The mobility budget is becoming increasingly popular. In one year, the number of companies offering their employees a mobility budget has increased by a third. In 2024, 3.4% of all employers offered it; today, 4.5% do, according to new figures from HR service provider Acerta.

What is a ‘mobility budget’? Employees who are entitled to a company car can choose a mobility budget, which they can use for ‘greener’ alternatives: a smaller car, a bicycle, a train pass, or even a home rental. The mobility budget is calculated based on the total cost of ownership (TCO) of the company car to which an employee is entitled.

According to Acerta, the choice of sustainable modes of transport, such as bicycles, public transport, or shared mobility, in particular gained popularity last year.

Upcoming obligation

Starting in 2027, all companies with more than fifty employees must offer a mobility budget if they also provide company cars. Small businesses (15-50 employees) won’t be required to implement it until 2028. Of all companies required to offer a mobility budget starting next year, today, only one in ten currently does so.

However, there is still considerable uncertainty or reluctance about this upcoming obligation, Acerta explains. For some companies, the rules are unclear, while others are firmly against mandatory implementation.

Voted in parliament

Smaller businesses are mainly concerned about the administrative burdens, or additional costs of the system. And in some companies, there is simply a lack of interest among employees.

The federal government’s preliminary draft still needs to receive advice from the Council of State, the Central Economic Council, and the National Labor Council. Only then can it be debated and voted on in parliament.