With the upcoming ban on combustion engines, many German car owners are opting for protective services to extend the life of their vehicles. The surge in cavity sealing highlights this trend.
Cavity sealing sees a rise amid combustion engine uncertainty
In Germany, a significant number of new car buyers continue to choose models with combustion engines. However, with the phase-out of these engines looming in 2035, many drivers are seeking ways to preserve their vehicles for as long as possible. One such method gaining popularity is cavity sealing, a process that protects a car’s body from rust by applying a corrosion-resistant treatment to vulnerable areas.
The increasing interest in this service reflects broader concerns about the future of mobility and the impact of the transition away from fossil fuels. Instead of purchasing electric vehicles, many consumers are doubling down on their investment in traditional petrol or diesel cars, aiming to keep them on the road for as long as possible.
Booming demand for cavity sealing
For businesses specializing in cavity sealing, this trend has resulted in a boom. Jörn Wohlers, CEO of the Preckel Group, which owns Rostschutz NRW, noted, “We are seeing more and more customers with new cars who are unsettled by the current situation surrounding the combustion engine phase-out and the mobility transition. They want to drive their new combustion vehicles for as long as possible.”
Similarly, Markus Herrmann, owner of Herrmann Kfz-Full-Service and president of the Federal Association of Vehicle Preparation & Detailing (BFA), observed a growing interest in cavity sealing among car owners. He also noted an increase in the number of workshops offering this service, predicting that this trend will continue in the coming years. “Consumers want to keep their vehicles because they are unsure of how mobility will evolve,” Herrmann explained.
Cavity sealing proves cost-effective for all car models
Cavity sealing isn’t just for expensive vehicles. In fact, it can be especially beneficial for budget models, which are more prone to rust due to cost-cutting measures by manufacturers. Despite the service costing €800 or more, many car owners find it worthwhile to invest in professional preservation to protect their vehicles from rust, especially as they face uncertainty in the evolving automotive landscape.
