In the latest episode of Daimler Trucks’ podcast “Transportation Matters”, Martin Daum, CEO of Daimler Trucks AG, speaks with Sigrid de Vries, Secretary General of the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), about decarbonizing transport. He spoke about Europe’s progress towards the future.
This podcast explores different aspects of the transformation needed to achieve zero-emission transport in Europe. Below are key takeaways from their conversation.
Europe’s progress towards decarbonized transport
Martin Daum opened the conversation by emphasizing the importance of achieving zero-emission transport in Europe. He acknowledged that this path may not be easy or popular, but it is necessary. Daum noted that transport costs are likely to become higher as decarbonization efforts intensify. “We are well aware that this is an inconvenient truth and a burden for many people,” he said, stressing that this is the price to pay for a more sustainable world.
Align ambition with reality
Sigrid de Vries highlighted that Europe has made significant progress in setting policy and instrumental targets for sustainability. “Zero-emission vehicles are not a bottleneck,” she said, stressing that the focus has shifted to implementing these goals in practical, real-world scenarios. Policy makers often insist on setting tough targets, believing that this will bring about the desired changes. However, B2B markets require a more comprehensive approach that establishes the conditions necessary for a successful transition to zero emissions. Ms De Vries noted that many of the EU’s Green Deal ambitions were now targeted, and she called for an “industrial deal” that would “put industrial strategy firmly back on the agenda”.
Balancing industry and policy perspectives
The conversation also emphasized the need for a balanced understanding between policymakers and industry. Policy makers are not engineers and may not fully understand the industry’s complex challenges. Industry has a role to play in bridging this gap by providing critical information, technical expertise and collaborative support to help policy makers make informed decisions.
Infrastructure deployment is over time
A key challenge on the path to decarbonized transport is the development of a robust and comprehensive infrastructure for electric vehicle charging, hydrogen refueling, and green energy. They agreed that there is momentum in building such infrastructure in Europe, but stressed that progress is not fast enough to meet ambitious goals.
European unification and regulation
The podcast concluded by highlighting the importance of a joint European approach to regulation. Fragmentation into individual markets with their own rules creates significant transport inefficiencies. A unified European approach is essential to remain competitive on the world stage.
A key challenge on the path to decarbonized transport is the development of a robust and comprehensive infrastructure for electric vehicle charging, hydrogen refueling, and green energy.
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