Transport Minister Bilger: Further E-Auto-Förderung is not needed

Image: Skoda (illustrative)

Steffen Bilger (CDU) took office as Federal Transport Minister in July. In this role, he sees no need for further government purchase incentives after the current electric vehicle subsidy expires.

During a company visit to Neumünster, the CDU politician said according to the Zeit that the subsidies are being utilized intensively. He then added, “For the future, I do not consider further support for electric cars necessary.” Since electric vehicles have developed well and are now cost-effective, they should be able to compete in the market.

The minister sees good prospects for electric cars especially given high fuel prices. He also said “everything should be done to make electricity costs cheaper in Germany.” Many factors currently favor the use of electric vehicles.

In Germany, state subsidies for electric cars, as well as certain plug-in hybrids and so-called range-extender electric vehicles, can be applied for again starting in May. A requirement for this socially tiered subsidy program of the black-red coalition is that the vehicle be newly registered after January 1, 2026. The subsidies can amount to up to 6,000 euros depending on the vehicle, income, and family size. By 2029, three billion euros will be available, which is intended to cover a total of 800,000 vehicles.

An additional focus of the ministry’s efforts should be on using electric trucks and alternative drives for vans. Bilger sees “huge potential” here for climate protection, especially given the vulnerability of the global fuel supply and possible dramatic price fluctuations.

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About the author

Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive industry and finance sector. Since 2011, he has been covering electric cars, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions on ecomento.de. Learn more.

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