Macron’s restrictions sink the automotive sector: registrations fall by 6.25% through September
Sales of passenger cars and SUVs in France fell sharply in the first nine months of this year, according to the latest data published by the French Automobile Manufacturers’ Committee (CCFA). Registrations dropped by 6.25% compared with the same period in 2024, reaching just over 1.18 million units. Industry representatives attribute much of this decline to the “restrictions” and regulatory measures imposed by Emmanuel Macron’s government, which they claim have weighed heavily on both consumer demand and dealer networks. These measures, which include stricter emissions standards and incentives to shift towards electric mobility, have created uncertainty among buyers still hesitant about the higher costs of new technologies.
The downturn has not been limited to passenger cars. Sales of light commercial vehicles—models weighing less than five tonnes—also suffered a setback. In the January to September period, registrations fell by 8.22% compared with the previous year, totaling 265,958 units. This double decline across the two main categories of the French automotive market highlights the challenges manufacturers face in sustaining demand in an environment of economic uncertainty and rising costs.
In total, combining both passenger and light commercial vehicles, registrations in France until September stood at just over 1.45 million units. This represents an overall year-on-year drop of 6.62%, underlining the fragility of the sector as it navigates a difficult transition toward greener technologies.
Despite the general slowdown, some competition between brands remains intense. Renault once again managed to outperform its long-time domestic rival, Peugeot, securing the top spot in sales during September. The company registered 23,559 vehicles, a modest decline of 1.63% compared to September 2024. Nevertheless, this performance allowed Renault to consolidate a significant share of the French market, with its market penetration reaching 16.78%.
