Kristian Ruby, the secretary-general of Eurelectric, acknowledged the advantages the electricity sector gains from the EU’s electric agenda, but he affirmed openness to discussions with key players in the car industry. He stressed, however, the importance of not reversing the progress of the agenda.
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Today, Radio Schuman features an interview with Kristian Ruby, the secretary-general of Eurelectric, who urges the Commission to keep emissions reduction commitments in a significant auto sector strategy paper being released today.
The European automotive sector, employing 13 million people and contributing around 7% to the continent’s GDP, faces various challenges such as weak demand, stringent EU emissions targets, growing competition from Asia, and waning interest in electric vehicles. In response, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to introduce measures to boost the industry’s competitiveness while assuring overall emission reduction objectives.
Automakers have opposed the EU’s 2025 CO2 reduction targets and lobbied against penalties for non-compliance. However, von der Leyen has already signaled a relaxation of the annual review rule, extending the compliance period from one to three years. Plans to further support EV production are also expected.
Radio Schuman highlights an important meeting of EU home affairs ministers in Brussels and investigates which countries provide the highest take-home pay after taxes in Europe.
Radio Schuman is hosted and produced by Maïa de la Baume, with journalist and production assistant Eleonora Vasques, audio editing by David Brodheim. Music by Alexandre Jas.
