The enthusiasm for electric vehicles is growing in France, but a recent study reveals that many owners are regretting their purchase due to the surge in electricity prices. This raises concerns about the transparency and accessibility of charging stations, as well as the lack of clear information in the market.
The Surge in Electricity Prices
Since August 1, 2023, regulated electricity sales tariffs have increased by an average of 10% following the reduction of the tariff shield, a measure that limited the rise in energy prices for households and small businesses. This price increase is causing significant concerns among electric vehicle owners, with 54% now regretting their purchase, according to a study conducted by YouGov for Monta.
Factors of Regret
The Cost of Recharging
One of the main factors contributing to regret is the cost of recharging electric vehicles. The price varies depending on the charging stations used, making it difficult for drivers to know how much they will pay before the end of the charging time. Some drivers only find out the final recharge amount once the charging time is over. However, it is important to note that some charging stations charge per kilowatt-hour, which provides greater transparency. This billing method should become the norm in the future.
The Complexity of the Offering
Another factor contributing to regret is the complexity of the charging offer. It is difficult for drivers to identify the most advantageous charging points in terms of price. While there are several mobile applications that provide information on charging station prices, there is no centralized offer comparator, making it more laborious for drivers to find the most advantageous options.
Accessibility to Charging Points
Accessibility to charging points is also a source of frustration for electric vehicle owners. Sometimes, it is difficult to access the most interesting charging point due to imposed constraints, such as the need to download a specific application, be a customer of a specific mobility operator, or even own a specific vehicle brand. This complexity makes access to charging points more difficult and discourages some users.
Prospects for Electricity Prices
The level of regulated tariffs will depend on the availability of the nuclear park and market prices at the end of the year. EDF's nuclear production will play a crucial role in preventing a price surge. Nuclear energy is more competitive than current market prices, so the more nuclear production there is, the more EDF and competing suppliers can offer competitive tariffs. It is therefore essential to maintain sufficient nuclear production to ensure affordable prices for electric vehicle owners.
* This article aims to provide accessible information about electric vehicle ownership in France. It is important to note that the information provided should not replace the advice of a healthcare professional.
