Transportation Minister Bilger insists on continuing support for electric cars and wants to end the use of internal combustion engines
Image: VW (illustrative)
Bundes Transport Minister Steffen Bilger (CDU) confirmed in an interview with Die Welt the continuation of the government subsidy for electric cars until 2029. He justified this with the need for reliability, arguing that short-term cuts to subsidies would destroy trust. The subsidy is a crucial factor for some buyers.
In his view, no further federal subsidies are needed after the funding ends, as electric cars are already market-ready. The growth of electromobility is independent of incentives or gasoline prices, although both factors currently accelerate the process. For owners of photovoltaic systems, driving an electric car can often be cheaper already today.
Regarding the EU ban on new internal combustion engine vehicles starting in 2035, Bilger believes it was a mistake. The federal government plans to work with Brussels to push for the ban to be revoked. Trade unions and works councils also support this effort. The goal is to continue producing vehicles with various powertrains for the global market as an automotive powerhouse.
The EU Commission’s proposal to reduce CO2 emissions from new cars by only 90 percent instead of 100 percent is not sufficient for the minister. He criticizes the Commission as being too slow and calls for a complete abolition of bans on passenger cars and trucks. A German-French initiative is working to create reliable frameworks as well as planning and investment certainty for the automotive industry.
Bilger emphasizes the need for a compromise, as conditions vary across EU countries due to different production structures. Regarding mobility planning, the minister stresses the goal of achieving climate targets in the transport sector, which should be accomplished through electric mobility and rail investments. However, the decision regarding transportation methods must rest with citizens.
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Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive industry and finance sector. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.
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