Auto Market: Renault, Peugeot, Citroën Lead in Sales Among Private Buyers!

The month of April was very favorable for French manufacturers. They recorded increased sales in the market compared to last year.

No, it’s not an April Fools’ joke! French car manufacturers Renault, Peugeot, and Citroën are experiencing great popularity among the national citizens according to the monthly report from the Automobile Platform (PFA) based on AAA Data figures.

With over 132,509 passenger cars (VP) registered on the market in April 2023, the sector is doing well. Renault is leading these registrations, with 22,489 VPs sold, a 50.7% increase compared to the same month last year. Peugeot, with its iconic Peugeot e-208 model, sold 18,789 vehicles last month. The Citroën brand, on the other hand, accounts for just over 10% of the French automotive market last month (i.e., 10,324 VPs).

It must be said that these three manufacturers compete for the heart and wallet of the French. Their respective SUV models will undergo restylings or renewals in the coming years. For example, the Renault Espace 6 is being restyled, just like the e-2008 SUV and the “Aircross” range of Citroën SUVs.

The Renault Mégane, both a sedan and a compact, is now being renewed in the SUV “E-Tech” version. Peugeot, meanwhile, has already unveiled a new model e-308 in September 2022, with a projected market launch this year.

So, good news for the three French manufacturers!

Electric vehicles, the big winners of the French automotive market

It seems that electric cars are very popular among the French. Over 81,997 electric vehicles have been registered since January 2023, compared to 56,202 during the same period last year. This enthusiasm for electrics can be explained in two ways: technological evolution and the variety of vehicles offered.

Indeed, electrification technology is rapidly evolving to satisfy consumers and regulators. Passenger electric vehicles have experienced rapid growth over the past fifteen years. Take Tesla as an example: from the Roadster model launched in 2008 to the Model Y introduced in 2020, technological advancements have allowed the American giant to establish a presence in the electric vehicle market. The Roadster announced a range of 370 km at its time. Today, the Model Y can theoretically travel 514 km (WLTP mixed cycle).

This improvement in range greatly influences the decision to purchase an electric vehicle. Just like with an internal combustion engine car, no one wants to find themselves on the roadside without fuel. The development of charging stations, especially along European highway networks, will eventually solve this issue.

Moreover, French automakers offer a variety of electric vehicles, from city-use models (Toyota Aygo) to more versatile ones (Dacia Spring). These vehicles come in all sizes and price ranges, so you’re sure to find one that suits your budget.

In France, electric vehicles will be among the only ones permitted to circulate in major cities by 2030 due to Low Emission Zones (ZFE). The wide variety of Renault, Peugeot, and Citroën vehicles on the French market will allow you to purchase one within your budget!

Also read: Peugeot e-208, is the 150-euros/month version worth it?