France launches 2025 round of social leasing for electric cars

The 2025 edition of France’s “leasing social” programme enables modest-income households to lease a new battery electric vehicle (BEV) under long-term contracts at affordable rates. Monthly payments are capped at €200 including VAT, with some models available from €140 per month. Contracts run for a minimum of three years, covering at least 12,000 km annually. At the end of the term, drivers may return the car or purchase it at residual value.

Main features of the scheme

• Target volume: 50,000 vehicles in 2025.
• Government contribution: 27% of the total vehicle cost (up to €7,000).
• Eligibility:
  • Taxable income ≤ €16,300 per household part.
  • Regular long-distance commuting (≥ 15 km each way) or at least 8,000 km driven annually for work.
• Vehicles: Must be new, priced below €47,000 including VAT, and reach an environmental score of at least 60 points.
• Range of models: 36 BEVs are available, including three with leasing offers below €100/month.

Broader significance

The French social lease scheme represents an innovative approach to making electric mobility accessible to lower-income households, while supporting the market uptake of zero-emission vehicles. By expanding affordability, France addresses both social equity and climate objectives, offering a practical model that may inspire similar initiatives in other European countries.

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.