EU should scrap ban on new combustion-engine sales: Merz | Business

BERLIN, Oct 7, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Monday he wants the EU to scrap its planned 2035 deadline for ending new combustion-engine vehicle sales as his country looks for ways to help its ailing car industry. The giants of Germany's flagship sector such as Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz have cast doubt on the EU target as they struggle to build up competitive electric vehicle businesses against Chinese rivals like BYD. Ahead of a meeting to be held on Thursday with representatives from the automotive sector, Merz told the ntv channel that he thought the EU ban was "wrong". Last month, the EU pledged to fast-track a review of the 2035 target after pressure from carmakers. "I...