The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) has voiced strong opposition to proposed European Commission regulations mandating that rental car companies and large businesses purchase only electric vehicles starting in 2030.
According to statements from VDA President Hildegard Müller to the Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers, these new directives demonstrate a lack of recognition in Brussels regarding the need to adjust regulatory frameworks. The VDA firmly rejects this latest regulatory push.
Plans under consideration by the European Commission, detailed in reports from “Bild am Sonntag” would reportedly impose a ban on internal combustion engine vehicles for rental fleets and company car operations from 2030. This measure would impact approximately 60% of new vehicle sales, with the remaining portion allocated to private customers. Across the EU, 10.6 million vehicles were sold last year.
Müller emphasized that the critical step now is for Brussels to proactively address long-neglected framework conditions related to electric mobility. She specifically highlighted the significant disparity in charging infrastructure development across the EU. Currently, Germany, France and the Netherlands account for nearly 60% of all charging points. For example, the city of Hamburg possesses more charging points than countries like Slovakia or Bulgaria. Müller concluded that setting targets is one thing, but enabling their achievement is another and that responsibility now rests with the European Union.
