Germans continue to favor internal combustion engine vehicles over electric cars, bicycles, and public transportation, according to the latest report from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT).
The study, released on April 23, 2026, reveals that eight out of ten car owners surveyed said they could not imagine life without their own vehicle. Most German drivers expressed reluctance to switch to electric automobiles, citing concerns that continue to hinder broader adoption of zero-emission transport options.
DAT, a well-established institution founded in 1931 that analyzes automotive market trends, found that resistance to electric vehicles remains strong despite ongoing efforts to promote greener alternatives. The report underscores a significant challenge for environmental advocates pushing for a transition to sustainable mobility in Germany.
Meanwhile, data shows that the average annual mileage for private passenger vehicles in Germany has increased, further indicating a persistent reliance on personal cars rather than shifts toward cycling or public transit.
The findings represent a setback for proponents of electric mobility, highlighting deep-rooted preferences among German consumers for traditional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles.
