Ursula von der Leyen, Ursula von der Leyen’s successor in Germany, urges Malaga to tighten emissions regulations as it increases the ban on 2035 cars

Germany has directly appealed to European Commission President Ursula von der LeyenShe was urged to calm down. EU’s Ban on petrol and diesel vehicles until 2035.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed he will send a formal letter requesting exemptions for hybrid and “highly efficient” combustion engines – at the very moment European cities, including Malaga, are introducing strict low-emission rules The following are some examples of how to use €200 fines Vehicles that are not compliant with the law will be fined.

Merz, the German ambassador to Brussels, said that Germany wanted Brussels to maintain technological options. Merz argued in favor of a “technology-neutral” approach to achieving climate goals.

Germany asks von der Leyen if they can allow hybrids as well as efficient combustion engines

Merz will write to Ursula von der Leyen and request that the production of:

• Plug-in hybrids
• Battery hybrids recharge their batteries by driving.
• EVs with extended range using efficient combustion engine
• Vehicles with a combustion engine and a battery-electric drive

Merz says that these technologies are still vital, especially for long-distance motorists. He claims it’s “more pragmatic” than relying solely on electrification to invest in hybrid systems. Brussels has indicated an openness to discussions.

Bavarian leader Markus Söder says that Germany plans to introduce €5,000 subsidies for electric or hybrid cars with components largely made domestically.

Volvo and Polestar are opposed to any extension of the deadline for 2035, stating that it could undermine the firms that already have committed to full electric vehicles.

The European Commission will likely present updated guidelines on or after the 10th of December, though publication of a broader automotive package could slip to January 2026. The Commission will analyze Germany’s exemption request along with the consultation submissions it receives.

Cities throughout Spain are continuing to prepare similar LEZs. Locals and expats alike will soon face restrictions on zone entry, long before an EU-wide engine-ban comes into force.

As Europe accelerates its climate transition, the real question for drivers is whether policy shifts will empower choice – or just deepen uncertainty for years ahead.

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