Crafting a Fresh Perspective: Combustion Engines' Last Stand in the EU
Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing has expressed optimism about discernible progress within the next three weeks, aiming to maintain the viability of new vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines - as long as they can be fueled by synthetic substitutes. This separation could ensure the continued registration of such cars beyond 2035 within the EU.
In March, EU member states, including Germany, reached a consensus that from 2035, no new vehicles running on petrol or diesel would be permitted for registration. The German administration, spearheaded by Transport Minister Wissing, has managed to secure a loophole, making it feasible to acquire certain combustion engine-powered vehicles in the future - provided they rely on climate-neutral e-fuels, or synthetic fuels.
A series of deliberations are currently being conducted with the EU Commission. "We assert a clear stance, and we are resolute that we will prevail," declared Wissing, exuding confidence in the success of these discussions.
Further Insights:
- The EU Commission is contemplating granting flexibility in its green transition plan, allowing the continued sale of plug-in hybrid cars and electric vehicles equipped with range extenders past 2035. This move is in response to pressure from the automotive industry craving survival during this transition to electric mobility.
Controversial decisions are being made amidst the ongoing battle for sustainable mobility across Europe. As the federal transportation minister in Germany, Volker Wissing is vested in fostering an eco-critical transportation infrastructure, positioning Germany at the vanguard of inventive advancements in carbon-neutral energy sources, like synthetic fuels.
