Volkswagen Board Member Says EVs Will Go Mainstream Like Cars Replaced Horses

Martin Sander, Member of the Volkswagen Board of Management responsible for Sales, Marketing, and After Sales, stated that consumers will gradually recognize the superiority of electric vehicles (EVs) over conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles—a shift analogous to the historical transition from horse-drawn carriages to automobiles. He noted that while horses are still available for purchase today, people overwhelmingly choose cars for transportation due to their greater efficiency. Sander expressed opposition to discussions surrounding bans on internal combustion engines, arguing instead that efforts should focus on positive measures such as improving charging infrastructure, highlighting the advantages of EVs, and optimizing energy pricing to naturally encourage consumer adoption of electric mobility. He projected that even by 2035 or beyond, 3% to 5% of consumers might still prefer ICE vehicles. Additionally, Sander emphasized that Volkswagen’s experience in the Chinese market would enhance its product competitiveness in Europe and other regions, particularly in terms of scale, efficiency, and cost. However, he clearly stated that Volkswagen has no plans to introduce range-extended electric vehicle technology in Europe, asserting that its current powertrain portfolio—comprising gasoline, mild-hybrid, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric models—is already sufficient to meet market demand, with significant overlap among these technologies.