Electric car accidents tend to be more expensive than those involving fuel cell vehicles.
In Germany, the repair cost gap between electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles is gradually narrowing, as the number of EVs on the roads increases and service providers gain more experience with EV-specific systems.
According to Anja Kafer-Rohrbach, deputy CEO of the German Insurance Association (GDV), the more electric cars there are on the road, the less their damage records differ from comparable vehicles with internal combustion engines. This trend is primarily due to the growing familiarity of repair shops, insurers, and related service providers with EV technology.
The number of electric vehicles in Germany has grown significantly, with registrations increasing fivefold from the beginning of 2021 to April 1, 2025. As of this date, there were over 1.7 million registered electric passenger cars in Germany, accounting for 3.5 percent of all registered passenger cars. This expanding EV fleet provides more routine exposure and volume for repair workshops, enabling them to become more efficient.
The variety and quantity of EV models have also expanded, giving workshops practical experience with different EV technologies. This accumulated expertise improves their ability to handle repairs efficiently. Additionally, towing services, fire departments, and appraisers have better training and equipment for EVs, reducing complications and costs in accident repairs and insurance claims.
Growing demand and market presence of EVs have led to more affordable spare parts and streamlined repair processes, further contributing to the narrowing cost gap. Despite this progress, EV repairs still cost about 15-20% more than ICE vehicle repairs, on average, according to the GDV. However, this gap has decreased compared to previous years, indicating steady progress toward cost parity.
It is important to note that the GDV's study did not find that electric cars are becoming cheaper to repair compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. Long-term significantly higher repair costs for electric cars could have negatively impacted their acceptance, according to Anja Kafer-Rohrbach. The development of increasing electric car registrations in Germany is considered positive for the mobility transition by the GDV.
In conclusion, the repair cost gap between electric and internal combustion engine vehicles in Germany is narrowing due to the growing familiarity of service providers with EV technology and the expanding EV fleet. While there is still a cost difference, it has decreased compared to previous years, indicating steady progress toward cost parity.
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