Tesla’s rise has sent shockwaves through Germany’s automobile industry, prompting a call to action. The American electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer’s innovative approach and rapid growth have left German carmakers, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, scrambling to catch up. Tesla’s dominance in the electric vehicle market is largely due to its emphasis on battery technology, software, and self-driving capabilities, areas where traditional automakers have been slow to innovate.
The German government’s decision to subsidise EVs has not yielded the desired results, with the uptake remaining slow. This is partly due to the lack of a comprehensive charging infrastructure and the higher price tag of EVs compared to combustion-engine cars.
German automakers are now investing heavily in EV technology, with Volkswagen planning to launch 27 electric models by 2022. However, there is a growing realisation that catching up with Tesla will require more than just matching its product range. Tesla’s innovative business model, which includes over-the-air software updates and a direct sales approach, is proving to be a game-changer.
The German automobile industry is at a critical juncture. The need to transition to sustainable mobility is clear, but the path to achieving it is fraught with challenges. Tesla’s success serves as a wake-up call, underscoring the urgency for German automakers to innovate and adapt.
Go to source article: https://cleantechnica.com/2018/09/25/tesla-an-uncomfortable-wake-up-call-for-germany-all-hands-on-deck/