Chancellor Merz: Electric mobility to strengthen Germany as an industrial location

At the opening of the IAA motor show in Munich, Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on domestic manufacturers to take the initiative in the transition to electric mobility.

Germany cannot afford to be passive, said Merz, referring to growing competition from Asia, US punitive tariffs, and a difficult regulatory environment.

The automotive industry is of central importance to the German economy.

The country must not only accompany the transformation, but also actively shape it and exploit its potential.

Merz announced that he would convene a summit with representatives of car manufacturers, suppliers, and other stakeholders in the coming weeks to jointly seek solutions to the current challenges.

The appeal comes at a time when the German economy has shrunk again – this time in the second quarter – and industry is struggling with rising costs.

The aim is to improve the business climate and strengthen confidence in Germany as a production location.

Manufacturers at the IAA are also trying to break the negative trend with new models and technologies.

(reuters, red)