Low Emission Zones (ZFE-m): France Not Fully Ready

More than 10,000 French people have been surveyed about their understanding and perception of the ZFE-m by the CSA Research institute.

A recent study conducted by the CSA Research institute in partnership with Allianz insurance and mobility expert Franck Cazenave revealed a divided country regarding Low Emission Zones (ZFE). 

Indeed, 51% of French people were well informed about the ZFE, which is 14 points higher than in 2022. Among those directly affected and concerned by the ZFE, approval of the topic stands at 52%.

The study identified the sentiments of the French regarding the shift towards electric vehicles and their knowledge of ZFE-m (Low Emission Mobility Zones). This is especially important for residents of large metropolitan areas (with more than 150,000 inhabitants) across the country.

They must indeed display a Crit’Air sticker on their combustion engine vehicle to circulate there, with increasingly restrictive measures by 2025.

What are the results of the study? 

The CSA Research study highlighted a lack of information about ZFE. According to the institute, only 37% claim to be sufficiently informed. Moreover, 36% of respondents managed to put the correct Crit’Air sticker on their vehicle at the national level.

However, it is important to properly equip oneself with the correct sticker. Offenders face a fine of up to 450 euros. Some zones, such as the Paris ring road, only admit certain classes of vehicles. The classification of permitted vehicles varies by metropolis. It is therefore the users’ responsibility to stay informed about their local regulations.

Meanwhile, statistics from CSA Research show a hardening of public opinion correlated with increased knowledge of ZFE-m. 49% of people with at least one vehicle affected by the sticker placement are resistant. This rises to 62% among owners of Crit’Air 4, 5, or unrated vehicles.

Some French people may even knowingly violate ZFE rules. According to the study, 36% of them will continue to use their vehicle within ZFE despite the risk of fines or doubts about the implementation of ZFE by 2025. 

What solutions exist regarding the implementation of ZFE-m in France?

For now, not everything is negative. CSA Research’s study reports a willingness to shift to mobility other than cars. 33% of people are considering shared mobility solutions, including: 

• 24% public transportation;
• 9% carpooling or vehicle sharing. 

Alternatively, 17% intend to buy a vehicle that complies with current air pollution standards, and 20% of affected French people are willing to give up their car.

This will not affect everyone equally. Given the price of a new or used vehicle today and ongoing inflation in the country, it is worth thinking twice before deciding to change your vehicle.

Thus, it is up to the government and transportation sector stakeholders to position themselves as leaders on this issue and develop solutions to help the French population get rid of their cars. To good listeners…

Read also: ZFE, which cities have the most polluting cars?