Germany Pushes EU for Flexibility on 2035 Combustion Engine Ban
As the EU’s deadline to end the sale of petrol and diesel cars by 2035 approaches, a significant shift may be on the horizon. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is advocating for a more flexible approach to this transition, urging the European Commission to consider a broader technological spectrum for the future of the automotive industry.
In a letter addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Merz is expected to request that Brussels remain open to varied technological solutions, crucial for Germany’s automotive sector as the EU prepares to ban the sale of new combustion-engine vehicles. This proposal aligns with Germany’s intent to pursue climate protection through a “technology-neutral way,” as Merz emphasized the importance of including hybrid technology even beyond the 2035 deadline.
Merz is set to propose several exemptions, advocating for the production of plug-in hybrids, battery hybrids, and range-extended electric vehicles equipped with efficient combustion engines for longer journeys. He stated, “It is much more opportune and pragmatic to invest more effort and money in the development of efficient, hybrid systems that will combine the best of the world of internal combustion engines on the one hand and electric mobility on the other.”
The EU’s proposed ban has stirred debate among automakers, who argue that the current electric vehicle adoption rates are insufficient to meet the impending deadline. In response, the EU announced a review of its strategy in September to provide carmakers with greater clarity.
While Merz’s position encounters opposition, discussions with Germany’s coalition partners, including the Social Democrat (SPD) party, have led to a united front calling for modifications to the ban. SPD Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil highlighted the necessity for flexibility, stating, “The future viability of the German automotive industry, securing jobs, that is the key argument for us. We agree that the future of the industry is electric … but we need to be open to more technologies, we need flexibility.”
Meanwhile, Germany’s automotive sector faces mounting pressure from the costs associated with electric vehicle investments and growing competition from Chinese manufacturers. In a bid to stimulate the industry, Markus Söder, head of the CDU’s Bavarian sister party, announced plans for a subsidy of up to €5,000 (£4,380) for electric or hybrid cars predominantly manufactured in Germany.
On the European stage, the debate continues as the European Commission’s vice-president, Stéphane Séjourné, expressed the EU’s willingness to exhibit “flexibility” in achieving the combustion engine phase-out. Yet, some industry stakeholders, including Swedish automaker Volvo and its offshoot Polestar, remain firmly against altering the 2035 target, having heavily invested in electric vehicle and battery production.
The European Commission’s chief spokesperson, Paula Pinho, acknowledged the gravity of the proposal, noting that the consultation had concluded and that the Commission would thoroughly evaluate all perspectives, including Germany’s stance.
Original Story at www.theguardian.com