Following the presidential announcements regarding the removal of the eco-bonus for vehicles with a “high carbon footprint,” the French Government acknowledges its intention to benefit the local market and production.
In this regard, the government states that taxpayers’ money would not be allocated to incentivize foreign industries.
However, in a conversation with Mobility Portal Europe, l’Association Nationale pour le Développement de la Mobilité Électrique (Avere-France) indicates that there could be negative consequences as a result of the implementation of this measure.
“The government must be aware that by excluding a portion of production from the eco-bonus, the electric vehicle market in France might develop more slowly than expected,” warns the association.
They add, “Parliament has not yet pronounced on the matter. For the moment, we are only in the stage of the presidential announcement.”
If approved, China would be one of the most affected countries, as it is the primary global vehicle manufacturer.
However, Avere-France acknowledges that policies and actions related to electric mobility (implemented by the Executive and Parliament) would indeed contribute to the sector’s development.
“The guidelines for mobility, climate laws, and resilience aimed at accelerating the ecological transition in all aspects of our daily life are perfect examples,” states the association.
Furthermore, they highlight that governmental laws and policies have accelerated the rollout of public charging infrastructure.
It’s worth noting that in May 2023, France surpassed the milestone of 100,000 publicly accessible charging points.
“This signifies a significant step forward in meeting the goals set by the European Union for 2050,” Avere-France considers.
They also acknowledge incentives for electric vehicle adoption, such as the bonuses that have been maintained and reinforced since 2017.
Can France Lead Electric Vehicle Production?
As a consequence of measures aimed at discouraging the entry of Chinese cars, France could not only reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions but also bolster the local production of electric vehicles.
This outcome would not only enable the European country to achieve its climate goals but also challenge the economic forefront in terms of energy transition and clean production at a regional level.
In this regard, France aims to compete with the United States and China, which currently lead in the production and development of electromobility.
Chinese exports could encounter a limit if European countries align with the direction set by Emmanuel Macron, President of France.
To make this measure viable, investments are expected to be implemented.
In this regard, Bruno Le Maire, the Minister of Economy, has already outlined the country’s economic directions:
“We must decarbonise our economy and become a powerhouse in the clean industry with green hydrogen and electric vehicle battery production.”
“This is what we must keep in mind: to be the nation that sets the pace and economic momentum in the European area,” the official added.
For this purpose, a series of benefits have been provided for the establishment of green industries.
A significant case is that of Tesla, the electric automaker, which has chosen multiple countries in the region to set up an electric vehicle manufacturing plant.
While Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, confirmed his presence in China, he promised to make an investment in France, although he didn’t disclose the extent of the commitment to the press.
“I am impressed with Macron, the Government, and France’s industrial policy,” Musk commented.
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