top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

French fall out of love with diesel

Diesel car sales are falling for the first time in 15 years, but there is still a long way to go

SALES of diesel cars in France are starting to fall for the first time in 15 years, as drivers prepare for anti-diesel measures being introduced by the government and some cities.

Diesel accounted for less than 60% of new cars sold in France in March, down from a 67% market share in the same month last year.

Foreign car manufacturers are moving away from diesel faster. French brands such as PSA Peugeot-Citroën are still selling 69.1% of their vehicles with diesel engines.

The government has promised to lead by example and adopt greener energies - at the moment, 84% of official vehicles run on diesel and this should fall below 50% next year.

Late last year, prime minister Manuel Valls described France's preferential treatment of diesel over the years as "an error" that needs fixing "with intelligence and pragmatism".

The government wants the price of diesel to gradually rise until it is the same as petrol - and some cities have taken the lead to discourage diesel cars, including Paris which wants an ban by 2020, and about 50 towns in the Alpes-Maritimes around Nice which will ban the oldest diesel cars during polluting peaks.

Bonuses of up to €10,000 are available for the purchase of new electric cars. Hybrid cars can attract up to €6,500 in bonuses.

Low-income households can also benefit from a €500 bonus if they trade their old diesel car for a new or second-hand vehicle emitting less than 100g/km of CO².

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France