Electric mobility: a revolution underway

Today, electric mobility is at the heart of a revolution in the transport sector, marking a crucial shift towards more environmentally-friendly mobility. This movement, which extends beyond France's borders, is seeing electric vehicles (EVs) become an increasingly popular alternative to combustion-powered models. The growing adoption of electric cars, as well as other electric means of transport such as scooters, buses and bicycles, is part of a global strategy to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This trend is accompanied by heightened environmental awareness and efforts to develop an efficient and accessible network of recharging infrastructures. In France, electric mobility benefits from increased support from public authorities and private players. In particular, the French law on the orientation of mobility (Loi LOM) and financial incentives such as the conversion bonus are stimulating the adoption of electric cars by private individuals and professionals, especially in company fleets.

The rise of electric vehicles

Symbols of a new era in travel, electric cars combine innovation, respect for the environment and performance. So how is its growing popularity impacting on the transformation of travel modes?

Overview of the electric car market

The emergence and growth of electric vehicles (EVs) is a central pillar of electric mobility. In recent years, France, like many other countries, has seen a significant increase in the sale of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles: 

• 2020 : Electric car sales have risen significantly, with 107,300 electric vehicles registered in 2020, compared with 42,300 in 2019, an increase of 153.7%.
• 2021 : Electric car sales continued to grow, reaching 303,100 units in 2021, up 63% on 2020.
• 2022 : A total of 459,212 new electric vehicle registrations, representing an increase in market share from 11% to 22%.
• 2023 : Electric vehicle sales are projected to rise by around 35% compared with 2022.

This trend can be explained by growing environmental awareness and the desire of consumers and companies to reduce their carbon footprint(Source: Ministère de la Transition écologique).

Recent statistics show a growing diversification of the EV market, with a range that now extends far beyond passenger cars. From electric buses to scooters and utility vehicles, electrification is affecting all types of vehicle, meeting a wide range of mobility needs.

Advantages of electric cars

The electric vehicle offers a number of key advantages, contributing to its popularity. First and foremost, it is an effective solution for reducing GHG emissions and atmospheric pollutants. The EV plays an active role in combating climate change and improving air quality, particularly in dense urban areas.

Economically, EVs are also very attractive. Although their acquisition cost may be higher than that of combustion-powered cars, they are generally less expensive to maintain and operate. The cost of electricity for recharging is often lower than the cost of traditional fuels, and the electric car benefits from reduced taxes and various financial aidsuch as the conversion bonus.

What's more, driving an electric vehicle offers a different experience, often considered more pleasant due to its silence and responsiveness. This combination of environmental, economic and comfort benefits is helping to make EVs an increasingly preferred option for consumers and businesses alike.

{{cta-block}}

Charging infrastructure

One of the keys to the success of electric mobility is the development of a reliable and accessible network of charging stations. In France, there has been significant growth in EV charging infrastructure, with a wide range of different types of charging station adapted to different needs.

Types of charging stations

Charging stations can be broadly divided into two categories: slow and fast. Home charging stations offer a slow recharging solution for everyday use. They are installed in private residences or condominium parking lots. Public charging stations are generally located in places such as shopping malls, parking lots or on the street. They range from 7.4 or 22 kW slow charging stations to 150 kW fast charging stations. They have the advantage of being easily accessible for drivers on the move. Some charging stations are considered ultra-fast, and are located on freeways and in service stations, enabling charging in less than half an hour. They can deliver up to 400 kW, and are particularly well-suited to vehicles with high-capacity batteries, including heavy-duty vehicles.

Expanding the charging network in France

France has embarked on an active policy to develop its recharging network. The government, in collaboration with local authorities and the private sector, is working hard to increase the number of charging points available. This initiative is crucial to support the growth of the EV fleet and meet the growing needs of users.

Programs such as the "Infrastructures pour la recharge des véhicules électriques" (IRVE) plan aim to facilitate the installation of charging stations in public and private spaces. Financial incentives are also offered to encourage the installation of charging stations in businesses and condominiums.

Technologies and innovations

Technological evolution plays a major role in the improvement of IRVEs. Innovations include the development of fast recharging, which enables a vehicle to be recharged in a considerably shorter time, and wireless or induction recharging, an emerging technology offering greater convenience, although still quite rare.

These technological advances are essential to making EVs more attractive and practical for a wider public, by reducing constraints linked to recharging time or range, while improving the user experience.

Energy transition and public policy

The energy transition and the role of public policy are crucial in promoting and supporting electric mobility in France. But what influence do government decisions have on the adoption of electric vehicles and on national environmental and energy objectives?

The government's role

The transition to electric mobility in France is closely linked to the government's commitment to a sustainable energy policy. Public authorities play a crucial role through the implementation of laws, regulations and support programs. The Loi d'Orientation des Mobilités (LOM), for example, establishes a legal framework to encourage the use of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, setting ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions: 

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: The LOM aims to reduce GHG emissions in the transport sector, in line with France's climate commitments, notably those set out in the Paris Agreement.
• Development of clean mobility: We encourage the adoption of less-polluting vehicles, such as electric and hybrid vehicles, through various incentives and the deployment of infrastructures such as recharging networks.
• Improving accessibility and safety: The law focuses on improving accessibility to means of travel for all, including people with reduced mobility, and aims to enhance road safety.
• Support for innovation and intermodality: This promotes innovation in the transport sector, including the development of intelligent solutions and intermodality, encouraging the combined use of several modes of travel.
• Infrastructure investment: The LOM also provides for significant investment in transport infrastructure, including rail networks and public transport.

In addition, initiatives such as the conversion bonus, the ADVENIR bonus and the ecological bonus are designed to encourage consumers to choose electric vehicles. These financial measures help to offset the higher initial cost of EVs, making electric mobility more accessible.

Energy and environmental objectives

France has set itself clear energy and environmental objectives to support the energy transition. These include significant reductions in CO2 emissions and other atmospheric pollutants, in line with the commitments made under the Paris Climate Agreement.

To achieve these goals, France is counting on the integration of renewable energies into its energy mix, an essential element in ensuring that electric vehicle charging makes a real contribution to sustainable mobility. This strategy implies not only an increase in renewable energy production, but also its efficient integration into electricity distribution networks.

Electric mobility for professionals

Electric mobility is becoming increasingly important in the business world, marking a major shift in business practices across a range of sectors. Electric vehicles are now an integral part of the business landscape, from tax benefits to operational savings.

Corporate adoption

Electric mobility is booming in the business sector. More and more companies in France and elsewhere are adopting fleets of electric vehicles, motivated by environmental, economic and regulatory considerations. EVs offer companies the opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint, in line with sustainable development objectives and growing legal requirements in terms of environmental responsibility.

In addition to the ecological benefits, electric fleets also offer companies substantial cost savings. The reduced maintenance and operating costs of EVs, combined with tax benefits such as tax exemptions and purchase subsidies, make electric vehicles particularly attractive to professionals.

Impact on various sectors

The transition to electric vehicles is having an impact on a number of sectors. In logistics and freight transport, for example, the use of electric commercial vehicles helps to reduce pollutant emissions, particularly in urban areas. The public transport sector is also benefiting from electrification, with the introduction of electric buses improving urban air quality.

On the other hand, service sectors such as delivery, cabs car rental and car-sharing services, are increasingly integrating electric vehicles into their pro fleets. This adoption has a positive impact on the brand image of companies, rental companies and services, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable practices.

Challenges and prospects

The transition to electric mobility, while encouraging, is littered with challenges and opens up interesting prospects for the future. So, what are the current obstacles and expected innovations that will shape the future of electric mobility?

Current challenges

Despite significant advances, electric mobility still faces a number of challenges. One of the most important is the range of electric vehicle batteries, which remains a major concern for many users. Although technological advances have considerably improved range, we still have some way to go to match that of combustion vehicles.

The high initial cost of electric vehicles is another obstacle. Despite government subsidies and long-term savings, the purchase price can be an obstacle for consumers and small businesses.

At the same time, the deployment of IRVEs needs to keep pace with the growth in the electric vehicle fleet. Although France has made significant progress in this area, it is crucial to continue developing a dense, accessible recharging network to meet the growing needs of users.

The future of electric mobility

The future of electric mobility looks bright. Battery innovations, such as higher storage capacities and shorter recharging times, will continue to enhance the performance and appeal of EVs.

The trend towards electrification also extends to other forms of travel, such as heavy trucks and public transport, contributing to a greater reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The growing integration of renewable energies into the power grid also reinforces the ecological aspect of electric mobility.

With growing awareness of environmental issues, the cost-effectiveness of electric vehicles and evolving regulations, we can expect increased adoption of EVs by both private individuals and professionals, making electric mobility a central element of the energy transition.