Ahead of the The Washington Auto Show, the German Embassy hosted a showcase on e-mobility and opportunities and challenges for the U.S. and Germany. One of the most exciting e-mobility projects is right here in Washington, Ambassador Peter Wittig noted, where, in cooperation with German carmakers, the embassy will be converting vehicle fleet to plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles in 2018.

Germany already actively supports the switch to electric vehicles. The German Government is investing in the electrification of all transport modes through incentives in R&D, procurement, and charging infrastructure. The need for universal standards for public charging stations is one point the panel of industry and government experts agreed on, along with government incentives.