Industry leaders urge Germany to stick to 2035 goal and lead Europe’s E-Mobility shift

In the run-up to Germany’s “Autogipfel” automotive summit, over 200 executives from the electromobility and clean tech sectors are calling for a firm commitment to the 2035 zero-emission target and stronger industrial policy to support Europe’s clean mobility transition.

According to the association E-Mobility Europe, continued progress in vehicle electrification is key for the continent to reclaim global industrial leadership, create local, high-quality jobs, reduce dependency on foreign oil, and offer more affordable transport solutions for consumers.

Industry leaders are highlighting the need for political certainty and long-term policy frameworks to drive investment and support the ongoing transformation.

Michael Halbherr, CEO at ABB E-mobility, states: “The e-mobility sector is a key part of the European clean technology industry and is becoming increasingly competitive. That is why we need political and regulatory certainty to support the investment and continued growth of the sector for the benefit of the customers and the European industry.”

“We need bold, unwavering commitment and certainty from our politicians to ensure the future remains bright for the electric vehicle (EV) transition,” he adds.

Eduard Schlutius, CEO at reev, says: “A clear 2035 zero-emission target is not a burden but a catalyst for innovation and global competitiveness. Europe must stay committed to its course. Uncertainty is the real threat to our industry.”

Christian Hahn, CEO at Hubject GmbH, indicates: “As a continent, Europe must take leadership – by committing to clean mobility and optimising the charging experience for a seamless end-to-end solution.”

From IONITY, CEO Jeroen van Tilburg remarks: “IONITY and the entire charging industry are investing billions in Germany’s economy and in the future of electric mobility. But this future will only succeed if Europe maintains clear and reliable framework conditions.”

“E-Mobility becomes more affordable and accessible the more people drive electric. What we need now is a clear commitment to the CO₂ targets and smart incentives that accelerate progress and build trust,” he adds.

Mirco Wojnarowicz, CEO at Rock Tech Lithium, states: “Germany and Europe must take long-term, strategic action. We need the mobility transition as part of the overall energy transition.”

He continues: “And for the electric age, Germany and Europe need a regional battery and lithium supply chain. That’s what we’re working on every day at Rock Tech Lithium.”

“We are still almost 100 percent dependent on third countries – and that has to change. Clear signals and support from policymakers are needed to make that happen. This is essential for securing our prosperity – and it is in the interests of the German automotive industry and the German economy as a whole,” he adds.

Michael Heinemann, CEO at Phoenix Contact E-Mobility GmbH, warns: “Anyone who questions the 2035 target today risks undermining Europe’s role as a technology leader. Electromobility is not a trend – it is the foundation for achieving our climate goals and leads to a resilient, connected, and independent society.“

He continues: “Bidirectional charging turns the vehicle into an energy storage unit, a national power bank, and makes mobility the centrepiece of an All Electric Society. Other regions of the world are driving this transformation more purposefully. Europe must now act decisively to secure competitiveness and independence.”

E-Mobility Europe says that Europe must build on its progress, not reverse it.

The 2035 target remains a cornerstone for climate leadership, industrial competitiveness, and future-proof mobility across the continent.

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