Salvini: “On cars devastating mistakes. Second von der Leyen commission must change course”

Brussels – Cars, a step back. The new European legislature should not be about continuity. On the contrary, it is necessary to revisit some aspects of the European Green Deal. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini, in Brussels for the EU Council ministerial meeting, demands a new course for the automotive sector: “Ursula von der Leyen in the first five years made devastating mistakes. I count on her changing direction” in the second five years. It means reviewing the stop to traditional engines from 2035, reconsidering the ban on biofuel, and, more importantly, the push on electric cars, which is too China-dependent.

“There are 14 million jobs at risk” across Europe, “we risk a social clash,” said Salvini, who is firmly against the idea of fines for manufacturers who do not sell enough electric vehicles. He welcomes that “Germany is approaching this common-sense proposal that avoids fines,” but not so Paris. “For France to head straight off the cliff is unacceptable,” the League leader criticizes.

What has been done so far with the auto sector is and remains “economic suicide,” Salvini insists, calling on the new European Commission to correct the course. “I count on a review of the modalities and timing” of the sustainability agenda for road transport. “On a whole series of files, our group in the European Parliament will play a decisive role, more so than in the last legislature,” he warns.