The European Union has decided, 2035 will mark the end of sales of new thermal vehicles. This historic decision, intended to drastically reduce air pollution responsible for tens of thousands of deaths each year, is not unanimous. A recent survey conducted in Germany, the historic land of the automobile, reveals a vision of the automotive future that deeply divides generations.
German youth, spearheading the electric transition
The numbers speak for themselves: 54% of 18-34 year olds actively support the ban on thermal engines scheduled for 2035. This support from the younger generation is no coincidence. Having grown up in a climate emergency, these young adults understand the vital importance of a rapid transition to more environmentally friendly means of transport. Their support appears all the more remarkable as they will have to deal with electric vehicles generally 20 to 30% more expensive than their thermal equivalents, despite often having more modest incomes than their elders.
This generation, which will live for several more decades on a planet with limited resources, demonstrates of an ecological pragmatism that transcends purely financial considerations. Their position demonstrates an acute awareness of environmental issues and a clear desire to prioritize long-term collective interest, rather than immediate individual comfort.
Seniors clinging to the thermal engine
At the opposite end of the generational spectrum, 56% of 55-64 year olds are firmly opposed to abandoning the thermal engine.. This generation is clearly struggling to imagine a future without their traditional automotive references. A position that may seem logical, knowing that these same boomers will be less directly impacted by the long-term consequences of global warming.
This resistance to change illustrates an unfortunately classic pattern: that of a generation which, after having largely benefited from an economic model based on fossil fuels, is reluctant to adapt its habits to preserve the future of following generations. The “boomers”, as their younger siblings sometimes call them, once again seem to favor their comfort zone to the detriment of crucial environmental issues.
2026 will be the year of truth for the future of the European automobile
The review clause planned for 2026 promises to be a decisive moment. The European Union will then have to confirm or adjust its objective of banning thermal engines for 2035. This crucial deadline will highlight the capacity of European institutions to stay the course in the face of various pressures, whether they come from industrial lobbies or reluctance of part of the population.
The challenges are numerous given that CO2 emissions from thermal vehicles have stagnated for twelve years, synthetic fuels are struggling to develop, and sales of electric vehicles are slowing in Western Europe. However, the climate emergency does not wait, and the massive support of younger generations for this ecological transition sends a clear message: the future belongs to those who know how to adapt to environmental imperatives.
- Deloitte survey reveals that 54% of young Germans support the end of thermal engines in 2035
- Boomers oppose it at 56%, illustrating a deep generational divide
- The year 2026 will be decisive with the review clause which will confirm or adjust the ban objective
