The Mobility & Consumption Minute of February 2026

In a fast-paced world, staying up to date with the latest trends is an asset. To help you keep up with the essential developments in the consumer and mobility market in France and Europe, find: the Minute Conso and the Minute Mobilité.

Every month, Flavien Neuvy, Economist and Director of the Cetelem Observatory, delivers 2 hot news items in 1 minute flat, perfect for a coffee break! These trends cover 2 key markets for the company: mobility and retail.

The Mobility Minute of February 2026

Electric car in Europe: 1.9 million registrations in 2025

What is the status of the electric car in Europe?

Find the full analysis in the Mobility Minute below:

In 2025, 1.9 million electric vehicles were registered Europe-wide. This represents 17.4% of total sales, an increase of 30% compared to 2024.

The dynamic is particularly marked in some countries:

  • Germany: +43%, with 545,000 registrations
  • Poland: +160%, although market share remains at 9%
  • Spain: +77%, for 9% of sales
  • Italy: +44%, for 6% of volumes
  • Belgium and France: +12.5%

In comparison, the other engines are distributed as follows:

  • Hybrid (plug-in or not): 44% of registrations
  • Gasoline: 26%
  • Diesel: less than 9%

While electric vehicles are making strong progress, hybrids remain the dominant powertrain today. The European car market is therefore still in a transition phase between gradual electrification and the recomposition of the energy mix.

Discover the latest Auto 2026 study by the Cetelem Observatory

With this new 2026 edition, if we observe a worrying situation, we identify five levers that could create a healthy rebound in the automotive sector. An obligation, as the economic and social stakes are so high

The Consumption Minute of February 2026

Running market in France: 12.5 million runners

Running confirms its status as a mass phenomenon in France.

Find the full analysis in the Minute Conso below:

According to the most recent figures:

  • 12.5 million French people regularly run
  • 8 million run at least once a week
  • 48% of practitioners are women
  • More than 11,000 races are organised each year
  • 3 million participants cross a finish line

The 55–64 age group is among the most assiduous participants, while the feminization of sport continues.

A Growing Running Economy

Beyond the practice of sport, running is a real economic driver.

Each runner spends on average:

  • €550 per year to practice
  • Between €150 and €200 for a pair of shoes

The majority of practitioners say they renew their shoes at least once a year.

The running economy in France is thus booming, driven by the growth in the number of runners and the structuring of the sports equipment market.

Find the new 2026 Consumer Study from the Cetelem Observatory

As early as 2016, we were interested in seniors with a study entitled “Towards the golden age of the silver economy?”. At the time, we were far from suspecting that the decline in the birth rate would accelerate to such an extent and that the question of demographic ageing would be so acute 10 years later.

Find out about the latest Consumption study.

FAQ – Mobility and Consumer Markets (February 2026)

What is the market share of the electric car in Europe in 2025?

It represents 17.4% of total registrations, with 1.9 million vehicles sold.

Which country is experiencing the strongest growth in electric sales?

Poland posted the strongest growth in 2025 with an increase of 160%.

Which engine dominates the European car market?

Hybrid vehicles dominate with 44% of registrations.

How many French people run?

12.5 million French people regularly run.

What is the average expense of a runner?

A runner spends an average of €550 per year, mainly on equipment.

Is running becoming more feminine?

Yes. Women now represent 48% of practitioners.