Electric vehicles surge to second placeâbut cost and charging still hold buyers back
Targobank Auto Study 2026 Paints Mixed Picture for Dealers: Gasoline Still Leads, but Electric Vehicles Gain Ground
The latest Targobank Auto Study 2026 reveals a shifting landscape from the perspective of car dealers: while gasoline-powered vehicles remain the top choice at 29 percent, electric cars are rapidly closing the gap, reaching 21 percent for the first time and securing second place. "One of the most striking findings this year is the growing acceptance of electric vehicles," says Markus Häring, CEO of Targobank Autobank. "This sends an important signal to the market. Now, financiers must focus on providing reliable residual values, transparent battery assessments, and attractive leasing models."
Switching trends are also on the rise: 34 percent of current combustion engine drivers plan to transition to an alternative powertrain with their next purchase. For dealers, this means an expanding customer baseâbut lingering uncertainties about range, costs, and charging infrastructure remain.
High Prices Remain a Major Hurdle
Purchase price (31 percent) and range (30 percent) remain the top decision-making factors for buyers. Yet high costs and charging challenges continue to deter many customers. 64 percent cite the purchase price as the biggest obstacle, while 53 percent point to gaps in the charging network. For dealers, financing remains a key lever: 36 percent of buyers plan to use leasing or loans, making stable terms and transparent models increasingly important.
Reliable Residual Values in Demand
In the context of the study, Markus Häring emphasizes: "Financiers must ensure reliable residual values, transparent battery evaluations, and attractive leasing options in the electric vehicle market." Dealers agreeâresidual value protection and clear battery diagnostics are becoming strong selling points, especially as concerns about resale risks grow.
The survey also highlights demand for infrastructure and technology: 79 percent call for more charging stations, 77 percent want investment in better battery tech, and 71 percent support further development of e-fuels. These results show that dealers must increasingly guide customers on which technology suits their needsâand how political debates are fueling uncertainty.
Skepticism Over EV Incentives
Government purchase incentives receive mixed reviews. While 52 percent see them as a buying incentive, 71 percent expect vehicle prices to rise as a result. For dealers, this means offers and communication must address price sensitivity and clearly outline total costs. 65 percent view the future of Germany's auto industry critically, and 82 percent reject new subscription or unlock models for vehicle features. The message to dealers is clear: added-value services must be transparent and avoid appearing as hidden cost traps.
Sustainable Mobility as a Growing Perk
Sustainable mobility options continue to gain traction as employee benefits. 80 percent of workers value workplace charging infrastructure, 66 percent are interested in company bikes, and 64 percent in public transport subsidies. For dealers, this opens up consulting opportunities with corporate clientsâfrom electric company cars to charging solutions.
