BEM wants to see "more progress" from the traffic light coalition

The expectations for the “traffic light coalition” are high: According to the BEM, the energy and mobility transition in Germany can be accelerated, and the topics of prosperity and environmental protection are seen by the BEM as quite compatible. “We want to see more progress,” said BEM President Kurt Sigl on Tuesday, referring to the coalition agreement presented under the headline “Dare to Make More Progress.” Sigl commented on this:

“We are following the formation of the election winners with great respect and recognize the courage and ambition to tackle long-overdue reforms. However, the first media reports cast doubt on whether the magic of freedom and climate protection will lead to the right derivations. Therefore, we encourage the new officeholders to pursue a consistent CO2 reduction policy.”

The BEM praised the declared expansion of electromobility, including charging infrastructure and the associated authority enhancement for accelerated processes and digital procedures. Sigl elaborated:

“It is impossible to predict today whether the catching-up race will result in a lead market. What is important now is the necessary clarity of government action, along which the economy and investments can realistically move. A future-proof electromobility law is just as overdue here as the farewell to diesel and gasoline vehicle privileges.”

Light Vehicles Instead of Heavy Power Bolides

He pointed to the necessary reduction of "bolide-focused car mobility" and recommended stronger promotion of electric light vehicles. In view of rising energy prices and confusing electricity costs at charging stations, the BEM President urged for understandable and consistent market rules that would also create social relief.

The BEM welcomed the signals of phasing out support for plug-in hybrids, praised the declared goal of expanding renewable energies and approving bidirectional charging, supported the revision of the master plan for charging infrastructure, and the planned cluster funding for medium-sized companies in electromobility, which acted much more progressively than large manufacturing companies. Similarly, the handling of data is an issue, which is why the BEM welcomed the competition-neutral use of mobility data. “The consideration of more sustainability has long since reached the factories and office floors in this republic,” said Kurt Sigl, adding:

“Now it is necessary to support those who generate affordable environmental successes and to speak clearly with the others.”

What Does This Mean?

It remains to be seen to what extent the correct and concrete demands of the BEM will be heard by the new government – because the lobbying of the auto industry is strong and the topic of “light vehicles” is still a small niche with poor margins. A change of course would be all the more desirable: Small vehicles mean small space and energy requirements.