The European Commission has announced the launch of a strategic dialogue on the future of the automotive industry in Europe in January 2025.
This step was promised by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in November 2024, when she stated her intention to negotiate with car manufacturers over the next five years to preserve production in Europe despite the industry’s difficulties.
The dialogue will involve not only car manufacturers but also trade unions, business organizations and related industries. The outcome of the discussions will be a set of recommendations to develop an EU strategy aimed at addressing sector challenges and possibly adapting EU legislation.
The EU automotive industry is facing a crisis, triggered by an energy shortage following reduced supplies from Russia, as well as increased competition from Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers. In response, some companies have announced the closure of their factories in Europe.
Additionally, it is worth noting that in 10 years, the EU plans to ban the sale of cars with internal combustion engines as part of its “climate neutrality” policy.
