EU Climate Targets Threaten European Automotive Jobs

The European automotive industry is sounding alarms over the tightened EU climate targets for fleet emissions. The industry claims it cannot meet the new standards, which are assessed using the WLTP test procedure.

As a result, manufacturers face potential penalty payments in the billions. To avoid these fines, they propose reducing production, which could lead to millions of job losses.

Automakers are demanding a postponement of the targets, arguing that even hybrid vehicles cannot meet the average emissions values. They plan to leverage an emergency article to delay the implementation, a move supported by VW Supervisory Board Chairman Hans Dieter Pötsch.

Environmental organizations like Transport & Environment Deutschland and Greenpeace criticize this request, labeling it a management failure. They argue that the industry had ample time to adapt, particularly through increasing electric vehicle production.

Despite the industry's financial gains in recent years, the potential economic impact on jobs remains a significant concern. The debate continues as policymakers and industry leaders grapple with balancing environmental goals and economic stability.