Do you know modernization? This technique converts models that were originally thermal to electrical. Until now, it was more of a niche business. Reserved mostly for the wealthy and on old cars. With the European Union’s desire to ban internal combustion engines in 2035, the upgrade is now being followed by mobility players. Cheaper than buying a 100% electric car, it allows, first of all, to recycle used models. Condemned by standards and new environmental restrictions. This applies to utilities, gasoline or diesel. They are expelled from the cities through Crit’Air stickers, Low Emission Zones (ZFE) or even Restricted Traffic Zones (ZTL). Without mentioning conversion bonuses and environmental bonuses that encourage the French to get rid of them prematurely.

Transfer of engineering communications to electrical

Conversion of these models to electric ones will allow keep them alive longer. Also, let them go wherever they want. Although there are still few specialists in this field in France, the first results are promising. For example, the company TOLV (formerly Phoenix Mobility) was a pioneer in France, offering electrical conversion kits to various companies and administrations since 2019. After the city of Grenoble or even the Vinci Autoroutes, it was the Renault group that established a great partnership with the Isère company. This concerns conversion to electric Trafic II phase 1 (2000-2006) at the factory fire factory from Flins (78). After work, its 34 kWh battery provides autonomy 159 kilometers around the city. The next steps will include the Trafic Phase 2 (2006-2014) and Master II (2003-2010) conversions.

New help and simplified rules

Initiatives that prompted the Government to react. And launch a real large-scale plan in favor of modernization. After a consultation last November, last January he increased the amount of the upgrade bonus by 1,000 euros. Now a private car costs 6,000 euros 10,000 euros for a car. In ZFE, you can give a surprise from 1,000 to 3,000 euros. Access to upgrades is also now simplified.

You no longer need to own a vehicle for at least one year to be able to convert it to electric. The state is also working on this more technical and administrative flexibility, and will support the European framework for modernization. This will involve the harmonization of different national structures to create a true European retrofit market. Finally, to encourage new players to enter the sector, The government provides up to 20 million euros for investments in this domain.