Speeches

Madam President, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, for the European car industry, the 15 % reduction target for CO2 emissions by 2025 is not only achievable, it's essential. Lowering our ambition would be an epic failure, not only for the companies that have already embraced the challenges and achieved the resolutions, but also for our planet. We are facing a crisis that goes beyond numbers and targets. It concerns the future of an industry that has for generations been the heart of our economy. There has been much talk about challenges facing European automotive sector, but often it concerns just specific parts of the German industry. If we start to waver now, if we allow ourselves to compromise, we will stop the progress we so desperately need. It would be like sending a signal to the world that Europe hesitates while others move forward. We must stand by our promises and our vision, and support the automotive sector in its necessary transition, not just with words, but with action. Therefore, I would be willing to revise our rules to ensure technology neutrality is a guiding principle because we do not have the luxury of ruling out solutions that can help us achieve our goals. This means incentives and investments that support the expansion of electrical infrastructure, the installation of charging stations and the development of e-fuels. When fines are collected next year, that money should go back into the economy to accelerate the green transition. It is our responsibility to ensure that Europe's car industry meets the goals we have set.