BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - The new incentive program for electric vehicles can be claimed retroactively for registrations since the beginning of the year, as previously announced. This follows a resolution passed by the Bundestag in Berlin. However, the government grant cannot yet be applied for, as the corresponding online platform has yet to be launched. According to earlier statements, this is expected to happen in May.
The details of the new purchase premium do not require parliamentary approval. The scheme provides that private customers can apply for state funding when purchasing pure electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and electric vehicles with range extenders. Depending on the vehicle type and personal circumstances, the subsidy ranges between 1,500 and 6,000 euros. However, income caps apply: the payout is limited to households with an annual income of up to 80,000 euros, or 90,000 euros for those with two children.
Subsidies dependent on household income and number of children
The base subsidy for pure electric vehicles amounts to 3,000 euros. For households with a maximum income of 60,000 euros, the grant increases to 4,000 euros, while those with a maximum income of 45,000 euros receive 5,000 euros. The subsidy rises by 500 euros per child, capped at a total increase of 1,000 euros.
Lower amounts are allocated to so-called plug-in hybrids, which can run on both electricity and fuel. For these cars, as well as for vehicles equipped with a range extender, the base subsidy is set at 1,500 euros. Range extenders are small internal combustion engines designed to increase the driving range of electric vehicles.
Greens warn of misguided purchase incentives
During the Bundestag debate, Till Steffen of the Green Party criticized the funding of plug-in hybrids and range-extender vehicles, arguing that they create "absolutely the wrong incentives" as they essentially run on gasoline. Furthermore, he noted that the purchase premium primarily benefits higher earners. "We need an offer that allows a nurse in the countryside to afford a cheap, small electric car. You are leaving those people out in the cold," Steffen said, addressing the governing coalition./hrz/DP/stw
