Overview

• The SPD parliamentary group published a proposal outlining a €3,000 federal purchase grant for 2026 to 2029 that would be matched by manufacturers or dealers.
• Support would extend to new and used battery-electric cars priced under €45,000 net that are produced in Europe and meet an environmental score.
• A social-leasing program for low-income drivers would begin in 2027 with low rates and a later purchase option, and it could be combined with the grant.
• Dealers would provide a free battery health check with used-EV purchases to increase trust in the second-hand market.
• Proposed financing cites about €3 billion from climate and EU social funds and higher taxes on combustion-engine company cars, while the Environment Ministry declined to confirm circulating figures or income limits.