How Germany Can Accelerate E-Mobility: Ways to Break Through the Transformation Stagnation

Collaboration in the fields of technology and entertainment, as well as cross-brand standardization, is necessary to increase efficiency, agility, and flexibility, implement AI-driven processes, and shorten innovation cycles. Global and long-term competitiveness can only be restored through efficient cost management and strategically focused investments to finance transformation. In addition, clear policy frameworks and targeted support programs are required to sustainably strengthen e-mobility in Europe [1].  

Together with France and the United Kingdom, Germany possesses the highest level of expertise in battery production within the EU [2]. This technological know-how is a key prerequisite for the further expansion of e-mobility. So far, however, efforts to translate this expertise into a leading international market position have had limited success. This so-called “Valley of Death” describes the gap between technological research and development at universities and its large-scale industrial and global commercialization. This gap must be specifically addressed.

Technology transfer specialists play a key role in this process, as they can improve the transition between theory and practice. In addition to functional competencies—such as in the areas of legal management, licensing, or founding startups—these professionals require, above all, the ability to think and act entrepreneurially. Furthermore, support from research institutions is essential for successful technology transfer [3].

In addition to technological expertise, social acceptance is also crucial. Electric vehicles must be viewed as a sensible, practical, and sustainable solution. Policy measures and regulatory incentives, such as purchase subsidies, must therefore be consistently tailored to consumer needs in order to achieve their intended effectiveness. Research findings indicate that support mechanisms should operate on two levels: both at the national level and at the regional or local level [4]. In addition to policy measures to promote e-mobility, targeted campaigns could also be implemented to allow consumers to try out electric vehicles without obligation. This would help reduce general skepticism toward e-mobility and thus improve accessibility.

Against this backdrop, the expiring incentive program for electric vehicles has been extended; this applies to both purchases and lease agreements [5]. In addition, the vehicle tax exemption for fully electric vehicles has been extended through 2030. Vehicles newly registered starting in 2026 can thus benefit from a tax exemption for up to ten years [5].

Another key driver for promoting e-mobility is the German government’s “High-Tech Agenda for Germany”. This innovation initiative is designed to drive technological innovation in a targeted manner while simultaneously strengthening industrial competitiveness. The focus is on six key technologies, including approaches to climate-neutral mobility. A particular emphasis is placed on the expansion of European battery technology, which is intended to create a higher level of value creation, competitiveness, and autonomy [6].

In this context, the Fraunhofer FFB is also explicitly recognized as a key component of the High-Tech Agenda. The goal is to strengthen the industrial ties of battery cell research and thereby accelerate the transfer of research findings into industrial applications. As an open gigafactory, it is also available for collaborations with industry and other partners.