Electric, Hybrid, and Thermal: Real Sales in 2026

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

It is still commonly said that electric cars are marginal in France or, conversely, that internal combustion engines are already on the verge of disappearing. In reality, the state of the French automotive market in 2025-2026 is much more gradual and is primarily dominated by a strong increase in electrified powertrains, rather than a sudden shift.

In 2025, 100% electric cars will account for about 20% of new car registrations in France. This is a rapid increase, but still far from an absolute majority. Nevertheless, this trend confirms that electric vehicles have now become a cornerstone of the market, rather than just a niche.

However, the true current leader remains the hybrid. Non-plug-in hybrid vehicles reach about 40 to 45% of new sales, with an additional 6% to 7% for plug-in hybrids. Together, hybrid powertrains dominate the French market significantly.

All-electric is not for tomorrow

In response, 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 combined. The shift is therefore profound, but it is occurring gradually.

However, it is important to distinguish between the new car market and the total automotive fleet. In terms of vehicles on the road, thermal engines still dominate due to the slow renewal of the fleet, which has an average age exceeding 11 years in France.

In 2026, the trend is expected to accelerate. Certain periods already show peaks close to 30% market share for electric vehicles in monthly registrations, proving that this dynamic is well established.

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Simple conclusion: electric vehicles are progressing quickly, hybrids still dominate, and thermal engines are declining without having disappeared. The French market is in transition, not in instant revolution.

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