Is it great to own an electric car in Germany?

As we enter 2023, more and more motorists in Germany are wondering if it's a good time to make the switch to electric vehicles. Recent figures show that electric car ownership in Germany is on the rise, even accounting for the dip in sales during the Covid-19 lockdown. Whether this is due to a desire to be more environmentally friendly or the availability of government incentives is up for debate. What is certain is that there are both incentives and disincentives to consider when deciding whether to purchase an electric car in Germany. Here, we explore the factors that go into this important decision.

Is now a good time to buy electric?

One important factor to consider when deciding whether to own an electric car in Germany is timing. As with any vehicle, resale value is a key concern for car owners. From the moment you take possession of a car, you stand to lose money on it. With electric car technology constantly improving, many drivers may be wondering if the EV they buy today will hold its value, especially considering the higher price tag of EVs compared to traditional gasoline or diesel cars. Additionally, some may question whether it's worth it to invest in a cheaper electric model when they can still cost around €30,000.

Then there's the issue of grants. The German government recently reduced its grant for purchasing a new EV from €4,000 to €3,000. They were set to eliminate this grant altogether, but the Covid-19 pandemic and resulting lockdown prompted a change of plans, at least for the time being. This raises the question of the government's commitment to subsidizing new EV ownership. If the grant were to be taken away, it could have a negative impact on the decision of whether to buy an electric car in Germany.

This is especially relevant because many new EVs are advertised at the reduced price, with the government subsidy already taken into account. This reduction is applied by dealers, which can be helpful in determining the best electric car to buy as you don't have to pay now and claim the grant later. However, some potential buyers may be less likely to consider electric cars without the discount.

Should I buy an electric car with the current public charging availability?

Another obstacle to electric car ownership in Germany is confidence in charging stations. While there are around 70,000 charging points with an estimated 11,000 rapid charging stations throughout the country, drivers still want to be sure that there is at least one charging station along their route to wherever they need to go. Ideally, motorists should know the location of their nearest charging station and have it programmed into their navigation system to optimize their route.

Charging the car is also a concern for some potential buyers. There are different types of plugs, physically and in terms of the amount of power (in kilowatts, or kW) they can provide and that your EV or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) can accept. This added layer of complexity may discourage some from purchasing an electric car in Germany.

However, efforts are being made to standardize electric charging stations and make them more accessible. As a general rule, electric cars with a charging capacity of 3kW or less are not likely to be compatible with rapid charging stations, which can be frustrating for drivers. On the other hand, EVs with a charging capacity of 7kW or more will be able to use rapid charging stations, which can be a major convenience.

Is it worth it to buy an electric car in Germany considering the cost of charging?

The cost of charging an electric car in Germany is another factor to consider when deciding whether to make the switch. At home, charging an EV can be done overnight using a standard household outlet, which is relatively inexpensive. However, charging on the go can be more expensive, especially if you rely on rapid charging stations. These stations can charge your car much faster than standard outlets, but they also come with a higher price tag.

There are also different types of charging stations to consider. Public charging stations can be found at various locations, including shopping centers, supermarkets, and parking garages, and they are often free or inexpensive to use. However, their availability and reliability can be inconsistent. Private charging stations, on the other hand, can be found at workplaces and residential buildings and are generally more reliable, but they may come with a monthly fee.

It's also worth noting that electric car owners in Germany are eligible for reduced electricity rates, which can help offset the cost of charging. Additionally, some electric car owners in Germany have installed their own charging stations at home, which can be a more convenient and cost-effective option.
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What about the range and performance of electric cars in Germany?

Range anxiety is a common concern among potential electric car buyers, and it's a valid one. While electric cars have come a long way in terms of range, they still can't match the distance that traditional gasoline or diesel cars can travel on a single tank of fuel. This means that electric car owners in Germany may have to plan their trips more carefully and factor in time for charging breaks.

However, it's worth noting that the average person's daily driving distance is generally much shorter than the range of most electric cars on the market. This means that for many drivers, range anxiety may not be as much of an issue as they think. Additionally, as electric car technology improves, ranges are increasing, making it easier for drivers to go longer distances without having to worry about running out of charge.

In terms of performance, electric cars have come a long way and can now compete with traditional gasoline or diesel cars in terms of acceleration and handling. Many electric cars offer instant torque and smooth, quiet operation, making them a joy to drive.

Is it worth it to buy an electric car in Germany considering the environmental benefits?

For many potential electric car buyers, the environmental benefits of electric vehicles are a major factor in their decision. Electric cars produce zero tailpipe emissions, which means they don't contribute to air pollution or climate change. Additionally, electric cars can be powered using renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, further reducing their environmental impact.

It's worth noting, however, that the overall environmental impact of an electric car depends on how it is charged. If an electric car is charged using electricity generated from fossil fuels, such as coal or natural gas, its environmental impact may not be significantly different from that of a traditional gasoline or diesel car. However, if an electric car is charged using renewable energy sources, its environmental impact can be much lower.

Conclusion

So, is it great to own an electric car in Germany? It ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. If you're concerned about the environment, electric cars may be a great choice for you. If you're looking to save money on fuel, electric cars can be a cost-effective option, especially if you take advantage of reduced electricity rates and government grants. If you're worried about range or charging availability, it may be worth considering a plug-in hybrid instead of a fully electric car. Ultimately, the decision of whether to have an electric car in Germany comes down to your individual needs and priorities.

However, if you want to sell your EV quickly, hassle-free and get the best price for it, we would be happy to help at Cardino. Start by valuing your vehicle with the button below. It’s free and it’s just a few clicks!