Current Survey Reveals German Sentiment on 2035 Combustion Engine Ban

The European Union's climate objectives are set, including a ban on new combustion engine vehicles by 2035. However, many drivers in Germany and neighboring countries are not convinced by this plan. A recent survey conducted by Autoscout24, in collaboration with AUTO BILD, reveals a divided opinion across Europe.

In Germany and Austria, a significant majority of respondents advocate for either the cancellation or postponement of the set deadline for diesel and petrol vehicles. Conversely, resistance is waning in France and Italy, where 26% of participants oppose the ban, while 23% support delaying the implementation.

In Belgium, only 17% of respondents wish to overturn the ban, with 26% advocating for a postponement. Among the Dutch, the figures are even lower, with just 13% opposing the ban and 28% favoring a delay.

Focusing on German respondents, the opposition to the combustion engine ban is pronounced: 34% of those surveyed want to cancel the ban altogether, while 20% support a postponement beyond 2035. Notably, 4% propose replacing the combustion engine ban with a ban on electric vehicles. Interestingly, the support for maintaining the ban's deadline increases with age; 51% of individuals aged 55 and over oppose the EU's plan.

In contrast, younger Germans exhibit different attitudes. Approximately 44% of those aged 18 to 24 favor keeping the 2035 deadline for petrol and diesel vehicles. However, in the 25 to 34 age group, while 44% support the ban, 48% lean towards canceling or delaying it. As the age of respondents increases, so does the opposition to the fixed deadline. Among those aged 35 to 44, 57% are against the EU's plans, with 64% of respondents aged 45 to 54 and 69% of those aged 55 to 64 expressing similar sentiments.

As the German federal elections approach, these findings are likely to catch the attention of politicians, who may take note of these public sentiments regarding the future of combustion engine vehicles and the broader implications for environmental policy.