Sustainable automobility in Europe

Policy Review

France’s Recovery and Resilience Plan

France's Recovery and Resilience Plan earmarks €40.3 billion for initiatives aimed at rejuvenation and reform, with a substantial focus on climate objectives (49.5%) and the digital transition (21.6%). Key investments in the green transition include €4.4 billion for railway modernization and significant tax incentives for the adoption of alternatively-powered vehicles.

EV Tax Benefits and Subsidies

France promotes electric, hybrid, and other lowemission vehicles through exemptions and bonuses, encouraging both household and corporate uptake. For example, eco-friendly vehicle purchases can attract bonuses up to €6,000, with additional incentives for heavy-duty electric vehicles and a scrappage scheme
for low-emission cars and vans.

Mobility Orientation Law (LOM)

The Mobility Orientation Law (LOM), enacted on December 24, 2019, complements these financial incentives by prioritizing the energy transition within the mobility sector. It promotes public transport expansion, carpooling, and electric vehicle adoption, alongside providing local exemptions to the 80 km/h speed limit rule. This law is integral to France's strategy for decarbonizing transportation, a critical component of its climate objectives.[1]

Furthermore, France's commitment to sustainable mobility is underscored by its long-standing development of Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs), known locally as Plans de déplacements urbains (PDUs). Over 32 years, around 160 transport authorities have been engaged in either implementing or developing these plans, aiming to enhance urban transport networks and support eco-friendly transportation solutions, illustrating a comprehensive approach to achieving a greener future.[2][3][4]

Technological Advancements

In June 2023, Electreon secured a tender to launch France's first wireless Electric Road System (ERS) on a 2 kilometre stretch of the A10 highway southwest of Paris, incorporating its innovative wireless dynamic charging technology that allows electric vehicles (EVs) to charge while driving. Additionally, the project includes a static wireless charging system for parked vehicles, eliminating the need for cables. This dual charging approach addresses key challenges in EV adoption by extending vehicle range and reducing charging downtime, marking a significant step towards sustainable mobility in France.

The deployment of Electreon's technology signifies France's proactive stance in embracing advanced solutions for a greener transportation network, potentially revolutionizing infrastructure and mobility by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting cleaner urban environments. This initiative is a pivotal move in Europe's transition towards sustainable transport, setting an example for global efforts to integrate electric roads into mainstream transportation infrastructure and achieve ambitious climate goals.[5]

Infrastructure Development

The Grand Paris Express, managed by Société du Grand Paris (SGP), is a metro rail project set to double the size of the Paris Metro network. It entails the construction of 200 kilometres of new fully-automated metro lines (Lines 15–18) extending to the north, south, east, and west of Paris. Services are expected to operate at a frequency of 2–3 minutes (90 seconds during peak hours).[6]

In May 2023, France revealed plans to invest €2 billion in the enhancement of cycling infrastructure nationwide. The French government has now issued its seventh call for cycling development projects as part of the country's 2023-2027 cycling and walking plan, allocating a budget of €125 million. By April 2024, this budget is anticipated to double, facilitating the implementation of additional projects.[7]

In the southwest of France, a significant rail project known as the "Grand Projet Ferroviaire du Sud-Ouest" (GPSO) will expand the high-speed rail network, connecting Paris to Bordeaux via two new lines: Bordeaux-Toulouse and Bordeaux-Dax. SNCF Réseau anticipates an increase of 5 million passengers annually on these routes. Construction on this €14 billion project is set to commence by the end of the year.[8]

EV Charging Infrastructure

By 2030, France aims to install over 400,000 electric vehicle charging points on its road network, including 50,000 fast charging points. Presently, the public network comprises more than 110,000 charging points, positioning France as the second best-equipped country in Europe, trailing the Netherlands and leading Germany. Last year, approximately 3,000 charging points were installed monthly, with 15% being high-power chargers, ten times faster than those installed in 2019, according to Clément Molizon, the general delegate of Avere-France, the French association for electric mobility development. To support this endeavour, the government announced new measures, including an additional €200 million allocated for 2024-2027, supplementing the €320 million already earmarked for 2016-2023. Furthermore, the ministry revealed an additional €68 million in assistance for the development of fast and ultra-fast charging stations (exceeding 50 kW) and an increase in the tax credit for home charging points from €300 to €500 per station.[9]

Market Trends and Consumer Behavior

In France, the sustainable mobility market and consumer behaviour trends have been significantly influenced by various factors, including advancements in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, governmental policies promoting greener transportation, and a growing consumer preference for sustainable and accessible mobility solutions. The country has seen a notable shift towards electric vehicles, underpinned by improved charging infrastructure and supportive government initiatives, aiming to facilitate a transition to low-emission mobility. France has embraced autonomy level 3 cars and is setting the stage for the adoption of fully autonomous vehicles.[10]

2023 was a banner year for electric vehicles (EVs) in France, buoyed by the introduction of more affordable models and substantial government subsidies. Sales of battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles soared, capturing 26% of the new car market—a remarkable 47% increase from the previous year. This surge resulted in 1,774,729 new EVs hitting the roads, significantly up from the 17% market share in 2022. Plug-in hybrids alone constituted 9% of these sales, underscoring a growing preference for electrified transport. The density of new car sales per 1000 inhabitants also reached 23, surpassing the European average and highlighting France's leading role in the electric mobility transition.[11][12]

The Autonomy Paris 2023 conference highlighted several key trends shaping the future of sustainable mobility in France, such as the transformation of cities into smart mobility labs, the pivotal role of public transport in ensuring accessibility and inclusion, and the emergence of shared and micro-mobility solutions.

These trends underscore the collaborative efforts of cities, public transport authorities, and private companies in redefining mobility to be more sustainable and user-centric. Additionally, the conference emphasized the urgent need to develop electric mobility infrastructure to support the growing adoption of EVs, alongside the corporate shift towards sustainable vehicle fleets.[13]

Public Transportation Systems

In France, buses hold a prominent position in the realm of public transportation, catering to the needs of both urban dwellers and those residing in rural areas. With an impressive 71% share of public transportation usage nationwide, buses are the backbone of the country's transit system, providing essential connectivity and accessibility to various communities. Meanwhile, in major cities such as Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Marseille, Lille, and Rennes, the subway emerges as the second most favoured mode of transport, boasting a 49% usage rate. These underground networks efficiently navigate through bustling city centres, offering commuters a swift and reliable means of travel.[14]

Despite the extensive network of approximately 950,000 kilometres of roads and nearly 30,000 kilometres of railways spanning the country, a significant portion of French commuters, approximately 75%, opt for personal cars to commute to work. This reliance on private vehicles highlights a challenge in promoting sustainable mobility practices and reducing carbon emissions.

However, public transportation still serves a vital role, accommodating approximately 9.1% of travellers and contributing to the overall transportation ecosystem.[15]

While France's transportation infrastructure is robust, the average commute time varies across regions. While some enjoy relatively short commutes of 1 to 29 minutes, a considerable segment of the population spends between 30 to 59 minutes commuting—a duration notably higher than the European average. This variance in commute times underscores the diverse transportation needs and challenges faced by different regions, highlighting the importance of tailored transportation solutions and infrastructure investments.[16]

In response to the evolving landscape of transportation, France implemented the New Railway Pact in 2018, a legislative initiative aimed at consolidating the nation's fragmented railway entities into a unified group. By streamlining operations and fostering competition within the domestic rail market, this pact sought to enhance efficiency, achieve financial stability, and modernize rail services. Moreover, the New Railway Pact incorporates social reforms, aiming to ensure equitable access to transportation services across various demographics.

Through such measures, France demonstrates its commitment to establishing and maintaining a robust, efficient, and socially inclusive public transportation
system that meets the diverse needs of its citizens while advancing sustainable mobility goals.[17]

Environmental Impact and Emissions

Given France's considerable size, dense population, and significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable mobility plays a crucial role in addressing environmental concerns and mitigating climate change impacts. The transport sector stands out as the largest emitter of greenhouse gases in France, accounting for 30% of total emissions in 2021, with road transport alone responsible for 93.8% of these emissions. With an expanding population and increasing urbanization, the demand for transportation continues to rise, exacerbating environmental pressures. Sustainable mobility practices, such as promoting public transportation, investing in electric and hybrid vehicles, and developing cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, are essential for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and curbing emissions. By prioritizing sustainable mobility initiatives, France can not only combat climate change but also enhance air quality, reduce congestion, and promote healthier and more livable cities for its citizens.[18]

Economic and Social Implications

In rural areas across France, residents often face limited sustainable mobility options, relying heavily on personal vehicles due to inadequate public transportation infrastructure. Unlike urban environments where diverse options like extensive public transport networks, cycling paths, and walking routes are readily available, rural communities may lack such amenities, leading to increased carbon emissions and environmental impact. Furthermore, the geographical spread and dispersed nature of rural settlements contribute to longer commute times, exacerbating the reliance on personal vehicles. This dependence not only strains individual budgets due to fuel costs but also hampers efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change.

However, the French government's initiatives to support EV adoption, such as the social leasing program for lower-income drivers, hold promise for rural areas as well. By making EVs more accessible and affordable, these measures can potentially alleviate some of the challenges associated with sustainable mobility in rural France. In 2024, the government plans to reduce
spending by €200 million compared to 2023 to support EV adoption, which is expected to significantly influence the market this year. Additionally, France has launched a new social leasing initiative enabling lower-income drivers to lease electric cars for as little as €100 ($109)
per month, with no down payment and, in some cases, free charging for six months. Initially limited to 20,000 to 25,000 applications, the program is set to expand in the
future.[19]

Best Practices and Case Studies

In addition to efforts to address rural mobility challenges, France has also demonstrated a proactive approach to sustainable mobility in its urban centres.

One notable example is the city of Montpellier, located in the south of France, which has implemented a free public transport policy inspired by Tallinn, Estonia.

This initiative is designed to foster a more inclusive society by removing financial barriers to accessing public transportation, particularly for lower-income groups. By offering free public transport services, Montpellier aims to promote social equity, reduce reliance on private cars, and alleviate traffic congestion and air pollution in the city centre.[20]

Furthermore, France has implemented various urban mobility plans across different cities, including Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux, to improve accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability in urban transportation systems.

These plans often incorporate measures such as expanding public transport networks, promoting active modes of transportation like cycling and walking, implementing car-sharing schemes, and incentivizing the use of electric vehicles.[21][22][23]

Future Perspectives and Emerging Trends

France is making significant strides towards sustainable mobility, with ambitious targets aimed at reducing traffic emissions. The country aims to achieve a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from transport by 2030, aligning with its commitment to the Paris Agreement. This goal is supported by various initiatives, including the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), the expansion of public transport networks, and the promotion of active modes of transportation such as cycling and walking.

Cultural shifts towards sustainable transport preferences are evident in France, with an increasing number of people opting for greener modes of transportation. Initiatives like bike-sharing programs and carpooling services have gained popularity, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental concerns and a desire to reduce carbon emissions.

France's holistic approach to sustainable mobility, which combines technological innovation, policy reform, and societal change, positions the country as a notable player in the transition towards greener transportation solutions. By embracing sustainable mobility initiatives, France not only aims to reduce its environmental footprint but also to create more livable and resilient cities for its citizens.

International Comparisons and Collaborations

France demonstrates its commitment to sustainable transportation through active engagement in two prominent international initiatives. Firstly, it is one of sixteen nations participating in the Electric Vehicles Initiative (EVI), led by the International Energy Agency (IEA). The EVI aims to accelerate the global adoption of electric vehicles, thus advancing greener transportation practices worldwide. France collaborates with countries such as Canada, Chile, China, Finland, Germany, India, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States within this initiative, sharing knowledge and policies to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles.[24]

Additionally, France is part of RESIST, the first Eurocluster approved by the European Commission, along with Spain, the Czech Republic, and Austria. This initiative serves as a one-stop-shop for SMEs within the mobility, transport, and automotive ecosystem, providing access to financing and support for sustainable growth projects.[25]