SPD Slams Rapid Subsidy Termination for Electric Cars by Habeck
As this Sunday marks the deadline for state subsidies for electric car purchases, the SPD parliamentary group has voiced its disapproval of the quick announcement made on Saturday by Economics Minister Robert Habeck, deeming it "regrettable." The group insists on a more gradual transition from the subsidy program.
The SPD parliamentarians express their concern over the abrupt termination of the state incentive for electric vehicles, with three deputy group leaders explicitly stating that the funding cessation scheduled for December 17, 2022, announced at short notice, is unfortunate. They further implore Climate Protection Minister Habeck to arrange a more controlled transition.
The group members acknowledge the need for budgetary savings across various sectors yet support the premature expiration of the e-car subsidy program, which was initially due to end in 2024. However, they advocate for a more suitable transition timeframe, taking into account consumer calculations and considerations when purchasing a new vehicle.
Extra Information
The Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (Bafa) announced that it would only continue to process applications received up to December 18, while subsidies already approved will remain unaffected.
Criticism from the Zentralverband Deutsches Kraftfahrzeuggewerbe (ZDK) also emerged, with President Arne Joswig expressing his dismay over the sudden termination of the subsidy. He suggested extending the environmental bonus until the end of the year and prolonging registration office hours until December 31, 2023, to minimize the negative impact on customers.
The SPD parliamentary group supports the ZDK's stance, sharing their disappointment in the swift cancelation of electric car subsidies, which many customers assumed would continue.
- An overview of the SPD's and the Green Party's positions on EVs, tax cuts, and the EU ban on new petrol/diesel cars can be found .
- The CDU and the AfD voiced their opposition to the EU ban and expressed their belief in market-based solutions. You can explore these perspectives further in detail .
- Explore the complexities of the subsidy phase-out and its impact on domestic and foreign EV manufacturers .
- Learn about how the CDU's electoral success and the AfD's influence on voter priorities are shaping Germany's energy and climate policies .
- Discover the importance of grid fee reductions and flexible demand in energy and climate policies .
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