The market for licence-free cars - France

The licence-free car market in France encompasses all economic activities linked to the production and sale of these vehicles. Also known as voiturettes, light quadricycles or VSPs, they are characterized by a speed limit of 45 km/h and can be driven with a simple AM license. In 2024, the French market for VSPs continues to grow at a steady pace. After recording a +96% increase in registrations between 2019 and 2023, the momentum continues with 29,303 units sold in 2024, compared with just 13,415 in 2019 (+118%). France thus retains its status as European leader, concentrating over 50% of licence-free car registrations in Europe. This growth is based on several factors: a new, younger, urban clientele, the rise of electric models and an evolving regulatory framework. Historically popular with senior citizens and rural populations, PSVs are now attracting a younger audience, thanks in particular to the lowering of the minimum driving age to 14. This rejuvenation of the clientele is reinforced by the dynamic marketing positioning of manufacturers, who are promoting more modern designs and on-board technologies attractive to young users. At the same time, electric models are gradually gaining ground: in 2023, 44% of new PSV registrations were electric, compared with just 5% in 2019. This trend is driven by flagship models such as the Citroën Ami, which largely dominates the segment, as well as the Fiat Topolino and Ligier Myli. From an industrial standpoint, the market remains highly concentrated, dominated by three major players: Aixam (33.9% market share), Citroën (29.3%) and Ligier (18.5%), which together will account for over 80% of sales in 2024. Citroën' s recent arrival on the market has upset the balance between the historical players, forcing Aixam and Ligier to step up their efforts in terms of innovation and competitiveness. Despite this positive momentum, there are still challenges ahead. April 15, 2024 marks the introduction of mandatory roadworthiness testing for PSVs, a constraint that is likely to slow down the second-hand market due to the additional costs for owners. 31% of PSVs subject to this inspection fail the test, compared with only 11.56% of conventional light vehicles, due to worn tires, shock absorbers and wheel bearings. Although this new regulation is justified by the imperatives of road safety and the reduction of pollutant emissions, it could have an impact on sales and resale volumes. Finally, the overall automotive context in France has a direct influence on the development of the VSP market: the average price of a new car has jumped from €25,474 in 2013 to €35,474 in 2023, making VSPs more attractive to certain households. In addition, traffic restrictions in urban areas and the growing popularity of car-sharing (+17% between 2021 and 2024) reflect a transformation in consumer expectations. by 2035, the ban on new combustion-powered vehicles should further boost the growth of alternatives such as electric PSVs. In this fast-changing market, manufacturers' ability to innovate, adapt their offering to new regulatory requirements and meet consumer expectations will be key to maintaining the current momentum.