ADAC Grows and Faces Electric Mobility Challenges

The General German Automobile Club (ADAC) is experiencing a continued influx of members and is confronted with the increasing challenges of electric mobility. President Christian Reinicke announced at the annual general meeting in Bremen an increase of 380,000 members, which brings the club's total membership to 21.8 million. The high value of the membership is emphasized, as three-quarters of the new members have opted for the more expensive premium offer. Despite the positive developments in membership numbers, ADAC must accept a lower annual result compared to the previous year. Executive board member Oliver Weissenberger explained this setback with an increased number of breakdown operations, due to the aging structure of the vehicle fleet. Detailed information regarding the financial results will be presented during the general meeting. The thematic focus of this year's meeting is on the 'Opportunities and Risks of Electric Mobility'. With many members taking a skeptical view towards e-mobility, the club's leadership expects an intense debate. The presidency clearly believes that electric vehicles are currently the only option for climate-neutral cars and achieving climate goals. However, Reinicke advocates not to neglect alternative technologies such as hydrogen, fuel cells, and e-fuels in the race for future-proof drives. In the area of roadside assistance, Weissenberger sees no short-term possibility to integrate electric vehicles into the fleet, as they are too heavy and have a limited range for the required transport of tools and equipment. To nevertheless operate more ecologically, the roadside assistance service will use HVO100 biodiesel as fuel. The club is turning a new chapter with its electric charging offer ADAC e-Charge. Following the end of the partnership with EnBW, Aral pulse will become the new partner. The terms of this cooperation have already been finalized and will come into effect on August 1st. Further details will be communicated to members in due time.