In recent months, there has been a lot of discussion about changing the electric car purchase bonus "Umweltbonus". Many possible changes have been proposed and discussed. From cuts to the complete elimination of the purchase premium, all proposals were included. Now there is finally clarity on how the subsidy will be continued from January 01, 2023. The new subsidy guidelines were published in the Federal Gazette on December 09, 2022 and will therefore officially come into force from January 01, 2023. As a result, electric cars will receive lower subsidies from the government from next year, the purchase support for plug-in hybrids will be completely eliminated and, as requested by many, the minimum holding period will be increased. We have summarized all the important changes for you here.
Change in 2023
The new version of the directive will come into force on January 1, 2023. From this date, the following guidelines will apply:
From this date
- funding applications can no longer be submitted for plug-in hybrid vehicles,
- new reduced subsidy rates apply for battery electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles,
- the minimum holding period is increased to 12 months to 24 months,
- and the previous restriction that young used vehicles can only be subsidized if registered to the second owner is removed.
Further adjustments will follow in 2023 and 2024:
- From September 1, 2023, only private individuals will be able to apply for funding.
- From January 1, 2024, the maximum net list price up to which vehicles are eligible will be reduced to 45,000 euros and the subsidy rates will be simplified.
Source: Federal Gazette / Bafa press release
