German auto task force demands EU emissions rethink as industry crisis deepens

An automotive industry task force in Germany’s Baden-Wurttemberg state has called for a fundamental revision of EU vehicle emissions rules, lower energy costs and reduced bureaucracy amid mounting concerns over the sector’s future, local media reported Tuesday.

The panel outlined its demands in a 10-point agenda addressed to the German government and the EU, regional newspaper Badische Neueste Nachrichten reported.

The task force includes representatives from Audi, Mercedes, Daimler Truck, Porsche and Bosch, alongside the IG Metall union and employers’ association Gesamtmetall. It last met Monday afternoon.

State Economy Minister Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut said companies need economically viable conditions to manage the industry’s transformation.

“We need decisions now that will make our location more competitive again,” she told the newspaper.

The agenda calls for more flexible EU fleet emissions limits, including adjustments to CO₂ reduction targets and mechanisms to credit low-carbon materials and fuels.

It also proposes a separate category for vehicles powered exclusively by biogenic fuels and electricity-based synthetic fuels.

The panel said sufficient flexibility and early recognition of low-carbon materials should help manufacturers avoid penalties in the passenger car and commercial vehicle sectors.

“Regarding the EU fleet regulation, we advocate incentives rather than strict quotas,” it said.

The task force also urged investment in hydrogen, renewable fuel production and charging infrastructure for cars and trucks, alongside faster grid connections and approval procedures.

Hoffmeister-Kraut established the task force following concerns triggered by Volkswagen Group’s plans for Audi’s Neckarsulm plant.