German Chancellor Pushes EU to Soften 2035 Ban on Combustion Engine Cars
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is urging the European Commission to relax its plan to ban sales of new combustion engine cars by 2035, arguing for a technology-neutral approach that keeps hybrid options open. In a letter to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Merz advocates for exemptions allowing certain hybrid technologies to continue after the deadline.Key TakeawaysChancellor Merz is pushing for softer regulations on combustion engine cars by 2035.The proposal includes exemptions for plug-in hybrids and range-extended electric vehicles with efficient engines.This move aims to protect the car industry while supporting climate goals in a technology-neutral way.Merz's stance highlights the ongoing debate between environmental targets and industrial realities. The European Commissi...









