The president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), Hildegard Müller, is set to address the planned phase-out of internal combustion engines at an upcoming summit coordinated by Germany’s governing coalition Müller recently stated that Germany’s industrial standing is increasingly challenged on the international stage
Speaking to a television broadcaster, she highlighted several factors contributing to declining competitiveness: high energy costs, taxation levels, labor expenses and bureaucratic processes She further argued that a focus on a single technology path is hindering the potential of existing competencies, particularly in areas like hybrid technology and the development of modern, potentially carbon-neutral fuels for internal combustion engines
Müller emphasized the urgent need for engagement with policymakers in Brussels, asserting that the European Union holds the key to achieving climate goals and establishing effective fleet regulations She called for a unified and assertive voice from Germany on these critical issues
While reaffirming the industry’s commitment to meeting climate targets, Müller advocated for a broader range of technological solutions She believes multiple drive technologies will be necessary globally to reach climate neutrality and that fostering more options will create greater opportunities for the German automotive sector – leveraging its skilled workforce, existing infrastructure and established expertise
The European Union has not banned specific drive technologies, but rather introduced CO2 emission standards that internal combustion engines are projected to be unable to meet after 2035 Current regulations mandate that the average CO2 emissions for new cars registered in the EU are capped at 936 grams per kilometer, a figure which is progressively decreasing, with a target of zero grams per kilometer by 2035
These fleet emission standards are integral to the EU’s “Fit for 55” package – an initiative designed to steer the bloc away from a projected warming trajectory exceeding four degrees Celsius and towards a pathway limiting global warming to around two degrees Celsius This follows a recent ruling from the International Court of Justice – in a comprehensive 140-page advisory opinion – which clarified that adhering to the 15-degree Celsius warming limit is an internationally legally binding obligation and that nations could face legal challenges for failing to meet it