Merz pushes back EU 2035 combustion car ban, critics say climate betrayal

Friedrich Merz, together with French President Emmanuel Macron, is advocating for the EU to abandon the planned 2035 deadline that would ban the registration of new combustion-engine cars. The article portrays Merz as an "anti-climate chancellor" who places industry interests above environmental obligations, arguing that the move will keep high-emission vehicles on the road and accelerate warming. It contends that electric vehicles are not only cleaner but also represent the future of the auto market, offering superior technology and economic prospects.

The commentary points out that China has already recognized this shift, whereas Germany remains hesitant. It further blames German auto-industry managers for favoring short-term gains and bonuses, suggesting that government alignment with these interests will deepen the sector's crisis. Overall, the piece warns that postponing the ban undermines both climate goals and the long-term competitiveness of the German automotive industry.