End of bike purchase assistance, long live the little queen

The state, since it is difficult to talk about government at the moment, has decided to cut costs and is targeting bicycles.

By decree published on November 29th, France has therefore decided to completely eliminate tax incentives for bike purchases, raising concerns about the future of soft mobility in France. These subsidies, which reached 40 million euros last year, played a crucial role in promoting the use of bicycles as an eco-friendly and economical means of transportation. For households wishing to continue benefiting from this aid, there is only a limited period left because the subsidy will end on January 31, 2025. This deadline makes the situation even more critical, as there is little time to organize and take advantage of the remaining benefits.

The end of these incentives could slow the momentum gained in recent years in favor of cycling. Bicycle advocacy groups fear that this decision will lead to a drop in sales and a decrease in daily bicycle use, thereby jeopardizing objectives related to reducing CO2 emissions and easing urban congestion.

Beyond social and environmental impacts, this removal sparks particular indignation: the savings made by the state are modest compared to current climate and energy challenges. The 40 million euros allocated to these incentives represent a drop in the ocean in the national budget deficit, but these funds have enabled thousands of French people to adopt sustainable modes of transportation.

Despite the end of national aid, some local authorities may continue to offer subsidies to encourage cycling. However, the absence of nationwide support risks creating territorial disparities and slowing down the progress made towards the energy transition.

This decision highlights a very short-sighted view that contradicts climate objectives. Reducing investments in sustainable solutions like bicycles is akin to hampering collective efforts for a less carbon-intensive future, while achieving only minimal budgetary savings in the face of ecological challenges. Disappointing.

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