Domenico De Rosa: “The Automotive Industry’s Surrender: Crazy Rules, Timid Managers”
Domenico De Rosa doesn’t mince words when discussing European policies on the green transition. With a firm tone and the passion of someone who deals with the sector’s complexities on a daily basis, he strongly condemns Brussels’ irresponsibility and the weakness of the automakers.
“The greatest blame lies not only with those who impose crazy rules disconnected from reality,” he states, “but also with those who, even knowing they were unattainable, chose to remain silent!”
In his sights is a European Commission that, in his view, has built an ideological regulatory framework, imposing climate goals so ambitious as to be impossible, while European industry, instead of opposing them, has bowed to the political tide of the moment.
Cavaliere De Rosa speaks of mediocre management, incapable of defending the supply chain and exercising true leadership. “They went along with a political and media climate that rewarded ideology over practicality. It is the image of an industry without courage, devoid of vision, ready only to chase extensions and exemptions!”
His judgment is harsh and comprehensive. “Today, Europe is hostage to a dual weakness. On one hand, a dogmatic policy that sets timelines disconnected from the realities of production. On the other, an industry that abdicates its role, limiting itself to merely surviving while waiting for someone to relax the rules. This is how credibility is lost and the future of the entire supply chain is put at risk!”
In this context, Il Cavaliere recalls a figure who had foreseen it all well in advance. Sergio Marchionne had sounded very clear warnings, not only for the automotive sector but for the entire European economic system. He had foreseen the risks of a Europe rushing toward ideology without adequate industrial and technological foundations. Unfortunately, his authoritative voice was silenced too soon and went unheard.
For Il Cavaliere, the way out is not made of slogans or illusions. “The ecological transition is not governed by proclamations,” he concludes, “but by courage, truth, and competence. We need leaders capable of taking risks and building the future. All of which is dramatically lacking in Europe today!”

