Mercedes-Benz Worried About The European Auto Industry

Beginning in 2035, a groundbreaking shift will occur in the European Union, as the sale of new cars that emit CO₂ will be prohibited. This pivotal decision signals the twilight of combustion engine vehicles, transforming the automotive landscape as we know it. Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius has voiced profound concerns, warning that this significant change could unleash serious repercussions for the industry and its future.

“We need a wake-up call. Otherwise, we’ll be heading full speed towards a wall,” German Handelsblatt quoted Automotive News as saying, citing Ola Källenius. Källenius, who is also chairman of the European industry association ACEA in addition to being CEO of Mercedes, says the European car market could completely collapse if the ban goes into effect as announced. Consumers would quickly buy a gasoline or diesel car before the ban takes effect. “Of course, we have to make our business more sustainable, but in a technology-neutral way. We mustn’t lose sight of our economy in the process,” Källenius said.

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