Banaszak criticised that the subsidy is neither specifically linked to European manufacturers nor explained why plug‑in hybrids should continue to receive support. “In the end it amounts to a lip‑service – while this government keeps holding on to internal‑combustion in Brussels and blocks any progress” he said. “If the Union and SPD take electrification seriously, Friedrich Merz and his cabinet members cannot keep stirring doubts week after week. Otherwise the subsidy will be nothing more than hot air”.