Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz opposes the ban on internal combustion engines (ICE) in the European Union starting in 2035. He stated this in an interview with n-tv.
"My clear vision is that we will not support this so-called ban on internal combustion engines," said Merz.
The future of internal combustion engines in the European Union will be decided this year by the European Commission, which has expedited the review of this issue. "I do not want Germany to belong to the countries that adhere to this mistaken ban," the politician emphasized.
Merz stated that research and development continue worldwide, particularly in diesel engines. "I want the Federal Republic of Germany, for our industry to continue to participate in this. Therefore, the ban is mistaken," he explained.
The politician stressed that this is not about taking a step back or supporting internal combustion engines, but about the possibility of their continued use, particularly in freight transport, where they are necessary.
According to the adopted Fit for 55 regulation, from 2035, all new cars and vans in the EU must be climate-neutral. This effectively means a ban on new internal combustion engines.
Leading German manufacturers BMW and Mercedes-Benz sharply criticize the fixed date for phasing out internal combustion engines as unrealistic. BMW CEO Oliver Zipse called the 2035 ban a major mistake, while Mercedes head Ola Källenius warned of the "negative consequences" of a too abrupt transition. Mercedes advocates for a technology-neutral approach to decarbonization, supporting the promotion of electric vehicles through tax incentives and the development of charging infrastructure.
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