Despite the temporary halt in production, the electric car in question has retained its position as France's top-selling vehicle from 2009 to 2024.
Renault Zoe Remains France's Best-Selling Electric Car in 2025
In an unexpected twist, the discontinued Renault Zoe continues to reign as France's top-selling electric vehicle (EV) in 2025, despite the launch of the new Renault 5 and other competitive models.
The Zoe's dominance can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, its widespread availability on the used market at bargain prices, often under £10,000, makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking an affordable electric vehicle [1].
Secondly, the Zoe's practicality and decent range for its size have sustained demand in the second-hand market. Although it has faced criticism, such as a zero Euro NCAP safety rating and limited rear seat space, it remains a suitable option for many urban and suburban users [1].
Thirdly, Renault's focus on newer EVs like the Renault 5 E-Tech, Alpine, and others has not yet completely eclipsed the Zoe's longstanding sales footprint, particularly in the used car segment. The full sales volume from these new models has not yet reached the levels achieved by the Zoe during its peak year of 2020, when it sold 37,410 units [2].
Fourthly, the Zoe's decade-long legacy as a pioneering EV has entrenched consumer trust and recognition. Many French customers continue to prefer the Zoe over newly launched Renault EVs with different designs and sizes, including the Renault 5 [1][5].
Lastly, some feedback suggests challenges with charging infrastructure and range sufficiency for some users, which might lead buyers to choose the Zoe as a known quantity with established support rather than newer alternatives [4].
Meanwhile, the Tesla Model Y, the best-selling electric car of 2024, has sold 79,102 times since its launch in France in 2020. The Model Y pairs well with the Model 3, which also ranks third on the list [3]. The Peugeot E-208, with sales of 99,995 units, completes the top three [2].
Despite the Renault Zoe's continued success, it is important to note that the EV market is rapidly evolving. As newer models are introduced and charging infrastructure improves, it will be interesting to see how the landscape changes in the coming years.
References: 1. www.autocar.co.uk 2. www.bloomberg.com 3. www.tesla.com 4. www.electrek.co 5. www.carscoops.com
The discontinued Renault Zoe's dominance in the used car segment extends beyond new models like electric-vehicles such as the Renault 5 E-Tech, Alpine, and others, due to factors such as its affordable pricing, practicality, and a decade-long legacy. On the other hand, technology-driven electric-vehicles like the Tesla Model Y, although best-selling in 2024, might still struggle to gain consumer trust and recognition compared to established models in the used car market, such as the Renault Zoe.
