Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – European Union discussions to relaunch Europe’s embattled car industry are to get underway on January 30, 2025, with automotive CEOs to examine penalties and competition from China.
European Commission President von der Leyen has assembled key European industry leaders. It includes social partners and stakeholders for the launch of the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of the European Automotive Industry.
According to the EU Commission, the high-level talks, in which 22 major players from the automotive sector actively participated will concentrate on the major areas that need urgent attention, including the requirement for an international ‘level playing field’, promote the clean transition and regulatory streamlining, as well as determining areas where more substantial measures are needed.
What did von der Leyen say about the industry’s future?
In her remarks, EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, stated:
The European automotive industry is at a pivotal moment, and we acknowledge the challenges it faces. That is why we are acting swiftly to address them. The fundamental question we need to answer together is what we still miss to unleash the innovative power of our companies and ensure a robust and sustainable automotive sector.
Today marks the beginning of a dialogue that will help us navigate the changes ahead. The outcome of this dialogue will be a comprehensive Action Plan, which we will present on March 5th. This Action Plan will chart a clear course to ensure our industry can thrive in Europe and compete successfully on a global stage.
What challenges does Europe’s automotive industry currently face?
The European Union is having these talks over various pressing issues its automotive sector is facing. Its automotive sector has been facing so many challenges, but the EU has set the bar high with its new rules regarding CO2 emission. New cars are to average 93.6 grams per kilometer by 2025.
In order not to face penalties, the automakers have to follow the rules set forth by the EU. The automobile industry is facing high production costs, a decline in consumer demand, and uncertainties in the economy. Recent data reflected a drastic decline in car registrations, especially regarding BEVs, and so relief measures and support from the EU are more than in order.
