Overview

• The Cour des comptes’ report finds that free travel on large urban networks delivers limited shifts away from cars, with most new trips replacing walking or cycling for short, central journeys.
• Foregone ticket revenue and heavier demand pressure threaten funding for service expansion and bus electrification, the audit warns.
• In Montpellier, free trams and buses lifted ridership by about 20% from autumn 2023 to spring 2024 while cutting roughly €40 million in fare income, according to the report.
• The court recommends refocusing reductions on resource‑based eligibility, strengthening anti‑fraud efforts, and publishing evaluations after significant fare changes.
• Elected officials contest the findings: Montpellier’s mayor calls the report biased and cites roughly 27–33% growth and social‑climate benefits, while leaders in smaller systems like Niort and Aubagne argue that free access can be financially sustainable.