by Mercedes chief calls on EU to review ICE ban
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius has spoken out against the strict deadlines for banning internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in Europe. In his opinion, instead of forced restrictions by 2035, the EU should incentivize buyers to switch to electric vehicles through infrastructure development and tax benefits.
Källenius stated that absolute bans with strict sanctions could harm the economy. He emphasized that the decarbonization process should be technologically neutral, without fixed hard deadlines for ICE.
“We need to conduct a thorough reality check. Otherwise, we are going to hit a wall at full speed.”
The market may not be ready
The head of Mercedes fears that a forced transition to electric vehicles by 2035 could trigger a collapse of the European car market. In his view, buyers will rush en masse to buy the last available ICE vehicles before the ban, which will not serve the environmental goal.
As an example of an alternative approach, Källenius cites the USA, where there are no strict bans, but low charging prices and tax benefits make electric vehicles attractive. At the same time, hybrids and traditional cars remain available.
Källenius’s position is supported by other auto industry leaders. The president of ACEA and the head of BMW have also warned about the risks of complete dependence on Chinese batteries in the event of a hasty transition to electric vehicles. This discussion is unfolding against the backdrop of preparations for the presentation of the new electric GLC at the auto show in Munich, which is set to become the Mercedes flagship in the next decade.
Recent statements by auto industry executives indicate growing pressure on European legislators. At the same time, increasing competition from Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers adds new challenges for traditional auto giants, forcing them to seek a balance between environmental goals and economic feasibility.
