Extra aid for people buying an electric car in France

Drivers in France looking to purchase an electric vehicle can still receive some funding towards the project, despite a decline in government aid.

Reductions to the government’s ‘ecological bonus’ and an end to the ‘conversion bonus’ have left many thinking that avenues are limited. 

Read more: Which grants exist in France in 2025 to help buy an electric car?

However, did you know drivers can also benefit from certificats d’économie d’énergie (energy certificates or CEE) bonuses to help fund their purchase? 

This aid can reach up to €4,500 for some vehicles. 

Below, we explain how you can acquire the aid.

What is a CEE? 

The CEE plan, in place since 2005, requires certain companies that fail to meet government-set ecological targets to finance energy-saving activities and works.

Individuals who perform energy-saving activities and works can then effectively "sell" the CEE certificate they obtain from these works to the company they have bought the work or activity from.

The consumer ends up making a saving on the work as the sale of this CEE offsets part of the purchase costs. In addition this aid does not cost the government money as it is paid directly by companies.

Companies that fail to reach the government’s decarbonisation targets must reach a certain level of energy-saving activity via CEE they purchase from consumers, although the formula to determine how much they must obtain is complex.

How does it work for electric vehicle purchases?

Previously CEE were restricted mostly to energy suppliers, and usually used for funding eco-renovation projects on properties.

Since January 2025 however, vehicle manufacturers are also affected, meaning several producers in France now hand out CEEs to people buying electric vehicles. 

Manufacturers are now beginning to announce how they will employ CEE.

Currently, Renault and Stellantis (that manufacturers car models under the Citroên, Peugeot, Vauxhall, and Opel brands among others) are employing the bonus, although other manufacturers may follow. 

Unlike certain other aids, CEE bonuses are available for private buyers, personnes morales (related to companies), businesses, and even local collectives. 

In addition, the CEE can also be used to put towards purchasing an electric voiture sans permis (licence-free vehicle). 

Read more: Do licence-free vehicles in France require a roadworthiness test?

How much is the bonus worth? 

Costs vary depending on the manufacturer and the type of vehicle being purchased. 

Stellantis say the bonus reaches between €300 and €4,500 depending on the type of vehicle and who is purchasing it (business, individual, etc). 

Renault has a more in-depth breakdown. 

Private purchases can receive up to €310 towards an electric car, €2,540 towards an electric van, €240 for a licence-free vehicle and €460 for other licenced four-wheel vehicles (quadbikes, etc). 

These figures are higher for businesses – the full rates can be found here. 

How do I apply? 

Purchases do not need to apply for the bonus in advance, as it is deducted directly at the time of purchase if you are eligible and at a participating dealership.

The dealership will tell you in advance if the model you are looking at is eligible – it may be best to call in advance to see if they are participating if you want to benefit.