The automotive industry in Germany and Belgium is facing significant challenges, including plant closures and job cuts, particularly affecting Portugal, where 98% of cars have components made locally. The transition to electric vehicles, competition from China, and declining sales are major issues. The Portuguese automotive component sector, employing 64,000 people, is expected to see a decline in exports and jobs. Despite a current growth in the market, it has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels. The EU aims to end CO2-emitting car production by 2035, but faces challenges in competing with other countries. Teljes cikk (Euronews.com)