Kuban Criticizes EU Climate Goals, Warns of German Job Losses
Berlin - Tilman Kuban, economic policy spokesperson for the Free democratic Party (FDP), sharply criticized the European Union’s push for a complete ban on combustion engines, arguing the policy threatens German industrial jobs and risks undermining climate protection efforts.Kuban’s comments come amid growing debate within Germany‘s governing coalition regarding the pace and practicality of transitioning to electric vehicles.
Kuban pointed to Toyota’s diversified strategy – a third combustion engine, a third hybrid, and a third battery-electric vehicles – as a pragmatic approach, contrasting it with the EU’s more stringent regulations. He cited Volkswagen’s decision to build a commercial vehicle plant in Turkey to continue producing combustion engine vehicles as a direct consequence of the EU policy, questioning whether this benefits German skilled workers in Wolfsburg or hanover. ”80 percent climate protection with prosperity and democracy are better than 100 percent with empty factory halls,” Kuban stated, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach.
The FDP official also highlighted concerns shared by colleagues in France, Poland, Italy, and Eastern European countries, suggesting the EU’s 2050 climate target is facing “violent pressure.” he urged Germany to recognize this reality and pursue a more unified European strategy.
This debate unfolds as Habitat minister Carsten Schneider (SPD) champions the coalition’s ambitious 1.5-degree climate goal. Though, Kuban argues the SPD needs to consider the perspectives of workers who fear job losses due to the rapid transition. Jan Alexander Casper of WELT reports on the greens and socio-political issues.
