The German Social Democratic Party (SPD) has indicated a willingness to discuss potential adjustments to the European Union’s vehicle emission standards, which are currently slated to effectively ban the sale of new gasoline and diesel cars from 2035.
SPD General Secretary Tim Klüssendorf acknowledged the evolving landscape of the automotive industry, stating, “The future of the car will be electric” and referencing the lead being taken by other nations alongside the increasing popularity of electric vehicles within Germany. However, he emphasized the continued priority of safeguarding the success of the German automotive industry and protecting jobs. “Therefore, we are open to discussion” he added.
The potential shift in approach follows longstanding calls from the center-right opposition to reconsider or delay the 2035 prohibition. While the policy remains enshrined in the current coalition agreement, a group of SPD members, including Lower Saxony’s Minister President Olaf Lies, have recently voiced support for a review.
Klüssendorf highlighted the importance of planning certainty for automotive manufacturers. “What concerns me is the planning certainty that companies need. If we repeatedly change deadlines and requirements, it creates confusion and uncertainty”. He also noted the ongoing pressure from the auto industry, which is facing challenges in achieving anticipated sales of electric vehicles, prompting the European Commission to accelerate a review of the fleet emission limits. The SPD will closely examine the Commission’s review, expected before the end of the year.
Regarding planned purchase incentives for electric vehicles, Klüssendorf adopted a cautious tone, citing the current strained budgetary situation, particularly concerning projections for 2027. “We are looking at what is still possible against the background of the extremely tense budget situation” he stated.
Current fleet emission limits allow for an average CO2 emission of 93.6 grams per kilometer for all new vehicles registered in the EU. These limits are being progressively reduced to zero grams per kilometer, effectively phasing out the sale of new combustion engine vehicles by 2035.
These limits are a key component of the EU’s “Fit-for-55” package, designed to limit climate change to just above two degrees Celsius. Recent rulings from international courts have underscored the potential for legal action against states exceeding a 1.5-degree Celsius warming threshold.
