New regulations have eliminated financial aid for unlicensed electric vehicles, impacting budget-conscious buyers. The removal of the ecological bonus raises prices significantly for popular models like the Citroën Ami and Fiat Topolino. Electric scooters and bicycles also face price hikes. Although consumers can still benefit from bonuses for orders made before the decree’s enforcement, manufacturers are unlikely to offer discounts to mitigate the price increases, creating a tough situation for potential buyers.
New Regulations on Electric Vehicles: A Surprise for Budget-Conscious Buyers
The cost of purchasing a new electric vehicle can be quite daunting. For many households, the idea of opting for a battery-powered car that doesn’t require a license seemed like a more affordable choice. However, recent government decisions have thrown a wrench into those plans. A new decree, effective immediately as of December 1, has redefined the financial aids available for low-polluting vehicles, completely eliminating the ecological bonus for electric quadricycles—vehicles that can be driven without a license.
Impact on Unlicensed Electric Vehicles
Previously, unlicensed electric vehicles could receive financial assistance capped at 250 euros per kilowatt-hour of battery capacity, with a maximum of 27% of the vehicle’s sale price or up to 900 euros. This financial support allowed popular models to be more affordable. For instance, the Citroën Ami, which has just been revamped, now costs 7,990 euros instead of 7,090 euros once the bonus is removed. Similarly, the Fiat Topolino’s price has risen to 9,890 euros from 8,990 euros, and the new Mobilize Duo from Renault is now available for 9,990 euros, up from 9,090 euros. The Ligier Myli, priced at nearly 11,500 euros, would have been a more tempting buy at 10,600 euros with the bonus included.
Unfortunately, the cancellation of the ecological bonus does not stop at unlicensed cars. Electric scooters and bicycles are also affected, leaving riders and cyclists to reassess their budgets. For example, the Niu Uqi Sport scooter will now cost 2,350 euros instead of 1,450 euros, and electric bicycles starting at 2,450 euros will miss out on potential aid of up to 400 euros.
The decree states that any new orders placed after December 1, 2024, will not be eligible for the bonus. However, there is a small window of opportunity for vehicles that have not been registered previously, provided they are ordered or rented before the decree’s enforcement. Consumers must ensure that these vehicles are delivered before February 15, 2025, to take advantage of the remaining bonuses.
Unfortunately, consumers should not expect manufacturers to offer significant discounts to offset the loss of the ecological bonus for these unlicensed vehicles. While price increases may not happen immediately, adjustments could be anticipated in the coming months, leaving buyers in a challenging situation.