German authorities insist they are not delaying discussions concerning tough European Commission (EC) CO2 emissions targets, but maintain “further work” is needed before an outcome can be realised.
European Union Environment Ministers are scheduled to meet in Luxembourg next Monday (14 October), to evaluate the EC CO2 targets of 95g/km for cars and 147g/km for vans, with Germany, the UK and France, appearing to push for more time.
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“We are not interested in delaying – our aim to is to lead the discussions about reducing CO2 emissions in automobiles on the European level to a success,” commented the German Transport Ministry to just-auto from Berlin.
“However, further work and discussion on the draft concepts is needed in order to ensure a balanced outcome. Germany is as prepared as our partners to reach a good compromise.”
Emissions regulations are of particular sensitivity to Germany, which produces a significant number of premium vehicles, with the country’s automotive association recently emphasising the need not to affect job creation through overly-strict CO2 rules.
Although the Transport Ministry has its views, the department is at pains to point out the issue is being led by the German Environment Ministry and that the automotive sector is of “exceptional importance” for the country.
“We are of course working on this together, but leading the discussions for Germany is the Environment Ministry,” added the Transport department.
“Germany fully supports the European climate goals and also supports the aim to further improve car technology to reduce CO2 emissions,” added the Ministry.
The C02 proposals have been endorsed by the European automotive supplier body, CLEPA, which insists the lower targets will stimulate innovation and create skilled jobs in engineering and advanced manufacturing.
