Germany’s transport minister supports ICE after 2035 if synthetic fuels work?

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Germany Supports Internal Combustion Engines Post-2035 if Powered by Synthetic Fuels

Germany's Minister of Transport, Volker Wissing, has indicated support for the continued use of internal combustion engines (ICE) beyond 2035, provided these vehicles can be exclusively refuelled with synthetic fuels. This stance suggests a conditional allowance for ICE technology, contingent on the development and implementation of specific technical solutions to ensure compliance. Germany has previously expressed reservations about proposals that did not account for the role of synthetic fuels in decarbonising transport.
Conditional Allowance for ICE Technology

The German government, through Minister Wissing, has stated its opposition to a complete ban on internal combustion engines from 2035. The key condition for their continued allowance is that these engines must be capable of running solely on synthetic fuels. This approach aims to provide a pathway for existing ICE technology to remain relevant in a decarbonised future, acknowledging the emissions reduction potential of synthetic alternatives.
Technical Safeguards for Synthetic Fuel Use

A crucial aspect of Germany's position is the requirement for a technical solution that prevents the refuelling of these post-2035 ICE vehicles with traditional fossil fuels. This implies a need for innovative engineering or regulatory measures to ensure that the exclusive use of synthetic fuels is practically enforced, thereby guaranteeing the environmental benefits of this technology. The focus is on creating a system where compliance is technically assured, rather than solely relying on user behaviour.
Emphasis on Technological Neutrality

Minister Wissing has advocated for a technology-agnostic approach to decarbonising the transport sector, arguing against an over-reliance on a single solution like electric mobility or hydrogen. He suggested that hybrid technologies could serve as a useful intermediary step, particularly given the current pace of electric vehicle (EV) scaling. This broader perspective underscores Germany's desire to maintain flexibility and explore multiple avenues for emissions reduction in the automotive industry.

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Germany’s transport minister supports ICE after 2035 if synthetic fuels work?

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