Leading figures from Germany’s two major political parties, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD), are advocating for significantly enhanced incentives to promote the purchase of electric vehicles. The stated aim is to facilitate the transition to environmentally friendly mobility while simultaneously bolstering Germany’s automotive industry.
According to comments shared with “Handelsblatt”, Sepp Müller, Deputy Chairman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, emphasized the importance of implementing the incentives initially outlined in the governing coalition agreement. He stated that doing so is vital to achieving the desired goals.
Sebastian Roloff, SPD’s spokesperson for economic policy, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the upcoming automotive industry dialogue scheduled for October 9th at the Chancellery. He asserted that this forum should result in “clear agreements” regarding the support the government can provide. “A clear commitment to electric mobility and support along that path, such as the purchase incentives stipulated in the coalition agreement, is necessary.
Both Müller and Roloff specifically urged for the extension of the current exemption from vehicle tax (Kfz-Steuer), which is set to expire at the end of the year, to 2035. Other incentives included in the coalition agreement and previously stalled due to budgetary constraints, encompass a program of “social leasing” expanded charging infrastructure, increased promotion of rapid charging capabilities, as well as support for commercial charging depots. The coalition also expressed interest in fostering the adoption of hybrid vehicles. The October dialogue aims to address these issues and hopefully unlock the necessary funding.