The German automotive industry faces a looming political showdown as CDU leader Friedrich Merz has publicly challenged the European Union’s planned ban on internal combustion engine vehicles set to take effect in 2035. Speaking on the “ntv” program “Pinar Atalay” Merz asserted that the ban, as currently formulated, is a “mistake” and Germany should not be among the nations endorsing it.
Merz’s critique comes at a critical juncture, as the EU Commission aims to finalize the decision later this year. The CDU leader champions a strategy of “technology openness” urging the government to reconsider the rigid approach of an outright prohibition. He explicitly refuted suggestions that his stance constitutes a step backward, emphasizing the continued necessity of combustion engines, particularly in the heavy-duty truck sector.
The core of Merz’s argument lies in his fear that banning a technology stifles innovation. He warned that such prohibitions inevitably lead to the cessation of research and development efforts across the industry, effectively sidelining German companies from a field where significant global advancements continue to be made, including in diesel engine technology. Merz believes Germany’s industrial participation remains crucial.
The issue is currently undergoing intense debate within the German coalition government. According to Merz, Environment Minister Carsten Schneider (SPD) remains unconvinced. The CDU leader hopes to secure a resolution during coalition discussions planned for Thursday, pushing for a framework that permits rather than prohibits technological pathways. Critics will undoubtedly scrutinize whether this represents a shift towards prioritizing industry interests over environmental targets, potentially undermining the EU’s broader decarbonization goals. The disagreement highlights a growing tension between ambitious climate policies and the perceived competitive disadvantage they place on traditional industries.