
Berlin - The German government is in talks with the European Union (EU) to include an exception in the 2035 internal combustion engine ban, allowing the use of synthetic fuels. This move has raised concerns about potentially undermining the EU's climate goals.
The German Ministry of Transport stated that negotiations are advanced and complex, aiming to permit cars that can run exclusively on synthetic fuels. While supported by some automakers like Porsche, this initiative faces opposition from others who have invested heavily in the transition to electric vehicles.
Several companies, including Ford and Volvo, have expressed concerns in a letter to EU leaders, warning that weakening the transition framework could harm both businesses and the environment. The letter emphasized the importance of a strong regulatory framework for decarbonization plans.
Synthetic fuels are created using renewable energy to split hydrogen from water and combine it with carbon dioxide. Although they produce carbon dioxide when burned, the emissions are offset by the carbon dioxide removed during production. However, the high cost and limited availability of synthetic fuels, along with doubts about scaling up production by 2035, pose significant challenges.
The German automotive industry, generating around €411 billion annually and providing 800,000 jobs, wields substantial influence. Luxury carmakers like Porsche are leading proponents of synthetic fuels, supporting production facilities such as the one in Chile, even as they continue to develop electric vehicles like the Taycan.
Volker Wissing, Germany's Minister of Transport, insists on keeping all technological options open to achieve climate targets and maintain mobility. However, analysts suggest that the Free Democratic Party's push for synthetic fuels may be influenced by political motives, given their declining popularity and upcoming state elections.
If Germany succeeds in securing the exception, it would mark another instance of the country's automotive sector influencing EU emissions regulations. The debate highlights the tension between rapid electrification and the inclusion of synthetic fuels in achieving climate goals.
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