Polestar CEO Michael Lohscheller has dismissed calls for a delay in the phase-out of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, warning that backtracking would erode trust and ultimately cost jobs. Speaking to ntv and “Stern”, Lohscheller urged against reverting to previous technologies, instead advocating for continued investment in electric mobility.
Lohscheller noted a positive trend in customer acceptance and adoption of electric vehicles, countering recent criticism from Markus Söder (CSU) and subsequent support within the CDU regarding the EU-wide ban on the registration of new ICE vehicles starting in 2035.
He also expressed reservations about the announcement of a further automotive summit convened by Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU), stating that repeated policy shifts and additional summits are counterproductive. Lohscheller emphasized the need for clear and consistent regulatory frameworks that enable companies to effectively plan and invest.
Current EU regulations, known as “fleet emission targets” mandate that new vehicles registered across the EU average no more than 93.6 grams of CO2 per kilometer. This limit is being progressively lowered toward zero grams, effectively preventing the sale of new ICE vehicles after 2035.
These targets form part of the “Fit-for-55” package, a cornerstone of the EU’s strategy to limit climate change to just above two degrees Celsius. A recent ruling by the International Court of Justice underscored that states exceeding the 1.5-degree threshold could face legal action and be held liable for damages.