High fuel prices: Automobile club calls for reduction in electricity tax

afp | In the debate about relief for drivers due to high fuel prices, the General German Automobile Club (ADAC) has called for a reduction in electricity taxes - as a relief for all consumers and as an incentive to switch to electric cars.

“From the ADAC’s perspective, a reduction in electricity taxes would also provide additional relief for all consumers for private households,” said a spokeswoman for the Rheinische Post, “but would also create an incentive for those who are thinking about buying an electric car now.”

Which type of drive consumers choose, especially given the high fuel prices, is very individual and depends on many factors. “The current new vehicle funding can expand the group of people who can afford a new electric car,” said the ADAC spokeswoman. “The high purchase price, along with a lack of charging options, is one of the reasons why consumers are hesitant,” she added.

Due to the recent massive increase in fuel prices as a result of the further escalation of the Iran war, the debate about possible relief for consumers has flared up again. The SPD is calling for a price cap, which would have to be implemented by the Federal Ministry of Economics.

However, Federal Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche (CDU) spoke out against it. She advocates reducing fuel prices through tax discounts. She also proposes direct payments to low-income earners.

Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) advocates an excess profits tax at EU level. On Friday he wants to discuss measures against high fuel prices at a meeting with his EU colleagues in Dublin.