EU Commission President meets with automotive industry leaders

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen met with key figures in the automotive industry as the EU vows to take action to help the bloc's beleaguered sector.

The talks took place after industry leaders sounded the alarm over emissions fines and increased competition. “The European automotive industry is at a pivotal moment, and the challenges it faces are acknowledged," the EU Chief said, promising an "action plan" by early March.

The car industry has been plunged into crisis by high manufacturing costs, a stuttering switch to electric vehicles (EV). Announcements of possible job cuts have multiplied.