In her speech, Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of continuity and referred to the climate program of the previous European Commission, the Green Deal. However, it also showed a new direction by making room for e-fuels, synthetic fuels produced from hydrogen and CO2. This step deviates from the previous European policy that wants to ban combustion engines by 2035.

The introduction of e-fuels marks an important shift in European climate policy. These fuels are seen as a possible solution to reduce emissions from existing combustion engines, without the need to overhaul the entire infrastructure for gasoline and diesel vehicles. However, critics fear that this could delay the transition to fully electric vehicles.

Von der Leyen has further emphasized the need to make sustainable modes of transport more attractive and accessible. One of its priorities is to facilitate the use of trains throughout Europe. She advocates the development of a unified, digital booking platform for European train tickets. This platform would make it possible to travel through different countries with one ticket, without sacrificing rights or service. This measure would not only make traveling easier, but would also be an important step towards more sustainable transport.

In addition, Von der Leyen has announced that she wants to reduce the administrative burden for companies. Less bureaucracy, more trust and faster permits are some of the key points in her plan to increase the competitiveness of European companies. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular will receive more attention than in the previous government period. This is very important as SMEs are the backbone of the European economy.

During her speech, Von der Leyen stated: “We must pave the way for innovation and growth. Companies must be able to flourish without being hindered by unnecessary administrative burdens. That is why we are committed to digitalization and simplifying procedures.”