Lower Saxony reaffirms its commitment to Oliver Blume as Volkswagen CEO amidst ongoing crisis, despite mounting pressure and scrutiny surrounding the automaker’s recent challenges. Grant Hendrik Tonne, Lower Saxony’s Minister for Economy and Transport, stated he would not engage in the external debate surrounding Blume’s leadership, acknowledging the severity of the current situation but expressing reservations about alternative choices.
Lower Saxony, holding significant influence as a shareholder with two seats and 20% of the voting rights on Volkswagen’s supervisory board, maintains that the company’s strategic shift toward electric mobility remains the correct path. However, Tonne tempered this endorsement, conceding that Volkswagen has yet to fully realize its objectives and faces considerable hurdles. He voiced cautious optimism, believing a turnaround is achievable, emphasizing a shared desire to guide Volkswagen toward renewed success.
The Minister’s comments also served as a veiled appeal to the federal government regarding planned investments in Lower Saxony’s transportation infrastructure. Tonne directly addressed the recent statements from Federal Minister for Transport, Patrick Schnieder, regarding prioritizing “shovel-ready” projects, warning of a fundamental breach of trust should these commitments not be honored. He underscored that new highway construction is a federal responsibility and if deemed necessary, must proceed regardless, referencing existing sections deemed ready for commencement.
Tonne sharply criticized Schnieder’s persistent focus on reasons why infrastructure projects, across rail, road and waterways, are ostensibly unfeasible. He argued that the federal minister’s role necessitates establishing clear priorities rather than continually highlighting obstacles. This critique exposes a growing tension between regional goals and the federal government’s approach to infrastructure development, raising questions about the coordination and political will necessary for large-scale transportation initiatives in Germany.