The transition to sustainable mobility is gaining momentum in Belgium, in particular thanks to the rise of electric vehicles (EV). Automotive subscription models are emerging as a flexible solution to accelerate this transition. In this favorable context, the Danish Dribe has the ambition to settle in Belgium.
Belgium is part of a transition towards more environmentally friendly mobility, driven by the rise of electric vehicles (EV). Electric vehicle registrations jumped 48% in October 2024 compared to the previous year, according to ACEA (Association of European Automobile Manufacturers). However, despite this progress, high costs and uncertainties about autonomy still slow down the mass adoption of EVs. Car subscriptions appear to be an innovative and flexible model to support this change. Indeed, this concept allows access to an electric vehicle for a fixed monthly payment generally covering maintenance and insurance, without long-term commitment.
An offer that appeals to young people
Nearly one in five consumers (18%), particularly young people, are interested in an automobile subscription service rather than purchasing a vehicle, according to the 2024 Global Automotive Consumer Study conducted by the global consulting firm Deloitte. For 42% of respondents, interest is motivated by the desire to better control costs thanks to a fixed monthly rate covering all costs.
Dribe wants to establish itself in Belgium
In this context, the Danish Dribe, a subsidiary of the main player in the Danish automotive sector, the Semler Group, plans to enter the Belgian market. This digital platform offers flexible subscriptions, ranging from 3 to 12 months, for electric or thermal vehicles. According to Jesper Hill-Kjærsgaard, CEO of Dribe, this formula helps users compare options and get used to the benefits of EVs, which promotes their adoption in the long term.
Looking for partners
“We are not yet active in Belgium, we are looking for potential partners to launch Dribe there. Our priority is to collaborate with Belgian automobile importers, large dealer networks, leasing companies or major players in car rental. For the moment, we cannot specify a date for our launch,” Niels Kiel Nielsen, its marketing director, explains to Trends Tendances.
500 euros per month
The price of a monthly subscription for a car rented via Dribe varies depending on the model and services chosen. In general, the service offers a flexible rental option, with the possibility of changing cars each month. Prices start around 500 euros per month, prices in line with its competitors, but they can increase depending on the type of vehicle selected, whether it is an electric model or more high-end.
More rational use of resources
Car subscriptions encourage more rational use of resources. Peter Wells, specialist in sustainable development at Cardiff University and director of the Automotive Industry Research Centre, believes that this model avoids producing and using vehicles that are often disproportionate to the real needs of users. By adjusting the choice of vehicles to use, subscribers participate in more sustainable consumption.
In addition, for dealers, this model represents an opportunity to diversify and reduce administrative burdens through digital platforms. However, challenges remain, such as vehicle availability and lack of a sense of ownership, holding back some consumers.
A growing market
According to a study by the Boston Consulting Group, the car subscription market could reach $40 billion in Europe and the United States by 2030. In Belgium, several companies, such as Lynk & Co, Poppy, Cambio or SHARE NOW, offer already flexible subscription plans adapted to different needs.
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