Kretschmer warns of the consequences of the end of combustion engines from 2035

At the start of the IAA motor show in Munich, Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer sharply criticized the planned ban on new cars with combustion engines from 2035. "The planned phase-out of combustion engines in 2035 is a mistake. It is ideologically driven, jeopardizes our competitiveness and destroys industrial value creation in Germany," said the CDU politician.

Importance of the automotive industry for Saxony

The automotive industry is of central importance for Saxony - "for jobs, value creation and economic strength", emphasized Kretschmer. "We need openness to technology instead of blanket bans. Modern engines in combination with climate-neutral fuels can make an important contribution to climate protection - and at the same time keep our industry competitive."

Kretschmer warned of negative consequences for the economy: "European policy must not be allowed to destroy future opportunities and jeopardize jobs in our country." According to him, banning the combustion engine today would weaken the industry and play into the hands of other regions of the world.

At the IAA, numerous manufacturers are presenting new models and technologies until Sunday. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) officially opened the trade fair on Tuesday. Prior to this, activists had protested at the exhibition grounds against what they saw as an outdated car industry.

Growing headwind from the CDU/CSU

There has been growing opposition to the planned phase-out of combustion engines within the CDU/CSU for some time. CSU leader Markus Söder and Baden-Württemberg's CDU state leader Manuel Hagel had also called for an end to the EU decision.

The EU stipulates that from 2035, only new cars that do not produce any CO2 emissions may be registered. Classic petrol and diesel vehicles would then no longer be available. However, cars that are already registered can still be used, sold as used cars and refueled with conventional fuels. From this date, only emission-free vehicles - or those powered by climate-neutral fuels such as e-fuels - will be allowed to be newly registered.