Leading economists have sharply criticized the anticipated EU shift away from the planned ban on combustion engine vehicles. Monika Schnitzer, chair of the German Council of Economic Experts, stated that this change neither solves the current problems faced by manufacturers nor secures industrial jobs in Germany. Other economists expressed similar skepticism regarding the benefits of this policy shift.

Thomas Puls, from the employer-affiliated Institute of the German Economy, called the debate a “symbolic discussion,” emphasizing that electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids will remain superior options for most uses by 2035. Meanwhile, the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) urged patience, calling for a technology-neutral and pragmatic approach as proposals from the EU Commission are expected soon. The upcoming plans will clarify which new vehicles will be permitted in the EU from 2035, with a complete ban on combustion engines seemingly unlikely to materialize.