Applications for Serbia’s electric vehicle purchase subsidies have surged fivefold compared with last year.
The seventh round of EV subsidies in the country was launched on March 1. The surge in demand aligns with global trends, where EV sales are rising worldwide, largely driven by soaring fuel prices stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.
According to Minister of Environmental Protection Sara Pavkov, 1,000 subsidy requests have been submitted, a fivefold increase year-on-year, news agency Tanjug reported.
She highlighted the overwhelming public interest, noting that the 1,000 applications also include corporate entities and public utilities seeking funding for fleets of dozens of vehicles.
This year, the ministry has fully digitalized the application process, integrating it into the national e-Government (e-Uprava) portal for the first time.
The demand far exceeds the available budget
The minister asked applicants to be patient, noting that many are still waiting for approval. She explained that even with digital processing, the procedure is complex as it involves dealerships, leasing firms, or other legal entities delivering the vehicles.
So far, only a third of the applications have been processed, with overall demand far exceeding the current budget.
Pavkov stressed that the ministry is actively seeking to increase funding for this “highly successful program tailored to citizens.”
The application deadline expires in September
According to Pavkov, the soaring demand demonstrates that Serbia’s economy has reached a level where citizens can afford electric vehicles (EVs), which carry a significantly higher price tag than conventional cars, while also reflecting growing environmental awareness.
She recalled that the application deadline is set for September.
“The ministry is currently analyzing whether additional funding could be secured from the state budget, given the country’s priorities,” Pavkov pointed out.
To date, the ministry has disbursed nearly EUR 3 million in EV subsidies, covering the purchase of around 600 vehicles.
