Millions of motorists in France could receive extra help with fuel costs under a new €1.2billion support package announced as petrol and diesel prices remain high due to the conflict in the Middle East.
The measures include a doubling of the fuel allowance for lower-income commuters, higher support for several professions heavily dependent on driving, and new incentives to switch to electric vehicles.
The payment targets around three million lower-income workers who depend on their car to commute or work. Applications open on May 27 via the French tax website impots.gouv.fr.
To qualify, applicants must live in France, have a 2024 taxable income per household share of no more than €16,880, and either travel at least 15km each way to work or drive more than 8,000km annually for professional purposes.
Only one payment can be claimed per vehicle. Electric cars, hydrogen vehicles, company cars and heavy goods vehicles are not eligible.
Separate support available through employers has also been increased. The tax-free ‘prime carburant’ that companies can choose to pay staff will rise from a maximum of €300 to €600, while access rules have been simplified.
Employees will no longer need to prove they lack access to public transport in order to receive it.
Support for workers
Several fuel support schemes introduced earlier this year will continue for another three months.
Fishermen will receive between €0.30 and €0.35 per litre of fuel, while farmers will continue to receive €0.15 per litre on non-road diesel.
Support for the construction sector has also been widened. Companies with up to 50 employees - previously the limit was 20 - will be eligible for assistance worth €0.20 per litre of construction diesel.
Road haulage firms will continue to benefit from a dedicated support fund worth €55million per month.
Other measures focus on workers who drive extensively as part of their job.
Home carers will receive higher mileage payments and access to subsidised electric car leasing schemes costing between €50 and €90 per month.
Taxi drivers will also be able to apply from October for grants of up to €5,500 towards the purchase of an electric vehicle assembled within the European Economic Area, on top of existing environmental bonuses.
