BMW CEO Urges Europe to Cancel Petrol Engine Ban for Energy Security

BMW CEO Oliver Zipse has warned the European Union (EU) that its proposed ban on new petrol and diesel cars by 2035 could jeopardize the region's energy security and independence. In a recent earnings call, Zipse criticized the EU's plans to relax the ban by including e-fuels, arguing that it would be a "bogus solution" without significant investment in e-fuel production.

The EU's proposed ban on new internal combustion engine (ICE) cars aims to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, BMW's CEO believes that the current approach could lead to a de facto ban on ICE cars through the back door, as e-fuel production is not yet scalable to support the existing fleet of over 250 million vehicles in the EU.


Zipse has called for a more balanced and pragmatic approach to the phase-out of ICE cars, emphasizing the importance of low-CO2 fuels such as e-fuels, E25, and HVO100 in the short term. He argues that these fuels can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the existing fleet and contribute to climate protection immediately.


The inclusion of e-fuels in the 2035 ban could have significant implications for the EU's energy security and independence. By relying on e-fuels, the EU would reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels and strengthen its energy resilience. However, the success of this strategy depends on the rapid scaling up of e-fuel production and distribution infrastructure.

The shift towards e-fuels could also have job market implications for the EU's automotive and energy sectors. While the adoption of e-fuels may lead to job losses in the ICE car manufacturing sector, it could create new employment opportunities in the production, distribution, and maintenance of e-fuels and related technologies.


In conclusion, BMW CEO Oliver Zipse's warning highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to the phase-out of ICE cars in the EU. By investing in low-CO2 fuels and scaling up e-fuel production, the EU can enhance its energy security and independence while making significant strides towards its 2050 climate neutrality goals. The successful integration of e-fuels into the EU's energy landscape will require a concerted effort from policymakers, industry stakeholders, and consumers alike.