■ Just limited Support in Germany for the Proposed Ban on Combustion Engines!

By Deloitte Translation AutoNews24

Negative Attitudes Increase with Age

Almost half of respondents desire more significant support for local public transport.

Deloitte Forecast: Only 11.2 Million Electric Cars Projected on the Road by 2030

Munich, December 11, 2024 - Many people in Germany hesitate to embrace the transition to electric vehicles. A recent representative survey by Deloitte reveals that less than half (40%) support the EU’s proposed ban on combustion engines set for 2035. Conversely, 36 per cent of consumers rate the decision to stop selling new CO2-emitting vehicles as bad or very bad, while the remaining 24 per cent are neutral.

Younger individuals tend to be more receptive to EU regulations than older generations. Over half of respondents (57%) aged 18 to 34 support the ban, while only around 20% oppose it. Discontent with the ban increases with age, peaking among individuals aged 55 to 64, where 56 per cent view the EU decision unfavourably.

Dr Harald Proff, partner and head of the automotive sector at Deloitte, notes: "To foster acceptance of electromobility, reliable framework conditions are essential, as companies need planning security. More affordable electric vehicles are also crucial since they represent the main demand from consumers. A comprehensive and dependable charging station network must complement this."

Many opponents of the ban are firm in their stance, with 71 per cent opposing the sale of CO2-emitting vehicles in the EU, representing 25 per cent of all survey respondents. Nearly one-fifth (18%) of those against the proposed ban would prefer to postpone it. At the same time, another seven per cent would consider partial implementation, such as in specific regions or based on the number of vehicles.

Support for Local Transport

When asked about other climate protection measures, 46 per cent of consumers expressed a desire for increased support for local transport. About a third (36%) favour synthetic fuels and alternative drives, while 29% support greater electric vehicle incentives. Only 11 per cent would like to see an earlier ban on combustion engines, and 9 per cent are opposed to any climate protection measures.

The target of having 15 million electric cars on the road by 2030 appears challenging. According to Deloitte's calculations, Germany is expected to have only 11.2 million electric vehicles on the road in five years. Despite this, Dr Proff asserts that the shift towards electromobility is inevitable, given global regulations, new market players, and the worsening effects of climate change. He advises companies to invest more in battery research to reduce vehicle prices and enhance acceptance of e-mobility.

In addition to transitioning to electric vehicles, altering mobility habits is vital for climate protection. Dr Proff explains: "Smart mobility, which utilises apps and new technologies to suggest the quickest and most convenient transport methods, can encourage sustainable behaviours, such as reducing private car use. Simultaneously, automobile companies can create new revenue streams through such mobility concepts. There is significant untapped potential in this area."

This consumer preference data was gathered as part of a survey conducted at the end of October among 1,000 individuals aged 18 and older in Germany.