The European Union's ambitious plan to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035 is facing mounting pressure from key member states and the automotive industry. Italy and Germany, two of Europe's largest economies and automotive powerhouses, are spearheading efforts to reconsider the stringent CO2 emissions standards for cars and the proposed ban on internal combustion engines.
Italian Industry Minister Adolfo Urso, speaking in Brussels, revealed that Rome and Berlin are rallying support from other EU members to relax the targets for reducing car CO2 emissions. The minister stated that it is now 'certain' that the ban—which effectively imposes a zero limit on tailpipe emissions—will not be achieved as planned. In response, Italy and Germany are proposing to bring forward a review clause in the legislation from the end of 2026 to early 2025, allowing for a reassessment of the policy's feasibility.
The push for reconsideration comes amidst growing concerns about the European automotive industry's ability to meet the ambitious targets. Urso echoed recent warnings from manufacturers, claiming that Europe's car industry had 'collapsed' and predicting potential job losses in the tens of thousands unless the EU adjusts its course. The minister outlined two potential paths forward: either maintaining the target while creating conditions to enable the industry to achieve it—an approach favoured by German Economy Minister Robert Habeck—or postponing the objectives if the necessary support measures fail to materialise.
This call for a rethink aligns with recent appeals from the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA). The industry body has reacted to a dip in electric vehicle sales by publicly urging a postponement of more stringent emissions limits. The automotive sector's concerns highlight the complex challenges of balancing environmental goals with economic realities and technological readiness.
The debate over the internal combustion engine ban has political dimensions as well. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni previously dismissed the 2035 ban as 'ideological madness', reflecting a broader scepticism among some European leaders about the pace and practicality of the transition to electric vehicles.
As the EU grapples with these competing pressures, the coming months will be crucial in determining the future of Europe's automotive landscape. The proposed early review in 2025 could provide an opportunity to reassess the targets and potentially adjust the timeline for phasing out internal combustion engines. This flexibility may be necessary to ensure a smooth transition that protects both environmental interests and the economic vitality of one of Europe's key industries.
The outcome of this debate will have far-reaching implications not only for the automotive sector but also for Europe's broader climate goals and economic strategy. As stakeholders continue to negotiate, the EU faces the challenge of balancing its commitment to reducing carbon emissions with the need to maintain a competitive and innovative automotive industry. The coming discussions at the EU Council summit and beyond will be pivotal in shaping the future of mobility in Europe and setting a precedent for global efforts to combat climate change through transportation policy.
