Large climate protests took place in Frankfurt over the weekend when the biennial International Motor Show (IAA) is being held, demanding a "swift mobility transition" and actions from policymakers and the auto industry.
Hundreds of protesters, many dressed in white suits, blocked the main entrance to Europe's largest motor show on Sunday, holding placards with slogans such as "traffic turning point now" and "end cars".
On Saturday, the first day that this year's IAA was open to the public, tens of thousands of people gathered outside the venue against what they call the "climate-killing" car industry.
Organizers said about 25,000 people attended Saturday's demonstration whereas the police said there were 15,000. A huge number of them cycled their way to the demonstration.
Their demands include an immediate phase out of combustion engines, climate-neutral mobility by 2035, replacements of big SUVs and speed limit on motorways, among others.
The IAA 2019 was opened Thursday by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who said the government and the industry are facing profound changes in individual mobility, and the emission goals will be an enormous challenge for all.
Many leading carmakers attending the event, which will last until Sept. 22, unveiled product portfolios featuring electrically-powered cars.
