Safeguarding the automotive industry in Europe
24.10.2024
Question for written answer E-002243/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Rudi Kennes (The Left), Thomas Geisel (NI), Fabio De Masi (NI), Marc Botenga (The Left)
The German car manufacturer Audi has announced that its state-of-the-art plant in Forest, Brussels will not be allocated new vehicle production in the coming years, which could potentially lead to the plant’s closure. Audi Brussels is recognised as a pioneering facility in zero-carbon production. Its workers have received over 1 million hours of training. But this is not the only car factory at risk. The Volkswagen Group might consider closing factories in Germany.
The US and China have successfully implemented strategies to safeguard their automotive industries. Chinese manufacturers have strategically targeted the production of all types of models, including affordable ones, making electric vehicles accessible to a wider audience. In contrast, European manufacturers have largely focused on high-end, expensive models aimed at wealthy customers, which has hindered the development of the sector across Europe.
- 1.What specific innovative measures will the Commission propose to prevent the closure of automotive factories in Europe and support the transition of this crucial sector?
- 2.How does it intend to address the technology gap, particularly in areas such as battery production and autonomous driving?
- 3.How does it plan to support the development and production of more affordable electric vehicle models to ensure a wider adoption of electric mobility?
Submitted: 24.10.2024