The German government is embroiled in a contentious debate regarding adherence to the European Union’s 2035 deadline for phasing out gasoline and diesel vehicles, sparking sharp criticism from the Green party and raising concerns about Germany’s commitment to both climate goals and the future of its automotive industry.
Following a high-level meeting – dubbed an “Auto Summit” – at the Chancellery, CDU leader Friedrich Merz signaled his intention to advocate for continued registration of vehicles with CO2 emissions beyond 2035. This stance, coupled with indications from Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) suggesting a potential softening of Germany’s position in Brussels regarding plug-in hybrids and range-extender technologies, has drawn a scathing response from Green party representatives.
Green faction leader Katharina Dröge accused CDU and SPD of effectively “abandoning” the EU’s combustion engine phase-out, labeling the potential shift as “fatal and shortsighted”. She argued that such a move would jeopardize jobs in the automotive sector and severely damage climate protection efforts, while simultaneously hindering innovation and the competitiveness of German automakers. Dröge warned that Germany risks falling behind globally as electric vehicle adoption accelerates worldwide.
The lack of clarity surrounding the government’s direction is creating uncertainty for consumers, investors and employees alike, according to Dröge. She asserted that the potential rollback represents a clear abandonment of climate targets and jeopardizes the long-term viability of the German economy.
Green party co-chair Franziska Brantner mirrored these concerns, emphasizing the need for industry planning security. She reaffirmed the party’s commitment to phasing out fossil fuel vehicles, expressing belief in the capabilities of the German automotive industry. Brantner cautioned that the guise of “technology openness” often masks stagnation and attempts to artificially prolong the lifespan of outdated technologies represent ideological maneuvering that risks Germany’s technological independence from countries like China and the United States.
“The future belongs to electric mobility” Brantner stated, adding that sowing doubt undermines the automotive industry and threatens jobs. The internal conflict within the governing coalition highlights a fundamental disagreement over the speed and scope of Germany’s transition to electric vehicle adoption and raises serious questions about the country’s ability to meet its climate commitments while safeguarding the competitiveness of its vital auto sector.