There Are Calls For Less Bureaucracy In The Automotive Industry, Even Among Germans

Calls and cries for help from the European auto industry to governments are commonplace these days, but that makes them more relevant rather than less. This underscores the dire need among European car manufacturers. Hildegard Müller, president of the Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), is also sounding the alarm in the run-up to the next EU summit in March. All major German car manufacturers are members of the VDA, which, due to its important role, is regularly featured on this website. “A different European policy is necessary for the European auto industry,” says Müller. In her view, the EU should primarily focus on the interests of its own industry on the global stage and within Europe. “The world isn’t waiting for us,” she says. “On the contrary, competitors are keeping an eye on Europe and exploiting its weaknesses to gain a leading position and achieve economic growth.”

To improve the situation, Müller believes that fewer regulations are needed. The EU is not yet living up to its promises in this area, she notes, as more European laws will have been introduced by 2025 than at any time in the past fifteen years. According to the VDA, electricity costs must decrease, and innovation must be stimulated rather than hindered. The EU must approve prepared free trade agreements much more quickly and implement a clear and realistic policy on autonomous and electric driving. “Away from obligations and sanctions and towards market-based incentives,” Müller concludes.

• Also See: Mercedes-Benz Is Germany’s Best-Selling Premium Brand