German Court Rejects Car Ban Appeal: A Blow to Environmentalists

Germany's top appeals court dismissed cases from environmentalists aiming to ban Mercedes-Benz and BMW from selling new combustion-engine cars in 2030. The federal court confirmed lower court rulings, stating no specific carbon budget was allocated to these companies. Mercedes-Benz and BMW welcomed the decision, affirming sustainability commitments.

Germany's top appeals court in Karlsruhe has dismissed lawsuits filed by the environmental lobby group DUH, which sought to prohibit Mercedes-Benz and BMW from selling new combustion-engine vehicles starting in 2030.

The federal court supported lower court decisions, ruling that a 'carbon budget' had not been assigned to individual companies by DUH. The environmentalists' cases hinged on these calculations, which were deemed insufficient evidence.

In response, Mercedes-Benz and BMW have expressed relief, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to sustainability. The decision, as stated by a BMW spokesperson, ensures 'legal certainty for companies operating in Germany.'