France hits 4,000 E85 fuel stations
The high-ethanol blend produced largely from French agricultural sources is heavily subsidised to attract drivers.
France has passed a new milestone in its push toward cheaper, cleaner mobility with 4,000 service stations across the country now offering Superethanol-E85. The high-ethanol blend produced largely from French agricultural sources is available in roughly 42% of all filling stations, according to industry figures released this week.
E85’s expansion has been steady rather than sudden: on average, more than one new station has opened every day for the past eight years. The rollout reflects both growing consumer interest and the industry’s effort to provide alternatives as fuel prices fluctuate and electrification advances unevenly across the country.
At around €0.72 per litre, E85 remains significantly cheaper than petrol, offering potential annual savings of more than €700 for motorists driving 13,000 km per year, and over €1,100 for higher-mileage drivers. Supporters of the fuel argue that it represents a practical, lower-carbon option for France’s existing fleet of petrol and hybrid vehicles, which will remain on the road for years despite the rise of electric cars.
Industry groups also point to its accessibility. Nearly 93% of French residents now live within 10 km of a station offering E85, making it one of the most widely available alternative fuels in the country.
