汽车业困境加剧！德国呼吁欧盟放宽2035燃油车禁令，以援助本国汽车制造商

Core Viewpoint - The German government has proposed to the EU to relax the 2035 ban on the sale of combustion engine vehicles in response to significant challenges facing the domestic automotive industry [1][2] Group 1: Policy Changes - The proposal includes allowing plug-in hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles with fuel range extenders, and "efficient" traditional combustion vehicles to continue sales after the 2035 ban takes effect [1] - Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the need to protect domestic manufacturers from emission violation penalties while maintaining industry competitiveness without compromising climate goals [1][2] Group 2: Industry Challenges - The German automotive industry is under multiple pressures, including trade barriers with the US, increased competition in the Chinese market, and weak domestic demand, leading companies like Volkswagen to initiate large-scale layoffs [1] - The government views revitalizing the automotive industry as a crucial opportunity to boost the economy amid aging infrastructure and workforce challenges [1] Group 3: Political Dynamics - The Merz government faces political pressure from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which capitalizes on public anxiety regarding the transition to electric vehicles [2] - The ruling coalition, with insufficient public support, reached a consensus with the Social Democratic Party to establish a policy direction that protects the German automotive industry without undermining climate objectives [2]