligible vehicle is entitled to a lump sum of 42,200 kWh cumac. This volume is calculated over a conventional lifespan of 12 years. The program applies to operations initiated between September 1, 2026, and August 31, 2030. The value of the grant depends on the operator who buys the energy savings certificates. In practice, several platforms announce amounts ranging from about 300 to 500 euros for a typical household. For modest incomes, these amounts can be slightly higher, depending on the offers. A temporary bonus also targets home-based aids and certain home-based autonomy services. It allows for an aid level of about 2,000 to 2,250 euros per vehicle. This bonus applies to operations initiated between September 1 and December 31, 2026.

Purchase and lease conditions for CEE grant

The purchase or lease must be completed before July 1, 2027. The vehicle must not exceed 25,000 euros all taxes included, nor 1,800 kg in operating weight. This ensures an important boost for used electric city cars and compact models. It remains to be seen whether this combination of CEE grant and high fuel prices will continue to drive sales. The coming months will show whether the current boom in used electric cars is sustainable.