The beginning of a new year often signifies changes, and 2026 will be no exception for French motorists. Between stricter regulations and new opportunities for electric cars, the automotive landscape is set to undergo a true revolution. Whether you are a car enthusiast or just an average driver, here are the five major changes awaiting you starting January 1st.
An Evolving Technical Inspection
After being thrust into the spotlight due to the Takata airbag scandal, the technical inspection is taking a decisive turn. Starting January 1, 2026, any defect related to a non-replaced airbag will be considered “critical.” In simple terms, if your vehicle does not meet the standards, you risk a re-inspection, and you will be prohibited from driving as of the evening of the examination! But beware, only recalls categorized as “stop drive” will be subject to this rigor. For other types of recalls, a mention on the report will suffice. Additionally, technical inspection centers will now have the ability to transmit your contact details to manufacturers to prevent recall letters from getting lost in cyberspace.
The Takata airbag scandal is the origin of an evolution in technical inspection in 2026. © Skoda
A Revised and Strengthened Ecological Bonus
For electric car enthusiasts, the news is quite delightful. The ecological bonus, recently renamed “boost grant,” has seen its amounts increased. Now, the aid can reach between €3,500 and €5,700, depending on your income. Even better, if your vehicle has a battery produced in Europe, you can benefit from a “super bonus.” To top it off, the end date of the scheme has been removed, suggesting a generous outlook in the coming months. However, it should be noted that this system now relies on energy savings certificates (CEE), thus easing the state’s budget.
Electric car buyers will be able to benefit from a more generous bonus. © Renault
Rising Fuel Prices
Ah, the good old gas pump… The flip side of the new ecological bonus is the announced increase in prices at the pump. Energy savings certificates are indeed financed by energy suppliers, who will not hesitate to pass these costs onto their customers. We are talking about an increase of 4 to 6 cents per liter. After a welcome period of decline, prepare to see your fill-up cost a bit more starting in early 2026. Fortunately, the proposed tax increase on superethanol E85 has been rejected, thus providing a bit of relief for drivers of this alternative fuel.
An Even Stricter Ecological Penalty
The ecological penalty, for its part, will not hold back. Starting January 1, 2026, the tax will apply from 108 g/km of CO2, down from 113 g/km previously. In other words, expect to see more vehicles subject to this tax, and the amounts will not be insignificant. For example, for a vehicle emitting 140 g/km, the penalty will rise from €1,504 to €2,205. The tax ceiling will also be raised from €70,000 to €80,000. And for those hoping to escape the weight penalty, know that it now starts at 1,500 kg instead of 1,600 kg. However, rest assured, light hybrids will still benefit from a reduction until January 2027.
Hybrid models spared by the ecological penalty will become increasingly rare, even if the amount of the tax remains often low. © Alex Krassovsky
New Pink License Plates
Finally, don’t be surprised if you come across pink license plates in the coming months. These new temporary plates have been chosen by the state to facilitate their identification by law enforcement. The goal is clear: to combat certain abuses related to registrations. These plates, often used for imports, will now be highly visible and should simplify the work of the authorities.
Temporary license plates will now adopt a highly visible pink color. © Didier RIC
In summary, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for French motorists. Between rising taxes, enhanced incentives for purchasing ecological vehicles, and evolving technical inspections, it is time to prepare to navigate this new automotive landscape. To stay informed about the latest trends and regulations, feel free to check our Automotive News section.
