Germany prides itself on its auto industry, and with good reason. German cars have a world reputation for performance, style, reliability and solid engineering. Its also one of the few countries where high performance cars can be fully put to the test, with many sections of its autobahns being free of speed restrictions – its not unusual when driving at very high speeds in Germany to be overtaken by other cars travelling at very very very high speeds.
So it was of little surprise that the German auto industry, represented by brands such as Mercedes, BMW, Porsche and Volkswagen Audi vigorously lobbied its government for concessions on new European fuel economy standards (see box text below). Manufacturers were chiefly concerned with loosing their dominance of the luxury car segment through being forced to manufacture smaller, more efficient cars.
“We don’t want Germany to became a nation of small car owners”
President of the German automotive industry association, Matthias Wissmann, told a news conference recently “We don’t want Germany to became a nation of small car owners”. The German government has backed its automakers, claiming that the EU proposals place an unfair burden on German industry in comparison to the French and Italians.
However, according to the industry, consumers are taking a lead on environmental issues and are voting with their cheque books in dealer’s showrooms. Co2 emissions of new German cars registered in 2007 fell by 1.7 percent to just under 170 grams per kilometre. “There’s been a huge increase in buyers’ sensitivity for climate protection.”, said Wissmann, noting that he had experienced the change in German attitudes to car purchases first hand whilst spending time in car showrooms recently.
Attitudes, or simply spare cash?
However, a further look at the sales statistics shows that the small decrease in Co2 emissions is more likely due to the fact that sales in general are lower, dropping 9% in 2007, following increases in vehicle sales taxes and rising fuel costs. This suggests that German car buyers are being more frugal with their cash rather than being environmentally conscious.
Germany leads the way in many green initiatives, being Europe’s largest producer of renewable energy, most diligent recycler of waste, and a fierce advocate for action on climate change. It’s a pity that Germany appears apparently unwilling to apply its obvious engineering talents to green auto technology.
As told by a spokesman from BUND, a German environmental group, “The car industry has to finally accept the challenges of climate protection… Otherwise Germany is going to lose its credibility at future climate protection negotiations.”
Sources:
Reuters, EU Business, TalkClimateChange
I can remember back to the fuel crisis of the 70′s American, UK and German manufacturers sat picking their noses while the Japanese cleaned up and have never looked back.
Today we have the combination of much more environmentally aware Governments and more importantly consumers and I see the same thing happening sad isn’t it.
Once again consumers are driving the market and have to take parental control. Maybe Germany should visit Detroit, Michigan before they keep going down this path.
Germany has a two-fold advantage.
a)a progressive educational system which encourages applied reasoning and apprenticeship programs.
b) a responsible voter majority; Angela Merkel has a scientist’s mind and moral stamina.
Thus far this has been the strength of the country.
work ethics and stubbornness has kept the nation true.
Merkel is losing some of her green edge in the face of popular economics.
the traditional engineering skills associated with auto makers will suffer if she is phased out too soon.
i am vey impress u,r auto industry ilikes auto cars workshops and cars my industry name GMS is bus boudy builders and i apply to job this company
Substantially, the article is in reality the freshest on this laudable topic. I agree with your conclusions and also will eagerly look forward to your forthcoming updates. Saying thanks will certainly not simply be acceptable, for the amazing clarity in your writing. I will at once grab your rss feed to stay privy of any updates. Genuine work and also much success in your business endeavors!
German cars are widely popular all over the world most especially, audi, BMW and benz. they’re off great quality and performance. in my own point of view, it is true that some of the models they have created have became greener, which consume only less gasoline. Some auto makers have made some modification with the oil hose and other parts of the transmission so as it would not waste gas when running….Great thing to know that despite of the controversies german auto makers have encountered in the past, they are continously present in production as well as entertaining people.
wow this is a Germany prides itself on its auto industry, and i am so happy thatr you share this information to all….