Extra Financial Assistance for Electric Vehicle Purchases in France
Drivers in France looking to buy an electric vehicle may still qualify for financial aid, even with recent government decreases in available funding. While reductions have been made to the government’s ‘ecological bonus’ and the ‘conversion bonus’ has ended, additional assistance through the Certificats d’Économie d’Énergie (CEE) program may be available.
Understanding the CEE Bonus
Since 2005, the CEE plan has required companies that don’t meet government-established ecological targets to fund energy-saving initiatives. Individuals and businesses that carry out these energy-saving activities can then “sell” the resulting CEE certificates to those companies. This arrangement provides a discount on the work for the consumer, as the sale of the CEE offsets part of the purchase costs. This aid does not cost the government money, as it is paid directly by companies.
Companies failing to meet the government’s decarbonization goals must obtain a certain level of energy-saving activity via CEEs, although the exact formula is complex.
How Electric Vehicle Purchases Benefit
Previously, CEEs were primarily used in property eco-renovation projects and restricted to energy suppliers. However, as of January 2025, vehicle manufacturers are also involved. This changes the landscape for electric vehicle (EV) buyers, with several producers in France now offering CEEs to those buying electric vehicles.
Leading manufacturers, such as Renault and Stellantis (which produces models under Citroên, Peugeot, Vauxhall, and Opel brands, among others), are currently employing the bonus. Other manufacturers may soon follow suit. Unlike some other forms of aid, the CEE bonus is available for private buyers, companies, and even local collectives. It can also be used towards buying an electric voiture sans permis (license-free vehicle).
Bonus Amounts and Application Process
The amount of the bonus received varies depending on the manufacturer and the type of vehicle.
Stellantis, for example, offers a bonus between €300 and €4,500 depending on the vehicle type and buyer status (business or individual). Renault offers a more detailed breakdown. Private purchases could receive up to €310 for an electric car, €2,540 for an electric van, €240 for a license-free vehicle, and €460 for other licensed four-wheel vehicles (quadbikes, etc.). Businesses could potentially qualify for an even larger range of benefits, with full rates available on their website.
Buyers do not need to apply for the bonus in advance. It is deducted directly at the point of purchase for eligible models at participating dealerships. It’s advisable to contact the dealership beforehand to confirm participation and vehicle eligibility.
