Practical, economical, and above all environmentally friendly, the praises of the electric scooter never end. And to encourage more and more people to adopt this mode of transport, the State offers a very interesting financial aid: the conversion bonus. If you plan to trade your old vehicle for a superb electric scooter (new or used), this subsidy can greatly lighten your bill. But the question is: what is the amount of the conversion bonus for an electric scooter? And under what conditions are you eligible? The Weebot team answers you! Follow us!
Introduction to the conversion bonus
Originally designed to encourage soft mobility in France, the conversion bonus now allows facilitating the purchase of an electric scooter. But this is only possible under particular conditions. To better understand the scope of this aid, let's look together at all its specifics!
The conversion bonus: What is it?
The conversion bonus is a financial aid set up by the State to support citizens' ecological transition. This subsidy aims to encourage the purchase of more ecological vehicles, mainly in exchange for scrapping old polluting vehicles.
A scheme designed for electric vehicles… but also for scooters!
Although the conversion bonus was originally designed to promote the purchase of electric vehicles (such as electric cars), it can also apply to the purchase of electric scooters, under certain conditions. That said, the electric scooter is not directly eligible for this bonus in its classic version.
Exceptions that allow the inclusion of the electric scooter
Certain situations allow electric scooters to be included in the conversion bonus scheme. For example, if the electric scooter is classified as an Electric Assisted Bicycle (EAB), it can benefit from the bonus. This detail is important because it allows scooters meeting specific technical criteria to be included in the scheme. For example, we find the range electric scooter Ninebot MAX.
Local aids that complement the bonus
Some regions and local authorities go even further by offering specific aids for the purchase of electric scooters. These subsidies can complement or extend the conversion bonus, making the purchase even more advantageous. Town halls and other local authorities sometimes directly include electric scooters in their ecological transition policies, thus offering additional incentives for citizens.
Complementary schemes: aid not to be overlooked
Even though the conversion bonus is strictly regulated, complementary schemes exist. These parallel aids, whether national or local, can make the acquisition of an electric scooter even more accessible. Find out about additional programs that may be offered to you to maximize the benefits of your purchase.
The ultimate goal: to promote ecological modes of transport
At the heart of this scheme is a simple but essential goal: to encourage the abandonment of polluting thermal vehicles for more ecological and energy-efficient alternatives. The electric scooter, as a light and environmentally friendly mode of transport, fits perfectly into this dynamic.
What is the amount of the conversion bonus?
In 2026, the amount of the conversion bonus may vary according to different criteria:
- The reference tax income (RFR)
- The nature of the vehicle being scrapped
- The individual's personal situation
As a general rule, it can reach up to 40% of the vehicle's purchase price, up to a limit of €1,500. And for people with very modest incomes, that is, an RFR less than or equal to €7,100, or with disabilities, the amount of the bonus can go up to €3,000.
Let's take an example: Suppose you want to buy an electric scooter Dualtron Aminia on Weebot for €1,099 and your RFR is below €24,900. In this case, you could benefit from a bonus of about €439. And if your RFR is below €7,100, this aid can double.
How to benefit from this bonus and which vehicles can be scrapped?
The conversion bonus is available to everyone. Then, regarding the vehicle, it only needs to meet a few criteria. In this section, we detail all the necessary information to take advantage of this subsidy, as well as the documents to prepare for your application.
Who can benefit from it?
Benefiting from the conversion bonus is possible for everyone, provided certain criteria are met.
First of all, you must be an adult and reside in France. Then, you must scrap an old vehicle that must have been registered before 2006 for petrol and before 2011 for diesel.
But that’s not all! As mentioned earlier, the RFR is also a determining factor for the conversion bonus. If it is less than or equal to €7,100, you are eligible for the maximum bonus amount, which is €3,000. But if it is less than or equal to €24,900, then you will benefit from the standard bonus, capped at €1,500.
Another important point: Since August 2022, several members of the same tax household can receive the conversion bonus, even if only one vehicle is scrapped. This then constitutes a considerable advantage for families who want to equip themselves with several.
Which vehicles can be scrapped to benefit from the conversion bonus?
To receive the conversion bonus, you must scrap a passenger car or a van. The vehicle must also meet age criteria such as registration before 2006 for petrol and before 2011 for diesel.
As you understand, scrapping is a crucial step to trigger the aid request. So if the vehicle is resold, no bonus. This process ensures that the polluting vehicle will no longer be reused, thus reducing the environmental impact.
How to apply for the conversion bonus for an electric scooter?
The bonus application can be made by the buyer or through the seller if they are authorized to advance the amount of the aid. Then, as soon as the old vehicle is destroyed, you must gather a number of supporting documents:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of residence
- Proof of vehicle scrapping
- Your latest tax notice
The application is made exclusively online, via the official portal of the Agency for Services and Payment (ASP). If your file is eligible, the amount will be directly paid into your bank account or deducted from the purchase price by the seller.
Specific conditions related to the electric scooter: What you need to know
The conversion bonus for an electric scooter is not automatic, and there are some specifics to consider. Here is what you need to know before you start to find out if your scooter can really benefit from the aid.
An electric scooter = A VAE? Not necessarily!
Contrary to what one might think, an electric scooter does not always have to be an Electric Assisted Bicycle (VAE) to benefit from the bonus. Although a VAE easily meets the conditions, the rule is not systematic for scooters. There are indeed exceptions and nuances depending on regions and local policies. Sometimes, models with pedal assistance or moderate power can also be eligible, even without strictly conforming to the VAE definition. It is therefore necessary to look closely at the precise technical characteristics of the intended model.
Technical criteria and performance
Beyond pedal assistance, other technical criteria may come into play. For example, the motor power and battery capacity can influence the eligibility of your electric scooter. If it is too powerful or not suitable for daily use in an urban setting (which includes maximum speed or motor design), it might not be accepted under the conversion bonus. It is therefore essential to fully understand the characteristics of the electric scooter before starting administrative procedures.
The role of local aids in the equation
It is important to remember that some regions or cities offer additional aid. These local aids can sometimes extend or improve the conversion bonus offer by taking into account local specifics, such as emission reduction targets in particular urban areas.
In some municipalities, a simple gesture of support for electric scooter users can result in additional funding or a different bonus, often more advantageous. Find out about the options available in your city!
Opportunity also in the game
One of the often overlooked points is the purchase of a second-hand electric scooter. You can, indeed, benefit from the conversion bonus even for a second-hand electric scooter, provided that the model meets the defined criteria. This can be an excellent way to reduce environmental impact while enjoying a more affordable model. However, it is important to check that the equipment complies with all current standards to avoid having the aid refused.
Upfront verification: avoid mistakes
Before confirming your purchase, make sure that the electric scooter you want to buy is eligible for the conversion bonus. Whether you lean towards an all-terrain electric scooter or a long-range electric scooter for long trips, a technical or administrative detail can make the purchase ineligible. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, it is wise to inquire directly with the competent authorities or a specialized advisor. This can save you time and money while ensuring your application is accepted smoothly.
Are there other cumulative aids?
Yes, the conversion bonus can be combined with other local subsidies. In the Île-de-France region, for example, there is additional aid for the purchase of electric or hybrid vehicles, which can include electric scooters in some cases. Other major cities or metropolitan areas (like Montpellier, Lyon, or Nantes) also implement their own subsidies to promote soft mobility. Fortunately, these can be added to the national bonus, provided the criteria set by each local authority are respected. Thus, before finalizing a purchase, you may need to check the schemes available in your region.
Processing times and fund availability
Once your electric scooter conversion bonus application is submitted, you are probably wondering how long it will take before receiving the aid and whether constraints related to available funds might affect your application. Here is what you need to know to avoid being caught off guard!
Variable timelines depending on the applications
Processing your electric scooter conversion bonus application may take some time, and the timelines are not always the same from one person to another. Generally, it takes between 4 and 6 weeks to receive a response. However, this period can be longer depending on the volume of applications received, especially during peak periods. For example, at the beginning of the year or just before summer, applications may increase, which extends processing times.
The conversion bonus subject to availability of funds
The conversion bonus is funded by the State, but it is not unlimited. This means that each year, a global budget is allocated to this scheme, and once this budget is reached, it can be difficult to benefit from the bonus. Thus, although the aid is generally accessible, it is possible that at the end of the year, funds are exhausted before the end of the fiscal year. It is therefore advisable to apply early in the year so as not to miss this opportunity if the budget becomes saturated.
A system with annual quotas
To ensure effective and balanced management of aids, the conversion bonus often operates with an annual quota. This means that each year, a limited number of bonuses can be granted, depending on the allocated budget. If you wait too long to submit your application, you could end up on a waiting list or even see the bonus temporarily suspended. Quotas are generally reassessed each year, but it is always wise not to wait too long to maximize your chances of obtaining the aid.
Specific periods not to be missed
Certain times of the year can influence the availability of the bonus. For example, special measures may be put in place during ecological campaigns or "mobility weeks," which can allow additional funding or faster processing of applications. Regularly check announcements from the State or local authorities so you don’t miss these times when funds are abundant or more favorable conditions are offered.
Our advice: Anticipate to better benefit
Even though the conversion bonus is generally accessible, it is important to keep in mind that processing times can vary and funds are sometimes limited. If you want to take advantage of this aid, it is better not to delay your application and to closely follow the news on ecological aids to maximize your chances of benefiting. A little anticipation can allow you to fully enjoy this bonus while avoiding unpleasant surprises related to available funds.
Conclusion
In summary, thanks to the conversion bonus, buying an electric scooter becomes much more accessible. Whether you have modest income or are a person with a disability, this aid helps cover a large part of your investment. And in return, the State only asks you to scrap an old and polluting vehicle.
What are you waiting for? Take advantage of this aid to discover the joys of soft urban mobility. On Weebot, we have a very large catalog of electric scooters. Make your choice and start the process to benefit from the conversion bonus!