Nearly two-fifths of consumers in Germany would opt for an electric vehicle for their next car purchase, according to a new study by Deloitte. The findings indicate growing momentum for electric mobility, even as overall car-buying intentions remain cautious.

The study shows that 39% of German consumers would choose an electric vehicle for their next purchase. Of these, 16% said they would go fully electric, up from 14% last year. Another 10% said they would opt for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), while 14% would choose a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV).

Decline in Combustion Engine Preference

Meanwhile, fewer people are showing interest in conventional internal combustion engine cars. Only 49% expressed willingness to buy one next, compared with 53% last year.

Notable changes are emerging in how buyers choose cars, with a shift from traditional fuel types toward electric models. Mainstream adoption is growing across Germany, where new-vehicle trends are taking shape slowly but steadily. Preferences continue to evolve, influenced by availability and familiarity with hybrid alternatives.

One forecast sees electric drive systems taking the lead in transportation. According to Dr Harald Proff, who leads Deloitte’s work in the automotive industry, lower costs alongside broader model selection are helping shift buyer interest toward electric vehicles.

Charging Infrastructure Remains Critical

Charging availability plays a significant role in adoption. Home access shapes user experience, with roughly 74% of current EV users in Germany able to charge at home, reflecting how personal setups influence ownership. While public networks are available, convenience often begins at home.

Home charging was preferred by 61% of those considering an electric car. Public charging stations followed at 26%, while workplace charging options were mentioned by 13%. Despite varied preferences, a consistent pattern emerged across responses.

Electricity costs also emerged as a key factor. Charging at home generally costs less than using public stations, where pricing often varies across networks. Findings suggest that clearer information on charging fees could support broader interest in shifting toward battery-powered vehicles.

Spending Plans and Buying Behaviour

Insights into purchasing plans emerged from the study. Twenty-five percent of buyers in Germany intend to spend under €15,000 on their next car, compared to 22% previously. Most respondents, 56%, are likely to choose vehicles priced between €15,000 and €50,000. At the higher end, 12% expressed interest in cars priced at €50,000 or above.

Despite the introduction of newer models, second-hand vehicles continue to attract more interest among consumers. According to the findings, 57% are leaning toward pre-owned options, while 43% are considering new vehicles.

The results are based on a Deloitte survey examining consumer views across major regions, analysing shifts in attitudes toward transportation and car ownership. While patterns vary by location, interest in alternative mobility options continues to grow alongside traditional ownership models.