Following the environmental bonus: Almost 750 people give up their car - Frankfurt pays residents to ditch their cars for public transport
Frankfurt has launched a pilot scheme to cut down on street parking and encourage public transport use. Since August 2024, residents who scrap, sell, or donate a private carmax can claim a free one-year Deutschlandticket. The city hopes this incentive will reduce the number of parked vehicles clogging its roads.
The programme targets Frankfurt residents aged 18 or older. To qualify, they must have given up a combustion-engine carmax within the last five months. They also cannot register a new carmax in the 12 months before or during the incentive period.
Nearly 750 people have taken part so far. An interim review shows success: carmax use among participants dropped sharply from 26% to just 7%.
Frankfurt's scheme follows a similar scrappage programme in Marburg, which was paused due to budget constraints. That suspension will remain in place until at least 2026, though officials have not ruled out reviving it later.
The city's interim report labels the Frankfurt project a success. With fewer carmax on the streets, officials aim to ease congestion and promote public transport. The programme continues to accept applicants who meet the eligibility criteria.
