Electric mobility in Germany is currently at a decisive stage, marked by challenges arising from the potential dissolution of the “Ampel” coalition and the political uncertainty this generates.
This scenario could present a key opportunity for candidates in the upcoming February elections to intensify their efforts towards a sustainable transition.
York Kolb, Managing Director at BRANDS IN GREEN GmbH, warns Mobility Portal Europe that the collapse of the current political group could have negative effects on electromobility.
He stresses: “The abrupt removal of subsidies for private electric vehicles (EVs) stalled market growth.”
In this regard, he argues that as long as EVs remain more expensive than conventional vehicles, their mass adoption will continue to be limited.
He also asserts that although charging infrastructure is improving with projects like “Deutschlandnetz,” it has not been sufficient to change the general perception of consumers.
“The government’s indecisive approach and inconsistent subsidy programmes have eroded consumer trust, slowing the shift to cleaner mobility,” he mentions.
Meanwhile, the BBNM e.V. Association maintains that coalition discussions in key states such as Brandenburg, Saxony, and Thuringia must include strategic measures to promote sustainability in transport.
In this context, experts agree that the next government must establish clear priorities to ensure the progress of electromobility.
Kolb emphasises that economic incentives are crucial to democratise access to electric mobility.
These programmes must particularly target middle- and low-income sectors, where the adoption of clean technologies remains a challenge.
Furthermore, he adds: “The focus should be on pushing original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to produce affordable EVs.”
Without an increase in the supply of electric units at competitive prices, the transition will continue to be slow.
Regarding charging infrastructure, BBNM e.V. highlights the importance of implementing stations on private land with public access, which could alleviate pressures in urban areas.
It also underscores the need to comply with European regulations on minimum capacity per registered vehicle.
Support for electric logistics is also crucial.
“Accelerating the charging infrastructure rollout and making eTrucks more accessible for smaller businesses are also key priorities,” affirms York Kolb.
Promoting eMobility advisory services is another point highlighted by BBNM, which notes that many initiatives fail due to a lack of technical knowledge among project leaders.
It recommends incorporating certified consultancies into state programmes.
Additionally, the association underscores the need to modernise energy infrastructure to avoid bottlenecks in electricity supply.
“We propose training operators in smart digital networks and electromobility,” they state to Mobility Portal Europe.
However, the potential rise of right-wing populist parties could represent a significant setback for the sector.
Kolb warns: “These parties tend to favor fossil fuels, which could hinder renewable energy expansion—essential for sustainable electromobility..”
Currently, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s leadership is under scrutiny, and the elections scheduled for February will determine the future of electromobility in Germany.
Robert Habeck, Vice Chancellor and leader of the Greens, reaffirms his party’s commitment to the climate agenda and remains open to new alliances after the elections.
What is at stake?
The current political landscape defines Germany’s leadership in the European energy transition.
So far in 2024, the country has seen a 27% decline in EV sales, mainly due to the removal of the environmental bonus in December 2023.
It is worth noting that the country set ambitious targets for 2030: 15 million electric vehicles on the road and one million charging points across the nation.
The reintroduction of subsidies, expansion of infrastructure, and support for small businesses will be crucial to the success of this transition.
In this regard, Kolb states: “The majority of people are open to the switch if it is easy and affordable.”
He concludes: “For purely ideological reasons, the masses will only switch when combustion engines become unprofitable as an alternative.”
