BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - The new government purchase incentive for electric vehicles has launched to significant demand. The dedicated portal was activated during a press conference with Federal Environment Minister Carsten Schneider (SPD). Many prospective buyers were evidently ready to act: by the end of the half-hour event, the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) had already received 1,858 applications.
Identification via BundID
The application process is fully digital. It requires a BundID, an account used for online identification with government authorities.
Schneider stated that the program supports the climate, the industry, and low-income households, who are eligible for higher payouts. He added: 'Driving an electric car is also a hell of a lot of fun.'
Eligibility criteria
The subsidies apply to the purchase and leasing of new electric vehicles, certain plug-in hybrids capable of running on both electricity and fuel, and electric vehicles equipped with range extenders. The latter are small internal combustion engines designed to increase the vehicle's range.
To qualify, the vehicle must have been registered on or after January 1 of this year. The amount of the state grant depends on the vehicle type, income, and family size, reaching up to 6,000 euros. The incentive is restricted to private vehicles and excludes company cars.
Funding is expected to cover up to 800,000 vehicles. 'Subsidies can be applied for up to one year after registration,' Schneider said. 'There is therefore plenty of time.'
Transport association praises incentive
The ecologically oriented transport association VCD (Verkehrsclub Deutschland) praised the incentive as a vital catalyst. 'Unlike the fuel discount, it encourages the transition to efficient and climate-friendly propulsion,' said VCD transport expert Michael Mueller-Goernert. 'This helps cushion the impact of high fuel prices and reduces our dependence on oil.'
At the same time, the VCD called for more extensive regulations. 'In addition to new cars, used EVs should also be included in the subsidy scheme - many households still cannot afford a new car despite the incentive,' Mueller-Goernert added.
Automotive trade points to unresolved issues
The Central Association of the German Automotive Trade (ZDK) welcomed the new funding but urged the resolution of remaining questions. Since dealers cannot conclusively verify the individual eligibility requirements of applicants, a prompt solution from the Environment Ministry and BAFA is needed, emphasized ZDK President Thomas Peckruhn.
'A uniform, legally secure liability waiver clause, integrated directly into the application process, would provide businesses with the necessary security and create a bureaucratically fair foundation for all parties involved,' Peckruhn stated./hrz/DP/jha
