Volkswagen boss and statement: “E-cars are now technically better”

In Germany, the development of electricity is very much at a standstill. Experts suspect that this is due to the lack of subsidies when buying an electric car. However, VW boss Oliver Blume advises against “throwing in the towel if there is a headwind”. In this sense, he demands, among other things, more support and binding guidelines from politicians.

Volkswagen is planning more affordable electric cars

Sales of electric vehicles also weakened significantly in March 2024, as reported by the Federal Motor Transport Authority. About 29 percent fewer electric vehicles were registered last month than in March of the previous year. Although the transition from combustion engines to electric vehicles in Europe is taking longer than previously thought, Blume explained in an interview with FAZ that Volkswagen is still focusing on electric mobility.

Nine out of ten new Volkswagen cars sold still have combustion engines. However, the group is working to ensure that all new cars in Europe will be electric from 2035. To achieve this, more economical models will be produced than before. New electric cars should be in the price range between 20,000 and 25,000 euros.

“Electric cars are now technically superior”

The head of Volkswagen AG emphasized that now we had to “convince the mass of drivers,” but good products alone were not enough. The mobility transition is a joint project between business and politics and also depends on factors such as electricity prices, payment infrastructure or government funding. For example, Blume proposed a temporary purchase bonus or a temporary tax exemption.

In addition to the political goal of rejecting gasoline and diesel vehicles, the manager has a good reason to stick to e-mobility. Until now, customers who, in addition to environmental benefits, are particularly interested in technology have chosen electric vehicles. “You see the benefit, because electric cars are now technically better,” says Blume.

Source: Federal Motor Transport Authority, FAZ

By Véronique Fritsche