Car rental is an often underestimated economic factor. According to the Federal Association of Car Rental Companies of Germany (BAV), German car rentals and car-sharing companies are buyers of more than 10 percent of all newly registered cars – considerably more in individual months.
A demand engine for the automotive industry
This purchase volume makes the industry a relevant customer of the car manufacturers. Movements in the rental market thus directly affect the registration statistics and the utilisation of the plants.
Recovery after the pandemic
Since the coronavirus pandemic, monthly volumes for new vehicles were noticeably below the pre-Covid level for a long time. Recently, however, a clear recovery became apparent: the start of 2026 was particularly strong, with the first quarter around 22.6 percent above the previous year according to the BAV. For the first time, a level similar to 2019 seems within reach again.
What this means for individual rentals
A growing market means more competition, but also more opportunities. Those who digitalise their processes can dispatch faster, manage more vehicles with the same staff and stand out from the competition through service quality.
Sources & further information
- Federal Association of Car Rental Companies of Germany (BAV), registration statistics rental fleets
- Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA)