Discussion revolves around the automobile sector, as per Merz

Headline: Key Figures and Activists Weigh In on the Future of Automotive Industry at IAA

In the heart of Germany, the International Motor Show (IAA) has become a hotbed of discussions about the future of the automotive industry. Here's a round-up of some notable developments and reactions.

Winfried Kretschmann, the Green minister-president of Baden-Württemberg, paid a visit to his homegrown suppliers at the IAA. He reiterated his belief that electric drive is the future, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic approach to the EU's review of combustion engines. Kretschmann stressed the importance of job and value creation as key considerations in this transition.

Meanwhile, Friedrich Merz, a potential chancellor candidate, announced plans to shake up the auto show scene if he were to become chancellor. He proposed the opening of three auto shows in 2027, 2029, and 2031, aiming to keep the industry on its toes and showcase the latest advancements in sustainable mobility.

Mercedes CEO Ola Kallenius also made headlines at the IAA. He expressed his ambition to make Mercedes climate-neutral by 2039, a bold move that underscores the company's commitment to a greener future. However, Kallenius faced a minor hiccup during his tour when the trunk of an electric GLC accidentally locked, providing a humorous contrast to the serious discussions about the industry's future.

Climate activists were not shy about voicing their concerns at the IAA. They blocked a street in Munich, criticizing the auto show as a "climate-damaging lobby event." Activists from Attac also protested against the outdated auto industry, symbolizing their opposition with an "Autosaurus" in a lake near the exhibition center. Their slogan, "Bus and train instead of car madness," echoed the call for more sustainable transportation solutions.

Markus Söder, currently a member of the Christian Social Union (CSU) party, has not explicitly demanded specific changes to the EU ban on internal combustion engines for 2035. However, he continues to express traditional CSU policies and warnings against political opponents like the AfD, without any recorded public statements on the EU combustion engine ban in the provided results.

As the IAA continues, these developments and protests serve as a reminder that the future of the automotive industry is not just about technology, but also about balancing economic, environmental, and societal concerns. The discussions and actions at the IAA are shaping the direction of the industry and the future of mobility.