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3d ago

Germany Presses EU for Flexibility on 2035 Combustion-Car Ban at Munich Show

The move spotlights industry pressure over job cuts, Chinese competition, slower EV demand.

Le chancelier allemand Friedrich Merz lors de l'inauguration du salon international de l'automobile à Munich, le 9 septembre 2025
Des visiteurs sur le stand du constructeur automobile allemand Volkswagen lors de l'ouverture du Salon international de l'automobile IAA, le 9 septembre 2025 à Munich, dans le sud de l'Allemagne
Image
Une voiture de tourisme Seal 6 DM-i de la multinationale chinoise de véhicules électriques BYD, exposée au Salon international de l'automobile IAA, le 8 septembre 2025 à Munich, dans le sud de l'Allemagne

Overview

  • Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged “flexible” EU rules on the 2035 new combustion-car sales ban, saying the goal should be climate neutrality without mandating a single technology.
  • BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen and Stellantis voiced doubts about hitting 2035, with VW chief Oliver Blume calling it unachievable and proposing annual review clauses.
  • More than 150 companies in the EV, battery and charging sectors asked Commission President Ursula von der Leyen not to backtrack on the 2035 target.
  • European automaker leaders are scheduled to meet von der Leyen in Brussels on Friday to discuss electrification, competition and trade tensions.
  • BYD presented a €20,000 Dolphin Surf to be built in Hungary from late 2025 while Volkswagen plans €25,000 models for 2026 targeting a fifth of Europe’s small EV segment, as EY reports over 50,000 auto jobs lost in a year and VW plans 35,000 cuts with production ending at two German plants.