On March 18, the application window opened for the new electric car premium, which in theory could provide up to SEK 64,800 in subsidies to those who lease or buy an electric car. TT has reviewed applications received by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency so far. There are a total of 4,045 applications as of April 6.
"We haven't actually made any forecasts of what the interest would be. However, we have calculated estimates of what the budget will be," says Tea Alopaeus, climate analyst at the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency.
The budget covers approximately 115,000 electric cars, and the premium will be granted as long as there is money left in the budget, but no later than June 30, 2029.
"It may be natural that there are more applications in the beginning, and we will see at what level it stabilizes," says Tea Alopaeus.
Debated and criticized
Even before the electric car premium came into effect, it was widely discussed and criticized. The criteria are very specific, and it is primarily aimed at households in rural areas and with an income lower than the average.
At the county level, Västra Götaland (691 applications) and Skåne (414) stand out. At the municipal level, Kungsbacka, Varberg and Skellefteå are at the top, while, for example, Överkalix and Staffanstorp have not received a single application.
Rejected immediately
About half, 46 percent, have had their applications approved immediately. According to the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, about 500 of the remaining applications have been rejected immediately.
"The other half that haven't been approved right away may either have been rejected very quickly, may have been rejected later on other criteria, or may still be undecided," explains Tea Alopaeus.
The criteria for the electric car premium
The following criteria apply to be eligible for the electric car premium:
Location: You must live in a rural municipality or in an area where there is limited access to public transportation.
Income: No one in your household may have an income so high that they pay state income tax. The household's total income may not exceed 80 percent of the average income.
Current car: No one in the household may already own an electric car or plug-in hybrid.
Which cars are eligible?
It must be an electric car (not a hybrid).
The car can be new or used.
The car may cost a maximum of SEK 450,000.
The premium applies to both purchase and leasing.
Amount of support:
You will receive SEK 1,300 per month for a maximum of 36 months. This will be a total of SEK 46,800 for the entire period. In addition, you can receive a starting grant of SEK 18,000 if the household has less than 50 percent of the average income.
Source: Swedish Environmental Protection Agency
