Last May, the federal government announced a goal of having one million electric cars on Germany's roads by 2020.

In response, VDIK president Volker Lange said: 'The international motor vehicle manufacturers support the federal government's goal to promote electro-mobility. The VDIK member companies have recognised the great strategic significance of this issue early on, and they are already offering market-ready electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and range-extender vehicles. Ms Merkel's ambitious plan will, however, remain unsuccessful if the government fails to introduce clear-cut programmes that will offer private and commercial buyers an incentive of at least €5,000 per car.' 

The VDIK added that it is vital to focus on technological neutrality when promoting electro-mobility and to be realistic about the potential of such technologies.

It added: 'The combustion engine, which has undergone dramatic improvements in efficiency and which is being increasingly electrified and powered by alternative fuels, will still be in use for years to come.'