Why doesn't Kretschmer choose to operate a Phaeton?

In the heart of Europe, Germany's political landscape is as diverse as it is dynamic. When it comes to transportation choices, the country's top politicians have varied preferences, reflecting their individual ideologies and the nation's broader environmental concerns.

Winfried Kretschmann, the state leader of Baden-Württemberg, stands out as the only green state leader and the only one with an electric car. His choice mirrors his commitment to a sustainable future.

On the other hand, Katherina Reiche, the Federal Minister of Economics, uses a BMW with a plug-in hybrid from her ministry's fleet. Her selection of a flexible, potentially green vehicle aligns with her vision of a green-tinged, efficient German economy. Anja Karliczek, the politician who opted for a BMW plug-in hybrid, also follows this trend, albeit with a method that remains ultimately fossil-fueled.

Many top politicians, such as those holding the positions of finance, transport, and minister-president, tend to favour luxury brands like BMWs, Audis, or Mercedes for their ministerial cars. However, not all are the same. Lars Klingbeil, the Finance Minister, could save money by choosing a Chinese BYD, while Michael Kretschmer, the Saxon Minister-President, could demonstrate modesty and his connection to the southeast by getting a used VW Phaeton, a model produced in Dresden and Zwickau.

Some politicians, like the Hamburg transport senator, Anjes Tjarks, and the Bremen environmental senator, Kathrin Moosdorf, choose not to use ministerial cars at all. The Lower Saxony transport minister drives a VW, and the Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, could strengthen German-French friendship by buying a Peugeot.

The website debate, an independent, left-wing, and opinionated daily newspaper, has been arguing since its founding in 1979. Over the years, it has presented a broad left-wing opinion spectrum, often presenting completely opposing positions on various issues, including the topic of political vehicles.

Markus Söder, the minister-president, holds the title of driving the dirtiest ministerial car among all minister-presidents. His choice of vehicle, however, does not seem to deter the ongoing conversations and debates that characterise Germany's political discourse.