Europe is striving for competitiveness through support measures and flexibility, a stark contrast to the aggressive protectionist policies adopted by major markets like the US and China. This volatile environment underscores the urgent need for Romania to reassess its incentive policies to avoid missing out on the electric mobility transition.

Despite a solid comeback in major European markets, with BEV sales jumping 30% in Q1 2025 across the top five, Romania has experienced a sharp decline in electric vehicle sales. 

"The Romanian automotive sector is at a crossroads," wrote Daniel Anghel, Country Managing Partner PwC Romania, in an opinion piece. "The delays in crucial incentive programs like Rabla directly impact the pace of electromobility adoption. We must act swiftly to realign our policies and ensure Romania remains competitive in this evolving global market."

This downturn is primarily attributed to delays in the "Rabla" program, a crucial incentive scheme. According to DRPCIV data, electric vehicle registrations in Romania plummeted by 36.4% in Q1 2025, with a further 70% decline in April, all due to the Rabla program's hold-up. 

The program is anticipated to commence this week, and its timely launch is critical as the Romanian automotive sector risks losing ground at a pivotal moment in the global transformation.