The share of electric city cars in France before 2025
The market for electric vehicles in France has grown by Contrasting trends in October 2024with a total of 23,133 registrations, an increase of registrations down 19.3 1TP3Q compared with October 2023according to Avere-France.
Despite this setback, 1 in 5 vehicles registered this month was electrifiedThis reflects the continuing growth of this segment. Electric city cars, particularly those in the B segment, are still the most popular choice in the market. pillars of this transition thanks to their accessibility and adaptability to urban needs. In addition, models such as the Citroën ë-C3 and the Renault 5 E-tech are among the most registered vehiclesin particular through the social leasingconfirming theconsumer interest in compact, affordable electrical solutions.
To consult :
New Citroën ë-C3: the affordable electric city car available on social leasing!
The Renault 5 electric is back: 400 km of electric drivingautonomyaffordable price
However, the overall performance of electric vehicles is affected by factors such as strategic adjustments by manufacturers and regulatory changesincluding CAFE standards for 2025.
The increased availability of new models and the expansion of the charging stations (close to 150,000 points in September 2024) are expected to supporting the growth of electric city cars. These factors point to a the gradual democratisation of electric vehicles in France, despite the current challenges.
Electric city cars: towards profitable production in France at last?
The French automotive industry has been through more than 20 years of relocationsThis has halved domestic production. Small vehicles were particularly affected by this trend, as manufacturers have focused on top-of-the-range models and Electric SUVs more profitableThis means that environmental issues and accessibility are being overlooked.
It is very difficult to maintain manufacturing in countries with very high cost structures, which are the consequence of the social model that France and Europe have chosen.
According to a report by the FNH and the IMT-IDDRI exploring France's competitiveness in the production of electric city cars, the French production of an electric 100% city car could be competitive by 2030compared with :
- China,
- Spain,
- and Slovakia.
The condition would be relocate 700,000 units, creating 25,800 jobs. Cost differentials between France and these countries (2.5 % with Spain and 2 % with Slovakia) are low and provide little justification for relocation.
You can't build very compact, low-cost cars in a country where costs are high.
Find out more about the man at the helm of the Fiat brands, Peugeot, Opel, Citroën... : End of Carlos Tavares' term at Stellantis: What legacy for electric cars?
In addition, the study shows that thegap with China reaches 6 %but this differential could be offset by higher customs duties and theintegrating environmental criteria into tax regulations such as the ecologic malus and the environmental score.
To consult : Tax on Chinese electric cars: the impact on Europe
Relocating the production of electric city cars is seen as a way of improving the quality of life of the population. a viable solution for maintaining France's competitiveness while supporting employment. Such a strategy would also provide an opportunity to offset the loss of jobs associated with the transition to electric vehicles, by offsetting the 18,500 jobs lost by relocating 700,000 vehicles.
In other words, the future of the electric city car in France looks decidedly bright. With policies favouring local productionand technological advances and a growing demand for sustainable vehiclesThis segment could not only contributing to the ecological transitionbut also boosting employment and theindustrial innovation.
Relocating production lines would offer a unique opportunity to strengthening France's economic sovereignty while meeting the environmental challenges of our time.
The 5 electric city cars on our roads from 2025
Discover the 5 electric city cars that will be causing a stir next year, and why they are so eagerly awaited.
To find out more : What are the most eagerly awaited electric cars of 2025?
Alpine A290: the ultimate sporty electric city car
The Alpine A290, expected in 2025, embodies the revival of the French sporty city car in a 100 % electric format. Designed to combine performance, design bold and practicality, this city car marks a key stage in Alpine's electrification strategy.
With a length of 3.99 metres and a width of 1.82 metresThe Alpine A290 retains compact dimensions that are well suited to the urban environment, while at the same time adopting a more compact design. muscular, racy look. Under the bonnet, it features a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor delivering a power of 220 hp in its GTS versionwhich guarantees dynamic acceleration and an exhilarating driving experience.
La battery of 52 kWh offers range of up to 380 km according to the WLTP cycle, enough to cover daily commutes and suburban escapades. In terms of recharging, the Alpine A290 supports rapid DC chargingto recover 80 % of its capacity in just 30 minutes.
Inside, the A290 does not disappoint. Its modern, sporty interior features top-of-the-range finishes, a advanced digital dashboard and connected technologies. With 5-door and a 326-litre bootWith its unique design, it's ideal for everyday use, while offering remarkable comfort. This Alpine city car is available from €38,700.
Fiat Grande Panda: the rebirth of a compact icon
The Fiat Grande Panda, a emblematic model of the Italian manufactureris getting a facelift for 2025 with an electric 100 % version. This compact city carrenowned for its practical and its accessible designis a strategic choice for democratising electric vehicles in urban environments.
However, the launch of the Grande Panda has been pushed back to 2025 due to challenges linked to development of its embedded software. This delay has not dampened its popularity: even before its release, it won an international award, the Carwow of the Year 2025 awardunderlining its innovative potential and commercial appeal.
Equipped with a 113 horsesIt will work thanks to a LFP battery (Lithium Iron Phosphate) of a 44 kWh capacity. The result of a strategic partnership, this technology ensures increased longevity while optimising costs. Concerning theautonomyThis compact SUV will deliver performance perfectly suited to everyday needs, with a range of 320 km.
Read more : New Fiat Grande Panda: the Italian city car that thinks big
The electric Fiat Grande Panda is based on a platform optimised for urban vehicles. It offers a range of 320 km, thanks to a compact, high-performance battery LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) of a 44 kWh capacity. With a power 113 hp engineIt guarantees smooth, dynamic driving in urban areas and on suburban roads.
What's more, offering a 361-litre bootthe Grande Panda stands out from its competitors. direct rivals such as the Renault 5 and Citroën ë-C3 which offer less load space.
In terms of price, we have a starting at €24,900 for the Red versionand 27,900 for the Prima version.
BYD Seagull: China's rival to the Citroën ë-C3 and Dacia Spring electric city car
VS
Compare the Citroën ë-C3 vs Dacia Spring in our electric car comparison tool
Positioned below the BYD Dolphin in the Chinese manufacturer's range, it is aimed at drivers looking for a a compact, efficient and environmentally-friendly car.
Compact yet spacious, the BYD Seagull is ideally sized for the city, with a length of 3.78 metresa width of 1.72 metres and a height of 1.58 metres. It is based on a platform optimised to offer maximum comfort while remaining agile in urban environments. Sound 2.5-metre wheelbase guarantees spacious interior despite its compact size.
In terms of engines, Seagull is powered by an electric motor driven by an electric motor. LFP battery offering 2 range options: 305 km and 405 km depending on model. This performance is perfectly suited to the needs of daily journeys. Fast DC charging means you can recover 80 % of battery in just 30 minutesThis is an essential asset for urban users in a hurry.
The Seagull's interior doesn't disappoint either: an intuitive digital dashboard, a connected infotainment system and optimised space make it a versatile, modern vehicle. With a competitive launch price of under €20,000 in France (although under €10,000 in China), the BYD Seagull redefines the accessibility of electric vehicles while meeting the expectations of drivers concerned about their environmental impact.
Volkswagen ID.2: the affordable, ambitious electric city car
Among the most eagerly awaited electric city cars of 2025, the Volkswagen ID.2 stands out for its accessible positioning and promising performance. This model marks an important step in the Volkswagen's strategy for democratising electric mobility while offering competitive technical features tailored to everyday needs.
Presented under the ID.2all concept formthe Volkswagen ID.2 is based on the MEB Entry platformespecially designed for compact vehicles. It is equipped with a 38 or 56 kWh battery capacityenabling range of up to 450 km according to the WLTP cycle. Its electric motor delivers around 170bhp, ensuring smooth, responsive driving.
💡Did you know ? A dynamic GTI version is being developed for 2026.
In terms of design, the ID.2 retains the same clean lines and modern of the ID range, while incorporating compact dimensions perfectly suited to urban environments. Compact with its 4.05 metres long, 1.81 metres wide and 1.53 metres hight, the ID.2 will easily find its way around town. Its wheelbase of 2.60 metres still offers comfortable space for passengers
The interior, spacious and connectedIt features an intuitive digital instrument panel and advanced functions such as compatibility with the latest-generation driver assistance systems.
I'm very optimistic about the future. My team and I have worked hard to define the look of the car and the result is even better than the concept. I'm also very proud of the interior, which is beautiful and as spacious as a Golf.
With a starting price around €25,000The Volkswagen ID.2 combines accessibility, technology and respect for the environment, making it an attractive choice for drivers looking for a powerful and affordable electric city car.
Lancia Ypsilon: the return of an icon in an elegant, high-performance electric version
In mid-2025, Lancia will make its return to the electric city car market with the new Ypsilon. In fact, this future electric city car promises a the perfect marriage of iconic Italian style and cutting-edge technology.
Under the bonnet, the Lancia Ypsilon offers a 100 % electric engine developing a an impressive 280 horsepower in its sporty HF version, thanks to a engine placed in front transverse position. This power ensures dynamic, responsive driving, ideal for urban and suburban environments.
Autonomy, thanks to the 115 kW and 156 hp electric motorthe electric version of Ypsilon promises up to 403 km according to the WLTP cycleoffering great flexibility for daily journeys and beyond. Recharging is also simplified, with up to 80% charge in just 24 minutes on a 100 kW terminal.
The exterior design is distinguished by a modernised radiator grilleThis is combined with a bold light signature and premium details that reinforce its sporty, chic look.
The interior leaves nothing to chance, with particular attention paid to theergonomics and connectivity. Ypsilon features a advanced digital dashboard and durable 50% materials for optimum comfort.
Worth noting the starting price is €34,800.
Summary table of the 5 electric city cars from 2025
These models offer wide range of choiceseach tailored to different needs and budgets. Whether you're looking for a sporty car like the Alpine A290, an affordable compact like the Fiat Grande Panda or exceptional range like the Volkswagen ID.2, 2025 promises to be a landmark year for electric city cars.
Here's a summary of the technical specifications of these 5 electric city cars.
| Modèles | Puissance | Capacité batterie maximale | Autonomie maximale | Prix estimé (hors bonus écologique) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Alpine A290
|
220 hp
|
52 kWh
|
Up to 380 km
|
From €38,700
|
|
Fiat Grande Panda
|
113 ea
|
44 kWh
|
Up to 320 km
|
24 900 €
|
|
BYD Seagull
|
75 hp
|
38.9 kWh
|
Up to 405 km
|
Less than €20,000
|
|
Volkswagen ID.2
|
170 hp
|
56 kWh
|
Up to 450 km
|
Less than €25,000
|
|
Lancia Ypsilon
|
280 hp
|
51 kWh
|
Up to 403 km
|
34 800 €
|
Conclusion
With models such as the Alpine A290, the Fiat Grande Panda and the Volkswagen ID.2, the range is diversifying to meet the needs of both the consumer and the manufacturer. performance needs, d'accessibility andautonomy urban drivers. These vehicles are designed to offer an exceptional driving experience while minimising environmental impact.
L'growth of electric city cars in Francesupported by a ever denser network of recharging pointsis a strong signal of the democratisation of electric cars.
But in addition to these new city cars, the transition to electric mobility also requires the development of new technologies. recharging infrastructure reliable and easily accessible. This is where Beev.
Whether you already own an electric city car or are thinking of taking the plunge, Beev is the solution you need for efficient, practical and long-lasting recharging..
You would like toto electric?
Beev offers multi-brand 100% electric vehicles at the best prices, as well as recharging solutions.
