The report found significant variation in outcomes and policy approaches among EU member states. While most countries received public funding for their eMobility markets, the level and type of support provided varied. However, there was a correlation between public support and the rapid rollout of EV charging infrastructure.
Countries with low EV sector development tended to have lower levels of public support, while those with high levels of development had greater public support in terms of funding volume and availability of different funding types. However, the correlation was not perfect, as some countries with high EU support achieved lower levels of market maturity, while others with limited EU support achieved high levels of maturity.
The report cautioned that simple correlations cannot establish causal relationships, as other factors such as GDP per capita and population density also influence market development. Nevertheless, the report concluded that there is a strong enough correlation to suggest that EU public support plays a role in accelerating the EV rollout.
The presence of state-sponsored charge point operators (CPOs) had both positive and negative effects. Some markets with major state-sponsored CPOs became more competitive as private operators expanded. The role of state-owned or affiliated CPOs varied across countries and their levels of EV sector development.
Overall, the report emphasised the importance of public support in driving EV market growth. While there are complexities and variations among countries, EU public support can contribute to the acceleration of EV adoption. The role of state-sponsored CPOs may also evolve as the sector matures.
