Discussion Paper from the Mobility CG: The Direction Needs to Be Set Beyond the Upcoming Legislative Period

On 23 February 2025, Germany went to the polls and now everything points to a grand coalition between the CDU and SPD. The results of the coalition negotiations will largely determine Germany’s future transport policy. Mobility is a long-term issue that affects society as a whole. The steering committee of the Mobility Competence Group of eco – Association of the Internet Industry is therefore calling for the incoming German federal government to set a clear course to ensure that tomorrow’s mobility is digital, sustainable and innovation-driven.

Germany faces a twofold challenge: the transport transition must be made sustainable and climate-friendly, while at the same time digital innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), connected vehicles and automated mobility services must be promoted. ‘Mobility is an issue for society as a whole that cannot be thought through from one legislature to the next. We need a holistic strategy that combines innovation, climate protection and digital infrastructure,’ explains Juan I. Hahn, Head of the Mobility Competence Group at the eco Association.

Future-proof mobility needs a holistic strategy

The next German federal government must therefore create framework conditions that enable investment and innovation beyond the legislative period. Particularly relevant are the expansion of digital infrastructures, the strengthening of data-driven business models, and a regulatory environment that promotes rather than hinders innovation. In addition, long-term infrastructure issues such as mobility must be holistically conceived beyond the term of office of a government in order to achieve sustainable progress. In particular, this includes the Europe-wide harmonisation of standards for connected mobility in order to create uniform regulations for data processing, interoperability and security. These will facilitate international transport and promote innovation. Equally crucial is the development of a resilient, sustainable digital infrastructure by investing in high-performance data centres, 5G networks and data rooms that form the basis for intelligent transport systems. Finally, promoting autonomous mobility and zero-emission drives is essential to establishing sustainable forms of mobility in the long term. This requires continuous research, a clear legal framework and targeted investment in zero-emission technologies.

Strengthening data-driven business models

The outgoing German federal government has already announced measures to promote electric mobility and the expansion of digital infrastructures. These projects must now be consistently pursued. At the same time, further key aspects are needed to ensure Germany and Europe’s long-term competitiveness in the mobility sector. ‘In particular, these include the Europe-wide harmonisation of standards for connected mobility and the promotion of software-defined vehicles, which have not been sufficiently addressed so far,’ says Hahn. ‘Equally important is the targeted strengthening of data-driven business models and the creation of a regulatory environment that actively supports innovation. The eco Association is ready to support policymakers, industry and civil society in shaping a future-proof mobility landscape that is coordinated across Europe.’

Concrete recommendations for action to the next German federal government:

Targeted funding of AI and data use: A clear legal framework for the use of vehicle-generated and mobility data is essential to enable innovation and competition. The harmonisation of the EU Data Act, Data Governance Act and the Mobility Data Act must be implemented swiftly.
Strengthen sustainable value chains: Digital technologies must be used in a targeted manner to optimise resource-efficient supply chains, circular economy and battery recycling strategies.
Promote software-defined vehicles and semiconductors: The EU must invest in strategic technologies such as semiconductors, sensor technology and AI chips to ensure Europe’s innovation leadership in the automotive sector.
Enabling autonomous and connected mobility: Legal certainty for pilot projects, uniform standards for V2X communication and investment in test zones are essential for scaling autonomous mobility solutions.
Actively combatting the shortage of skilled workers: European training initiatives and qualification programmes for data, AI and cybersecurity expertise are needed to meet the growing demand for skilled workers.
Strengthen cybersecurity and consumer protection: Uniform European requirements for data security and data protection must be created to ensure trust in digital mobility services.
Expand digital infrastructures and European sovereignty: Investments in 5G, Gaia-X and European data spaces are needed to enable long-term innovation in the mobility ecosystem.