Thermal, Hybrid, Electric: The Real State of the Automotive Market in 2026

The French automotive market is evolving rapidly, but the transition to electric is often misunderstood.

It is still regularly heard that electric cars would be marginal in France or, conversely, that thermal vehicles are already on the verge of disappearance. In reality, the landscape of the French automotive market in 2025-2026 is much more gradual and is particularly dominated by a strong rise in electrified powertrains, rather than a sudden shift.

In 2025, 100% electric cars will represent around 20% of new car registrations in France. A rapid progression, but still far from an absolute majority. However, this trend confirms that electric is now a pillar of the market, rather than a niche.

But the real current leader remains the hybrid. Non-rechargeable hybrid vehicles account for about 40 to 45% of new sales, to which around 6% to 7% for plug-in hybrids are added. Thus, hybrid powertrains largely dominate the French market.

Fully electric is not for tomorrow

In this context, thermal powertrains continue their decline. Gasoline now represents about 20 to 25% of sales, while diesel has fallen below 5%. Ten years ago, these two powertrains accounted for over 70% of the market by themselves. The shift is thus profound, but it is taking place gradually.

However, it is necessary to distinguish the new car market from the total vehicle fleet. Among the cars in circulation, thermal remains very predominant due to the slow turnover of the fleet, with an average age exceeding 11 years in France.

By 2026, the trend is accelerating nonetheless. Certain periods are already showing peaks close to 30% market share for electric in monthly registrations, proving that the dynamic is well established.

You might be interestedin this article:

Hybrid Cars

• 28/04/2026 11:05

Old-school but modern: Nissan resurrects the Terrano!

Simple conclusion: electric is progressing quickly, hybrid still dominates, and thermal is receding without having disappeared. The French market is in transition, not in instant revolution.

ALSO READ: Chinese cars represent 10% of European sales