BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - Those hoping to benefit from the German government's new purchase premium for so-called plug-in hybrid cars cannot necessarily count on receiving the subsidy. According to the Environment Ministry, it remains unclear which assessment threshold will apply for a key reference value. The magazine "auto motor und sport" had previously reported on this issue.
Subsidy to Apply Retroactively
Plug-in hybrids are vehicles that can run on both electricity and gasoline. Environment Minister Carsten Schneider (SPD) presented details of the new subsidy for electric cars at the start of the week. Plug-in hybrids and vehicles with a "range extender" are also set to be eligible for funding. Range extenders are small combustion engines that increase the range of electric vehicles.
These cars may receive government support ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 euros, depending on individual circumstances and vehicle type. Pure electric vehicles will receive greater support. Applications are expected to be possible only from May, once the necessary online platform is available. However, the subsidy is intended to apply retroactively to cars registered from the beginning of the year.
Some Details Still Being Finalized
Plug-in hybrids and vehicles with a range extender are only eligible for funding if they emit no more than 60 grams of carbon dioxide (CO2) per kilometer or have an electric range of at least 80 kilometers. The subsidy guidelines are currently being drafted and should be completed by the end of February, a ministry spokesperson told Deutsche Presse-Agentur upon request. Among the details yet to be determined is the assessment threshold for electric range.
Test Procedure Reflects Various Driving Situations
The CO2 emissions of vehicles are determined on a test bench using the so-called WLTP test procedure (Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure). There are various categories depending on what is measured. It is currently unclear whether the combined value will serve as the basis. According to the magazine, this value also reflects longer gasoline-powered journeys, such as on the highway. Alternatively, the WLTP value for urban driving, where users are more likely to use the low-emission electric drive, could be used.
The upper limit of 60 grams CO2 per kilometer would likely be easier to achieve if the urban driving value were used as the basis—potentially making more models eligible for the subsidy./hrz/DP/mis
