Baden-Württemberg's Kretschmann Sparks Debate With Diesel Car Purchase
Winfried Kretschmann, the Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg, has sparked debate after purchasing a diesel car for towing sand to fill his grandchild's sandbox. This move comes amidst a waning affection for diesel cars among Germans and growing support for diesel bans in cities.
Kretschmann's decision has been met with criticism from colleagues, given the current climate. Germans are increasingly favoring electric vehicles (EVs) and backing restrictions on diesel cars. The Greens, Kretschmann's party, have even proposed a plan for all new car sales to be electric by 2030.
The city of Duisburg is leading the way in EV infrastructure, investing 8.75 million euros in a project that includes 20 EV charging stations. This project, set to be completed by October 2026, also features photovoltaic systems and air-to-water heat pumps. However, Kretschmann has expressed skepticism about the feasibility of charging 5 million EVs simultaneously at current filling stations.
Sales of EVs in Germany are slow, with only 34,000 sold last year, a 33.4% increase from the previous year. The lack of charging infrastructure is often cited as a barrier to EV adoption. Kretschmann's state, however, is at the forefront of expanding charging infrastructure, with a budget of 43.5 million euros.
Despite the criticism, Kretschmann's purchase highlights the challenges in transitioning to electric vehicles. While the Greens' plan for all-electric cars by 2030 may cost them a few votes, it could also gain them many more as Germans embrace cleaner transportation. The Duisberg project and Baden-Württemberg's infrastructure expansion show progress, but the feasibility of mass EV charging remains a significant hurdle.
Read also:
- Electric SUV Showdown: Vinfast VF6 or MG Windsor EV - Your Choice Revealed
- United States Secures $632 Million to Fuel Electric Vehicle Revolution
- IM Motors reveals extended-range powertrain akin to installing an internal combustion engine in a Tesla Model Y
- Ford Embraces Silicon Valley Approach, Introducing Affordable Mid-Sized Truck and Shared Platform
