ICE vehicles still lead as EV interest grows, TARGOBANK study finds

The latest TARGOBANK Car Study, conducted by the Forsa Institute in 2026, found that petrol cars remain the top choice for 29% of respondents, followed by electric vehicles at 21%, their highest ranking to date. Diesel vehicles continue to hold steady at 14%.

Despite the growing acceptance of EVs, a significant 74% of respondents still oppose a full ban on new combustion engine registrations, reflecting ongoing scepticism about the pace of transition.

Since 2016, Düsseldorf-based TARGOBANK has commissioned the Forsa Institute to carry out its annual car study, tracking the evolving needs and opinions of motorists in Germany.

However, Häring stressed that financial challenges remain central to adoption: “In the e-car market, financiers must provide reliable residual values, transparent battery valuations and attractive leasing models.”

Costs and range still key concerns

The study shows that cost remains the most important factor when choosing a vehicle, cited by 31% of respondents, closely followed by driving range at 30%. Fuel prices are also becoming more influential again, rising to 15% as a deciding factor.

More than half of respondents (53%) still prefer to pay for vehicles in cash, while 36% opt for financing or leasing.

Although concerns about EVs are easing, barriers persist. High purchase prices (64%), limited range (60%), insufficient charging infrastructure (53%) and long charging times (50%) were all cited as key deterrents.

At the same time, public support for investment in e-mobility remains strong. Nearly four in five respondents (79%) support expanding charging infrastructure, while 77% back further development of battery technology.

Mixed views on EV subsidies

Government incentives for electric vehicles drew a divided response. While 52% of respondents see subsidies as an incentive to buy, 71% believe they will ultimately push up car prices rather than provide real relief.

Opinions are also split on how subsidies should be distributed, with 42% favouring targeted support for lower-income households and 33% supporting universal incentives.

Industry outlook remains uncertain

The survey also revealed broader concerns about the future of Germany’s automotive sector, with 65% of respondents expressing a critical view of its long-term prospects. Key worries include global competition, political uncertainty and economic conditions.

Meanwhile, attitudes toward innovation are mixed. While 51% see opportunities in vehicle digitalisation, such as advanced driver assistance systems, 44% are wary of risks like data security and system failures. Subscription-based features, such as paid activation of pre-installed functions, were rejected by 82% of respondents.

Green mobility gains traction in the workplace

Beyond private car ownership, sustainable mobility is increasingly valued as an employee benefit. Around 80% of workers said workplace charging infrastructure is attractive, while two-thirds expressed interest in job bike schemes and subsidised public transport options.

The findings suggest that while Germany’s transition to electric mobility is gaining momentum, traditional engines remain firmly embedded in consumer preferences, highlighting the need for affordability, infrastructure investment and clear policy direction to drive further change.