Scrap Car Incentives and Bonuses Across Europe in 2026
Governments across Europe are offering scrap car incentives and bonuses to encourage drivers to replace older, polluting vehicles with cleaner alternatives. These car scrapping schemes — sometimes called "cash for clunkers" programmes — provide financial incentives that can significantly reduce the cost of purchasing a new or used low-emission vehicle. Here is what is available across Europe in 2026.
Why Do Governments Offer Scrap Car Bonuses?
Vehicle scrapping incentives serve multiple policy objectives:
- Air quality improvement — removing old, high-emission vehicles from the road reduces urban pollution
- Climate targets — accelerating the shift to electric and hybrid vehicles supports national and EU carbon reduction goals
- Road safety — newer vehicles have better safety equipment and crash protection
- Economic stimulus — incentives drive new car sales and support the automotive industry
- Circular economy — responsible scrapping ensures materials are recovered and recycled properly through certified recycling facilities
France: Prime à la Conversion
France continues to offer one of Europe's most generous scrapping schemes. The Prime à la Conversion provides up to €5,000 for scrapping an older diesel or petrol vehicle when purchasing a new or used electric or low-emission vehicle. Additional bonuses may apply based on income level and location. Visit our France page for local details.
Germany: Umweltprämie and Abwrackprämie
While Germany's original Abwrackprämie ended years ago, the government continues to support the transition through EV purchase subsidies and environmental bonuses. In 2026, various federal and state-level programmes offer incentives for replacing older vehicles with zero-emission alternatives. Fleet operators in Germany can benefit from additional corporate tax advantages.
United Kingdom: Vehicle Scrappage Schemes
The UK offers targeted scrappage schemes in certain cities and through specific manufacturers. London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) scrappage scheme provides grants to help residents and businesses scrap non-compliant vehicles. National manufacturer-led schemes also offer trade-in bonuses.
Spain: Plan MOVES and PIVE
Spain's Plan MOVES III provides subsidies of up to €7,000 for the purchase of electric vehicles when scrapping older cars. The scheme includes additional incentives for installing home charging infrastructure. The historic Plan PIVE programmes have been incorporated into these newer, broader initiatives.
Netherlands and Belgium
While the Netherlands does not currently have a national scrappage bonus, its strong EV purchase incentives and zero-emission zone rollouts effectively encourage vehicle replacement. Belgium offers regional incentives that vary between Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels.
How to Claim Your Scrap Car Bonus
The process for claiming a scrapping incentive typically involves:
- Verify eligibility — check that your current vehicle meets the age and emission criteria
- Choose a replacement vehicle — the replacement must usually be electric, hybrid, or meet specific emission standards
- Use an authorised recycler — your old vehicle must be scrapped through a certified scrap removal and recycling facility
- Obtain your Certificate of Destruction — this official document proves your vehicle has been properly processed
- Apply for the bonus — submit your application with all required documentation to the relevant authority
How InterCar Can Help
InterCar simplifies the scrapping process across Europe. Our scrap removal service handles collection, transport, and processing of your end-of-life vehicle through authorised facilities. We ensure you receive your Certificate of Destruction and can advise on applicable incentives in your country.
If your car still has value, our vehicle buying service may offer a better deal than a scrapping bonus. We evaluate every vehicle to determine whether it is best suited for resale, parts recovery, or responsible recycling — maximising value while supporting the circular economy.
Contact our team to find out the best option for your old vehicle and take advantage of the incentives available to you in 2026.
