Mega task: infrastructure
Turbocharge expansion of the charging infrastructure now – Ramp up the hydrogen economy and the share of green electricity – Become a European pioneer of e-fuels
In an initial response to the policy program presented by the parties in Germany’s new coalition Government, President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry Hildegard Müller declared:
“The new governing coalition has presented an ambitious program for the transformation into a climate-neutral economy and society. This is an essential shift, and to this end it is important that German industry remains competitive internationally.
“The ‘mega task’ facing this new Government is the infrastructure. In almost all sectors, Germany has to catch up and considerably improve its performance. The new coalition Government has recognized this and formulated a large number of projects. The important thing now is implementation.
“The new Federal Government wishes to have up to 15 million fully electric passenger cars on the roads in Germany by 2030. Mathematically, this means that from 2022 onward, half of all newly registered passenger cars must run solely on electricity. To achieve this we will have to turbocharge the expansion of the charging infrastructure: more charging points on private and retail premises, at gas stations and on public roads. In particular we need flanking measures to help suppliers make the switch and support the transformation within companies in order to keep jobs in Germany.
“Furthermore, we need high-speed expansion of the hydrogen economy, and the share of green electricity in Germany must be increased to 80 percent by 2030.
“Some points still have to be specified in more detail, such as the statements regarding the importance of e-fuels. They are essential if we are to achieve the climate goals – this applies in Germany and particularly worldwide. We now need ambitious quotas for e-fuels, in order to include the vehicles already on the roads. Germany must become a European pioneer in e-fuels.
“Similarly, we now need a rapid expansion in the production of strategically important components in Germany and Europe. We must become less dependent on Asia and other regions. Raw materials partnerships – including the generation of renewable energy – must be placed right at the top of the new Government’s agenda.
“We will support the new Government in implementing its projects because only a strong Germany can achieve the goals that have been set.”