(de-news.net) – Chancellor Friedrich Merz has formally disclosed the outcomes of the latest coalition committee meeting during a press conference held at his official residence. In his remarks, Merz explained that, at the explicit request of coalition partner SPD, the current draft legislation concerning the pension package will remain unchanged and will be submitted to the Bundestag in its existing form without modification (see previous article).
Another significant issue addressed during the session was the European Union’s proposed prohibition on new combustion-engine automobiles beginning in 2035. According to Merz, consensus was reached on this matter, and he will correspond directly with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. In his letter, he intends to request that highly efficient combustion engines continue to be permitted beyond the 2035 deadline, thereby allowing technological innovation to coexist with environmental regulation. Merz stressed that the central challenge lies in striking a balance between ambitious climate protection objectives and the preservation of Germany’s industrial competitiveness in the global market.
The coalition partners also resolved to introduce a new program of purchase subsidies designed to encourage the acquisition of plug-in hybrid vehicles and fully electric cars. This initiative, Merz noted, is intended to be administered with minimal bureaucratic complexity and will primarily target households with low and middle incomes. The basic subsidy will amount to 3,000 euros, with an additional 500 euros per child, capped at a maximum of 1,000 euros, thereby providing tangible support to families. Moreover, households with a net monthly income below 3,000 euros will qualify for an extra incentive, ensuring that the program is socially equitable and inclusive.
Financing for this subsidy scheme will be secured through allocations totaling 3 billion euros from the Climate and Transformation Fund. These measures embody a dual commitment: advancing Germany’s industrial and environmental policy goals while simultaneously reinforcing social fairness.
