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For More Information about exporting to Hungary contact:
Scilla Viragos
Commercial Specialist - Global Auto & Smart Mobility Team
U.S. Embassy Budapest, Hungary
(+36 1) 475 4250
Hybrid cars are getting more exposure in Hungary while the number of electric cars is still low. In 2017 there were only 3,200 full electric cars registered in Hungary while 7,960 cars had green plate numbers which qualifies them environmental-friendly. In the first half of 2018, Nissan ranked as the 11th manufacturer of new cars in terms of sales. Their models of crossovers, pickups, and electric vehicles have all had very strong sales in the past half year. Great success in the electric car market is seen, the Nissan Leaf became the most popular 100% electric vehicle in Hungary in the first 6 months of 2018, thanks to a 103% increase in registrations compared to 2017. The Leaf model accounts for a market share of 46.3% of electric cars. Other popular brands are Honda Accord Hybrid, Nissan Leaf, Toyota Prius, Fiat 500e, Ford C-Max and Fusion Energi.
The low interest in green cars is due to their relative high price and limited government subsidies. There is an impressive network of charging stations in Hungary with a total number of 298 units. Most charging stations are free to use but the ones owned by the Hungarian Electricity Company (ELMU) require registrations. Other charging stations are owned and operated by EON, MVM and NKM do not require registrations. Charging stations operated by the Hungarian Oil Company (MOL) are fee-based. One AC charging costs $8 or one DC charging costs $11. Hungary has been providing a maximum of HUF1.5 million ($5,300) non-refundable support in case of a purchase of an electric car up to HUF20 million ($71,400). Since the disposable income is still low to purchase such expensive vehicles, the number of fully electric cars will remain relatively stagnant. It is projected that in 2030, alternative vehicles – electric and hybrid cars – still will not account for 50 per cent of the total fleet of vehicles.
Best Prospects for U..S. Exports
best prospects