Automotive industry under pressure: Association calls for a reset for electric mobility

The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) expects an increase in new registrations of electric cars by 53 percent compared to 2024, as made clear at the annual kick-off press conference in Berlin. The association anticipates a total of 873,000 newly registered electric vehicles, 666,000 of which are purely battery models.

However, the conditions are challenging. Last year, sales of electric cars dropped by around 25 percent, with only 380,600 vehicles newly hitting the roads. The VDA thus sees a need for political action, especially in the expansion of charging infrastructure. Despite an increase in charging points, there continue to be regional bottlenecks, which impair the everyday usability of electric vehicles.

Federal Government Plans New Incentives

The federal government is considering targeted support for electric cars produced in Germany. In an interview, Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated that such a regulation would require the approval of the European Commission, and a Europe-wide solution would be the best option in his view. The purchase of electric vehicles cannot be mandated; rather, the models offered must convince consumers. Scholz expressed optimism that new, more advanced, and affordable models could drive the growth of electromobility.

Uncertainty Due to Global Trade Conflicts

In addition to CO₂ regulations, other economic uncertainties are weighing on the automotive industry. The newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at reviewing import tariffs on European cars. At the same time, the industry sees inadequate political frameworks to address these challenges.