Consumers' Association of Slovenia criticizes abrupt end to electric car subsidies

The Consumers' Association of Slovenia (ZPS) is closely monitoring the situation surrounding the sudden cessation of subsidies for electric car purchases, expressing significant concern. The association noted that when the scheme was presented in spring 2026, it was impossible to anticipate that the funds would run out before autumn. Furthermore, it was reasonable to assume that subsidies would continue under a new scheme.

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The situation is clearly to the detriment of consumers who were justifiably counting on a subsidy when ordering a car.

This abrupt change places consumers who had already committed to purchasing electric vehicles in a difficult position. Many are now facing financial uncertainty, having ordered cars with the legitimate expectation of receiving a subsidy, only to find the funds depleted and no immediate replacement plan. The ZPS argues that it would be unacceptable for consumers, who made purchasing decisions based on available incentives and public announcements of their continuation, to bear the full consequences of the exhausted funds.

Buying a car is typically one of the largest financial decisions for households, requiring extensive planning. Consumers compare prices, running costs, financing options, discounts, and available government incentives. When the rules or availability of subsidies change unexpectedly, it can drastically alter the financial framework of a decision already made. Therefore, the ZPS is calling on the relevant ministry to swiftly resolve this uncertainty and protect consumers who have already committed to purchasing electric vehicles but have not yet received them due to delivery timelines.

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It would be unacceptable for the consequences of the depleted funds to be borne entirely by consumers who made their purchasing decision during the period of valid incentives and public announcements of their continuation.

The ZPS also seeks clarity on whether electric vehicle subsidies will continue, when a new call for applications will be published, the total funds available, and the expected subsidy amounts. They emphasize that incentive policies for a significant and long-term shift like decarbonizing transport cannot rely on short periods of fund availability followed by months of uncertainty. The system needs a multi-year design, with changes announced well in advance to allow both consumers and the market to adapt. The association welcomes the announced increased funding for public transport, viewing it as a necessary complement to electrifying personal transport, acknowledging that personal vehicles will remain essential for many, especially in areas lacking robust public transit.

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For such an important and long-term change as the decarbonization of transport, the policy of incentives cannot be based on short periods of fund availability followed by months of uncertainty. The system must be designed for several years, and changes must be announced early enough for consumers and the market to adapt.