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Germany Weighs Ending EV Car-Tax Exemption for New Registrations From 2026

A decision at the government 'Autodialog' will test a coalition pledge to keep the incentive through 2035.

Overview

  • The tax break for newly registered battery-electric cars is scheduled to lapse on January 1, 2026 unless the government formally extends it.
  • Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil is reviewing revenue options with a decision expected around the planned industry–government 'Autodialog'.
  • The coalition agreement promised an extension to 2035, and the Transport Ministry signals support for keeping the incentive, though the Finance Ministry leads on the file.
  • The VDA warns expiry would slow electrification and could mean fully electric cars are taxed more than plug‑in hybrids.
  • If the break ends, annual Kfz tax would be weight‑based—about €50 for a light BMW i3 and over €150 for heavy SUVs—with observers expecting a late‑2025 registration surge followed by weaker demand.