Germany is launching a new electric vehicle (EV) bonus program offering up to €4,500 for qualifying purchases, aiming to boost adoption and support its struggling automotive industry. The initiative, funded by EU and national resources, extends beyond cars to include perhaps other climate-neutral mobility options like e-bikes.
The program,slated to run through 2029,will utilize funds from the EU Climate Social Fund alongside a €3 billion contribution from Germany’s Climate and Change Fund. It’s designed to incentivize consumers to purchase EVs priced under €45,000, with models like the VW ID.3, Opel Astra Electric, and Peugeot e-208 specifically cited as examples.Plug-in hybrids and higher-priced premium vehicles will not be eligible, according to RND.
Beyond new EV purchases, the bonus may also extend to “other forms of climate-neutral mobility,” potentially encompassing e-bikes and similar alternatives. This expansion comes as used electric vehicle sales have lagged, and the program seeks to revitalize that market as well.
The total funding allocated to the program is expected to reach billions of euros by 2029. (Sources: dpa, Bild, RND)
