Electric car sales hit a record in France in 2023
PARIS: In 2023, electric cars, either partially or entirely, achieved a record in France, constituting one in every four cars, according to a report published on Monday by the “Platform Automobile” (PFA), representing manufacturers and equipment makers. Fully electric vehicles represented 16.8 percent of the total registrations in 2023, while hybrid vehicles accounted for 9.2 percent.
The share of gasoline-powered engines remained stable, constituting more than one-third of the vehicles put into service last year. However, diesel-powered vehicles continued their decline, making up less than one in ten new private passenger cars hitting the roads in 2023.
The Association of Electric Transport Professionals noted that over one and a half million electric and hybrid vehicles are already present on French roads. Tesla largely dominates the electric car market in France and Europe, followed by the small Chinese cars, “Dacia Spring” and “MG 4,” then “Fiat 500e” and “Renault Megane,” which leads among French-origin cars. Among the top deals observed in 2023, Tesla Model 3 (2022) stood out as the best sedan for beginners with an excellent rating of 4.5 out of 5, according to the specialized magazine “BC Mag.”
In second place, Tesla Model Y (2022) was recognized as the best crossover for beginners with an excellent rating of 4.5. The third position was secured by the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning as the best pickup truck for most people, scoring an excellent 4.0. Following these, the “Rivian R1T” was named the best high-performance pickup truck with an excellent rating of 4.0. The 2023 BMW iX took the lead as the best luxury SUV with fourwheel drive, also earning an excellent 4.0. The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV was recognized as the best small electric hatchback with an excellent 4.0, while the 2023 Genesis GV60 earned an excellent 4.0 as the best alternative to the Tesla Model Y. The “Hyundai Ioniq 6” (2023) followed as the most stylish sedan with an excellent rating of 4.0, and the 2023 Kia EV6 came next as the best mid-priced crossover with an excellent 4.0 rating.