The German Environment Agency (UBA) has issued a stark warning ahead of the cabinet’s upcoming approval of the 2026 budget, urging targeted financial incentives for electric vehicle (EV) purchases, particularly for lower-income households. UBA President Dirk Messner, in comments to the “Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung” emphasized that without such support, the transition to electric mobility risks becoming exclusionary and generating resentment among those unable to afford it.
Messner stated that subsidies should be directed towards the 30-40 percent of households with the lowest incomes, arguing that the current approach could effectively stall the adoption of EVs. He called on Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) to find solutions within the budgetary framework.
Beyond purchase incentives, the UBA also stressed the importance of increased investment in charging infrastructure. Messner asserted that expanding the availability of charging stations remains a key concern for potential EV owners. He further cautioned that German and European automakers must develop more affordable EV models, otherwise consumers may increasingly turn to Chinese-made alternatives as fuel costs rise due to carbon pricing.
Despite acknowledging the significant challenges, Messner expressed confidence that a complete decarbonization of the transport sector by 2045 is achievable. He highlighted the dual approach of expanding public transportation alongside the electrification of private vehicles as essential components of this goal. The UBA president strongly cautioned against any reconsideration of the planned ban on the registration of new diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles from 2035, instead advocating for a clear commitment to the electrification of individual transport. He reiterated the widespread scientific and industry consensus that electric vehicles represent the future of mobility and underscored the urgent need for targeted support for lower-income households to facilitate their participation in this transition.