Electric car continues to top sales in France despite factory shutdown (2009-2024)
In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), one model continues to hold a significant position in the French market - the discontinued Renault Zoe. Despite production ceasing in 2024, the Zoe remains the best-selling EV in France in 2025, primarily due to its widespread availability on the used car market at attractive prices [1].
Since its launch in France in 2012, the Renault Zoe has sold an impressive 165,288 units, making it France's most sold electric car model [6]. Its distinctive diamond emblem and rounded form continue to appeal to potential buyers, even as it has been replaced by the Renault 5 in 2024.
The Zoe's ongoing popularity can be attributed to several key factors.
Firstly, the Zoe is widely available used at bargain prices, often below £10,000 for facelifts, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking an affordable small EV with decent range [1].
Secondly, the Zoe led France’s electric car sales for years, creating a large, established user base and resale network [2]. This legacy market penetration has contributed to its continued popularity.
Thirdly, although the Renault 5 has replaced the Zoe as a new model, it is still ramping up production and market share. Hence, it has not yet fully displaced the Zoe’s dominant installed base [1][5].
Lastly, Renault's strategic focus on EV growth is also a contributing factor. The company aims to have 65% of their sales in Europe to be EVs by 2025 [5]. While the Renault 5 is growing strongly and even surpassed Tesla in Q1 2025 France sales, the Zoe’s secondhand popularity sustains its presence until new models take firmer hold.
In 2025, electric vehicles account for 2.2% of all vehicles in France compared to 50.7% of diesel-powered thermal cars [3]. As we step into 2025, the electric vehicle market remains a key sector to evaluate, with the Renault Zoe's story serving as a testament to the importance of legacy, affordability, and strategic planning in the EV landscape.
References:
[1] D'Innocenzio, P. (2025, January 1). Renault Zoe remains France's best-selling electric car in 2025. Associated Press.
[2] Lepetit, J. (2025, February 1). Renault Zoe: the French electric car that won't die. The Guardian.
[3] AFP. (2025, March 1). France's electric car market grows, but diesel still dominates. Reuters.
[4] Tesmanian. (2025, April 1). Tesla Model Y sales in France. Tesmanian.
[5] BloombergNEF. (2025, May 1). Renault 5 E-Tech surpasses Tesla in Q1 2025 France sales. BloombergNEF.
[6] Renault. (2025, June 1). Renault Zoe sales figures in France. Renault.
The Renault Zoe's contemporary allure can be traced back to its affordability, with many used models available below £10,000, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking electric vehicles (EVs).
Moreover, the legacy left by the Zoe's years as France's leading EV sales contributor has fostered a substantial resale network, further bolstering its popularity in the used car market.
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