Electric Car Incentives 2025: Everything You Need to Know
28 feb 2025
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Buying an electric car is an investment. But here’s the good news: in 2025, several types of financial assistance are available to make the transition easier on your wallet. Ecological bonus, local subsidies… all of these can lower the overall cost by several thousand euros. Want to take advantage of them? We’ll explain everything you need to know to maximize your benefits and switch to electric with complete peace of mind.
Why are there incentives for electric cars?
Encouraging cleaner mobility
The government and regional authorities have a clear goal: speed up the ecological transition. Financial incentives aim to encourage drivers to opt for cleaner, less polluting electric cars. By reducing purchase costs, the aim is to make electric vehicles the norm rather than the exception.
Making electric cars accessible to everyone
As we all know, an electric car can cost more to buy than a combustion-engine model. These incentives help bridge the gap so everyone can afford cleaner mobility without breaking the bank. And with technological advances, battery prices are dropping, which means that eventually electric cars will become as affordable as their combustion-powered equivalents.
Main incentives for buying an electric car in 2025
1. The ecological bonus: a financial aid that makes electric more affordable
The ecological bonus is a financial incentive designed to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles with a low environmental impact. The amount varies according to income and vehicle characteristics, with a clear objective: make the most eco-friendly electric models more accessible.
Ecological bonus amounts
€4,000 for a reference taxable income (RFR) of up to €16,300.
€3,000 for an RFR between €16,300 and €26,200.
€2,000 for an RFR above €26,200.
Plus a €1,000 supplement for residents of overseas departments.
Eligibility conditions
The vehicle must be 100% electric or hydrogen-powered.
Its price must not exceed €47,000 (or €60,000 for a bonus limited to €2,000).
Its weight must not exceed 3.5 tons.
Businesses and the self-employed have not been eligible since 2024; only private individuals can receive the bonus.
Utility vehicles, quadricycles, and electric two-wheelers have not been eligible since December 1, 2024.
The vehicle must meet an environmental score requirement introduced in October 2023 to favor models with the best life-cycle eco-performance.
Since 2025, the manufacturing location is a key factor: vehicles produced in Europe are prioritized, while those made in China are largely excluded unless they meet strict green transport standards or relocate production to Europe.
Good to know: The more eco-friendly the vehicle, the greater the chances of getting a sizable bonus.
2. The ZFE additional bonus: extra help for people in low-emission zones
To speed up the renewal of the vehicle fleet in low-emission zones (ZFE), an additional bonus is granted to drivers who live or work in these areas.
ZFE additional bonus amount
Up to €1,000 on top of the ecological bonus.
Eligibility conditions
You must live or work in a ZFE.
This aid can be combined with the ecological bonus and the conversion premium (as long as it was still in effect).
3. Local and regional incentives: extra help depending on your region
In addition to national incentives, some regions, departments, and municipalities offer grants for the purchase of an electric vehicle.
Local aid amounts
Varies by region, with amounts that can reach up to €6,000 in the Île-de-France region.
Eligibility conditions
The criteria vary depending on the locality. Some incentives are income-based, others target only professionals or residents of specific zones.
Tip: Use an online simulator or check your region’s website to find out which incentives you’re eligible for.
4. The conversion premium: discontinued in 2025
Until 2024, the conversion premium allowed drivers to receive financial support for purchasing an electric vehicle in exchange for scrapping an old polluting combustion-engine car. This incentive is no longer available in 2025, but it’s worth mentioning its former conditions for those who obtained it before it was discontinued.
In 2025, the ecological bonus remains the main incentive for buying an electric car. While some aid programs have ended, local incentives and ZFE additional bonuses can still help reduce the overall investment. Before buying, it’s always advisable to check which programs are still in effect and optimize your budget by taking advantage of the available subsidies. 🚗⚡
How do you qualify for incentives when buying an electric car?
Getting financial aid for purchasing an electric vehicle can seem complex, but the process is actually quite straightforward if you follow the right steps. Whether it’s the ecological bonus or local subsidies, it’s crucial to prepare your paperwork properly and meet the conditions set by the government and local authorities. Here’s a practical guide to help you through it.
Documents you’ll need to apply for aid when buying your electric vehicle
Before submitting your application, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork. An incomplete file can delay the processing of your request. Here’s a list of commonly required documents:
Vehicle registration document: proof that the car is registered in your name.
Purchase invoice: provided by the dealer, this shows you purchased a qualifying vehicle.
Proof of address: a recent electricity, gas, or rent invoice is sufficient.
Bank account details (RIB): needed for receiving the aid directly into your account.
Tip: Some manufacturers include the ecological bonus directly in the purchase price, so you don’t have to apply for it yourself. Ask your dealer before buying.
Steps to follow to receive your incentive
Go to the official platform
For the ecological bonus, the application is made on the government’s dedicated website; you can follow this link.
For local and regional incentives, visit your region or municipality’s website.
Fill out the form and upload your documents
Carefully follow the instructions and provide all requested information.
Upload your documents in PDF format to avoid technical compatibility issues.
Wait for your file to be approved
Once your file is submitted, the relevant authority will review your application.
The processing time varies depending on the type of incentive and can take from a few weeks to several months.
Receive the incentive directly into your bank account
If your application is approved, the payment will be transferred to the bank account you provided.
Good to know: For online applications, some platforms let you track the status of your request in real time. Check your application area regularly so you don’t miss any updates or unnecessary follow-ups.
By being well prepared, you maximize your chances of obtaining your aid quickly and without complications.
Maximizing the incentives: our practical tips
Taking full advantage of the financial incentives available for buying an electric vehicle goes beyond simply submitting an application. By choosing the right car and cleverly combining different subsidies, you can significantly reduce the final cost. Here are a few tips for making the most of the incentives in 2025.
Choose the right vehicle to optimize your incentives
Not all electric cars are eligible for the same incentives. To get the most for your money, consider these criteria:
✔ Vehicle price: To qualify for the maximum ecological bonus, opt for a model priced under €47,000.
✔ Suitable range: A model whose range matches your daily driving needs helps avoid unnecessary spending on a more expensive car.
✔ Environmental score: Introduced in 2023, this factor influences bonus eligibility. The more eco-friendly the model, the higher the bonus.
✔ European manufacturing: Since 2025, vehicles produced in Europe have an advantage when applying for incentives.
Tip: Check official websites to see if your chosen vehicle is included among the models eligible for the ecological bonus and local incentives.
Combine multiple incentives to reduce the purchase price
One of the best ways to optimize your budget is to stack all the incentives you qualify for, depending on your situation and where you live.
✔ A low-income household in a Low-Emission Zone (ZFE) can combine up to €14,000 in aid from the ecological bonus and the ZFE additional bonus.
✔ Some regions and local governments offer subsidies of up to €6,000, such as in the Île-de-France region.
✔ Certain programs are available specifically for business owners and the self-employed. Check if you qualify for any additional grants.
Good to know: An online simulator can help you estimate the total incentives you may receive based on your personal situation and the vehicle you’re interested in.
Electra, your ally for fast, hassle-free charging
Switching to electric is a real change. At Electra, we want it to be simple, fast, and accessible. More than just a charging station network, we support you at every step so you can charge easily and drive with confidence.
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A super-intuitive app: locate, reserve, and pay in just a few clicks.
A user-focused experience: no more charging anxiety – everything is seamless.
Enjoy the best of electric driving with Electra and make the most of the 2025 incentives.
Fast and transparent charging at a fair price
At Electra, we believe that charging an electric car should be simple, fast, and free of surprises. That’s why our ultra-fast chargers can restore up to 400 km of range in 20 minutes, with straightforward pricing and no hidden costs.
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