Germany's EV subsidy program reaches 100,000 vehicles

Germany's electric vehicle subsidy program has exceeded expectations, with nearly 100,000 vehicles subsidized through October 2026. The program, managed by the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), provides between 1,500 and 6,000 euros per vehicle to eligible households, primarily targeting middle- and low-income earners.

Data shows that approximately 90 percent of the subsidies were granted for pure electric vehicles, while roughly 10 percent went to plug-in hybrids. About half of the subsidized vehicles were leased. The social targeting of the program has been effective, with 50 percent of applicants earning a maximum annual household income of 45,000 euros and 75 percent earning no more than 60,000 euros.

While the Volkswagen Group leads in total approvals with over 20,000, a significant portion of the taxpayer-funded subsidies flows to non-European manufacturers. The Tesla Model Y is the most frequently subsidized individual model, with 10,744 approvals. Other notable models include the Škoda Elroq and the Tesla Model 3. Major corporate recipients include Stellantis, Tesla, and Hyundai Motor Group.