A Comprehensive Review of the Distinctive Tendencies of the Diffusion of E-Mobility in Central Europe

Abstract

The study introduces the current situation of electric vehicle technologies, the possibilities and possible directions of their market, as well as the economic and environmental aspects in the eastern region of the EU, with special regard to Hungary. Our calculations show that despite the higher costs of ownership, in the case of 7 years of use (among Hungarian conditions), the total cost of the Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) is lower than that of the Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEV) in each of the four segments analysed. The purchasing power of the population in the eastern regions of the EU is clearly lower compared to the western regions, yet people in this region spend beyond their financial means on motorization. Despite its unfavourable position, Hungary is in a particularly advantageous position compared to other countries in the region per vehicle and per capita in terms of the spread of BEVs. In the long run, even taking higher prices into account, the use of electric cars, in general, has significant advantages from an economic point of view; lower maintenance costs and fuel prices (especially with increased use) make EVs more cost-effective overall.