Letter to Commission: keep EU industry strong with flexible climate rules and local content

CLEPA has issued a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, calling for urgent measures to restore Europe’s competitiveness in the automotive sector.

In the letter, CLEPA highlights the critical role suppliers play, generating 75% of a vehicle’s value, employing 1.7 million people, and investing €30 billion annually in R&D. The association warns that without decisive action, Europe could lose up to 650,000 jobs by 2035.

CLEPA’s recommendations include:

• Ensuring reliable and affordable energy
• Accelerating permitting and streamlining regulation
• Expanding funding instruments for critical technologies
• Introducing local content provisions to strengthen EU-based production

The letter also stresses the need for policy flexibility to meet 2030 and 2035 CO₂ reduction targets, advocating a technology-open approach that includes plug-in hybrids, range-extended EVs, and renewable-fuel vehicles alongside full electrification.

CLEPA argues that targeted local content requirements would stabilise investment, prevent further delocalisation, and protect highly skilled jobs, while supporting Europe’s industrial and climate objectives.