Volkswagen thinks EVs will naturally replace ICE cars.
The transition should be encouraged rather than forced.
VW sees gas cars following the path of horses.

Electric vehicles represent just over one fifth of new car registrations across Europe in the opening months of this year. Figures from the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association show EVs made up 20.9 percent of sales in the first four months. Despite this progress, many drivers still need convincing before making the change.

Volkswagen believes arguments centered on prohibiting new gasoline and diesel models overlook the main opportunity. Martin Sander, who leads sales, marketing, and aftersales efforts, explained to Auto Express that attention should turn to the clear advantages of electric cars rather than dwelling on older engine types.

The company expects that highlighting these strengths will drive a smooth shift away from traditional powertrains. Sander compared the situation to the rise of early automobiles, which steadily displaced horses once their practical benefits became obvious. He predicts combustion engines will follow the same course, whether or not formal bans exist, as electric options gain ground.

Photo by: Volkswagen

VW Predicts Traditional Cars Will Fade Like Horses

Over the years, increasing numbers of people understood that cars offered a far more effective way to travel between locations than horses ever could. Looking around today reveals mostly vehicles and very few horses on the roads. This perspective makes the constant debate over engine bans frustrating, since it centers only on restrictions instead of showcasing what new technology delivers.

Convincing buyers to adopt fresh innovations becomes difficult when conversations fixate solely on cutoff dates for familiar vehicles used for decades.

Sander referenced the European Union's earlier target to end sales of new combustion models by 2035. Industry input has led to adjustments, allowing limited continued availability of such vehicles past that point, though few variants will persist. Regulations still require automakers to cut overall fleet emissions sharply by the middle of the next decade, leaving little room for older designs.

Volkswagen recommends redirecting efforts toward demonstrating electric vehicle strengths, expanding charging networks, and reducing power expenses. This approach, Sander notes, will encourage buyers to select EVs willingly through demonstrated value instead of regulatory pressure.

2026 Volkswagen ID. Polo GTI

Source: Volkswagen

What do you think?

Motor1's Take: Volkswagen raises a valid observation, as people generally resist being compelled into choices. Preserving options tends to work better, and the manufacturer maintains that emphasizing EV strengths can speed adoption until gasoline cars reach a natural conclusion.

Still, expecting an abrupt end to combustion engines overlooks practical realities. Current gasoline and diesel sales help finance electric development, creating ongoing interdependence. Many legacy automakers continue to see limited or zero profits from EVs, meaning traditional models will remain part of the market for years ahead.

VW Is Doubling Down On EVs:

Source: Auto Express