Drop in Sales of Electric Two-Wheelers in France
The French two-wheeler industry is experiencing notable changes at the start of 2024.
While there is an overall increase in the registration of two-wheelers, the sector of electric motorcycles and scooters is suffering a decrease of about 30%.
The figures reveal that between January and March 2024, there are 8,423 registrations of these electric vehicles compared to 11,992 in the same period in 2023.
An Exception in a Growing Market
Despite a rebound in sales of traditional combustion two-wheelers, the electric market is in decline. This is in stark contrast to the boom in electric cars, which continue to attract a growing clientele. The demand for used electric motorcycles is the only electric sector showing growth, with a small increase of 4% compared to the previous year.
The Determinants of a Decline
The analysis by Marie-Laure Nivot from AAA DATA highlights a dependency of the market on a dominant model, without specifying which one. While the range of electric two-wheelers is expanding with manufacturers such as Askoll, Easy-Watts, Super Soco, Piaggio, and Yamaha, the lukewarm success of an unknown leader seems to be enough to shake the entire electric segment.
Christophe Michal from Solly Azar Assurances offers another perspective, noting that rural users remain unconvinced by the limited autonomy of electric scooters, particularly those of 50 cm³, despite technological advances. There is also the thorny issue of cost, often higher compared to thermal options. For motorcyclists, the absence of the characteristic noise of traditional engines seems to be a major obstacle to the adoption of electric.
An Uncertain Future Despite a Challenging Start to the Year
The current data does not necessarily predict the annual trend, given that the winter periods traditionally record fewer sales of two-wheelers. The industry hopes that more assertive political initiatives will encourage the development and growth of the electric market, similar to the automotive sector which already benefits from more substantial support.
In conclusion, the French market for electric two-wheelers is going through a difficult period, requiring serious consideration of technical challenges, consumer expectations, and more sustained political commitment to reverse this downward trend.
